Oncore addresses problems such as delayed billing cycles, an inability to compare contractors' performances, duplicate billings and overcharging, delayed responses to cost and construction scheduling problems, and the inability to maintain accurate accounting records.

To combat these issues, Oncore software includes integrated cost management, real-time tracking, drill-down or roll-up for different business functions, data capture, cost validation, electronic approval, reporting and analysis and integration, according to the vendor. This approach gives management the ability to compare contractor performance, improve bill-payment and manage costs, based on real-time data, the vendor said. Oncore can provide both summary level and detailed reports, which managers can access through a dashboard.

The integrated cost management component of this software provides a comprehensive project cost view from a single, centralized database; this is accessible to multiple parties based on pre-established privilege levels for contractors, sub-contractors, external users and employees, the vendor said. The central database also ensures accurate pricing and enables contract enforcement and handling of retroactive rate changes. Since work activity is electronically captured on-site and automatically routed for approval and pricing, errors and lost time are reduced, the vendor said.

Decision Dynamics has integrated Oncore's real-time tracking with other enterprise databases -- such as enterprise resource planning (ERP), construction project management, job cost accounting and human resources -- as well as with a company's various departments. This integration supplies the system with real-time cost information, accurate earned value analysis and a true picture of a project's health, the vendor said.

In addition, by including the option of drilling down or rolling up the data for various business functions, managers can get a macro or micro view of any element of the project. The data capture system uses a sole point of entry for all stakeholders, ensuring accuracy and clarity. By instantly calculating and validating costs, Oncore cost management software eliminates double billings, overcharges and manual time and cost reconciliations, the vendor noted. Likewise, the solution's electronic approval set-up -- configured to match a company's pre-existing approval process and multiple levels of management -- reduces error and billing disputes.