Top 5 Of Each Software Category

PMI

It seems that each software thread conversation seems to eventually go into many different directions. I am proposing that a set of us create initial threads that would have consistent titles along the lines of
Top 5 Windows solutions for Contractors
Top 5 internet solutions for Contractors
Top 5 expensive solutions for Contractors
Top 5 inexpensive solutions for Contractors
Top 5 things I can do with my own programming
Top 5 things I use to run my business

I guide my subcontractors to moving toward systems and efficiency, and also guide them here to ContractorTalk to learn. The biggest complaint I get is that each software thread seems to deviate into many different directions. A member in another thread simply said “try it out, if it fits cool. if it doesn't move on to the next one”.

It made me think that perhaps we can categorize our opinions so that other viewers are able to see positive and negative comments about specific topics without being pulled into so many different directions, as best as possible. What do you all think? Any chance we can all agree to a format without anyone mentioning a specific product first? Notice I did not say one thing about what I did use in the past, what I bought and could not use, and what I am using now. Hopefully we can get some comments without naming any one solution in any category. Phil

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Phil Tonks
For all your Remodeling & Home Improvement needs in South Florida visit www.pmi1call.com

MattCoops

Top 5 things I can do with my own programming

- Develop a contact management database
- Convert documents into .pdf format for easier viewing/sharing
- Design minimalist web pages structured in html and styled in css
- Create an invoice system for conducting estimates / keeping inventory / and organizing customers
- Burn DVD featurettes that demonstrate the methods of our installation techniques and showcase our work portfolio (great to pop in customer's tv while taking your measurements and plug-and-chug numbers in your estimate)


Top 5 expensive solutions for contractors

- Hiring a contract lawyer to draw up your proposal clauses (expensive but necessary)
- Outsourcing a marketing agency to devise a business plan and determine direction for branding and advertising
- Putting together a team of professional cleaners and equipment to go behind your installation crew and make your jobs spotless
- Buying your subs new company vehichles so they can never use the excuse "my truck can't start this morning"
- The right tool for a specific job (not necessary, but speeds up workflow and improves craftsmanship)

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Matt with Cupan Custom Tile & Paint of Lowell, Massachusetts
Design and installation of ceramic tile and natural stone for floor, wall, and countertops
(978) 601-8774 | cupantile@gmail.com | view tile pictures and more