AU2021107096A4 - System and method for change order management in integrated enterprise environment for construction companies - Google Patents

Abstract

Title: "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CHANGE ORDER MANAGEMENT IN INTEGRATED ENTERPRISE ENVIRONMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES" Abstract of the Invention A computer implemented project control system and method (500) for change order management of in an integrated enterprise environment for construction companies is disclosed. The present invention bridges the gap that has traditionally existed between planning and managing project execution and is to provide an efficient, improved, computer implemented project management system with effective monitoring and controlling method which allows a better management of change order in a project. The said integrated project control system integrates data from one or more of the sub systems enables a change order management system to integrate key requirements like 'scope of work' (134), 'time' (138) and 'cost' (136). The scope of works (134) as per the contract and resources budgets (136) are finalized and approved for execution of the project (1700). During execution of the project, variation for scope of works (134) may arise and as a result of this, budget for resources (136) get changed. This change order (800) is recorded and submitted for internal (170) and external (172) approval. Upon approval this change order for the contract is legally bound by both the parties. 1 1/17 cu a) E co 0 to c cp Of cn M W + a) HE Co o 75 2 0 co 0 3: 1 (D CL -5 -0 a) U)o CO 0 o CD- C (D (D cn -9 Co cn 0 E -sm 2 (D a) 0 -00 S E .2 -2 c _= 0 cn w (D 0 a) __j __j cn a) C-) U) o (D _I_- co CD =3 2- U) 0 (D co a) U) co (D 0 2 C-) E c cn 2 9o .0 0 2 Co co 0 E (D C-) 04 0 C-) -5 C-) 2 CZ- Co a- U) a) - w LU m 2 Q) Co C C-) cn U) C-0 Cl) 04 E C0 < C11-4 cn m -Fo 0 Co 0 U) 00 > 0 0- 0 LU E E co CD 0 C0 LU F= 2 0 T U) 0) cc 00 (D CVI) < 0 U) L- d LL 0 U) 00 00 'C-) 72 cn =3 0 _0 C-) 06-70 a) C).:= 2of 0 C:) cn LO co -2 cn 0 cn cn C.0 04 C-) 2 0 co W cn Co U) 8 c- a) cn 72 C-) U- C-) 9- _0 Co co < c N" E 0 = cn 0 co " 0 co a) E cn (D >, M =3 Co = = a) 0 0 < co a) 0 0 co cn cn 0 - cn 72 cn a) co '= Co cn (D -2 2 a) 0 0 -a :S cn 0 C:L -0 r= :z LU co (D cn = M co L -a cn -D = cn c>u, -Q ): co 2 E E (D co Cl) 0 U) LL. a) =3 C14 (=> w 0 .- 0 LO L I I I I I I I .9 oZ5 20 CY) 0-0 0 i5 10-1 L ------ -i L ------ -i C) C:) T-

Description

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Title of the Invention

"SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CHANGE ORDER MANAGEMENT IN INTEGRATED ENTERPRISE ENVIRONMENT FOR CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES"

Technical Field of the Invention

[001] The present invention generally relates to a project control system and method. More particularly, the present invention is related to a computer implemented project control system and method adapted for change in work order management of a project or group of projects in a multi tired organization structure.

Background of the Invention

[002] With the advent of the computer age, computer and software users have grown accustomed to user-friendly integrated software applications that help them write, calculate, organize, prepare presentations, send and receive electronic mails, make music, and the like. Modem word processing applications, allow users to create and edit a variety of useful documents. Modern project management applications, for another example, allow users to create project management schedules for organizing and managing tasks, resources and labor associated with a variety of projects.

[003] Manual and computerized project control systems allow managers and planners to organize and plan the tasks, resources and schedules required for completion of a given project. In most projects, a number of dependencies and constraints dictate the timing and completion of an overall project and of sub-projects comprising the overall project. For example, in a house construction project, a drywall sub-project may not typically begin until the completion of electrical work. And, a number of sub-projects may be constrained by the availability of labor and resources.

[004] Managing the Project time through activity schedule is one of the Project Management primary constraints and managing the day-to-day cost, Scope of work are the two other primary constraints of the project management. Monitoring of the performance of the resources is the one another common constraints. Time, cost and scope of any project affect the performance. If we want to increase or decrease scope, time or cost, one of the others is to amend the change order document. The change order is a document used to record an amendment to your original construction contract. The change order is a work that is added to or deleted from the original scope of work of a contract, which alters the original contract amount and/or completion date. A change order may force a new project to handle significant changes to the current project. Change orders in construction create a record of additional services being provided to the customer, along with costing for those services.

[005] Unfortunately, there is no single effective project control system that creates and manages the change orders by integrating with other sub systems is available. Even larger projects are being managed by storing and recording the essential day to day project information either in hard copies or soft copies like MS excel sheets etc., or other form of decentralized databases or applications. By adopting non-standard practice and decentralized method of storing information will result in loosing of essential project data by ignorance of the project team.

[006] Most of the Organizations have lacked the proper tools. Finance and ERP systems have proven cumbersome and too rigid for project planning and cost controls since they focus on accounting needs. Scheduling systems lack the necessary focus on costs and historical data. Even organizations delivering large megaprojects still rely heavily on Excel spreadsheets and manual, disconnected processes for forecasting, managing as-built historical records and performance measurement. These manual processes for data collaboration, manipulation and reporting system are time consuming, error-prone, and leave little time for analysis and making performance improving recommendations and taking corrective timely actions.

[007] In light of the aforementioned present available systems and methods, there clearly exists a need for an alternative system that can bridge the gap that has traditionally existed between creating and managing the change orders in a project. There exists a need for an alternative, integrated and more effective improved computer implemented project control system with real time data collaboration and effective monitoring and controlling method which allows better change order management in a project.

Brief Summary of the Invention

[008] The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure, and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[009] In accordance with teachings of the present disclosure, a computer implemented system and method for change order management of in an integrated enterprise environment for construction companies is disclosed.

[010] A principal objective of the present invention is to provide an efficient, improved, computer implemented project control system with effective project management method which allows to manage the changes in work orders of a project.

[011] Another objective of the present invention is to develop an application consisting a server based and web enabled data base supported by user-friendly front end application for managing the change orders that take place in projects in a multi user environment.

[012] Further objective of the present invention is to provide a reliable, secured and practical project control system and method to manage a change order in a multi-user environment.

[013] Still another object of the present invention is to provide the computer implemented system which allows a user to store, modify or edit, search, retrieve, create or generate, track, support and manage the change in work orders which enables the efficient management of day-to-day activities of a project.

[014] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide fully developed and single integrated system to implement across the organization with complete inbuilt solutions.

[015] Further objective of the present invention is to provide an economical user friendly application which does not require formal training to make use of.

[016] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a computer implemented project control system for change order management of in integrated enterprise environment for construction companies is disclosed. The integrated project control system in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention includes an enterprise project structure module configured to generate a computerized simulation model representing a plurality of project details, at least one remotely located central server for facilitating a communication between the enterprise project structure module and the at least one secured central database for enabling an operation, a plurality of sub systems like resources budget, project documents, activity schedules, resources schedule, procurement of resources, resources management, work progress and resources utilization records, performance monitoring, accounts and finance, project closeout, the said integrated project control system is configured to enable a user management module for adding at least one user, a user profile, and assign roles and privileges to the user, the said integrated project control system is configured to enable a plurality of libraries, comprising at least one central library, and at least one project library for maintaining project data, the said integrated project control system is configured to enable a plurality of built-in tools to produce a plurality of standard periodical reports and the said integrated project control system is configured to enable at least one central processing module for performing a plurality of project related operations.

[017] In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, the said integrated project control system integrates data from one or more of the sub systems that enables a change order management system to integrate key requirements like 'scope of work', 'time' and 'cost'. The system for change order management integrates with data from one or more parameters like scope of work, schedule of rates in a contract, project budgets, project schedules, procurement and/or sub contracts, and production records and accounts.

[018] In accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, the change order management system collects and freezes the data related to original scope of work finalized and approved by a project sponsor or principal, and project resources budgets estimate finalized and approved internally by a project manager at a start of a project.

[019] In accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the change order management system monitors, processes requests and records evidence and reasons for change order, change in scope of work, and time delays.

[020] In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, wherein the change order management system as part of change in scope of work deals with existing items and new items, their revised quantity as per scope of work, revised quantity as per a purchase order, and as per a schedule table updated post approval.

[021] In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, wherein the change order management system as part of change in scope of work and addition of new items deals with adding of new items in scope of work post approval.

[022] In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, wherein the change order management system as part of monitoring and processing time delays, records budget and cost variations.

[023] In accordance with the aspect of the present invention, wherein the change order management system enables to estimate additional resources (manpower, plant, materials and cost), get approval for variation (1 or 2 stage approval process through electronically with time bound actions and notification system) and update project budget tables or purchase order or subcontract schedule of items table post approval. through automation process.

[024] In accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the system systems include a plurality of built-in tools to request a change order based on the changes in schedule of estimate that impacts scope of work, time and resource budget (manpower, plant and material), an approval sub system for approving the submitted estimated budget quantities by the internal approver and external approver (client based on the changes in the work order), a locking sub system for freezing the original budget estimate of records from making any further changes, a notification sub system for notifying an authorized user to select the pending notification related to change order to approve and/or reject the estimated budget quantities of scope of work and resource budget of a project and a status sub system for displaying the status of the requested change order management based on the estimated budget quantities.

[025] In accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, wherein a unique number and date is assigned to each change in work order requested by the authorized user.

[026] In accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the request for change in work order impacts the scope of work, risk, schedule, budget and resources of a project.

[027] In accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the schedule of estimates for change in work order is prepared based on original scope of work and submitted for internal and/or external approver for approval.

[028] In accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, wherein on approval of submitted estimated budget quantities the scope of work module gets automatically updated and the original scope of work items list and revised list are frozen for any further changes.

[029] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a computer implemented method for change order management adapted for enabling an effective management of construction projects, the method comprising a step of collecting data from one or more parameters like scope of work, schedule of rates in a contract, project budgets, project schedules, procurement and/or sub contracts, and production records and accounts, a step of freezing data related to original scope of work finalized and approved by a project sponsor or principal, and project resources budgets estimate finalized and approved internally by a project manager at a start of a project, a step of monitoring processes requests and records evidence and reasons for change order, change in scope of work, and time delays, a step of dealing with change in scope of work of existing items and new items, their revised quantity as per scope of work, revised quantity as per a purchase order, and as per a schedule table updated post approval, a step of adding new items as part of change in scope of work deals with adding of new items in scope of work post approval, a step of monitoring and processing time delays by recording budget and cost variations and a step of estimating additional resources (manpower, plant, materials and cost), get approval for variation (1 or 2 stage approval process through electronically with time bound actions and notification system) and update project budget tables or purchase order or subcontract schedule of items table post approval. through automation process.

[030] In accordance with the second aspect of the present invention, wherein it enables to display the new schedule of estimated items and existing schedule of estimated items by updating the scope of work and resources budget of a project.

[031] In accordance with the second aspect of the present invention, wherein after approval the resources budget plan, the original estimation hours along with list of resources item of records and lists associated records are locked from making any further changes.

[032] In accordance with the second aspect of the present invention, wherein the associated user is notified to submit for approval after submitting the schedule of estimates for all the resources budget as each module are interrelated to each other.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[033] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals have been used to designate like elements, and wherein:

[034] Fig.1 is a diagram depicting a computer implemented project control system with the list of modules involved in a project control system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[035] Fig. 2 is a flowchart depicting a process flow of a computer implemented project control system and method in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[036] Fig. 3 is a diagram depicting a core principles involved in change order management requirements in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[037] Fig. 4 is an integrated architecture diagram depicting the integrated solution for change order management for project control system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[038] Fig. 5 is a process flow diagram depicting the process involved in change order management of an integrated project construction management system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[039] Fig. 6 is a process flow diagram depicting the original project estimate/scope of works as per contract preparation and approval process in an integrated construction management system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[040] Fig. 7 is a process flow diagram depicting the original project resources budget plan as per contract preparation and approval process in an integrated construction management system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[041] Fig. 8 is a process flow diagram depicting the submission and approval process for change order management in an integrated construction management system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[042] Fig. 9 to 15 are screenshots displaying a change order management module configured to generate a computerized simulation model representing a plurality of project details.

Detailed Description of the Invention

[043] It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[044] The use of "including", "comprising" or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item. Further, the use of terms "first", "second", and "third", and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

[045] According to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an application for change order management of in integrated enterprise environment for construction companies includes a remotely located application server for coordinating the operation of the control system further facilitating the management of the projects of the remotely located entities.

[046] According to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a computer implemented project control system for change order management of an integrated project control system is disclosed. The integrated project control system integrates data from one or more of the sub systems enables a change order management system to integrate key requirements like 'scope of work', 'time' and 'cost'.

[047] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the change order management system as part of change in scope of work deals with existing items and new items, their revised quantity as per scope of work, revised quantity as per a purchase order, and as per a schedule table updated post approval.

[048] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the change order management system as part of change in scope of work and addition of new items deals with adding of new items in scope of work post approval.

[049] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the change order management system enables to estimate additional resources (manpower, plant, materials and cost), get approval for variation (1 or 2 stage approval process through electronically with time bound actions and notification system) and update project budget tables or purchase order or subcontract schedule of items table post approval through automation process.

[050] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein a unique number and date is assigned to each change in work order requested by the authorized user.

[051] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the request for change in work order impacts the scope of work, risk, schedule, budget and resources of a project.

[052] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the schedule of estimates for change in work order is prepared based on original scope of work and submitted for internal and/or external approver for approval.

[053] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein on approval of submitted estimated budget quantities the scope of work module gets automatically updated and the original scope of work items list and revised list are frozen for any further changes.

[054] According to another non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a computer implemented method for change order management adapted for construction projects, the method comprising a step of collecting data from one or more parameters like scope of work, schedule of rates in a contract, project budgets, project schedules, procurement and/or sub contracts, and production records and accounts, a step of freezing data related to original scope of work finalized and approved by a project sponsor or principal, and project resources budgets estimate finalized and approved internally by a project manager at a start of a project, a step of monitoring, processes requests and records evidence and reasons for change order, change in scope of work, and time delays, a step of dealing with change in scope of work of existing items and new items, their revised quantity as per scope of work, revised quantity as per a purchase order, and as per a schedule table updated post approval, a step of adding new items as part of change in scope of work deals with adding of new items in scope of work post approval, a step of monitoring and processing time delays by recording budget and cost variations and a step of estimating additional resources (manpower, plant, materials and cost), get approval for variation (1 or 2 stage approval process through electronically with time bound actions and notification system) and update project budget tables or purchase order or subcontract schedule of items table post approval. through automation process.

[055] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the change order management involves preparation and approval process for original project estimate/scope of works as per contract and original project resources budget plan as per contract.

[056] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the method enables to display the new schedule of estimated items and existing schedule of estimated items by updating the scope of work and resources budget of a project.

[057] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the method locks from making any further changes after the approval of the resources budget plan, the original estimation hours along with list of resources item of records and lists associated records.

[058] In accordance with the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the method enables in notifying the associated user to submit for approval after submitting the schedule of estimates for all the resources budget as each module are interrelated to each other.

[059] Referring to drawings, Fig.1 is a diagram (100) depicting a computer implemented project control system with the list of modules involved in a project control system adapted for use in construction projects in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The project control system and method for use in construction projects include several modules that are in turn integrated with each other to effectively manage the project system. The computer implemented project control system adapted for enabling an effective management of a project including an enterprise project structure module (64) configured to generate a computerized simulation model representing a plurality of project details, at least one project library for maintaining a reference data (62).

[060] The said system includes creating and setting project rules (24), estimate contract and budget integration (4) which further includes EPS and project list, users list and user privileges, central and project libraries, define project rules and project settings, budget for resources, materials, plants and cost, baseline schedules for resources, materials, plants, activities and cost. The system includes project schedules (26) to schedule time and cost of the project. The system enables the user to set business rules and impose time limits to carry out certain essential activities by the project team using the project setting tools depending upon the user requirements, scale and complexity of the project. The time limits for initiation and approval process are enforced for procurement, employee transfer, plant transfer, material transfer. and capable to maintain the relationship between project estimates.

[061] The said system includes resources procurement (28) which further includes a pre contract management, post contract management, central project resources register for resources, plants and materials, electronic requisition, approval and notifications, delivery dockets and its accounting, invoices and payment status. Further the system includes resources (38) for performing the tasks, the set of resources being retrieved from the database and describing personnel, equipment, parts and tools.

[062] The system includes production records (44) which further includes monitoring resources budgets through project at tributaries of a computer implemented project control system includes trade wise man-hours-budget versus actual and estimate to complete, plant classification wise- budget versus actual and estimate to complete, material classification wise- budget versus actual and estimate to complete quantities, cost code wise cost- budget versus actual versus earned value and estimate to complete, project wise manhour- budget versus actual earned and estimate to complete and productivity factors, project wise cost - budget versus actual, earned and ETC, SPI and CPI, includes daily work diaries and produced weekly time sheets and overall resources status for a project.

[063] The system includes accounts and finance (48) which further includes payables, receivables, asset value and profits. The system further includes inbuild reports and dash boards (50) which further includes real time data collaboration and reports generation system for over inbuilt reports, table and chart outputs, past, current and forecasts, work diary, time sheet and attendance records, resources, plants, materials and cost, work progress, progress measurement system and progress claims, productivity factors, schedule and cost performance.

[064] Fig. 2 is a flowchart (200) depicting a process flow of a computer implemented project control system and method in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The flow chart (200) directs to step (94) depicting a registering the client details to provide access to the client super admin. The step (94) is directed to step (100) which includes adding the users and their profiles along with the privileges. The addition of users and their profiles along with the privileges comes under user management. The user management module includes a list of user profiles, a list of privileges and users list and their assigned profile and privileges to access the project. The step (100) is directed to step (101) depicting a step of creating an enterprise project structure (EPS) using built in menu or entry form. The EPS consists of an organizational breakdown structure, a project structure and multiple job identifications (IDs).

[065] According to non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the step (101) is further directed to the step (98). The step (98) depicting creating a base data or reference data for multiple project tasks which includes companies and sub contractors list and their details, plants and equipment's suppliers and their details, materials suppliers and their details, resources or trade classifications and their details, employee list and their details, leave types, daily crew list and their details, supervisor identification list and their details, plant and equipment classifications list, plant and equipment list and their details, purchase order list approval process and their details, materials, fuels and store items list and their details, materials, fuel and store items inventory, measuring units of work out put, tangible quantity item list, schedule of rates, cost codes classification, cost code list and their details, work break down structure milestone dates, working shifts and calendars, original budget, resource working hours, plant hours and costs, revised budget resource working hours, plant hours and costs, creating baselines for project tasks on work break down structure milestones, resources and cost forecasts, assigning baselines for project tasks on work break down structure milestones, resources and cost forecasts.

[066] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the step (98) further directed to a step (106) depicting creating or updating a central library which further includes company list, measuring units, whether classification, employee classification, plants classification, materials classification, cost code classification and employee wages rate factors. The step (106) is directed to a step (102) that includes creating a project library which further includes employee classification, plant classification, leave types and its rules, working shifts, crew list, schedule of estimated quantities (SOE), schedule of rates (SOR), cost code schedule and scope of work (SOW) (104).

[067] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the step (102) is directed to (96) depicting of setting budget for the project that is created in the library. The budget is set for resources and cost and monitor their actual and forecast to complete the project.

[068] According to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the step (106) directed to a step (92) depicting the project program with resourced (codes and budgets) loaded data from external application. The step (92) is directed to a step (90) depicting the schedule modules that schedules the project program. The schedule module (90) creates activities, resource schedules, assign baselines and compare forecasts with actual data.

[069] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the step (90) is further directed to a step (120) depicting the finance module. The step (120) is directed to step (118) depicting the resource module that includes employee, plant, materials and fixed assets. Further the step (118) is directed to a step (126) depicting the production records that includes daily attendance records like daily work diary and weekly time sheets. Then the step (126) is directed to a step (124) depicting the generated production records like work diaries and time sheets are sent for approval by internal and/or external approvers.

[070] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the step (125) is further directed to a step (120) depicting the finance module where the approver validates to approve the created work diaries and time sheets.

[071] According to a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the step is further directed to (130) depicting a secured central database for storing the details of the plurality of projects by enabling a multiuser environment. The secured central database retrieves a plurality of project tasks, wherein the project task determines an activity to be performed by available resources. The data from the other modules like finance, production, work diary and timesheet modules transfer to and fro from the central database. The central database compares and stores the production records/actual data tables.

[072] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, from the central database the users can generate number of repots in tabular and graphical format through reports and dashboard modules. The central data base provides data manipulation and storage for date wise actual data or production records for manpower, services, plant utilization, material consumption, actual costs, work progress and periodical performance records down to cost code level. The central database provides regular data backup while projects that are in progress and archive data upon completion of a project.

[073] Fig. 3 is a diagram depicting a core principle (300) involved in change order management requirements in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The relation ship between the multiple constraints scope of the work (134), time (138) and cost (136) affect the performance. If any of the three primary constraints changes, others change too. For example, if scope (134) is included, time (138) or cost (136) goes up as well. If the delivery needs to take place in less time, either budget need to be increased or you scope (134) need to be reduced. If a less expensive product is selected, either the scope (134) is reduced or the time (138) taken to complete the project is reduced. If change occurs in any one of the primary constraints, the performance factor also changes.

[074] As there is a strong inter relationship exists between these three constraints, it is very essential to have a standard mechanism and integrated effective project control system in place for the project managers to monitor these constraints at regular intervals and take timely corrective actions to manage the project to meet project goals and objectives. Managing the project time through activity schedule is one part of the project management primary constraint and managing the day to day cost (136) including but not limited to resources, material and equipment's, scope including but not limited to quantity of work are the two primary constraints of the project management and monitoring of their performance such as quality is the other common constraint.

[075] Fig. 4 is an integrated architecture diagram (400) depicting the integrated solution for change order management for project control system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The project estimate and the budget are established by using the tools available under project library which includes but not limited to schedule of estimate (SOE), schedule of rates (SOR), cost codes schedule and scope of work (SOW). The SOE is established based on project estimate prepared during pre-contract stage of the project. The SOR, cost codes schedule and SOW are established in post contract stage and before commencing any project activities.

[076] During the execution of the project, variation for scope of works (134) may arise and as a result of this, budget for resources (144) get changed. These changes occurred by way of site instructions or contract instructions from the project owners/ their representatives. The contractor representative, then put a proposal in the form of change order. This change order management is integrated and collects data from one or more parameters like scope of work (134), schedule of rates in a contract (142) project budgets (144), project schedules (146), procurement and/or sub contracts (148) and production records and accounts (150).

[077] Fig. 5 is a process flow diagram (500) depicting the process involved in change order management of an integrated project construction management system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The integrated project control system integrates data from one or more of the sub systems that enables a change order management system to integrate key requirements like 'scope of work' (134), 'time' (138) and 'cost' (136).

[078] At the start of a project the scope of works as per the contract (134) and resources budgets (136) are finalized and approved for execution of the project. The original scope of work is finalized and approved by project sponsor and/or principal (152) and the project resources budgets are estimated, finalized and approved internally by the project manager (154). These original and finalized scope of works as per the contract (134) and resources budgets (136) are freezed and are locked from making any changes.

[079] During execution of the project, changes and variation to the project scope of works (134) and budget for resources (144) are managed through controlled proposal and approval process. These changes occurred by way of site instructions or contract instructions from the project owners and/or their representatives. The contractor representative, then put a proposal in the form of change order. The change order management system monitors, processes requests and records evidence (156) and reasons for change order, change in scope of work (160), and time delays (158).

[080] The change order management system as part of change in scope of work (160) deals with existing items (161) and new items (163), their revised quantity as per scope of work, revised quantity as per a purchase order, and as per a schedule table are updated post approval (167). As part of change in scope of work (160) and addition of new items deals (165) with adding of new items (163) in scope of work table post approval. The change order management system as part of monitoring and processing time delays (158) records budget and cost variations (169) in the project.

[081] These change in one or more parameters enables the change order management system that is provided with plurality of built-in tools to estimate additional resources (manpower, plant, materials and cost) (162). The approval sub system is processed for approving the submitted estimated budget quantities by the internal approver and external approver (client based on the changes in the work order) (164). The locking sub system freezes the original budget estimate of records from making any further changes. The notification sub system notifies an authorized user to select the pending notification related to change order to approve and/or reject the estimated budget quantities of scope of work and resource budget of a project and the status sub system displays the status of the requested change order management based on the estimated budget quantities.

[082] Finally, the change order management system updates project budget tables or purchase order or subcontract schedule of items table post approval through automation process (166).

[083] Fig. 6 is a process flow diagram (600) depicting the original project estimate and/or scope of works as per contract preparation and approval process in an integrated construction management system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. On receiving the project, the original scope of work documents as per the estimate (SOE, SOW and Cost Code schedule) and contract documents (SOR) is prepared as per contract by the head contact (project engineer) (168).

[084] On preparing the document, the prepared document is submitted to project manager for internal approval (170). The document is then reviewed by project manager and internally approved and/or rejected. If approved, it is then submitted to principle if required as per contract conditions. If rejected, the internal approver returns backs with comments to the head contact. On reviewing, the submitted scope of work document by external approver or principal representative (172) it is approved and/or rejected. After approving by the internal and/or external approver, the schedule of estimate (SOE) data table, the scope of work (SOW) table data is automatically updated and the original SOW items list and its original quantities are frozen for any further changes (174). If rejected, the external approver returns backs with comments to the head contact.

[085] Fig. 7 is a process flow diagram (700) depicting the original project resources budget plan as per contract preparation and approval process in an integrated construction management system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Upon receiving the project, the original budget for the resources is prepared (176) based on project estimate, scope of work and contract document by the head contact. The prepared draft of budget plan is submitted to project manager for internal approval then the submitted document is reviewed by project manager and is internally approved and/or rejected (178).

[086] The approved document is then submitted to principle to reviewed draft of budget plan if required as per contract conditions. If rejected, the internal approver returns backs with comments to the head contact. The principal representative or external approver reviews the submitted draft and approves and/or rejects the budget plan. Soon after approval, the budget plan freezes the original budget estimate of records from making any further changes (180).

[087] Fig. 8 is a process flow diagram depicting the submission and approval process for change order management in an integrated construction management system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Upon award of head contact, the scope of works as per the contract and resources budgets are finalized and approved for execution of the project. During execution of the project, variation or change for scope of works may arise and as a result of this, budget for resources get changed. These changes occurred by way of site instructions or contract instructions from the project owners and/or their representatives.

[088] The contractor representatives, then put a proposal (182) in the form of change order, after preparing the estimate for the extra scope of work and their additional resource budget requirements. The prepared documents is then submitted for change order for internal approval (184) then the internal approver reviews and submits to the principal representative or external approver (186) for his approval if required. Finally, the change order received form contractor representatives is reviewed and approved by internal and/or external approver. Upon approval, the change order or variation order becomes the contract and is legally bound by both the parties.

[089] Fig. 9 to 15 are screenshots displaying a change order management module configured to generate a computerized simulation model representing a plurality of project details. The change order management module plays a major role in change of budgeted hours, budget cost and scope of work. The submission and approval process is strictly followed in this module. Fig. 9a shows the screenshot the implementation of change order in scope of work. Fig. 9b shows the screenshot that displays a scope of works, in this screen approved quantity of sow items can be changed, change order can be performed for both existing and new sow items, revised sow quantity will be auto filled in scope of work module and a single/multiple records change order can be performed in one go.

[090] Fig. 10a and 10b shows screen shot that displays the existing project budget modules. The project budget module includes sub modules like manpower, plant, materials and cost. Fig. 10a displays a screenshot where user can change approved quantity of budgeted man hours, change order can be performed for both existing and new resources, revised manpower budget hours will be auto filled in project budgets in manpower module and single/multiple records change order can be performed in one go. Fig. 10b displays a screenshot displaying the change order design in man hours.

[091] The project budget module includes sub modules like manpower, plant, materials and cost. Fig. 1la displays a screenshot where user can change approved quantity of budgeted plant hours, change order can be performed for both existing and new resources, revised plant budget hours will be auto filled in project budgets in manpower module and single/multiple records change order can be performed in one go. Fig. 1lb displays a screenshot displaying the change order design in plant hours.

[092] The project budget module includes sub modules like manpower, plant, materials and cost. Fig. 12a displays a screenshot where user can change approved quantity of budgeted material quantity, change order can be performed for both existing and new materials, revised material budget quantities will be auto filled in project budgets in manpower module and single/multiple records change order can be performed in one go. Fig. 12b displays a screenshot displaying the change order design in material quantity.

[093] The project budget module includes sub modules like manpower, plant, materials and cost. Fig. 13a displays a screenshot where user can change approved quantity of coat budget, change order can be performed for both existing and new cost code items, revised cost budget amount will be auto filled in project budgets in cost statement module and single/multiple records change order can be performed in one go. Fig. 13b displays a screenshot displaying the change order design in cost budget.

[094] Fig. 14a and 14b displays a screenshot displaying list of attendance created for the employees and by clicking on more details user can see the saved attendance details of the employees. Fig. 15a and 15b displays a screenshot displaying list of attendance created for the plant and by clicking on more details user can see the saved attendance details of the plants.

[095] While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown and described in detail to illustrate the inventive principles, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise without departing from such principles.

Claims (4)

1. CLAIMS I/We claim 1. A computer implemented system and method for change order management (500) of in integrated enterprise environment for construction companies, wherein the integrated project control system includes: an enterprise project structure module (64) configured to generate a computerized simulation model representing a plurality of project details; at least one remotely located central server for facilitating a communication between the enterprise project structure module and the at least one secured central database for enabling an operation; a plurality of sub systems like resources budget (38), project documents, activity schedules (26), resources schedule, procurement of resources, resources management, work progress and resources utilization records, performance monitoring, accounts and finance, project closeout; the said integrated project control system is configured to enable a user management module for adding at least one user, a user profile, and assign roles and privileges to the user; the said integrated project control system is configured to enable a plurality of libraries (62), comprising at least one central library, and at least one project library for maintaining project data; the said integrated project control system is configured to enable a plurality of built-in tools to produce a plurality of standard periodical reports; the said integrated project control system is configured to enable at least one central processing module for performing a plurality of project related operations; the said integrated project control system integrates data from one or more of the sub systems enables a change order management system to integrate key requirements like 'scope of work' (135), 'time' (138) and 'cost' (136), wherein the said system for change order management integrates: data from one or more parameters like scope of work (134), schedule of rates in a contract (142), project budgets (144), project schedules (146), procurement and/or sub contracts (148), and production records and accounts (150); wherein the change order management system collects and freezes the data related to original scope of work finalized and approved by a project sponsor or principal, (152) and project resources budgets estimate finalized and approved internally by a project manager at a start of a project (154); wherein the change order management system monitors, processes requests and records evidence and reasons for change order, change in scope of work, and time delays (156); wherein the change order management system as part of change in scope of work deals with existing items and new items, their revised quantity as per scope of work, revised quantity as per a purchase order, and as per a schedule table updated post approval (160); wherein the change order management system as part of change in scope of work and addition of new items deals with adding of new items in scope of work post approval; wherein the change order management system as part of monitoring and processing time delays, records budget and cost variations (158); and wherein the change order management system enables to estimate additional resources (manpower, plant, materials and cost) (162), get approval for variation (1 or 2 stage approval process through electronically with time bound actions and notification system) (164) and update project budget tables or purchase order or subcontract schedule of items table post approval. through automation process (166).
2. 2. The system (500) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system systems include: a plurality of built-in tools, to request a change order based on the changes in schedule of estimate that impacts scope of work (134), time (138) and resource budget (136) (manpower, plant and material); an approval sub system, for approving the submitted estimated budget quantities by the internal approver and external approver (client based on the changes in the work order); a locking sub system, for freezing the original budget estimate of records from making any further changes; a notification sub system, for notifying an authorized user to select the pending notification related to change order to approve and/or reject the estimated budget quantities of scope of work and resource budget of a project; and a status sub system, for displaying the status of the requested change order management based on the estimated budget quantities.
3. 3. The system (500) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a unique number and date is assigned to each change in work order requested by the authorized user.
4. 4. The system (500) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the request for change in work order impacts the scope of work, risk, schedule, budget and resources of a project.

   5. The system (500) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the schedule of estimates for change in work order is prepared based on original scope of work and submitted for internal and/or external approver for approval.

   6. The system (500) as claimed in claim 1, wherein on approval of submitted estimated budget quantities the scope of work module gets automatically updated and the original scope of work items list and revised list are frozen for any further changes.

   7. A computer implemented method (500) for change order management adapted for construction projects, wherein the method includes steps of: collecting, data from one or more parameters like scope of work (134), schedule of rates in a contract (142), project budgets (144), project schedules (146), procurement and/or sub contracts (148), and production records and accounts (150); freezing, data related to original scope of work finalized and approved by a project sponsor or principal, and project resources budgets estimate finalized and approved internally by a project manager at a start of a project (152); monitoring, processes requests and records evidence and reasons for change order, change in scope of work (160), and time delays (158); dealing, with change in scope of work (160) of existing items (161) and new items (163), their revised quantity as per scope of work, revised quantity as per a purchase order, and as per a schedule table updated post approval (167); adding, new items as part of change in scope of work deals with adding ofnew items in scope of work post approval (165); monitoring and processing, time delays (158) by recording budget and cost variations (169); and estimating, additional resources (manpower, plant, materials and cost) (162), get approval for variation (1 or 2 stage approval process through electronically with time bound actions and notification system) (164) and update project budget tables or purchase order or subcontract schedule of items table post approval. through automation process (166).

   8. The method (500) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the change order management of original project estimate/scope of works as per contract involves preparation and approval process (600), wherein the process includes steps of: preparing, schedule of estimate based on original scope of work documents as per contract by the head contact (168); submitting, prepared draft of scope of work to project manager for internal approval(170); reviewing, the submitted draft by project manager and internally approved and/or rejected; submitting, reviewed draft to principle if required as per contract conditions (172); reviewing, the submitted draft by principal representative and approving and/or rejecting the scope of work document; and after approving, the schedule of estimate (SOE) data table, the scope of work (SOW) table data is automatically updated and the original SOW items list and its original quantities are frozen for any further changes (174).

   9. The method (500) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the change order management of original project resources budget plan (700) as per contract involves preparation and approval process, wherein the process includes: preparing, resources budget estimate based on project estimate, scope of work and contract document by the head contact (176); submitting, prepared draft of budget plan to project manager for internal approval(178); reviewing, the submitted draft by project manager and internally approved and/or rejected; submitting, reviewed draft of budget plan to principle if required as per contract conditions; reviewing, the submitted draft by principal representative and approving and/or rejecting the budget plan; and after approving, apply lock to original budget estimate of records from making any further changes (180).

   10. The method (500) as claimed in claim 7, wherein change order management in a project (800) involves submission and approval process, wherein the steps include; raising, proposal in the form of change order, if variation for scope of work arises while executing a project and this results in variation in budget for resources (182); estimating, scope of work and additional resource budget requirements based on the variations in a proposal in the form of change order; submitting, change order for internal approval (184); submitting, reviewed draft proposal for change order further to external (principal representative) approval if required (186); reviewing, the submitted draft by external approval (principal representative) and approving and/or rejecting the proposal; and upon approving, the change order or variation order for the contract need to be legally bound by both the parties.

   11. The method (500) as claimed in claim 7, wherein it enables to display the new schedule of estimated items (163) and existing schedule of estimated items (161) by updating the scope of work (160) and resources budget (169) of a project.

   12. The method (500) as claimed in claim 7, wherein after approval the resources budget plan, the original estimation hours along with list of resources item of records and lists associated records are locked from making any further changes (180).

   13. The method (500) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the associated user is notified to submit for approval after submitting the schedule of estimates for all the resources budget as each module are interrelated to each other.

   100 68 72 Admin 64 Help & Module Enterprise Tutorials Project 62 74 Structure Central Library User List POT Internal Notification Audit Trails Security Profiles Reference Project Library Official E Mails Data

   24 Project Business Rules Digital Template 6 & Forms Notifications Rules and Controls Project Controls Project wise 4 Documents Project Schedule of Estimate 52 Estimate, Documents Ontrack Contract and Schedule of Rates Budgets Cost Codes Schedule Integration 1/17

   Inbuild 50 Scope of Work 200 Reports Reports and 26 Dash Boards Project Integration with P6 50 Dashboards Schedules Primavera Accounts 48 28 Payables Schedules-Built in and Tools Option Finance 38 Procurement Receivables Production Procurement of Resources Assets Value Records Resources 44 Subcontract Management Profits Daily Attendance Records Plant Daily Work Dairies Employee Weekly Time Sheets Immovable Assets Materials FIG. 1

   Calendars & Resources 88 Curves Schedules Module 90 94 Actual Data Client Registration Project Program with Create activity and Through Project Resourced loaded Data Resources Schedules Actual Data On Track Admin & from External application Assign Baselines and Plan Data 116 Provide access to (Primavera P6) 120 Client Super IT admin compare Forecasts Forecasts Generate a Number of with Actual data Reports in Tabular and Finance 100 92 Set budgets for Resource Budgets Module Graphical Format through (without P6) Base Reports and Dash Board Resources and Cost 118 Data Create Users list, their (Projects) and monitor 124 Modules security Profiles and Budgets Resources their actual and Module Approval for Privileges & Access to Forecasts to Complete Work Diaries Projects 122 1. Employee and Time 128 Set 2. Plant Sheets Production Records/ Data manipulation and Admin PM 3. Materials

   Resource Codes 101 Project 96 Procurement Storage for Date wise actual Actual Data

   Resource Budgets Rules 4. Fixed Actual Base Data Data data or production records Create EPS through Time Zones, Request & Approvals Assets for Manpower, Services,

   [Enterprise Project Project Tables in Plants Utilization, material 2/17

   Structure] & add Settings Time Zones, Request & Approvals Production Central Records Database Consumption, Actual costs new Project ID 98 102 Estimating Data from and Work progress and Daily Periodical Performance Create or 104 External application Attendance Update Create (Candy) Records down to Cost Project Records code Level Central Library SOE and SOR Data from Project 106 Library SOR Table Contract Document Legend for Responsibility data Daily Work Diary 132 IT Administrators Weekly Project Manages Regular Data backup while 126 Time projects in progress and High Level Users (Line Manages & Senior Project Engineers) Sheets Archive data upon completion Mid Level Users (Project Engineers, Superintendents & Admin) of a Project Site Supervisors 130 Site Administrators (Time Keepers & Clerks) Site Engineers Automatic Process Project Planners or Senior Engineers 136 FIG. 2