The construction industry is at a crossroads, and the data is clear: technology alone isn’t enough. The recent study by Dodge Construction Network and Procore Technologies reveals a compelling truth—project management software is only as powerful as the people using it. With 77% of highly skilled adopters reporting increased profit margins and productivity gains, the message is unequivocal: to unlock the full potential of construction technology, the industry must invest in both tools and talent.
The study, which surveyed over 1,100 owners and contractors, categorizes users across a spectrum of expertise, from light adopters to highly skilled innovators. The findings are striking. While even basic users report immediate improvements in data gathering, communication, and productivity, the real game-changer lies in advanced adoption. Organizations with high levels of project management software expertise consistently outperform their peers. Over 80% of these top-tier users experience benefits across all key categories—data analysis, process improvements, project performance, and business outcomes.
For contractors and owners alike, the benefits of advanced software adoption are tangible. Highly skilled users report overhead cost reductions of 5% or more, with 77% seeing increased profit margins—a median boost of 4 points. Productivity gains are also significant, with 77% of leadership teams and 69% of project management and finance teams reporting improvements. Project delays are cut by an average of 5 days or more, underscoring the software’s role in driving efficiency and performance.
The study also highlights the unique advantages for owners. Those with high expertise report managing more capital projects, meeting or exceeding quality benchmarks, and experiencing improved cash flow. Project delays are reduced, and teams are empowered to handle greater volumes of work. These findings underscore a critical truth: in an industry grappling with labor shortages and rising costs, advanced project management software is not just a tool—it’s a strategic asset.
Yet, the data also reveals a sobering reality. While highly skilled adopters reap substantial rewards, those at the lower end of the expertise spectrum see far fewer benefits. This disparity highlights a critical challenge for the industry: bridging the digital divide. The construction sector must prioritize training and development to ensure that all teams can leverage technology to its fullest potential.
The study’s findings also raise broader questions about the future of construction. As the industry grapples with sustainability goals, labor shortages, and the need for greater efficiency, technology will play a pivotal role. But as Kris Lengieza, VP of Global Technology Evangelist at Procore, notes, “The construction industry is at an inflection point where realizing the full potential of technology requires more than just implementation. The data shows that investing in technology alone isn’t enough; it must be paired with an investment in people.”
The call to action is clear. Construction firms must prioritize not just the adoption of project management software but also the development of the skills needed to use it effectively. This means investing in training, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and ensuring that teams at all levels are equipped to leverage technology for maximum impact.
For industry leaders, the message is equally clear. The future of construction lies in the intersection of technology and talent. By embracing advanced project management tools and investing in the people who use them, firms can drive operational excellence, boost profitability, and position themselves for long-term success. The data doesn’t lie—those who fail to act risk being left behind in an increasingly competitive and digitally driven industry.