Ask most professional contractors today if they use a computer and they’ll look as if you’ve asked if their homes had indoor plumbing. But mention online construction management applications and the responses become more mixed. If you’re uncertain of the value of going with a web-based technology, consider that even the most rudimentary applications enable authorized users to access all project information from any web-connected computer. One central online location enables contractors and site superintendents to communicate with architects, designers, employees and trade partners. The best systems on the market automatically distribute information through whichever channel users prefer (fax, e-mail or both). If any topic is private, the communication can be “hidden” so that only authorized users can view it. Then again, you may already...