If you work in the Construction sector, it’s very likely that you have either used or heard of the Construction Log in Excel to monitor the progress of projects. 

This program is an accessible and, at first glance, simple tool to organize information. However, it has several limitations that end up compromising the quality of the management of construction.

In this post, we will discuss why Excel is not the best choice for controlling the construction log and how specialized tools like Visi can improve your routine. 

Main limitations of the Construction Log in Excel

Although Excel is a very used program for calculations and data organization, it was not designed to meet the specific needs of the Construction sector. 

Here are some of the most common limitations: 

1. High risk of human errors

In Excel, most data needs to be entered manually. Any typo, poorly constructed formula, or accidental change can ruin the entire report.

Imagine a simple error in the formula that calculates how much material was used. This can disorganize the inventory and cause delays in the project. Not to mention that, since Excel does not have automatic validation, the chances of having incorrect information are high.

2. Difficulty in collaboration and real-time updates

When building, it involves several teams from different areas. It’s very important that everyone is aligned. 

If you use a Construction Log in Excel, it is usually shared via email or saved in a drive.

This creates a lot of confusion because:

• It becomes difficult to know which is the most updated version;
  
  
  
  

• There is a risk of more than one person editing at the same time, causing conflicts;
  
  
  
  

• There is no immediate update between what happens on site and what is in the system.
  
  
  
  

This lack of real-time collaboration delays decisions and generates rework.

3. Limited visualization and little flexibility

The Construction Log in Excel does show basic tables and charts, but it lacks resources to present the project’s progress in a more visual way. 

And if you need to change the schedule or include new information, it will be labor-intensive and may require advanced knowledge of Excel.

4. Lack of integration with other tools

A construction project involves several areas, such as finance, purchasing, inventory, safety, quality, etc. Excel does not communicate with management systems (ERP), inventory control, or BIM tools. 

This forces the team to repeat entries in multiple places, increasing the chance of error.

5. Limited scalability for larger projects

In large construction projects, the amount of data increases. Spreadsheets become slow, difficult to work with, and even risk corruption. In other words, making a Construction Log in Excel is not the most practical way. 

How can specialized software and tools help make the Construction Log?

One of the best ways to create a daily construction report is to incorporate a software like Visi into your daily routine. Our construction management tool, through reality capture, has various functionalities, one of which is the Construction Log. 

With a few clicks, you create a complete RDO with the main information of your project. It already has its own template and even allows you to add images captured on site. 

Watch the video to see how it works: 

Benefits of using Visi for RDO

Here are 6 advantages of using Visi in your daily routine to create RDO: 

1. Real-time logging: site personnel log everything directly on their cell phones or tablets;
   
   
   
   

2. Automatic validation: the system prevents silly mistakes, such as empty fields or inconsistent data;
   
   
   
   

3. Integrated collaboration: everyone uses the same platform, with no version doubts;
   
   
   
   

4. Advanced visualizations: interactive dashboards display the project’s progress, delays, and alerts;
   
   
   
   

5. Integration with other systems: Visi easily connects with BIM;
   
   
   
   

6. Automated reports: generates daily and weekly reports quickly;

Construction Log in Excel vs. Specialized Software

It’s not just the RDO that becomes easier with Visi!

With our remote project management software, you control teams, make notes, track progress through images and videos with 360-degree cameras, and even drones, take measurements from images, and much more. All in one place and integrated with BIM. 

Request a free demonstration right now.