Totaling the above table, we find there are engineer's savings of about 13.0% and client's savings of 6% to be realized by using a web-based system for documentation and information management. However, besides the above cost reduction factors, there are a number of other factors that can also result in significant cost savings. These factors are grouped as intangible cost savings. They are intangible because they do not necessarily relate directly to a specific project, but rather tend to improve the overall operations and quality of engineering services, thereby leading to indirect benefits. For estimating purposes it is assumed that the aggregate of the following factors will result in a bottom line savings of at least another 1% in engineering operations.
Using online documentation techniques, clients are impressed by the highly organized fashion in which you can document their projects. They appreciate the ease by which they can access that documentation, and in general will give recognition to those firms who implement such systems. This means more repeat customers with a consequential reduction in marketing efforts to retain them.
When marketing your company's services, the online project web site makes for an impressive presentation. Your project related experience as well as your approach to managing your projects can be demonstrated in a very convincing manner and tends to make potential clients more receptive to you than would otherwise be the case.
- Gain Accessibility Away from Office
When away from the office, whether at home, out of town, or just away, having your project documentation online offers you the ability to always keep up to date on project happenings. For project managers, or those who may need to have access to project documents when away from the office, this extra convenience can save a great deal of time and trouble, thereby benefiting the bottom line.
Engineering companies are constantly striving to improve the quality of their services, and one of the best ways to accomplish this is through improved communications. Better communications and more collaboration results is less ambiguity and fewer errors, resulting in a higher quality design.