GUIDE: 12 Problems of Procurement (and how to solve them)

The tech stack of the future: Must-have tools for main contractors

By ProcurePro, updated 20 Mar 2025
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Construction procurement is no longer what it used to be. The Old Way — spreadsheets, endless email threads, and chasing subcontractors for responses — slows everything down, creates risk, and wipes out margin. For main contractors, shifting to next-gen procurement is not about jumping on a trend. It is about controlling costs, keeping schedules on track, and nurturing strong supply chain relationships in a volatile market.

But which tools actually move the needle? And what does a modern tech stack look like when it is built for efficiency (rather than piling on more admin)?

Why main contractors need next-gen procurement

Procurement drives every project. It sets the pace for when work begins, how well subcontractors are managed, and whether costs stay on target. If procurement performance slips, projects fall behind, disputes rise, and margins shrink fast. Today’s main contractors face escalating materials costs, tighter labour markets, and more demanding compliance obligations.

Working harder is not the answer.

Working smarter with connected systems is the only way to stay profitable and competitive.

Learn more about the 7 benefits of construction procurement software to streamline processes and improve outcomes.

Five must-have tools in a modern tech stack

Streamlined procurement is not just about getting subcontractors and materials on time. It is about control — over schedules, budgets, and risk.

A future-ready tech stack removes guesswork, automates the admin, and links everything from tendering to contract signing.

1. Live scheduling platform

Procurement timelines shift every day. Spreadsheets become outdated as soon as they are saved. This makes it easy to miss warning signs until they become full-blown problems.

  • Always current. No more manual data entry or chasing people for status updates.
  • Risk tracking. Spot bottlenecks before they derail the program.
  • Automated reminders. Key dates stay on everyone’s radar.

For further insights, read more on 3 key strategies for procurement savings in 2025.

2. AI-driven tendering system

Tendering is a time sink. Quantity surveyors can spend hours inviting bids, chasing responses, and double-checking quotes. AI will soon be able to handle vendor outreach, scope checks, and risk alerts in the background, freeing teams to focus on higher-value tasks.

  • Automated invitations. Send, monitor, and follow up on bids without manual effort.
  • Scope validation. AI flags gaps in scope, reducing costly variations.
  • Risk alerts. Identify financial and performance risks before signing a contract.

Understand more about 10 common risks of construction procurement and how to mitigate them effectively.

3. Digital contract creation

Paper-based contracts create lag and confusion. Manually drafting terms, emailing for approvals, and dealing with physical signatures eat into everyone’s time. A digital contract tool ensures clarity, speeds up sign-off, and locks in compliance from day one.

  • Pre-approved templates. Start on solid ground with no missing clauses.
  • Instant approvals. Route contracts to decision-makers without messy email chains.
  • E-signatures. Sign and lock in the deal in record time.

Explore essential tips for quality surveyors in breaking down complex contracts.

4. Real-time analytics and reporting

If you wait for out-of-date reports, it is impossible to prevent budget blowouts. Real-time analysis shows cost forecasts, subcontractor performance, and package progress as it happens, not weeks later.

  • Live dashboards. Check procurement status at any moment.
  • Cost tracking. Compare committed spend to budgets in real time.
  • Vendor insights. See which subcontractors consistently deliver on time and on budget.

Learn how Kori Construction enhances procurement efficiency and ROI while managing risks effectively.

5. Integrated vendor relationships

Awarding work is only the first step in managing subcontractors. Long-term success depends on performance tracking, dependable supply chains, and proactive risk management. A single system that tracks it all improves relationships and reduces surprises.

  • Performance tracking. Rate subcontractors on quality, speed, and reliability.
  • Historical records. See how each subcontractor performed on past jobs.
  • Supply chain visibility. Spot capacity issues and potential risks before they hit.

Discover how contracts managers are modernising procurement processes to enhance efficiency and project success.

FAQs about next-gen procurement

How do these tools integrate with existing software?

Next-gen procurement platforms typically sync with construction management systems like Procore and Aconex, accounting tools like Jobpac and COINS, and e-signature integrations such as DocuSign. Many also connect to Microsoft Power BI and ERPs like Viewpoint. The goal is not to introduce another standalone tool. It is to unite procurement with the systems you already rely on.

What is the difference between digital procurement and next-gen procurement?

Digital procurement moves paperwork online. Next-gen procurement goes further by rooting out inefficiencies completely. Instead of emailing a subcontract scope, a next-gen platform auto-generates it from a template, flags missing details, and maps approvals in real time. It is not just digitising files — it is transforming the entire approach to procurement.

Can smaller contractors adopt these tools effectively?

Yes. Next-gen procurement is scalable and works for contractors running a handful of projects or dozens. There is no large IT overhead, and most teams can get started with basic training. Modern platforms offer built-in support, live chat, and intuitive workflows that flatten the learning curve, so you can see faster, more consistent results immediately.

Moving forward with a future-ready solution

Procurement touches every phase of a project, from tendering to contract execution. Breakdowns in the process do more than create hassles — they consume time and drain margin. Next-gen procurement ties workflows together, eliminates clunky admin, and empowers teams with full visibility on every package.

When procurement updates happen in real time, you cut down risk and catch delays before they disrupt timelines. You draft airtight contracts that leave no room for error. You track vendor performance so you can make smarter choices. Instead of fighting fires, you steer clear of them.

The industry is moving fast. Contractors who modernise procurement gain a clear advantage: higher margins, fewer disputes, and smoother project delivery. Are you ready to transform your procurement? Book a demo with us and see the future unfold before your eyes.

ProcurePro

ProcurePro

ProcurePro is revolutionising procurement for the construction industry! Consolidate 15+ fragmented procurement processes traditionally managed with Excel, Word and 1000s of emails, into a single paperless platform and enjoy 50% faster procurement.