Full Sail Partners Blog | Cloud

The way we work has changed and looks very different than it did even just a decade ago. Teams are no longer tied to one office or one location, and many employees are collaborating from home, on project sites, and even across the world. While this shift has opened exciting opportunities such as new levels of productivity and talent reach, it also creates unique challenges around data access, security, and system performance leading management to ask, “How can firms keep everyone connected, secure, and equipped to grow?”

That’s where cloud hosting solutions come in. By moving your firm’s systems and data to the cloud, you can give your teams the secure access they need, while ensuring your business is ready to scale as it grows.

Secure Access from Anywhere

One of the most critical requirements for today’s workforce is the ability to access information and applications from any location. In today’s business environment, flexibility is key. Cloud hosting allows employees to log in securely whether they’re in the office, on the road, or at a client site. Instead of being limited to a single computer or network, your team can access the tools and information they need whenever and wherever they’re working.

For executives, this also means more reliable visibility into project performance and financials. Leaders can access dashboards, reports, and KPIs in real time—without waiting for updates from siloed systems. That level of access supports faster decision-making, better client responsiveness, and stronger competitive positioning.

Protecting What Matters Most

Security is not optional—it’s essential. Cybersecurity threats are a concern for every business, and for good reason. Cloud hosting providers offer layers of protection that go far beyond what most firms can maintain on their own, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and continuous monitoring. By leveraging a cloud hosting solution, firms can confidently protect client data and proprietary information, meeting both internal security needs and regulatory requirements. This means peace of mind for executives and confidence for your clients.

For IT managers, cloud hosting also provides access to enterprise-grade security tools without the burden of managing them in-house. Routine patches, threat detection, and compliance audits are handled by experts, reducing risk while freeing up valuable internal resources.

Effortless Scalability

Growth brings opportunity—and technical demands. Adding new staff, projects, or locations can put strain on in-house systems. As your firm takes on new projects or adds more staff, your technology needs to grow too. With cloud hosting, scaling is simple. You can quickly add capacity or users without having to purchase new servers or go through complicated system upgrades. It’s a solution designed to grow with your business, not hold it back.

This agility is especially valuable for project-based firms that experience seasonal or project-driven fluctuations in demand. The ability to scale up or down ensures resources are used efficiently, helping to maximize profitability while supporting business expansion.

Simplifying IT Management

Managing IT infrastructure in-house can be expensive and time-consuming. Cloud hosting shifts that responsibility to the hosting provider. With cloud hosting, firms no longer need to budget for costly servers, hardware upgrades, or extensive onsite IT staff. The hosting provider is the one that will handle updates, maintenance, and troubleshooting, so your team can focus on serving clients and growing the business.

For executives, the predictable monthly cost structure provides budgeting clarity, while IT leaders benefit from being able to redirect their focus from “keeping the lights on” to more strategic initiatives like digital transformation and data analytics.

Making the Move with Confidence

For firms embracing remote teams and distributed project sites, cloud hosting is more than just a technology upgrade—it’s a strategic investment. By delivering secure remote access, protecting what matters most, and offering effortless scalability, hosting solutions empower the agile workforce to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving business environment.

Whether you’re an executive looking for business continuity and growth or an IT manager seeking operational efficiency and reduced risk, cloud hosting positions your firm to meet today’s demands—and tomorrow’s opportunities.

Ready to explore how Deltek Cloud hosting can support your firm’s future?

Take the first step today by filling out our Cloud Conversion Interest Form. Our team will help you evaluate your options and build a secure, scalable path forward.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, businesses are embarking on a transformative journey toward modernizing their IT infrastructure. Imagine your business is like a spacecraft venturing into the vast expanse of a new digital universe. Instead of charting the stars alone, you can have a trusted mission control—a consulting partner—to guide you through the complexities of this digital cosmos. Welcome to the future of IT: Cloud Solutions.

What is a Cloud Solution?

To grasp the concept of Cloud Solutions, let’s explore this futuristic digital landscape. The “cloud” is a sophisticated network of servers and services that exists online, accessible through the internet. It’s not a physical entity but a metaphor for a model where your IT infrastructure is managed by a specialized provider. This partnership means that all aspects of IT—data storage, hardware, software updates, and security—are handled by experts, allowing you to focus on your core business activities.

Consider this: you run a cutting-edge architectural firm, renowned for your innovative design projects. Your architects are masters of design and creativity, but managing internal IT systems, keeping up with technological updates, and handling technical issues are outside their expertise. Additionally, purchasing and maintaining IT equipment represents a significant non-revenue-generating cost. A Cloud Solution offers the ideal remedy by taking these burdens off your shoulders. Advantages of Cloud Solutions

Cost Efficiency

Cloud Solutions bring a new level of financial predictability and efficiency. Instead of being burdened with large capital expenditures for on-site hardware and its ongoing maintenance, cloud computing allows you to shift to a more manageable and predictable financial model. By adopting a cloud-based approach, you benefit from a fixed annual cost that covers all your IT needs—hardware, software, updates, and support. This fixed cost model helps stabilize your IT budget, turning what was once a variable expense into a consistent, manageable investment.

Not only does this make budgeting easier, but it also eliminates the financial strain of unexpected IT expenses. With Cloud Solutions, you’re investing in a streamlined, cost-effective approach to managing your IT infrastructure, freeing up resources to focus on growing your business and pursuing innovation.

Robust Security

Data security is a top priority in the digital realm. Cloud providers invest in advanced security measures, including encryption, regular audits, and compliance with stringent standards. Furthermore, cloud facilities are designed to withstand physical threats like natural disasters, ensuring your data remains protected and accessible.

Sustainability

Embracing cloud computing aligns with environmental stewardship. Cloud Solutions contributes to reduced energy consumption and lower carbon footprints by optimizing resource utilization and minimizing electronic waste. This supports broader sustainability goals and corporate responsibility.

Accessibility and Flexibility

The cloud’s most transformative feature is its accessibility. It enables you to access data and applications from anywhere, anytime, and on any device. This flexibility supports remote work, enhances collaboration, and keeps your team productive regardless of their location.

Choosing the Right Digital Transformation Consulting Partner

As you prepare for this digital voyage, partnering with an experienced consultant is crucial. So, what are some key traits of successful consultants?

1. Dependability: A great consultant consistently delivers on their promises and provides reliable service.
2. Attention to Detail: Precision matters. Top consultants produce flawless work and manage every aspect of your IT environment with meticulous care.
3. Expert Knowledge: Seek consultants with extensive experience in cloud technologies. Their expertise will guide you through the intricacies of cloud solutions and help you make informed decisions.
4. Critical Thinking: Exceptional consultants evaluate all potential solutions thoroughly, considering various factors to identify the best fit for your needs.
5. Resourcefulness: Effective consultants are adept at finding creative solutions to complex challenges, leveraging their industry knowledge and connections.
6. Effective Communication: Good consultants ask insightful questions and listen attentively to your needs, ensuring their recommendations align with your business goals.

Embark on Your Digital Journey with Full Sail Partners

As you venture into the digital future, Full Sail Partners is your mission control, offering the expertise and support needed to navigate the cloud’s vast opportunities. Available consulting services and free webinars provide valuable insights into the benefits of cloud computing, helping you make the most of this technological leap.

With just a click, you can begin your journey towards a more efficient, secure, and sustainable IT environment. Embrace the future with confidence, knowing that your digital transformation is guided by expert hands.

So, while you may not be exploring distant galaxies, the journey to digital transformation is just as exciting and essential. Partner with Full Sail Partners and chart your course to a future where technology enhances your business capabilities and drives success.

Did you know that over 75% of Deltek Vantagepoint customers are in the cloud today? That's right—every day, more Deltek Vantagepoint clients are taking their systems to the cloud. But what exactly makes project-based firms decide to make the move to the Deltek Vantagepoint Cloud?

Continuous Access to Your Data, Anytime and Anywhere 

Imagine this: you're at the airport, waiting to board a flight to a major work conference, with your presentation materials and agenda in hand but you need to check something really quickly. Or perhaps you're in a quiet coffee shop between client meetings, preparing for your next big pitch and you realize you are missing something that needs to be looked up fast. No matter your location, in the cloud, your data is always at your fingertips, as long as you have secure internet access and a web browser.

The Deltek Vantagepoint Cloud provides the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can safely access, extend, or update your data from any location. With a 99.9% average uptime, you can rely on your data being available whenever you need it. This level of accessibility is a game-changer for businesses that require flexibility and mobility. Whether you're working from home, traveling for business, or simply need to check in on a project while you're away, the cloud ensures that your data is always within reach. No more being tethered to a physical office or worrying about accessing critical information when you need it most. 

Ease Your Growing Pains as You Expand Your Business 

As your business grows, so do your technology needs. Managing hardware can become a significant distraction, especially as the need to upgrade and maintain legacy systems increases. By moving your business to the Deltek Vantagepoint Cloud, you can leave those growing pains behind. Focus on what matters most, growing your business while enjoying the benefits of no hidden fees. 

The Deltek Cloud offers several tailored options, allowing you to pay a clearly defined annual cost each year, eliminating the surprise costs that can occur with on-premise setups. Plus, you'll have a team of experts managing your cloud infrastructure, including servers, storage, networking, patching, software updates, and hardware procurement.

The scalability of the cloud is another significant advantage. As your business expands, the cloud can easily accommodate increased data storage and processing needs without the hassle of purchasing and installing new hardware. This scalability ensures that your IT infrastructure grows seamlessly with your business, allowing you to focus on strategic initiatives rather than technical challenges.

Know Your Data is Secure in the Deltek Vantagepoint Cloud 

Security is a top priority when it comes to your data. The Deltek Vantagepoint Cloud offers features like multifactor authentication, encryption, and monitoring systems to ensure your data is secure. Deltek, a best-in-class service provider for project-based firms, takes security seriously. Their Cloud Security Operations Team and Site Reliability Team provide constant monitoring twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, and three hundred and sixty-five days a year to protect your firm against any threats. With the cloud, you can have confidence that your data will be safe, no matter the disaster. 

In addition to these security measures, Deltek also complies with industry standards and regulations, providing an extra layer of assurance. Regular security audits and updates ensure that your data is protected against the latest threats. This proactive approach to security means that you can trust Deltek to safeguard your sensitive information, allowing you to focus on your core business activities without worrying about data breaches or cyberattacks. 

Enhance Your Collaboration Capabilities

Furthermore, the cloud offers enhanced collaboration capabilities. Team members can easily share and access documents, collaborate on projects in real-time, and stay connected regardless of their physical location. This improved collaboration can lead to increased productivity and better project outcomes, as everyone has access to the most up-to-date information and the tools they need to succeed. 

The Cloud is Waiting for You 

The benefits of moving to the Deltek Vantagepoint Cloud are clear. From continuous access to your data to easing the growing pains of your business, to ensuring your data is secure, the cloud offers a reliable and efficient solution. It is time to join the growing number of project-based firms that have made the switch and experience the advantages for yourself. 

Moreover, the Deltek Vantagepoint Cloud is not just a technological upgrade; it's a strategic move that can transform the way your business operates. By embracing the cloud, you position your firm for greater agility, security, and growth. So why wait? The cloud is waiting for you - are you ready to take your business to new heights?

For over a decade now, Deltek has been offering its ERP applications in the cloud. In fact, at this point, a majority of Vision and Vantagepoint clients have opted to move their software to a cloud-based deployment, also known as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). For good reason- it provides a variety of important benefits that most modern companies can’t live without: 

• Anytime, anywhere, secure access  
• Always on the latest versions of the software 
• Deltek managed data backups &
• best-of-breed data security 
• Backed by Amazon Web Services (AWS)
  
  

As an increasing number of firms move their operations to the cloud, it's important to understand the different levels of cloud service available. Deltek offers three cloud-level options: Basic Cloud, Flex Cloud, and Enterprise Cloud. All offerings provide the same data security protocols, deliver API access, SQL stored procedures, and the ability to set up a sandbox environment. However, each progressive tier features enhanced levels of control, flexibility, and access to your Deltek database. As you’ll see, regardless of your size and complexity, there's a cloud level that's tailored to your needs.

Basic Cloud

A majority of Deltek clients are in the basic cloud. It provides all of the perks mentioned in the checklist above. It’s a turn-key SaaS deployment option. As mentioned, all cloud tiers, including basic, provide API access, accommodation of SQL stored procedures, and a sandbox environment. There are also convenient options for data import and export using the ‘front-end’ of the system, via import utilities. This will make more sense as we get into the two elevated tiers below, which include increased flexibility for more robust data access and improved ability to support certain external product integrations.

Note that with basic cloud, you have the ability to add Custom SQL reports without actually needing to upgrade to Flex, via the ‘Custom report add-on’ option.

Flex Cloud

Deltek Flex Cloud introduces a handful of important benefits as compared to the basic cloud. A primary example is ODBC Read-Only access. Meaning, you can establish a secure, read-only, direct connection to your Deltek database. You may hear this being referred to as accessing the ‘back-end’ of your Deltek system. This capability can provide benefits such as enhanced flexibility to integrate with 3rd party tools if for any reason APIs aren’t the right solution for you. Flex Cloud also offers a preview environment before upgrades and increased options around associated upgrade timing.

Enterprise Cloud

The Deltek Enterprise cloud is the top-tier option for firms looking for extensive control and access to their SaaS database. Typically, this is for those clients seeking to preserve certain aspects of an on-premise-like experience, but who want to avoid the downsides of hosting the system in their own internal environments. Building upon what is available in Flex Cloud, Enterprise cloud allows for additional options, including ODBC Write Access (the ability to not only read/pull data but also to write back to the database via that ODBC direct connection). Furthermore, the ability to accommodate more custom development, including SQL Custom Triggers, Tables, Views, and Indexes. Enterprise Cloud also unlocks the ability to have Test & Development SaaS environments, which is not an option with the two previous tiers.

The grid below helps to provide a more visual summary:

Need help understanding any of the terms above?  

API Access: API stands for Application Programming Interface. Simply put, API is a way for different software programs to communicate with one another. Within the Deltek context, it means that external programs can connect to your Deltek API-enabled ERP system. This can include purposes like retrieving project data, updating financial information, or creating new records.  

SQL Stored Procedures: SQL script that can be stored and executed in your Deltek database. Stored procedures can be used to assemble and complete specific tasks, including greater flexibility to update information across multiple hubs/info centers.      

Custom SQL Reports: a report that is created using SQL queries. Custom reports are used to retrieve specific data from your Deltek database, including the ability to search across multiple hubs/info centers and assemble the data in a single formatted report.  

ODBC Access: ODBC (Open Database Connectivity) is a way for different software programs (such as Excel, Access, or Business Intelligence tools) to communicate with your Deltek database using a standardized interface. You can establish a secure connection to your database in either a read-only format (allowing a program to only consume/retrieve data) or also the ability to provide write access (allowing the program to make changes to Deltek- such as adding new records, updating existing, or deleting records). 

Assistance with Choosing the Right Cloud Level 

In summary, choosing the right cloud level for your firm depends on your specific needs and goals. While the basic cloud does work for many, others may require the increased control and flexibility offered by the Flex Cloud. For those who need even more access to their data among other requirements as described above, the Enterprise Cloud may be the best choice.  

 If your organization is considering a move to the Deltek cloud, Full Sail Partners is here to guide and help you understand these options further. A good starting point is to fill out this brief questionnaire which allows us to assess your cloud compatibility among other important initial topics to consider. If you are already in the Deltek Cloud but want to consider upgrading your cloud level, that is of course an option too.  

Beginning in 2020, the workplace environment saw a drastic change when the pandemic shut down nearly all in-person office work. Not expected by many, this dark and looming cloud forever transformed the workplace indefinitely. Zoom and video conferencing became an everyday alternative to face-to-face interactions at the office, and work from home became the only solution and not a privilege.

While many workers had to adjust to this new remote working model, businesses had to quickly adjust to this changing workplace climate. As a result, employers had to quickly adapt to allow this newly created remote workforce to able to get work done from anywhere with an internet connection. As stated in July 2020, Accounting Today’s top VARs of 2020 noted that this is the year that has pushed the cloud over the tipping point largely because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now a year later, the forecast for the workplace environment has changed. Many firms accepted this back in 2020, but the businesses that held out hope that normalcy will return are now facing the reality that so many have accepted as the “new normal.” While the Deltek Cloud has emerged as a solution to solving numerous challenges professional services firms faced by becoming a more remote workforce, there are also other benefits to consider when choosing to move to the cloud.

The Difference Between Fog and the Cloud

Cloud computing in itself by name can be confusing. Simply stated, on-premise or hosting your own software means that software and servers that run your Deltek solution are typically hosted within the four walls of your business. In other words, on-premise is similar to fog in that it is on the ground.

On the other hand, the cloud means that the software and servers used to run your Deltek solution are on an external infrastructure like Amazon web services. Additionally, software as a service (SaaS) is a component of the cloud.

The Brightside to the Deltek Cloud

There are so many misconceptions about the cloud and the entire idea can seem daunting. To put your mind at ease, here are some benefits to taking your Deltek Vision/Vantagepoint system to the Deltek Cloud.

• Fast and Easy Upgrades – Always have the latest and greatest version of your Deltek solution without the need to tie up valuable IT resources for software and hardware upgrades.
• Off-Site Data Replication – Protect your data from an unexpected natural disaster with multiple backups in multiple data centers.
• Secure and Reliable – Data is secured and monitored 24/7 to standards set by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and reported on Service Organization Controls (SOC) audit requirements.
• Access from Anywhere at Anytime – Workforces are more mobile and remote than ever, give your teams secure access to your Deltek solution from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Easily Grow and Expand – As your company grows, so can your Deltek Vision/Vantagepoint instance by simply adding users to your license, not hardware which tremendously helps during the acquisition and expansion process.
• Cost Effective – Eliminate costly and time-consuming software and hardware upgrades and ongoing maintenance hassles and the people and time required to support this making future costs predictable.
• One Subscription Fee – Using the Deltek Cloud allows you to pay one subscription fee that can be easily budgeted for year after year allowing you to use IT budgets for projects that can improve your firm’s productivity and effectiveness.

Should the Deltek Cloud be in Your Firm’s Forecast?

It’s easy for us to assume that since we made it through the crisis created by the pandemic without the Deltek Cloud, then we can continue on with our newly crafted workaround solutions. While this seems logical, there are other reasons to consider the cloud. Take a minute to review the following questions:

• Does my firm have aging hardware?
• Do we have plans for growth in the near future?
• Is our workforce becoming more remote and mobile?
• Are we getting ready to upgrade from Deltek Vision to Vantagepoint?

Is you said YES to any of these questions, then it’s time to take your Deltek product to the cloud.

No Umbrellas Needed for the Deltek Cloud

When it rains, it pours. Well, with the Deltek Cloud, it pours with even more benefits. For starters, nothing really changes for your firm or employees. The Deltek Cloud offers the same power of Vision/Vantagepoint and the same functionality your teams are accustomed to using on a daily basis. Furthermore, your employees get unlimited access to the Deltek University eLearning content at no extra cost so they can continue to build on their knowledge and improve how your firm uses Vision/Vantagepoint. Lastly, making the move to the Deltek Cloud is simple and can be done in 24 hours or less in most instances. Above all, by choosing the Deltek Cloud, your firm will be resilient to any workplace climate change going forward.

Leadership teams and firm owners have countless business elements to focus on and decisions to make. Some decisions are no-brainers, others are hard, and some just need to wait for the “right time.” There are often firm improvements pitched for consideration that may not make it to the priority list, or that are labeled as a luxury rather than a need. The word “value” can often determine where an initiative may fall on that labeling scale. One initiative that is proving to be a need is moving your firm’s ERP solution like Deltek Vantagepoint or Vision to the cloud. Now is the time, and it should be an easy decision. Let us identify some of the many advantages of moving your ERP solution to the cloud.

Make it Easy for Your Teams

Professional services firms have data… lots of data. Much of this data is centered around your people and projects and should be safely stored and easily accessible. With a device and an internet connection, teams can securely access their solution from anywhere. This allows for great flexibility with office, remote, and field team members. The cloud is not only flexible with location, but it is also flexible with firm size. Growth is a leading driver for many firms, and it is important that systems put in place now allow for scaling up when the time is right. The cloud offering makes it easy for teams to get their work done, providing value for the firm.

Reduce IT Burdens

Another benefit the cloud offers is removing the burden on your IT team, whether internal or external. On-premise hardware requires system maintenance and server upgrades which take time and money. Moving to the cloud, IT resources can be reallocated, and your firm will have confidence knowing that your ERP system is running on enhanced security, using updated hardware and software, and requiring zero maintenance from your IT team. You can also rest assured that a disaster recovery plan has been established and is ready to be deployed, if needed. The value of the cloud ultimately improves firm efficiency because you can now focus on what you do best, providing value to your own clients.

Fixed Costs vs Unexpected Costs

Planning for and managing expenses is a significant part of a firm’s financial health. Opting for a subscription-based fee for cloud services, firms can have confidence in budgeting a fixed cost. Otherwise, a best-guess amount would be budgeted for on-premise hardware needs. Another factor that should be considered is potential downtime. On average, downtime with a traditional IT system can be four times longer than the cloud alternative. Unexpected expenses and downtime can put an unfortunate burden on a firm. Choosing to be in the cloud ensures value with increasing reliability and reducing operating expenses.

Everyone is Invited to the Cloud

Small and large businesses alike have the same access to the cloud. The cloud can give businesses a competitive edge as they use the latest ERP solution like Deltek Vantagepoint for project management, financial management, and other streamlined processes. With proven tools accessed easily from the cloud, project managers, accounting teams, marketing groups, and executives can stay integrated and informed, no matter the firm size. The cloud does not discriminate on who gets value.

Continuity is a Necessity

Now is the time to make the move. Firms should be proactive in protecting their valuable data and seamlessly move it to a safe place. Do not wait until something goes amiss with your traditional IT system. Because cloud solutions are reached via the internet, users have greater flexibility with computer upgrades and mobile devices, too. The cloud is the leading choice for data storage because it is secure, reliable, and always available. With all these benefits, it should be an easy decision that NOW is the time to move to the cloud.

What exactly is being in the cloud? Well, being in the cloud simply means running your firm’s ERP such as Deltek Vantagepoint or Vision on a remote server. Therefore, your firm does not need to concern itself with having the IT infrastructure on premises. Furthermore, being in the cloud allows your firm to focus on the more important matters of running your successful business leaving the IT responsibilities to the professionals. Let’s check out how your firm benefits from being in the cloud.

Cloud Means Lower IT Costs

Being in the cloud, your firm doesn’t have to worry about staying up to date with hardware and software. Simply stated, there is no need to buy additional servers, Windows operating systems, or SQL licenses if your ERP system is in the cloud. As a result, IT professionals managing your ERP system in the cloud will handle all of this for you so there are no additional costs incurred.

Cloud Security is Top Notch

With cloud management, your data is safe. Cloud professionals handle automatic updates and do multiple daily backups. Malware and virus scanning are also performed regularly. Most importantly, if there is a problem, business continuity is of the utmost importance. Cloud professionals work to ensure that your data is accessible as soon as possible in a disaster situation.

Reduced Burden

Being in the cloud, your firm does not have to deal with handling the setup or deployment of your ERP solution which ensures that it does what you are expecting. Cloud professionals have experience with the product you are using or are thinking of upgrading to in the cloud. Furthermore, a testing environment can be put in place for your firm to get comfortable with the ERP it wants to use. For example, you can try Vantagepoint thoroughly before committing the company to upgrade.

All Cloud Solutions Are Not the Same

Choosing the right partner to host your ERP system in the cloud is extremely important and not all cloud solution providers can be treated equally. Therefore, picking the right cloud partner is essential to ensure your ERP system is properly taken care of by the right professionals. For instance, you want to choose a partner that specializes in the ERP system you want to have hosted in the cloud. This ensures they know the ins and outs, and all the requirements to successfully maintain your ERP system.  

The Cloud Makes Running Your Business More Efficient

Leaving your IT issues to the professionals in the cloud, you can focus on the matters that really drive firm success. Moreover, with secure 24/7 access to your data from anywhere with an internet connection, you can ensure you have what you need when you need it enabling your firm to run efficiently. If your firm does choose to upgrade your ERP from Vision to Vantagepoint, being in the cloud would make it a much easier transition for your firm.

Out of all industries and professional disciplines, architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) leads in innovation. Not just in building design, but in how construction projects are completed. Among other efforts, the AEC industry is embracing modern technology to make projects and overall business more successful. Let’s take a look at some trends.

Moving to the Cloud

Taking your software to the cloud is becoming an extremely cheaper alternative to hosting your own software tools. Software/Desktop as a Service (SaaS/DaaS) is changing the AEC industry for the better. SaaS/DaaS gives employees the ability to access the software products they use from anywhere with an internet connection. As a result, it’s allowing firms to become more efficient and mobile.

Business development teams can retrieve important CRM information about their clients and prospects on-the-go. Project managers can update project records while they are on-site at the project. For AEC firms to stay competitive, they need to embrace SaaS/DaaS solutions to keep up with the changing times. Check out this link to learn more.

BIM Technology

Building information modeling (BIM) technology is not just for large firms anymore. It has now become economical for small firms and even the self-employed. With BIM, AEC firms can create digital models of structures…but it’s not just a 3D representation of a structure; it’s more like 6D. Whereas 3D is width, height and depth, the 4^th D is time, the 5^th D is cost, and the 6^th D evaluates the environment and sustainability of the structure. 

Even more, it’s a shared knowledge base of project information. By using BIM, companies will be apprised of a project’s status by instant access to all project information, even emails. Want to take Deltek Vantagepoint and Vision even further with project management? Check out Deltek PIM here for more information.

Software Integrations Using the Blackbox Connector

Third party software solutions can now be integrated with Deltek Vantagepoint and Vision. Using the Blackbox Connector for Constant Contact or Mailchimp, email marketing efforts are automatically updated in Vantagepoint or Vision. Instead of relying on plain spreadsheets for company business intelligence, firm employees can easily create real-time graphical dashboards with the Informer integration for Vantagepoint or Vision. Learn more about the Blackbox Connector options for Deltek here.

Stay Ahead of the Competition

Many AEC firm leaders are hesitant to make an investment into new technology. However, evaluating current practices and exploring ways to use technology to help streamline your business processes can prove to have a true return on investment. How can Full Sail Partners help you embrace modern technology?

The technology and applications that power your firm are critical to the overall mission of your organization. Unfortunately many of these applications are disconnected which causes us to end up with siloed data. So what’s the big deal? Firms that end up with siloed data spend more time flushing valuable resources (time and money) down the drain than working towards their overall business objectives! Do you really want to spend more time managing your data, than managing your clients?! Stop flushing your resources down the drain by eliminating siloed applications from your organization.

But wait, what exactly is a siloed application? Siloed applications are partitions within organizations that isolate departments, teams and even people. These applications do not communicate or share data with any other system, greatly limiting your ability to leverage the data living inside of these systems.

Are You Stuck in a Data Silo, But Don’t Even Know It?

Have you ever stopped to think about how your internal systems communicate and share data? Perhaps you’re unsure about the overall connectivity of your business systems. Read the below scenarios to see if you are suffering from siloed data.

• Your systems are slowing you down and preventing you from making real-time decisions
• You find yourself unsure of where critical data lives. Or even worse, you find yourself locked out of accessing data because you don’t know the right username or password
• You are unable to track campaign/project results without checking multiple systems
• You are representing data in multiple locations, causing the need for duplicate entry

If the above scenarios describe your firm, then you are suffering from data silos. Fortunately for you, this is a common problem and there is a solution!

How Can You Get Rid of Data Silos?

There are many ways to get rid of data silos in your professional services organization. The trick is finding the right solution that fits your corporate culture. Here are some examples of ways to break free from the grips of siloed data:

1. Take it to the cloud. As we have written about in previous blogs, there are multiple benefits to taking your organization’s data to the cloud. The benefits are clear in strict terms of breaking your data free from restrictive silos. Mainly, once your data lives in a cloud based application or system you are now able to leverage connections to this data from all over the world. Gone are the days of being tied to a desk. Employees are doing more than ever before and they are doing it from all around the world!
   
2. Centralize your data storage with a master record set. Creating a master data set will introduce a method to the madness of managing disparate data. Next time you are evaluating a new piece of software or application ask yourself how it fits in with your already established master data set. Is it worth adopting this technology if it only creates additional silos? This is something that you will need to review with all key decision makers and stakeholders.
   
3. If you connect it, they will come. Unfortunately we find ourselves living in a world of highly specialized technology. There is a reason the average company has 5.5 applications per employee; in today’s highly competitive market we need access to the tools that can help differentiate us from our competition. Fortunately, integration technologies are becoming widely available.
   
   Once seen as an option only available for major corporations, application integrations have become common place in both the business and personal world. If you have ever hooked your Instagram account up to your Facebook account – you’ve used an integration. If you’ve ever synced your email accounts to one central mailbox – you’ve used an integration.
   
   Integrations allow us to get the most out of current investments, while not limiting the technology available to our business teams. In fact, many firms won’t even consider purchasing new software if it does not have integration capability.

Not Sure Where to Start?

If you are ready to start breaking free of these data silos, but don’t know where to begin, we have the webinar for you. Join Pete Nuffer as he presents Dude Where’s My Data. This webinar will review best practices focused around data integrity, including the establishment of a master record set. See how new out of the box tools can be used to promote data sharing within your organization.