Managing construction projects is complex. Between job costing, payroll, invoicing, and field coordination, keeping financial data accurate and up to date can become challenging, especially when information flows from multiple crews, jobs, and systems. Pairing QuickBooks Online (QBO) with the right technology gives construction companies real-time visibility into project performance, reduces manual work, and strengthens communication between the office and the field. Here's how to get more out of QBO and build a tech-enabled workflow that improves accuracy and profitability:
 

Track Profitability by Job 

QBO’s job costing features allow contractors to assign labor, materials, subcontractors, and direct overhead to each project. This creates a clear picture of job profitability throughout the project duration.

With more accurate job-level reporting, owners can: 

• Spot overruns before they escalate 
• Adjust staffing or purchasing decisions in real time 
• Bid future work with stronger, data-backed confidence 

This visibility often reveals trends, such as certain clients, project types, or crews performing better than others, helping leaders make smarter strategic decisions. 

Capture Labor Costs with Time Tracking Integrations 

Labor is one of the most significant variables on any job, and even small inaccuracies can distort profitability. Integrating time-tracking tools such as QuickBooks Time or similar mobile apps allows field teams to log hours from their phones, with entries flowing directly into payroll and job costing. 

These tools help construction firms: 

• Reduce manual data entry and payroll errors 
• Improve compliance with labor and overtime rules 
• Keep job budgets updated in real time 

Keep Project Data Consistent Across Systems 

Construction teams often juggle project management systems, spreadsheets, and communication apps. Integrating these systems with QBO ensures that budgets, schedules, purchase orders, and change orders remain consistent across platforms. 

With synced project data, teams gain: 

• A single source of truth 
• Fewer discrepancies between accounting and operations 
• Better communication between office staff, project managers, and field supervisors 
  

 This alignment reduces rework, prevents errors, and improves accountability across the company. 

Equip Field Teams with Mobile Tools 

The job site is where your cost data begins, so capturing accurate information in the moment makes a meaningful difference. Mobile tools that allow crews to upload receipts, track materials, submit photos, or log daily notes give the office immediate visibility into project conditions. Instead of waiting days or weeks for job status updates, managers can spot issues early, adjust resources, or address delays before they impact profitability. 

Improve Cash Flow with Automated Invoicing and Progress Billing 

Construction businesses often face long payment cycles. Automating your invoicing and progress billing through QBO helps close that gap. Milestone-based invoicing, percent-complete billing, and time-and-materials billing can all be streamlined so you’re not waiting on manual updates or chasing paperwork. Faster invoicing means faster payments, steadier cash flow, and fewer month-end headaches. 
 

Enhance QBO with Construction-Specific  

While QBO is a solid foundation, construction companies often need deeper reporting and forecasting capabilities. That’s where industry-specific tools make a noticeable impact. New and emerging technology plugs directly into QBO and builds out the features contractors frequently wish they had, including:   

• More advanced job costing analytics 
• Real-time dashboards 
• Detailed labor and material utilization reporting 
• Forecasting tools for cash flow and project performance 
• Automated WIP reporting 

For growing companies, these tools can help fill the reporting gap between basic QBO functionality and the needs of a construction-driven operation. 

Ready to start using QuickBooks Online? Lutz can help.  

QuickBooks Online can be a powerful tool for construction companies, but only when it’s configured properly and supported by the right technology. Our construction accounting services help contractors design efficient accounting workflows, integrate construction-focused apps, and build a tech stack that supports accurate job costing and better decision-making. Contact us to learn more or get started.   

• Analytical, Significance, Individualization, Responsibility, Context

Clarke Beller

Audit Shareholder

Clarke Beller, Audit Shareholder, began his career in 2010. With a background in financial analysis, he has developed a strong foundation in financial reporting and business operations. Clarke serves as the construction niche lead, demonstrating his expertise and leadership in this sector. 

Specializing in audit and consulting services for privately held companies, Clarke focuses primarily on the construction industry. He oversees audits, reviews, and compilations while offering business consulting on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis. Clarke values Lutz's customer-first approach, which allows him to apply his analytical skills and industry knowledge to help clients succeed.  

 

At Lutz, Clarke embodies the firm's "say it straight" philosophy, offering honest and candid insights to clients. His ability to dissect complex financial data and present clear, actionable recommendations ensures clients receive transparent, reliable guidance. 

 

Clarke lives in Omaha, NE, with his wife Kayla and their two sons, Brock and Brant. Outside the office, he spends time golfing, boating, and following football. 

402.778.7964

cbeller@lutz.us

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• Achiever, Context, Developer, Responsibility, Belief

Jimmy Burgess

Client Advisory Services Manager

Jimmy Burgess, Client Advisory Services Manager, began his career in 2013. He has developed extensive expertise while also taking on a leadership role in the firm’s professional development program.

Specializing in financial reporting, Jimmy provides comprehensive outsourced accounting services to clients. He focuses on software training and implementation, new business consulting, and general accounting guidance. Jimmy values the relationships he builds with both colleagues and clients and finds satisfaction in witnessing the growth and progression of the businesses he supports.

 

Jimmy lives in Elkhorn, Nebraska, with his wife Sarah and their four children: Natalie, Leo, Maximilian, and Mariella. Outside the office, he volunteers as a youth sports coach and can be found playing pickup basketball, golfing, and attending sporting events with his kids.

 

402.514.0016

jburgess@lutz.us