By clicking “Accept All Cookies," you agree to let Siteline store cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
Construction glossary
Construction Glossary •

Software as a Service (SaaS)

What is Software as a Service (SaaS)?

Software as a Service (SaaS) in the context of the construction industry is a key model of cloud computing. It allows construction firms to access software over the internet on a subscription basis. Examples of SaaS tools in construction include project management applications, design software, and collaboration tools. The biggest advantage for the construction industry is that SaaS eliminates the need for hardware acquisition, software licensing, and complex installations. It enables real-time data sharing, enhancing collaboration among teams located in different locations of the world. Users can access services from any internet-enabled device, offering mobility and flexibility. Investment into maintenance and upgrade is also reduced as the SaaS provider takes care of these. Thus, SaaS plays a vital role in streamlining construction operations by making software more accessible and affordable.

Trusted by trade contractors across the country

Other construction terms

Business Interruption Insurance

What is Business Interruption Insurance?

Business Interruption Insurance, specific to the construction industry, is a critical coverage type that helps cover the loss of income suffered by a construction business when its operations are halted due to an unforeseen disaster, such as fires, floods, or other significant damages. This insurance can compensate for expenses like paying staff, renting alternative spaces, and even projected profit loss. For instance, if a storm damages a construction site, delaying work, the insurance will provide funds till normal operations can resume. It assists in ensuring the business continues surviving financially during the restoration period, adding a safety net for unpredictable circumstances. Given the nature of the construction industry, which is fraught with various perils, this insurance is of utmost importance.

AIA Billing

What is AIA® billing?

AIA® billing is a standardized payment application process for construction projects. Developed by the American Institute of Architects (AIA®), it uses specific forms—primarily the G-702® Application and Certificate for Payment and G-703® Continuation Sheet—to document and request progress payments throughout a project. These forms create a uniform system for contractors that shows exactly what work has been completed, what materials have been stored, and what payment is due during each billing period. They also require detailed information about contract values, change orders, and retainage amounts. AIA® has become the industry standard, especially for larger commercial projects and government contracts.

For subcontractors, understanding AIA® billing is essential since most large general contractors (GCs) require these forms or customized versions of them. While AIA® billing can initially seem complex, it provides important benefits like reducing payment disputes, creating clear documentation of work progress, and often resulting in faster payments. Mastering AIA® billing opens doors to working with larger GCs and bidding on more substantial projects. That’s why we created this comprehensive guide, filled with detailed information on completing AIA® billing forms and managing the payment application process.

Siteline simplifies the AIA® billing process by automating form creation and submission. Our system currently maintains 15,000 custom billing forms from more than 10,000 GCs, enabling subcontractors to generate perfect pay apps in minutes for fewer delays and faster, more predictable payments. Schedule a no-obligation demo to see how Siteline can help you streamline AIA® billing and reduce invoice aging by at least 30%.

Current Liabilities

What are Current Liabilities?

Current Liabilities are financial obligations or debts that a construction company has to settle within a short-term period, typically within a year. These usually include suppliers' payments for building materials, salaries and wages for construction workers, short-term loans for immediate project needs, interest payments on construction loans and taxes. These might also consist of project-related accrued expenses, or money that the company owes but has not been billed for yet, such as utilities. It's critical for businesses running construction projects to properly manage their Current Liabilities to ensure financial stability and the smooth completion of projects. The ability to meet these short-term financial obligations is a key indicator of the financial health of a construction company.

Ready to end the fire drill and get paid faster?

Replace the spreadsheets and runarounds with Siteline, and see your invoice aging improve by at least 30%.
many forms with different layouts