Almost nine in 10 Australian engineering and construction firms say project performance is a continuing issue and only half are meeting completion deadlines, according to recent research. “As firms evolve, the challenges of scaling, maintaining control and ensuring efficiency become increasingly complex,” says Total Synergy’s Julian Connolly.

The solution is a powerful practice management platform that supports competitiveness, profitability and growth. 

In Australia, engineering consulting services contribute over $30 billion to the economy. each year. However, inefficiencies and project delays cost the industry billions. 

KPMG’s Global Construction Survey 2023 found projects are under intense scrutiny, with 87% of respondents saying project performance was an ongoing issue and only 50% of project owners were meeting completion deadlines on time. More than a third (37%) of respondents revealed they have missed budget or scheduled performance targets due to lack of effective risk management.

“As your consultancy scales, the challenges of resource planning, stakeholder communication and risk management, can become more pronounced. Addressing them is critical to ensuring your firm remains competitive, profitable, and well-positioned for further growth,” Julian Connolly, Total Synergy’s Account Executive, says.

Understanding the challenges faced by engineering consultancies

Good decisions start with good data. But engineering consultancies face several key challenges as they transition from basic reporting to more strategic project and portfolio management. Ensuring data accuracy, selecting the right metrics, integrating diverse data sources, adopting new tools, and efficiently allocating resources are all critical hurdles to overcome.

“Total Synergy enables informed project selection, optimal resource allocation, reduced bench time, streamlined billing and month-end processes, and enhanced decision-making based on reliable information,” Julian adds.

Total Synergy’s platform is scalable and caters to consulting firms of all sizes. For smaller firms, Synergy streamlines core functions such as time tracking and document management, ensuring that even small teams can manage projects smoothly. Larger firms benefit from additional features like advanced financial management and comprehensive reporting that provide detailed oversight of costs and resources. 

Matteo Tirapelle, Managing Director of HERA Engineering says “the platform’s robust analytics capabilities empower us to drive both project and business efficiency. Whether it’s evaluating individual project performance or assessing overall business health, Total Synergy provides the insights we need to make informed decisions.” 

Solutions across different growth stages

Managing people’s time and maintaining visibility across multiple projects becomes increasingly difficult as consultancies grow, and so does the risk. 

Total Synergy’s time tracking feature integrates directly into financial management to offer real-time insights into project cost and profitability. Document management ensures all team members have access to the latest project information, reducing miscommunication and errors. These features allow firms to focus on the creative and technical work that adds value, while minimising administration. 

“Total Synergy has been an enabler in fostering a performance culture within HERA Engineering. Its user-friendly interface and real-time analytics encourage team members to monitor their performance, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability that is essential for business success.” Matteo says.

“Total Synergy has streamlined our financial processes, allowing us to focus on our core competencies. The platform’s comprehensive features help us plan for the long term, enabling us to allocate resources more efficiently and make data-driven decisions that align with our growth strategies.” Or as Julian Connolly says: “Master your projects, master your business, and position your firm for long-term success in the competitive Australian engineering consultancy sector.” 

Find out more or schedule a demo of Total Synergy.