Estimating Software

mencheman

anyone have any experience with any really good estimating software
for commercial construction

modterry

Some Questions to ask:
1) Do you want it on line - networked?
2) Do you want a web interface ?
3) How many people in your Org might work on an estimate?
4) Who will create your costs / labor, etc ?
5) Who will maintain your cost books?

Here are some systems I have reviewed:

Try these out: Pretty cost effective:

Bid4Build :
Bid 4 Build Software Estimating
Extensive software package.
http://www.bid4build.com/




Expert Estimating DB based, has 23,000 code items $ 39 / month then you own
Down load - No specs
www.expert-estimating.com



Home Tech Great Access DB software, good screens, Adds specs into the line items
Price: $ 895
Good interface
Uses the cost book ideas, can copy and paste old estimate into a new estimate.
Good Videos,
www.hometechonline.com

Build Star
On Line estimating, task mgt, scheduling - $ monthly = 30 / mo
Nice interface
All on line web interface
www.buildstar.com



Elms Software: combines both labor and materials to a categorized task list.
the task list is extensive. Does not offer an on line version - multiple copies for only $ 299 Rated: A www.elmssoftware.com/




UDI system - good interface www.uniteddesign.com Starts at $ 400 / single version

****This one might appeal to you. Real nice interface.

Contractor's Software Group ( Jeff Knutson ) Has video on line. www.contractorssoftwaregroup.com

These might get you started. I have tried them all.

We want to interface the Specs with the Bid and no program out there even knows what is specified on a job.

Hope this helps,

Terry

Noble

I think I am going with Contractor Software Group...Talked to Jeff Knuston today for 2 hours...really good

Bauexperte

Try out e-stm8 Construction Cost Estimating Software e-stm8.com
It has a Windows-Like interface. Easy to use. On-line video tutorial. Import and Export data to Microsoft Excel. Build your Offer letter automatically for you. 15-days free trial and Only $40 to buy.

skywriter

Noble ... can you tell me some of what you think make Contractor software group better then the other ones listed there.

CementCreek

We've used PlanSwift for some time find it works great, You can always give it a try. Best way to see what you like is to get the different programs and see which ones work your way.

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Custom Homes Orland Park

seveninc

has anyone used any MAC based programs. thats all i have are macs but its tough to find a good program for it.
thanks

CementCreek

You could try using parallels. Then you can run windows programs right on your mac. I'm not a big mac user but everyone I know like the parallels approach.

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Custom Homes Orland Park

seveninc

i was trying to stay away from windows but it looks like i just might have to if i want a decent software

gariecrowder

Hey Modterry, Thanks for the reviews of software. I'm going to give UDI a try. They have the 30 day trial. As you mentioned, the interfaces are attractive. I will report my finding to all. Thanks again.

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Diamond Cut
Construction

cdsconstruction

You might consider UDA Construction Suite. Features estimating, scheduling, QuickBooks integration, contracts & proposals, and construction online.

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williammwill

on the uk we have spons books, not sure if they are available in us