I have read one-too-many articles about management platforms, and you probably have, too. In the information era, we do not need data that ends up confusing us even more so than clarifying the topic.

I have researched and tested different options for years, trying to find a tool designed for the dynamic A/E/C world.

Sadly, the outcome was not that good. There are some significant differences between the meaning of “project” for companies that sell cars, flights, or sportswear, and for those who sell professional services.

Here are five matters you should address when deciding how to approach a new management platform:

1. Think of the 3Ps: People, Process, and Platform.
   1. This is a people’s business: we sell the product of our staff’s time, and the quality of what they can do (we do not sell a phone or a flight). So you won’t go far if you do not have the right people.
   2. Even if you have the right people, you need to have a process in place: the way you do things, who does what, and how things are done. You have to think it through, document it, and train your staff, so they know how to play.
   3. Here comes the biggest challenge: how do you consistently follow the process and make sure your staff does not reinvent the wheel every time? You need the right platform.
2. Destroy Silos.

   In a fluid, intelligent, and connected world, you do not have the luxury to store information in isolated silos. Using a collection of software or apps that do wonders but do not talk to each other is not efficient. Plus, you need to sign up and check out each staff every time one joins or leaves the company. 

3. Be A/E Centric.
   If you make money out of your projects, your firm remains in business. So focus on your craft, but keep an eye on the bottom line. Alternatively, even better, keep every eye on the bottom line. Using an online, integrated management platform means game on.

4. Watch the Score, but play the game. 
   Using accounting reports to manage a company is like using an autopsy to treat a patient. To help you work more efficiently, you need a management platform that allows your teams play to win.

5. Make sure you are…
   Every company is unique and how you do things is what makes you different. The platform you choose must be prepared to provide both a structural spine that helps you deliver consistently, flexibility to define your ways, and templates that make you, you.

A/E projects have a distinctive nature that makes current management theories and methodologies hard to apply. The business seems erratic when, in reality, it is project-driven. We have to let go of some old paradigms, and start grasping the notion that we manage projects and lead people – We do not ‘manage resources.'

The Frank Management is a new way of understanding A/E/C businesses, with a project-based approach, a collaborative spirit (not only within the firm, but with other consultants), and looking into a more connected 21^st century and more nimble paradigm for businesses to thrive. The A/E/C industry does not need another management tool. It needs a better tool, one conceived and designed to match the processes and needs of AEC projects and companies.

About the Author: Martin Amengual is Frank Management’s CEO and Founder. Since founding his firm, CorbisStudio in 2001, Martin maintained a clear vision: to become a global reference point for the A/E/C industry, delivering quality projects that exceed the client’s expectations. Frank is Martin’s latest brainchild.  The platform is an all-in-one solution that provides accurate, reliable, and real-time information to architects and engineers looking to increase their bottom line. Frank features Martin’s unrelenting attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the needs of busy architects and engineers, mixing expertise and design to give the platform its unique personality. Learn more about Frank Management at www.frankcollaboration.com.

Frank Management is a SILVER sponsor of PSMJ's THRIVE 2017, which takes place October 3-5 in Denver. Are you ready for two high-energy days of inspiration, networking, and fun? THRIVE 2017 is your chance to learn, to network, and to get an eye-opening perspective on what the world’s most successful A/E/C firms are doing right now to thrive. This unique annual event attracts senior-level executives from a wide range of A/E/C organizations located around the world. Registration is now open!