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 •

Unit Price Billing

What is Unit Price Billing?

Unit Price Billing is a method used in the construction industry where costs are determined based on agreed-upon rates for specific types of work. This method means you pay for materials and labor based on the quantity used or amount of time expended. For instance, if you're building a skyscraper, payment might be determined by a set price for every square foot of construction rather than a lump sum for the entire project. Unit Price Billing allows for more flexibility as changes occur during construction, with pricing adjustments made according to altered quantities. It provides transparency and can potentially lead to cost savings if actual quantities are less than projected.

Trusted by trade contractors across the country

Other construction terms

Financial Statements

What are Financial Statements?

Financial Statements, in the context of the construction industry, are formal records that portray the financial activities and conditions of a construction company. They're crucial for presenting a company's financial health to stakeholders and assisting in making strategic decisions. The primary types include balance sheets, income statements, cash flow statements, and equity statements. The balance sheet gives an overview of the company's assets, liabilities, and shareholders' equity. The income statement shows revenue and expenses, revealing the profit or loss over a period. Cash flow statements illustrate how changes in balance sheet and income statement items affect cash and cash equivalents. Equity statement depicts changes in the owner's interest in company during the accounting period. Without these statements, it would be challenging to understand a construction firm's economic status and make informed future financial decisions.

Debit

What is a Debit?

A debit, in the construction industry, refers to an entry which represents an increase in expenses or a decrease in income for the business. It could come from paying for labor, materials, overheads, or any other costs related to a construction project. It could also come from a decrease in revenue due to a project delay, change in project scope, or a decrease in clients' payment. An understanding of debits is pivotal in managing the financial aspects of construction because it affects cash flow and profitability. The term is part of the double-entry accounting system used widely across industries, including construction, where for every debit entry, there must be a corresponding credit entry. Therefore, properly tracking and categorizing debits is crucial in financial planning and management in construction.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

What is Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)?

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) in the construction industry refers to a suite of integrated software applications designed to automate and control the core processes of a construction company. It serves as a central platform that facilitates the flow of information among different business functions such as accounting, human resources, procurement, project management, risk management, and compliance. ERP systems simplify data-driven decision making by providing real-time insights into every aspect of the construction project which include, but aren't limited to, project costing, inventory management, and workforce allocation. By enhancing visibility and streamlining workflows, ERP systems can significantly boost productivity and efficiency in the construction sector.

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