Technology from IBS
January 21, 2010
There is no shortage of technology news and announcements from IBS (Intl. Builders’ Show) in Las Vegas this week, Jan. 19-22. A number of software technology providers have new products to demonstrate, while AHT (automated home technology) providers are showcasing the latest in technology for the connected home.
As one example on the software front, HomeFront Software, www.homefront-software.com, Calgary, Alta., is displaying its recently launched Job Simplicity. This technology helps address the common challenges of smaller builders such as lost change orders, out-of-date spreadsheets, and tedious manual reporting.
With Job Simplicity, smaller builders can use a construction management system to estimate, generate POs (purchase orders) and subcontractors, manage schedules, create pricing/profit scenarios, generate an AP (accounts payable) invoice workflows, manage customer information, price custom options, and integrate with Intuit, www.intuit.com, Mountain View, Calif., QuickBooks, or Simply Accounting and Peachtree by Sage, www.sagecre.com, Beaverton, Ore.
For many years, HomeFront has created solutions for larger builders, but has created Job Simplicity to provide a system for smaller companies.
As another example, CDC Software, www.cdcsoftware.com, Atlanta, Ga., has launched a new platform—Pivotal CRM 6.0 for Home Building and Real Estate.
Pivotal CRM 6.0 for Home Building and Real Estate is a CRM (customer-relationship management) solution for residential builders. The platform allows companies to manage marketing automation, lead management, sales automation, options selection, and contacting.
The newest release includes task-based navigation, embedded Microsoft SharePoint and Office applications, and is integrated with Microsoft Outlook. The new features will help with customization, enhanced searching and reporting, and flexibility for the end user of the software.
In recent news, the 2009 New American Home—which was on display at last year’s IBS, demonstrating smart home technology—has come to fruition in a luxury community in Marquis Las Vegas.
Blue Heron, www.blueheronliving.com, Las Vegas, Nev., built the community, and has sold 11 of the 14 custom home estates. The company attributes the high number of sales to good location, smart home technology, and energy efficiency. The home technology and energy efficiency features have helped Blue Heron distinguish itself in a tight market.
The homes are programmed and controlled through the use of touchpanels or cellular phones. The homes have multiroom audio/video, security, and lighting systems. The technology system is also linked to the solar panels so homeowners can monitor renewable energy.
Similar automated home technology is on display at this year’s IBS. While these are just a few examples, readers can continue to turn to Constructech for the latest news from IBS.