BQE Core vs BigTime and Monograph Pros and Cons for Architects and Firm Size Considerations

In the competitive landscape of architecture and design, choosing the right project management and accounting software is crucial. The right choice can enhance a firm’s efficiency and boost its profitability. Among the top contenders are BQE Core, BigTime, and Monograph. Each platform has distinct strengths and weaknesses, and it is essential for firms to assess their specific needs. This post explores the pros and cons of BQE Core in comparison to BigTime and Monograph, along with insights into the typical firm size that opts for BQE Core and its implications for financial management.

Overview of BQE Core

BQE Core is an all-in-one project management and accounting software tailored for professional services firms, including architecture and engineering. One notable aspect of BQE Core is its built-in accounting module, meaning it does not integrate with QuickBooks. This is a double-edged sword for firms already using QuickBooks for accounting.

Pros of BQE Core

1. Comprehensive Features: BQE Core includes a wide range of functionalities such as time tracking, expense management, project management, and invoicing. For instance, firms can track billable hours and expenses across multiple projects, ensuring they’re compensated accurately. This versatility makes it suitable for firms managing several projects at once.

   
   

2. User-Friendly Interface: Users often praise BQE Core for its intuitive design. New employees can become proficient faster, leading to improved productivity. In fact, many firms report a 20% decrease in onboarding time, which translates directly to cost savings.

   
   

3. Customizable Reporting: The platform allows firms to create tailored reports that provide insights specific to their operations. For example, project managers can generate reports that showcase project profitability, helping leaders make informed decisions.

   
   

4. Focus on Professional Services: BQE Core is specifically designed for professional services, making it well-suited for architecture firms that require specialized tools like project tracking and resource allocation.

   
   

Cons of BQE Core

1. Complex Setup: The depth of BQE Core's features can make the initial setup process lengthy and complicated. Smaller firms or those with limited IT support may find this complexity overwhelming and may struggle with implementation.

   
   

2. Cost: BQE Core can be pricier than some alternatives, pricing starts around $10 per user per month. This cost can deter smaller firms or startups from adopting it, especially if they have budget constraints.

   
   
   
   

Comparison with BigTime and Monograph

BigTime

BigTime is another popular choice among architecture firms, known for its flexibility and ability to integrate with other software.

Pros of BigTime:

• Integration with QuickBooks: BigTime has a REAL-TIME integration with QuickBooks that is easier to set up and manage. Its is better for syncing payroll data is QuickBooks Payroll is used as well. This feature is appealing for firms wanting to retain their existing accounting structure, which over 60% of firms report as essential for maintaining workflow efficiency.

• Scalability: BigTime adapts as your firm grows, handling project management needs for both small startups and larger organizations effectively. This scalability is evident as firms have expanded by an average of 30% after adopting BigTime.

  
  

• Powerful Proposal Tool: BigTime recently aquired WorkRails and now has an integrated Proposal tool that is much more powerful than the Monograph prposal tool.

  
  

Cons of BigTime:

• Less Comprehensive: While it covers a wide range of features, BigTime may fall short in advanced project management capabilities when compared to BQE Core. there also is no communication module so youwill need to use another PM tool like Wrike for project communication and fiel managment.

  
  

Monograph

Monograph is a newer entrant focused on serving design firms by offering a streamlined project management solution.

Pros of Monograph:

• Simplicity: Many users appreciate Monograph for its easy-to-navigate interface. The simplified features allow new users to adapt quickly, often reporting a 15% increase in team efficiency in the early stages.

  
  

Cons of Monograph:

• Limited Features: While it shines in usability, Monograph might lack advanced functionalities required by larger firms. For instance, it may not support multiple project oversight as efficiently as BQE Core.

• Simple Proposal Tool: The Proposal tool is simple but not as full featured as the new BigTime WorkRails proposal tool.

  
  

Firm Size Considerations

BQE Core tends to be favored by mid-sized to larger architecture firms, typically with 10 to 50 employees and annual revenues between $1 million and $10 million. The complexity of its features aligns well with the operational needs of these firms, which often juggle multiple projects and require advanced reporting tools. In contrast, smaller firms or startups may find BQE Core’s features daunting. Simpler solutions like BigTime or Monograph might be more fitting for them, especially if they are accustomed to using QuickBooks.

Limitations of BQE Core

While BQE Core offers significant advantages, it also has important limitations. Its complexity can be a barrier for smaller firms, especially those lacking dedicated IT support. The extended setup process often leads to longer onboarding times, which can spike training costs.

Final Thoughts

Selecting between BQE Core, BigTime, and Monograph involves considering unique advantages and disadvantages tailored to architecture firms. BQE Core is distinguished by its comprehensive features and dedication to professional services, making it an excellent fit for mid-sized to larger firms.

In the end, the decision among these platforms hinges on the specific needs and size of the firm. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of each option, firms can make informed choices that align with their operational objectives and financial management practices.

As the architecture industry evolves, choosing the right tools is vital for success. Whether you opt for BQE Core, BigTime, or Monograph, understanding your firm's unique needs, and accounting set up, will help you pick the best platform to support your growth and efficiency.