Full Sail Partners Blog

The How-To Guide for Understanding Capacity Calculations in Deltek Vantagepoint Resource Management

Posted by Terri Agnew, CPA on September 28, 2023

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Using the Resource View in Deltek Vantagepoint is a quick and easy tool for project-based firms to determine which employees are properly scheduled or utilized, and/or those who may not have enough or too many hours planned. This view has a lot of valuable information on one screen and can sometimes seem a bit overwhelming. So, the content provided here in this blog, which is utilized with Resource Planning licensing, will assist you with the questions like “What do the blue/red/grey colors mean?” or “How is the utilization % calculated” and help make this form one of the most important tools in your firm’s resource management toolbox.  

Three Show Capacity Views 

There are three different options to monitor your resources: Planned Hours, Scheduled %, and Utilization %. Below you will find illustrations showing how these three views are calculated for you to better understand the information Resource View is displaying. 

Planned Hours 

Planned Hours is the simplest of the calculations as it is what it says it is – all planned hours! Use this view to simply check each selected resource's total planned hours for the time period shown in the Forecast Range. Planned hours will be shown for all published plans for ALL types of projects – overhead, promotional, and regular projects. Planned hours will show even if the project is showing a capacity calculation of excluded from scheduled and utilized % on the project’s summary pane. 

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Scheduled %

When you change the view from Planned Hours to Scheduled %, you will notice the “heat map” will appear. This “heat map” is used to visually draw a user’s attention to which resources are properly scheduled (grey), under scheduled (blue), or over scheduled (red) based on the firm’s chosen thresholds (Settings > Resource Planning > Resource Settings). 

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The Scheduled % is a calculation of Planned Hours divided by Available Hours for the resource. This view is great to use to get an understanding of if a resource is too busy (red) or has availability to be assigned to more projects (blue) or if they are appropriately scheduled during the timeframe (grey). 

  • Planned Hours - this calculation will include all types of projects (regular, promotional, & overhead). However, if a project shows as “Excluded from Scheduled and Utilization” on the Project’s Summary tab, those planned hours will not be used in this calculation. Note that excluded hours will still show the hours when the details are expanded for the resource. 
  • Available Hours - these are calculated using the employee’s standard hours from their employee hub, less any non-workdays as indicated in Settings > Resource Planning > non-Workdays. 

In the example shown below, I will break down the calculation for the week of 9/4 – 9/10 where Amy Allen is showing over scheduled at 138%. 

Planned Hours / Available Hours = Scheduled %      =     44 / 32 = 138% 

Planned Hours = 59 total hours planned less 15 hours for Greenhouse Café Remodel as that project is currently set to “Exclude from Scheduled and Utilization” in the project. The numerator is 59 -15 = 44 hours. 

*Note when you click on the blue link of each project, a small summary box for the project will appear where you can easily see if a project is “included” or “excluded” from Scheduled and Utilization. 

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Available Hours – Amy Allen’s standard hours are set as 8 hours per day in her employee hub, which is typical for a full-time 40-hour/week employee. The week of 9/4 – 9/10 contains a Labor Day Holiday in the company’s non-workday settings. As discussed earlier, holiday hours are excluded from available hours. Therefore, the denominator is 40 – 8 = 32.  

 *Note that when you click on a resource’s name, the Employee Card will appear. On that employee card, you will find the Hours/Day in the bottom right of the Profile Tab. 

Now, the shading!  What is this heat map telling you?   

Understandably, being scheduled at 138% would seem to be over scheduled just because it is a relatively large number, but the system is compared to the firm’s Resource Planning Settings. In my demo database shown here, the blue shading indicates under scheduled as under 90%, and the red shading for over schedule when over 105%. Grey is “just right” of 90 – 105%, which this firm has indicated as appropriately scheduled.    

In summary, in my database, a full-time, 40-hour/week employee would show as properly scheduled (grey) if the scheduled hours are between 36 (90% x 40) and 42 hours, under-scheduled would be less than 36 hours (blue) and over scheduled as over 42 hours (red). 

Utilization %

The Utilization % will show the percentage of the planned hours for billable projects (regular/won projects) and those In Pursuit projects marked as “included in scheduled and utilization”. Use this view to show how an employee is tracking against their Target Utilization. Even if an employee is well scheduled, in the example above, if several of the projects are either overhead or In Pursuit and not included in scheduled and utilization, the employee may be shown as under-utilized.  

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Utilization % is a calculation of Total Billable Planned Hours divided by Available Hours (same calculation as above). 

Total Billable Planned Hours only includes regular projects, no promotional projects nor overhead projects. Regular projects will be all those in the Stage Step of Won and any In Pursuit that are “Included in Scheduled & Utilization” Capacity calculations. 

For this example, I will be showing the calculation for the week of 9/11 – 9/17 from the picture above. In this view, I am also showing a few additional columns in the middle grid that help demonstrate if a project is “billable” or not.   

As you can see, I have one project that is a Lead Stage – Greenhouse Café Remodel, and as discussed above, that project is Excluded from Scheduled and Utilization so those hours will not be included in the numerator. Additionally, there is one project that is overhead (no stage listed), which is PTO.   

Total Billable Planned Hours / Available Hours = Utilization %      =     22 / 40 = 55% 

Total Billable Planned Hours = 53 total hours planned less 15 hours for Greenhouse Café Remodel as that project is currently set to “Exclude from Scheduled and Utilization” in the project, less the PTO hours of 16. The numerator is 53 -31 = 22 hours. 

Available Hours (as stated above) are calculated using the employee’s standard hours from the employee hub, less any non-workdays. This week does not have a holiday and this employee’s standard hours are 8 hours/day so the Available Hours = 40. 

Shading for Utilization %: 

To understand the heat map for the Utilization %, the formula considers each employee’s Utilization Target, which is set in the Employee Hub. This employee, Amy Allen, has a Utilization Target of 75%. 

The threshold calculation is the Utilization % divided by the employee’s Utilization Target. 

For the week ending 9/17, Amy’s planned Utilization % is 55% divided by the target of 75% equals 73%. In my demo database shown here, the blue shading will be under-utilized if the utilization % is under 90%, red shading over 105%, and “just right” or grey is between 90 – 105%. Therefore, since Amy’s threshold calculation is 73%, she is showing blue as that is under-utilized in my database. 

Capacity Calculations Made Easy with Resource View 

So, in summary, the Resource View in Deltek Vantagepoint has a lot of valuable information on one screen. You can use it to navigate to three different views to understand (1) how many hours an employee has planned in total (Planned Hours), (2) if the employee is over/under scheduled (Scheduled %), and (3) if the employee is over/under utilized by simply navigating between the three options in “Show Capacity”. Project based firms should be making the most of the resource management tools available within Deltek Vantagepoint! To learn more about this feature and other Resource Management tools, please visit our webinars located here: Webinars for Project Manager Rockstars! 

 

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What to Look for in an Outsourced HR Consultant: Tips for Professional Services Firms

Posted by Tasia Grant, PHR on September 21, 2023

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In my years of experience as an HR Consultant, I have seen many professional services firms struggling with a variety of HR issues. Let's take this one example for instance - the HR Administrator at a professional services firm has the responsibility of performing complete benefits administration for employees. She has found herself bogged down with benefit administration duties like monthly bill reconciliation, employee enrollments and terminations, and employee questions on coverage and claims processing, etc. She has been spending so much time handling benefit issues that she has not been able to effectively manage the employees’ performance and productivity.   

So, in order to handle this situation, this professional services firm decided to hire an outsourced HR Consultant to assist with Benefits Administration to complete the benefits lifecycle from open enrollment and plan changes to billing and terminations.The HR consulting services freed up time and focus for the HR Administrator to manage other employee affairs more efficiently.  

Determine Firm’s Needs for Outsourced HR 

Outsourcing has become increasingly necessary as HR professionals seek ways to reduce time and resources spent on transactions and administration, so they can concentrate on more strategic activities. According to an article on Essential HR Outsourcing Statistics by ZipDo, June 13, 2023, 56% of organizations have outsourced at least one HR task and 39.8% of businesses outsource HR functions to improve their focus on core business areas. Furthermore, 68% of companies accept that outsourcing their HR functions improved their employees’ overall experience. 

However, it is important initially to understand what the ultimate objective is for each professional services firm to determine how the HR consultant will help you meet that objective. To determine what services you will need, look at your main employee-related pain points and deficiencies as well as your professional services firm’s growth plan.   

Are there very specific issues that need pointed focus like Recruiting/Talent Acquisition, Employee Relations/Employment Law, or Compensation Analysis, or is there a need for an overall evaluation or overhaul of the HR function in general? This will help you determine if you need a consultant or agency with global HR experience or a more specialized HR professional, such as one who specializes in Employment Law or Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I), etc. It is also beneficial to find an HR partner who understands your industry or even geographic area to provide more relevant and accurate guidance.

Do Your Research  

Once the outsourcing HR needs have been determined, then the hunt for the right Outsourced HR Consultant begins. It is important to research Outsourced HR Consultants that offer the level of service you are seeking based on the scope of the task(s) and desired outcomes for your professional services firm that you have determined based on the assessment of the services needed. Look for HR consultants who have a proven track record or reputation for delivering desired results. This can be acquired from client referrals and research from reputable HR-related or specific industry sources, like SHRM, HRCI, and industry websites, Glassdoor, etc. You should additionally consult with other companies in your industry for referrals.   

Establish a Budget 

HR leaders and the executive committee must also determine the budget designated for Human Capital Management (HCM). It is not always necessary to spend an excessive amount of money on Outsourced HR consulting services. You must take into consideration if the consulting will be on an as-needed General Services Agreement (GSA) basis, which will let you pick and choose your services or even come in to help you with specific projects and training topics. Some may offer the option to call when you have an urgent question or concern. Another choice is a full-scope project contract or agreement with pre-determined goals and targets. The available options per consultant will also help to narrow down the right consultant choices for your professional services firm. 

Get Proposals When Looking for an Outsourced HR Consultant 

We recommend that you request proposals from interested HR consultants. The proposal should include a clearly stated overall objective to ensure it is in line with the professional services firm’s expectation, specific details about what tasks they will complete, the steps involved in accomplishing this goal, estimated time for each task, and final completion target date, and estimated costs of services delivered.  

The HR leaders and the executive committee should compare the proposals and determine which proposal overall best meets the needs of the firm. Then they should conduct interviews to gather details about their services, confirm their ability and desire to meet the expectations of the company, availability, and costs, and obtain references. Be sure to give specific situations that your professional services firm is experiencing to see how they would handle those real situations.  

Find the Best Match for Your Firm 

When looking for the right Outsourced HR Consulting situation, you should have a clear understanding of your company's culture, values, and overall vision. It is very important that as you are vetting consultants, you should communicate this information to them to determine if they would work well with the structure/culture of your professional services firm. All of this should be taken into consideration as they assess and advise the firm. It’s important that you find a consultant that respects the culture you’ve built and won’t disrupt the current dynamic or morale.   

Get Ready to Start Looking for Your Outsourced HR Consultant 

Based on the same ZipDo statistics article referenced above, companies that outsource HR management can see an average cost savings of 20-30% and can save an average of 18 hours per week on paperwork and administrative tasks. Moreover, 60% of businesses with outsourced HR processes have been successful at improving employee morale. These statistics provide compelling evidence of the numerous advantages that come with outsourcing your HR functions. With these insights, you should be motivated and prepared to begin your search for the perfect HR consultant. Want to hear more about the Full Sail Partners’ Outsourced HR Consulting Services? Click the image below to get started.

 

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From Learning to Networking: Navigate Deltek ProjectCon 2023 with Full Sail Partners

Posted by Lindsay Diven on September 14, 2023

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Why Deltek ProjectCon 2023 is a Must-Attend Event 

Are you prepared to propel your project-based business to the forefront of industry excellence? Look no further than the horizon of Deltek ProjectCon 2023 – an indispensable event for professionals deeply entrenched in project-focused industries. Overflowing with motivation, education, and unparalleled networking prospects, this year's conference emerges as an irreplaceable milestone on your journey.  

As proud sponsors, exhibitors, and presenters, Full Sail Partners eagerly extends an exclusive invitation to navigate this transformative journey, set to unfold at the enchanting Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando, Florida, from October 16 to 18. Deltek ProjectCon isn't just a conference; it's an experience designed to empower you and your project-based firm.  

First off, here's a closer look at 3 big reasons why you ought to immediately circle this event on your calendar and claim your spot. 

#1: Learning Beyond Limits 

The Deltek annual conference boasts an impressive lineup of 300+ engaging sessions across 15 racks that promise to deepen your product knowledge and provide valuable insights into industry trends. Earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits as you discover innovative solutions and services that will fuel your project success. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, the learning opportunities are boundless. 

Take a moment to review the session catalog here. 

#2: Forge Unbreakable Connections with Your Fellow Deltek Users 

Connectivity is key in the world of project-based business, and Deltek ProjectCon offers unparalleled networking opportunities. Engage with Deltek experts, peers from your related industry, fellow attendees, and, of course, the Full Sail Partners’ Crew! From one-on-one meetings to interactive braindates, you'll forge authentic connections that can propel your career and business forward. 

#3: A Fusion of Fun and Learning 

Deltek ProjectCon understands that it’s not all about business; it’s about having fun and building memories that matter too. Immerse yourself in special networking events, participate in philanthropic activities, and let loose at the epic customer appreciation party. It's a chance to relax, unwind, and recharge while still gaining valuable insights. 

If those reasons alone don’t give you enough motivation to come to Deltek ProjectCon this year, just remember that the Full Sail Partners’ team of experts will be available to conference attendees. We will not only be active participants in the event but will be presenting a valuable learning session that is one of a kind. And just like every year that Deltek has put on the annual conference, we will be bringing the knowledge that comes with more than 275 years of experience with Deltek products. 

Full Sail Partners: Your Guide to Project Management Superpowers 

As we step into our role as sponsors, exhibitors, and presenters at Deltek ProjectCon 2023, Full Sail Partners offers an exciting opportunity to witness our expertise firsthand. Brace yourself for a front-row seat to our presentation, "Unlocking Vantagepoint Integration Superpowers with Blackbox Connector," scheduled for Tuesday, October 17, at 2:00 p.m. ET.  

In this informative session, we’ll unveil how our turnkey Deltek Vantagepoint integration can revolutionize your connections with third-party applications. Say goodbye to coding headaches and hello to our seamless Blackbox Connectors for ADP Workforce Now, SAP Concur, Entrinsik Informer, Intuit Mailchimp, and more. Our low-code implementation strategy saves time, cuts costs, and eliminates upgrade worries, unleashing the true power of Blackbox Connector to transform your business with efficiency and productivity. 

Here’s what you can expect to learn during our session: 

  • Unveiling the key benefits of turnkey Deltek Vantagepoint integrations and their far-reaching effects across diverse business functions. 
  • Unpacking the tactical deployment of low-code strategies, ensuring seamless Deltek Vantagepoint system integration with third-party applications. 
  • Identifying avenues for process enhancement through harnessing the prowess of Blackbox Connector. 
  • Hearing compelling tales of successful Blackbox Connector implementations, directly from user experiences. 

Join our presenters, Pete Nuffer and Sarah Gonnella, in this very enlightening and inspiring session. To ensure you don't miss out, make sure to include our session on your must-attend list. You can conveniently add it to your program by clicking here 

Unraveling the Full Sail Partners’ Experience 

The engagement doesn't stop after the presentation. Our experts are excited to connect with you at kiosk 5A in the lively XPO hall. Keep an eye out for our easily recognizable red shirts – the Full Sail Partners’ Crew is ready to address your questions, provide live demos, and assist you in realizing the full capabilities of your solutions. This is a valuable chance to tap into our collective expertise and equip yourself with the resources necessary to invigorate your project management pursuits. 

And we love meeting new clients “in real life” as well as catching up with familiar faces. So, stop by and say hi! 

Unlock Your Project Management Future at Deltek ProjectCon 2023 

If you're primed to amplify your project-based firm and open the door to unprecedented achievements, then Deltek ProjectCon 2023 beckons. Save the dates – for October 16 to 18 – and immerse yourself in the world of learning, connection, and fun to be had this year at the Gaylord Palms in Orlando, Florida. The horizon of Deltek Project Nation awaits you, and together, we shall cultivate a future where your project management prowess knows no bounds. 

Ready to secure your spot? Click the image below to register for Deltek ProjectCon 2023 today! Be sure to mention you heard about the conference from Full Sail Partners during your registration. We're eagerly counting down the days until we meet you there. We can't wait to see you! 

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Understanding and Effectively Using Cross Charge in Deltek Vantagepoint

Posted by Scott Gailhouse on September 07, 2023

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The Labor Cross Charge utility of Deltek Vantagepoint is often an underused accounting feature by project-based firms. It is simply not being utilized because users are not quite familiar with the concept and how it could be of benefit. So, first off, the labor cross charge capabilities in Vantagepoint are based on similar theories as multi-company but are focused on the interaction within a project-based company and its organizational breakdown structure (OBS) and only focuses on labor. Before we dive deeper, here are some links to some resources about multi-company functionality and OBS in case you are unfamiliar with these topics.  

High-Level Insight into Cross Charge in Deltek Vantagepoint 

To those unfamiliar with the concept, cross charging is a financial tool that only impacts the general ledger. It does not change project reporting since the time charged to a project remains on the project for billing and reporting purposes. Cross charge is labor-focused and occurs after the timesheet is posted.  

Since Deltek Vantagepoint is project-based, this simply means that time is entered to a project number whether time is spent on a regular, revenue-producing project or an overhead effort. By default, the labor cost follows the project’s organization. If the cross charge process is not configured or run, the labor cost will remain on the income statement of that organization.  

Why Use Cross Charge? 

As financial and operational managers, we know that revenue can only be earned when a cost is incurred. For this reason, cross charge allows project-based businesses to move these elements in and out of various “buckets” within their organization. When a combined income statement is run, all cross charge entries will zero out and the original revenue and cost will remain.  

The cross charge process is used when project-based firms loan and borrow resources at the lowest level of the OBS, which could be:  

  • Office - OBS is organized based on the physical locations of your offices  
  • Department/Discipline - OBS is structured around different functional areas or departments within your organization 
  • Market Sector - OBS is focused on your firm's market sectors   

A good situation for using cross charge would be with a civil engineering firm where projects will be needed for various disciplines. For instance, the survey department would loan their staff to the engineering projects and cross charge would be the financial component to drive and manage the accounting for the labor.  

There are two internal pricing options to choose from when configuring cross charge:  

  1. Project Centric – This is when labor remains on the income statement of the organization where the project resides. A multiplier is then used to move some portion of operational/overhead (OH) costs from the loaning organization to the borrowing organization. This factor could be limited to a fringe benefit rate or represent a breakeven OH rate or even include some profit. The purpose is to ensure that the loaning organization has an incentive to keep their staff busy, but they also need to be mindful not to over-extend their resources. 
  2. Employee Centric – This works by sending labor back to the employee’s organization. Using typical billing rates, although a multiplier can be used, the revenue is moved from the project’s to the employee’s organization. The purpose again is to ensure the loaning organization doesn’t lose the ability to show a profit by sharing their staff.  

Real-life Application of Cross Charge in Deltek Vantagepoint 

Here is a success story where the operational process and projects are built on the premise that fee and scope drive work breakdown structure (WBS) in a client’s Deltek Vantagepoint database. Under this model, high accountability becomes the first option where phases and tasks within a project are assigned to different organizations based on the portion of the work. Employees charge the phase/task that is assigned to the organization they “live” in. This results in more closely managed projects because the profit accountability is shifted back to the organization supplying the labor. This process eliminates the need for cross charge. 

 However, realizing that in order to run successful projects, there is a necessity to anticipate unplanned needs. This means that the project-based firm must have the ability to borrow an employee from another department for a short-term assignment or a last-minute need. For example, the base building studio decides it needs input from the interior design studio. In this scenario, the client falls back on the project-centric method noted above as a mechanism to facilitate resource sharing and not impede project progress. Furthermore, this is a prime example of a need for cross charge.  

Gain Control of Resources with Cross Charge 

The Labor Cross Charge utility in Deltek Vantagepoint can provide the functionality required to ensure an open and smooth process of resource sharing for your project-based firm. With a thorough understanding and effective implementation, cross charge can provide another dimension in managing your business.  

Interested in more information about using cross charge and how it can help unlock the full potential of Deltek Vantagepoint? Want to learn other ways of ensuring your project-based firm is running as efficiently as possible? If so, Full Sail Partners is happy to offer your firm a Navigational Analysis. 

 

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44th Annual Deltek Clarity A&E Findings: Human Capital Management (HCM) Trends

Posted by Evan Creech-Pritchett on August 31, 2023

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Human Capital Management is a critical aspect of the architecture and engineering (A&E) industry, as it plays a pivotal role in attracting, retaining, and developing skilled talent to drive business growth. The 44th Annual Deltek Clarity Architecture & Engineering Industry Study highlights key challenges and initiatives related to HCM in the A&E sector. In this blog, we will touch on some findings regarding HCM trends to understand how A&E firms can enhance their HCM strategies to stay competitive and succeed in today's dynamic market. 

Focus on Developing and Cross-Training Existing Staff  

With staffing challenges persisting and the cost of new hires on the rise, A&E firms must shift their focus towards developing and cross-training their existing staff. The Clarity study indicates that the number of firms reporting more open positions in 2022 fell compared to the previous year. To encourage this trend, these professional services firms are increasingly turning their attention to internal talent development to meet project demands effectively. 

To address this challenge, these professional services firms should invest in robust training and development programs that empower employees to acquire new skills and take on more responsibilities. By cross-training staff, A&E firms can create a more versatile workforce capable of delivering projects across different disciplines and specialties. Additionally, these efforts boost employee satisfaction and reduce turnover, leading to a more stable and productive work environment. 

Finding the Right Solutions and Tools for Talent Acquisition 

Acquiring the right talent is an ongoing challenge for A&E firms. This year’s Clarity study highlights difficulties in finding time and budget to select the best technology solutions that can identify and accelerate candidate selection. To address this issue, professional services firms like architects and engineers should explore innovative talent acquisition tools and techniques to widen the candidate pool and streamline the hiring process. 

Furthermore, implementing an efficient applicant tracking system (ATS) can help manage job postings, track candidate applications, and streamline the recruitment workflow. Also, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics in talent acquisition can provide valuable insights for identifying qualified candidates and predicting their potential fit within the organization. 

Offering Competitive Compensation 

In a competitive talent market, A&E firms are facing increasing pressure to offer attractive compensation packages to attract and retain top talent according to the 44th Clarity report. The cost of new hires is rising, and employees are seeking competitive pay and benefits to align with their skills and experience. 

To remain competitive, these professional services firms should regularly review their compensation structures, benchmark against industry standards, and consider geographical variances in salary offerings. Moreover, investing in compensation management tools can facilitate data-driven decision-making and ensure that salary offers are competitive and fair, reducing the risk of losing potential candidates to competitors. 

The Availability of Good Candidates 

Based on this year’s Clarity study, while the turnover rate has stabilized, the availability of qualified candidates remains a challenge. A&E firms should focus on nurturing and developing existing talent while seeking external candidates to fill open positions. Upskilling, cross-training, and offering career development opportunities are essential to position firms for growth. 

Furthermore, creating a strong employer brand through targeted employer branding initiatives and robust employee value proposition (EVP) can help attract diverse and skilled candidates. These professional services firms can additionally leverage their existing employees as brand ambassadors to promote the company culture and highlight growth opportunities within the organization. 

Building Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) Programs  

The 44th Deltek Clarity study emphasizes the growing importance of DE&I initiatives in these professional services firms. Many A&E firms acknowledge the need for DE&I programs but are unsure about how to measure and implement them effectively. 

A&E firms should start by conducting a DE&I assessment to identify areas for improvement and set specific goals for enhancing diversity and fostering a more inclusive workplace. Creating an inclusive work environment requires ongoing efforts, including diverse hiring practices, inclusive leadership training, and regular monitoring of DE&I metrics to measure progress. 

Learn More about HCM Trends from the 44th Deltek Annual A&E Clarity Study 

As seen from the findings of this year’s Clarity report, Human Capital Management is a critical factor in the success of architecture and engineering firms. By focusing on developing existing staff, implementing effective talent acquisition tools, offering competitive compensation, nurturing good candidates, and building robust DE&I programs, these professional services firms can position themselves for growth and stay ahead in a competitive market. Additionally, leveraging technology and data-driven strategies can further optimize HCM efforts, leading to improved employee satisfaction, reduced turnover, and overall business success. As the A&E industry evolves, firms that prioritize and invest in their human capital will be better equipped to tackle challenges and seize opportunities for future growth.  

For more details on HCM Trends from the 44th Clarity Study, read the entire report. 

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Business Development Trends from the 44th Deltek Clarity A&E Report

Posted by Evan Creech-Pritchett on August 24, 2023

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In light of the recently unveiled 44th Annual Deltek Clarity Architecture & Engineering (A&E) Industry Study, we now have the opportunity for an in-depth exploration of its key sections, beginning with a comprehensive analysis of the Business Development Trends. In this dynamic industry, architecture and engineering firms are faced with the challenge of navigating a landscape marked by both strong growth prospects and increasing competition. To stay ahead, these professional services firms must adopt a more strategic approach to capture planning, leverage internal resources effectively, and nurture client relationships.  

Here in this blog, let’s delve into some of the key insights and initiatives from the 44th Clarity A&E report that will drive success for these professional services firms seeking sustainable growth and a competitive edge in the market. So, what are some of the latest trends shaping the future of business development in the architecture and engineering sector? 

Revenue Growth Forecast 

This year’s Clarity study predicts a robust but more conservative revenue growth forecast for architecture and engineering firms. While the industry remains strong, A&E firms need to be cautious and strategic in their pursuit of revenue growth. This calls for more careful capture planning and leveraging internal resources effectively to build momentum for future growth. To achieve success in this landscape, these professional services firms must align their strategies with the changing market dynamics and economic conditions. 

Identifying New Prospects and Increased Competition 

Qualifying potential clients that align with an A&E firm's strengths is a persistent challenge in the industry. As markets evolve, firms must be more selective in targeting pursuits that align closely with their offerings, talents, and resources. Simultaneously, they should diversify into markets that align with their long-term business goals. The 44th Deltek Clarity study also highlights increased M&A activity, leading to larger firms with greater resources. This poses a dual challenge for A&E firms, as it both intensifies competition and opens opportunities for collaboration through strategic networking and teaming. 

Time to Nurture Client Relationships 

With the market poised for continued growth, nurturing existing client relationships becomes paramount according to this year’s Clarity study. A&E firms must invest in fostering strong and lasting connections with their current clients. This involves understanding their needs, providing exceptional service, and identifying opportunities to add value. In addition, these professional services firms need to innovate and find creative ways to attract new prospects, leveraging their existing business development talent to cultivate new leads. 

Challenges and Initiatives 

The 44th Deltek Clarity study identifies several challenges faced by architecture and engineering firms. Time constraints, limited resources, and the increasing cost of competing for projects are significant hurdles. To address these challenges, A&E firms are adopting cross-training initiatives. By empowering internal staff to handle business development tasks, these professional services firms can effectively utilize their resources and create a more robust and adaptable workforce. 

Furthermore, implementing a formal go/no-go process is another crucial initiative that A&E firms are focusing on. This process allows firms to evaluate potential projects more objectively, considering factors such as staffing levels and internal business metrics. By making informed decisions on project pursuits, these professional services firms can improve their win rates and optimize their use of resources. 

Net Revenue Growth Forecast 

This year’s study highlights a decline in the net revenue growth forecast for 2023 compared to the post-pandemic high of 17.6% in 2022. While the forecasted growth of 10.2% remains positive, A&E firms need to carefully monitor market conditions and adjust their strategies accordingly. This reduced growth forecast calls for a more cautious and strategic approach to business development, ensuring that firms maintain a strong financial performance despite the changing market dynamics. 

Marketing Techniques and Future Outlook 

A&E firms are employing a mix of marketing techniques to reach and engage their target audience based on the 44th Deltek Clarity report. It notes that social media and client-specific marketing continue to be top strategies, providing these professional services firms with avenues to showcase their expertise and build strong relationships with clients. Additionally, as in-person events become safer post-pandemic, trade shows and exhibits are regaining importance as effective marketing opportunities. 

Looking ahead, A&E firms must remain adaptable and open to emerging marketing technologies. As the industry evolves, these professional services businesses need to embrace digital strategies and explore new avenues to reach potential clients effectively. 

Learn Even More About Business Development Trends for A&E Firms 

The 44th Deltek Clarity A&E Industry Study provides valuable insights into the current and future business development trends in the architecture and engineering sector. By adopting strategic planning, nurturing client relationships, and making the most of their internal resources, A&E firms can navigate the changing landscape and ensure sustainable growth in the competitive industry. Embracing a diversified marketing approach and staying receptive to emerging technologies will position these professional services firms for success in the dynamic architecture and engineering landscape. For more details on Business Development Trends, read the full report. 

 

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Key Performance Metrics for Architecture and Engineering Firms

Posted by Sarah Gonnella on August 17, 2023

08-17-23 Key Performance Metrics for AE Firms Banner

How does your firm measure up? That is the vital question many architectural and engineering (AE) firms should be asking themselves. It is challenging to manage what you are unable to measure! There are several key performance metrics that an AE firm should use to determine its current status. These measurements are important to not only keep you abreast of the condition of your company, but they also allow you to examine the past, so you can plan for the future. Let’s look at a few of the significant performance metrics. 

Proposal Win Rate

When we talk about Proposal Win Rate, we're essentially looking at how effective your business development efforts are at turning potential leads into actual projects. It's like keeping score on how well you're playing the business game! By tracking this rate, you gain valuable insights into what strategies are paying off and which ones might need a little tweaking. 

Even the tiniest improvement in your win rate can have a huge impact on your bottom line. Think about it – landing just a few more projects out of every ten proposals can make a significant difference in your profitability.  

In the fiercely competitive world of AE firms, the ability to gain new business is like having a superpower. It's what sets successful firms apart from the rest. So, honing your business development skills and consistently improving your win rate is critical to your success. 

Here's a pro tip: When analyzing your Proposal Win Rate, pay attention to the reasons behind both your wins and losses. Learning from both successes and setbacks is the secret sauce to continuous improvement. You might discover patterns that can help you replicate your victories or identify areas that need some extra attention. 

Profit

Profit is a crucial metric for any AE firm’s success. It tells you how well your firm is doing financially. It's the money left over after deducting all expenses from your gross income. Profitability metrics help AE firms figure out which projects are worth pursuing. It shows you if you're making enough money to keep your operations going and growing. 

Analyzing your profit helps you make smart decisions about where to focus your efforts and resources. It's like a report card for your financial performance. Being profitable is essential for your firm's sustainability and growth. It allows you to invest in your business and attract top talent. 

But don't get too fixated on profit alone. Keep in mind that different projects may have different profit margins and timelines. 

By keeping a close eye on your profit over time and comparing it to your goals, you can spot areas for improvement and make informed decisions for a prosperous future. 

Labor Utilization

Labor utilization is a metric that helps you measure your team's efficiency. It ensures you have the right number of employees for optimal performance. By analyzing labor utilization, you can identify both high and low performers, enabling you to take targeted actions for improvement. 

To maintain an effective labor utilization rate, review both billable (direct) and non-billable (indirect) hours. Monitoring this metric allows you to make data-driven decisions and allocate resources wisely for maximum productivity. 

A well-utilized team leads to a happy and productive work environment, driving your firm's success. Keep an eye on labor utilization for a thriving team and business! 

Net Revenue/Operating Income

Net revenue and operating income are like a dynamic duo that keeps your business running smoothly and efficiently. Let's take a closer look at these essential metrics and understand why they're crucial for your AE firm's financial success. 

First up, net revenue is the lifeblood of your business. It's the total revenue your firm generates after deducting any discounts, returns, or allowances. Think of it as the fuel that keeps your business engine roaring. Without sufficient net revenue, your firm's growth and sustainability could hit a roadblock. 

Operating income, on the other hand, measures your business's capacity to take on new projects while covering all operating expenses. It's like a litmus test of your firm's operational efficiency. By subtracting your operating expenses from your net revenue, you get a clear picture of how much profit you're generating from your core operations. 

Now, here comes the interesting part: net revenue also sheds light on your firm's relationship with subcontractors. It shows how much of your revenue goes to paying them for their services, leaving you with the revenue that your firm retains for its own services. Understanding this breakdown helps you gauge the impact of subcontracting on your profitability. 

By carefully tracking net revenue and operating income, you can make informed decisions about pricing, resource allocation, and investment opportunities. It's like having a compass that points you in the direction of profitability and growth. 

For example, if you notice that your net revenue is high, but your operating income is lagging, it could signal inefficiencies in your operations or excessive costs that need addressing. On the other hand, if your operating income is strong, but net revenue is low, it might be time to revisit your pricing strategies or explore new revenue streams. 

In a nutshell, net revenue and operating income are two sides of the same coin. Together, they provide valuable insights into your business's financial health, helping you steer it toward prosperity. 

So, pay close attention to this financial power duo. Regularly monitor their performance, set targets, and use the insights gained to fine-tune your business strategies. With net revenue and operating income on your side, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the waters of profitability and keep your AE firm thriving! 

Backlog

The backlog metric is your firm's project navigator, keeping you on course within your budget. By tracking both ongoing projects and potential wins, it provides a clear picture of your workload and budget needs. This insight helps you plan ahead, allocate resources effectively, and deliver top-notch results to your clients. Regularly keeping an eye on your backlog ensures you stay on track and sail smoothly toward success! 

Client Loyalty

For any AE firm to grow and continue to be successful, client loyalty is a necessity. It is important for both word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business. Meeting client expectations, proactively engaging in client feedback, and acting on areas that need improvement are all essential to keeping loyalty. 

Cost of New Business

When it comes to growing your AE firm, new business opportunities can lead the way. But expanding also means there are costs involved. Measuring these costs helps you choose which opportunities are worth pursuing and if the potential gains are worth the investment. Remember, calculated risks can lead to profitable growth. So, keep an eye on the cost of new business and set your company on a path of strategic expansion! 

Measuring Up the Firm

Keeping a close eye on key performance metrics is the secret sauce to your AE firm's ongoing success. We've explored some noteworthy metrics today, but there's a whole world of data waiting to be discovered. It's up to you to decide which metrics align best with your firm's goals. 

To see how your firm measures up with these KPIs and gain valuable insights into the A&E industry, we encourage you to download the latest Annual Deltek Clarity A&E Industry Study by clicking the image below. This study contains valuable information to aid your decision-making and stay ahead of the competition. 

Remember, the path to prosperity starts with data-driven decision-making. Equip your firm with the right metrics, ensure your team understands the goals, and set sail toward a brighter, more successful future! 🚀 

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Why You Should Be Using Deltek Dashboards

Posted by Lindsay Diven on August 10, 2023

08-10-23 Why you should be using DVP Dashboards_BannerAre you making the most of your time and resources? Well, let me tell you about something that can really give you a boost—Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards! Dashboards are like the superheroes of your system, but unfortunately, they often go unnoticed and underutilized. They're made up of dashparts, or widgets, which act as your gateway into the magnificent world of your Deltek system. If you're using Deltek Vantagepoint, you're in for a treat because these dashparts are incredibly diverse, offering reports, metrics, links, alerts, tips, and so much more! 

Major Benefits of Deltek Dashboards

Now, let's dive into these major benefits of Vantagepoint Dashboards that will revolutionize the way you work. 

Instant Access to Information 

Imagine waking up in the morning, opening your system, and boom! You're greeted with a dashboard that presents you with all the essential information you need for the day. Daily reports, task reminders, and alerts that require your attention are all neatly displayed, tailored to your specific role. It's like having a personal assistant who ensures you stay on track and meet your goals and objectives. Who wouldn't want that? 

Say Goodbye to Repetitive Navigation 

We've all been there—endlessly clicking through the navigation panel to find the data we need. It's a time-consuming and monotonous task that can drain your productivity. But fear not! Vantagepoint Dashboards are here to rescue you from this clicking madness. By utilizing dashboard components, you can create shortcuts to reports, URLs, records, and more, reducing your clicks to just one or two. That extra time saved allows you to focus on the things that truly matter in your work. It's like having your own teleportation device, whisking you away to the exact information you need with a single click! 

View Role-Specific Data 

We all have unique roles within our firms, and Vantagepoint Dashboards understand that. You can customize your dashboards to focus on the specific data that are relevant to your role. But wait, there's more! Deltek also offers predefined dashboard configurations that can be pushed out to you based on your role. So, if you're a project manager, you can have project budgeting, billing information, and accounts receivable invoicing right at your fingertips. With role-specific data, Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards equip you with the tools necessary to excel in your job. It's like having a personalized command center that caters to your every need. 

Enhanced Data Visualization 

Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards are designed to present complex data in a visually appealing and easy-to-understand format. By utilizing charts, graphs, and other visual elements, these dashboards transform raw data into meaningful insights. You can quickly grasp trends, spot anomalies, and make informed decisions without getting lost in a sea of numbers. 

Real-Time Updates 

Stay on top of your game with real-time updates provided by Vantagepoint Dashboards. No more waiting for manual reports or struggling with outdated information. Dashboards pull data directly from your database, ensuring that you have the most up-to-date information at your fingertips. This real-time access enables you to respond swiftly to changes, address issues promptly, and make agile business decisions. 

Collaboration and Transparency 

Vantagepoint Dashboards promote collaboration and transparency within your organization. You can share dashboards with team members, enabling everyone to access the same data and metrics. This fosters better communication, alignment, and teamwork across departments. Whether it's sharing project progress, financial metrics, or sales performance, dashboards facilitate a unified understanding of your firm's goals and progress. 

Customizable and Flexible 

Vantagepoint Dashboards offer a high degree of customization and flexibility. You can tailor your dashboards to suit your specific needs, preferences, and roles within the organization. Choose the metrics that matter most to you, arrange them in a way that makes sense, and create a personalized view of your data. This flexibility ensures that you have a dashboard that perfectly aligns with your workflow and helps you focus on what's important. 

Improved Efficiency and Productivity 

By centralizing relevant information and providing quick access to key metrics, Vantagepoint Dashboards significantly improve efficiency and productivity. Instead of spending time searching for data or generating reports manually, you can focus on analyzing insights, identifying areas for improvement, and taking proactive actions. Dashboards streamline your workflow, eliminate unnecessary steps, and allow you to work smarter, not harder. 

Now that you've witnessed the awesomeness of Deltek Dashboards, it's time to harness their power and boost your productivity to new heights. Regardless of your role, these dashboards offer benefits that can supercharge your workday. From instant data access to time-saving navigation and role-based setups, there's something for everyone. So, don't wait any longer—unleash the full potential of dashboards at your firm! 

Experience the Power of Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards: Watch the Recap of Dashboard-Palooza's Electrifying Acts! 

Did you miss out on the electrifying events of the year? Don’t worry! We've got you covered. Dashboard-Palooza was a roaring success, providing attendees with valuable insights and actionable takeaways. It showcased the true power of Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards, empowering collaboration, and efficiency for A&E firms. Whether you're a project manager, a finance or project accounting wizard, or a sales and marketing maestro, these dashboards are designed to help you thrive in your respective domains. Watch all of the Dashboard-Palooza acts by clicking the image below. 

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Maximizing Project Success with Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard

Posted by Timothy Burns on August 03, 2023

08-03-23 Informer Dashboards_Banner

We are excited to introduce you to a game-changing tool that will transform the way project managers review their project financials. Say hello to Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard - a cutting-edge business intelligence tool tailored specifically for project managers, offering instant visibility into your project's performance and empowering you to make well-informed decisions for ultimate success. 

You might be wondering, "What exactly is this Resource Planning Dashboard, and how can it benefit my projects?" Well, let’s dive in and see how. 

Estimate at Completion (EAC) and Revenue Projections

Imagine a project manager, let's call her Lisa, who has been assigned to lead a critical project for her company. Lisa is aware that managing project finances is crucial, but due to various reasons, she neglects to use the EAC and Revenue Projections feature in Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard. 

As the project progresses, Lisa faces challenges in accurately tracking and controlling costs. She relies on outdated spreadsheets and manual calculations, leading to errors and inconsistencies in her financial estimates. Without a clear view of the project's estimated completion costs, Lisa struggles to make well-informed decisions regarding budget allocation and resource management. 

However, with Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard, Lisa gets a comprehensive view of her project's estimated completion costs (EAC). This vital information allows her to accurately assess her project's financial health, giving her and your firm confidence in your financial decision-making.  

Informer Screenshot 01

Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard presents a comprehensive view of your project's estimated completion costs (EAC). This vital information allows you to accurately assess your initiative's financial health, giving you confidence in your financial decision-making. Additionally, the dashboard offers detailed revenue projections, enabling you to forecast your project's income and engage in strategic financial planning. When you have the numbers at your fingertips, financial management becomes a breeze! 

Accounts Receivable (AR) Monitoring 

Now let’s meet John, a project manager leading a crucial infrastructure design project for an engineering firm. Despite being aware of the importance of cash flow management, John fails to use Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard for AR Monitoring. As the project progresses, John faces challenges in keeping track of outstanding payments from clients and subconsultants. 

Without real-time updates on accounts receivable, John is unaware of delayed payments and overdue invoices. This lack of visibility leads to cash flow issues, affecting the project's ability to fund ongoing activities and purchase essential resources. The project falls behind schedule due to the delayed availability of funds, leading to frustrated team members and increased project costs. 

Furthermore, John's inability to proactively optimize the financial situation results in missed opportunities to negotiate payment terms with clients and subconsultants. As a consequence, the project's profitability is compromised, and the firm faces increased financial risks. The cash flow problems escalate, and the project struggles to meet its financial obligations, eventually putting the entire project at risk of failure. 

In this unfortunate scenario, John's failure to leverage Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard for AR Monitoring significantly impacts the project's success. Proper utilization of this feature could have provided him with real-time insights into accounts receivable, enabling proactive cash flow management and ensuring a healthy bottom line for the project. 

Informer Screenshot 02

Effective cash flow management is the lifeblood of any successful project. With Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard, you receive real-time updates on accounts receivable, making it easy to track outstanding payments effortlessly. By staying on top of your cash flow, you can proactively optimize your financial situation and ensure a healthy bottom line for your projects. This feature alone can help you navigate through financial challenges like a pro! 

Resource Optimization 

Imagine Sarah, a project manager leading a critical project for her company. Despite being aware of the importance of resource optimization, Sarah fails to utilize the Resource Planning Dashboard effectively. As the project progresses, Sarah struggles to identify top-performing team members and allocate resources strategically. 

Due to the lack of actionable insights into her project team, Sarah faces challenges in maximizing productivity. She might unknowingly assign tasks to underperforming or overwhelmed team members, leading to delays and compromised project quality. As a result, the project timeline extends beyond the initial projections, causing frustration among clients and eroding their confidence in the project's success. 

Moreover, without the necessary information to optimize resources, Sarah's project team experiences burnout and low morale. The lack of recognition for high-performing individuals, coupled with the inefficient allocation of resources, creates a sense of disengagement within the team. 

The consequences of poor resource optimization are severe. The project incurs additional costs due to inefficiencies and missed deadlines. Clients become dissatisfied with the project's progress and may consider terminating the contract, impacting the company's reputation and future business opportunities. 

In this unfortunate scenario, Sarah's failure to leverage the Resource Planning Dashboard for Resource Optimization significantly impacts the project's success. Proper utilization of this feature could have empowered Sarah to identify top performers, allocate resources efficiently, and unlock her team's full potential. The project would have progressed smoothly, meeting deadlines, and delighting stakeholders with successful outcomes. 

Informer Screenshot 03

The Resource Planning Dashboard provides actionable insights into your project team members, helping you identify top-performing resources. Armed with this knowledge, you can strategically allocate resources, maximize productivity, and enhance overall project execution. It's like having a secret weapon to unlock your team's full potential! 

Empower Your Project Managers with Informer’s Resource Planning Dashboard 

Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard is designed to simplify project management and empower you with the tools you need for unparalleled success. From financial insights to resource optimization, this dashboard covers all the bases, ensuring that your projects are on the path to greatness.  

Are you excited to take your project management game to new heights? Let's embrace the power of Informer's Resource Planning Dashboard and watch the short demonstration by clicking below. Happy planning! 

 

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How Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards Empower Collaboration and Efficiency for A&E Firms

Posted by Lindsay Diven on July 27, 2023

07-27-23 DVP DP Dashboards - Banner

This summer, we hosted Dashboard-Palooza, a virtual mini-demo series that highlighted the enhanced dashboard functionality of Deltek Vantagepoint. These demonstrations showcased how these powerful dashboards can revolutionize collaboration and efficiency for A&E firms. Our experts took center stage and provided actionable insights to project managers, finance and project accounting teams, as well as sales and marketing professionals, helping them drive their success. Let's recap the highlights from each mini demo. 

Project Management Oversight in Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards 

Traditionally, project performance is measured monthly after time and billing has been processed. This leaves a gap in time where many issues could have been detected and addressed. What’s more, is that users must read every line in a report to understand what is important. 

In our opening act, Rana Blair, our rockstar expert, demonstrated how Deltek Vantagepoint's Project Management Oversight Dashboards can empower project managers to gain valuable insights and streamline their workflows. These dashboards offer visibility into key metrics such as budget, schedule, and resource allocation, enabling proactive steps to keep projects on track. Rana showcased her favorite dashboards and dashparts as summarized below. 

My Team's Project Overview Dashboard 

Project team leaders, principals, and directors can gain quick insight into their team’s performance even when they are busy with other competing priorities like business development, management meetings, issues to respond to, and several projects to monitor performance for. This dashboard makes it easy to see project performance for their team. It’s designed to identify when something is out of tune. 

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My Project Performance Dashboard 

An individual project manager needs a bit more detail. Reports can provide a lot of facts and figures but may be difficult to interpret what it all means. A dashboard like the My Project Performance Dashboard provides basic visual information about the state of the projects, lets the project manager quickly see where projects might be going sideways and offers the ability to jump to the issue to dig in further. 

Keeping the users in your Deltek Vantagepoint system with the data increases the likelihood that they will see and address issues in a timely manner. 

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My Project Percent Complete Entry from Dashboards 

The interactivity of Dashparts is increasing with every release of Deltek Vantagepoint. Most dashparts can be built with drill down capability and the ability to jump from the dashpart to the specific record for a closer look.  

The Project Percent Complete Dashboard is no different. This includes a simple project list on the right-hand side. Users can click on the contact’s name, for example, to bring up the contact information to quickly send an email or make a phone call. This dashboard also includes one of the most popular interactive dashparts, Percent Complete Entry. Users can update the weighted percent complete for their projects. It’s never been easier to update percent completes! 

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Click here to watch the opening act of the Dashboard-Palooza to quickly oversee and manage your project performance. 

Finance & Project Accounting Oversight in Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards 

Theresa DePew took the stage for the second act of Dashboard-Palooza, where she showcased the Finance & Project Accounting Oversight Dashboards of Deltek Vantagepoint. With these dashboards, finance, and project accounting professionals can stay on top of critical metrics like revenue, expenses, and profitability. Theresa's mini-demo empowered attendees to make informed decisions and manage finances and projects like pros. Just a few of the dashboards are summarized below. Watch the entire second act by clicking here. 

Finance Dashboard 

This dashboard provides a snapshot of the firm financials. We’ve built this dashboard to include Profit & Loss Accounts Last 3 Months, AR Unpaid Detail, and Receipts -This Month dashparts. 

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Billing Review Dashboard 

This billing review dashboard provides an at-a-glance view of your firm’s unbilled and accounts receivable. You’ll notice that this is a project-based dashboard that allows you to add a filter at the top of the dashboard which filters the data for the entire dashboard not just a dashpart. This filter uses the same project records saved searches that you would find in the Projects hub. 

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Draft Invoice Approvals and Unbilled for Project Managers’ Dashboard 

A&E firms need to bill clients in a timely manner to have a steady cash flow to run their firms. That’s why keeping track of invoice approvals and those projects that have yet to be billed is so critical. This dashboard makes it easy for project managers, principals, and accounting teams to quickly see and manage the invoice process. Best of all, this is an out-of-the-box dashboard that comes built for you with Deltek Vantagepoint. 

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Project Financials Dashboard 

This dashboard was created by one of the Full Sail Partners’ consultants. The “Billed Amount by Target Sectors” shows you how much has been billed by Project Type (or market sector). This dashboard also contains “YTD Billings and Revenue” and “Project + Linked Promo Cost” dashparts. 

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If you would like to see these dashboards in more detail, check out Theresa’s mini-demo here. 

Marketing & Sales Oversight in Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards 

In the final act of Dashboard-Palooza, Amanda Roussel took us on a journey through the Marketing & Sales Oversight Dashboards of Deltek Vantagepoint. Attendees discovered how these dashboards can help teams identify opportunities, optimize strategies, and drive revenue growth. Amanda's featured dashboards and dashparts included: 

Firms’ Sales & Marketing Dashboard 

This informative dashboard offers valuable insights and customization options for showcasing marketing stats and individual performance metrics. It includes a Pursuit Count chart displaying pursuits at different stages, with estimated and weighted fees. The dashboard also features a Proposals Submitted This Year section, a Year-to-Date Projects Awarded overview, a comprehensive Sales Pipeline view, and a Client Activity Status report. With visual representations, filtering options, and color-coded indicators, this dashboard empowers A&E firms to optimize marketing strategies, track progress, and nurture client relationships effectively. 

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My Active & Upcoming Proposals Dashboard 

This next Dashboard in Deltek Vantagepoint focuses on personal involvement within pursuits. The "My Pursuits by Stage" chart provides a filtered view, displaying stages from lead to contract management, along with estimated and weighted fees. The "My Active Pursuits" table, specific to the Business Development Lead, offers insights into upcoming proposal due dates and enables sorting and filtering. The "My Activities" dashpart allows for efficient task management, with toggles for timeframes, completion markers, and notes. The "My Sales Awarded YTD" tracks estimated fees for awarded projects. Lastly, the "My Pursuits + Linked Promo Cost" dashpart showcases promotional project details, including linked promotional costs, hours, and a visual indicator for high percentage charges. 

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Firm Hit Rate Performance Dashboard 

The Firm Hit Rate Performance Dashboard in Deltek Vantagepoint provides an overview of the firm's success rate. The "Firmwide Hit Rate YTD" chart calculates hit rates based on estimated fees, presenting the percentage of awarded versus lost projects. The "Hit Rate by Project Type YTD" breaks down hit rates by project categories, displaying wins versus losses and estimated fee amounts. Additionally, the dashboard offers insights into the reasons for winning and losing projects in the last quarter, represented by pie charts based on project count. The "Pursuits Won & Lost Last Quarter" section on the right-hand side provides a summary of the firm's performance in terms of pursuits won and lost. 

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By leveraging Deltek Vantagepoint's Marketing & Sales Oversight Dashboards, A&E firms can unlock the power of data-driven decision-making, ultimately achieving remarkable sales and marketing results. To see all of these in more detail, check the final act of this series. 

Experience the Power of Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards: Watch the Recap of Dashboard-Palooza's Electrifying Acts! 

Dashboard-Palooza was a tremendous success, providing attendees with valuable insights and actionable takeaways. Deltek Vantagepoint Dashboards empower collaboration and efficiency for A&E firms, enabling project managers, finance and project accounting teams, and sales and marketing professionals to thrive in their respective domains. Click the image below to watch each act in the show. 

 

 

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