Estimating Software, Business - 9 min read
A key element of any successful construction business is accurate estimating, allowing you to anticipate all of your costs and ensure profitability. The problem is that estimating is time consuming and often labour intensive, where errors can add up and have a big impact on your bottom line.
It’s no surprise then that construction professionals have turned to estimating software to help them with their work. The benefits offered by using software over manual methods are massive, with big time savings and increased accuracy being two of the major impacts.
Whether you’re looking for your first estimating software package or you’re considering upgrading to a new system, there’s a few things you need to consider during the evaluation process.
Not all software is created equal, and you should consider your unique needs when assessing whether a particular product is right for you. Do you only do light estimating, or do you have an entire estimating department and need some extra power under the hood? A good software provider will give you different options, and also allow you to compare them online with a detailed feature comparison table. After all, you don’t want to be paying for what you don’t need.
Cubit by Buildsoft comes in a range of options depending on your needs, from Standard to Professional and BIM Takeoff, there’s an option to suit every estimator.
Nothing beats a test run. Buildsoft offers a free trial of their software, so you can assess whether the software suits your business. We also have a team of locally-based Product Consultants on hand to assist you with your questions and getting started with the software.
You should also consider what user and installation options you need for your business. Some systems allow you to use them on a range of computers, where others lock you down to a single location. Buildsoft gives you the flexibility to use Cubit on multiple computers, whether you’re at work or at home, so you can get the job done when and where you need to.
Most people will have their preferred systems they like to use; Estimators and Quantity Surveyors are no different. Over time, you’ll get to know which software systems you like and suit your specific needs and workflows.
When working with a team of estimating professionals, there’s often a need for multiple solutions, whether it be due to preference and past use, or because a particular piece of software is more suited to delivering a certain project.
You should always be aware of the contractual obligations you take on when you sign up for a new solution. Though you might not read through every contract from start to finish, you should be aware that some companies hide clauses in lengthy and complicated customer agreements. Ask your provider if your contract includes exclusivity clauses, and if there are any hidden fees.
Such clauses can be detrimental to a business, especially if you are already running other solutions in tandem, and can also prevent you from successfully implementing change into your company.
Ideally your software provider is upfront, and gives you the freedom to be successful now and into the future. Check the fine print and make sure you don’t lock yourself and your company into a position that could hurt your business.
The construction industry is changing over time, with new advancements and technologies being introduced at an increasingly rapid rate. So too should your estimating software evolve and change over time. Continued product research and development are essential to ensuring that your needs continue to be met.
When evaluating which system is right for your business, consider the investment your potential provider makes in the ongoing development and enhancement of their software. Evolving technology is innovative and exciting, and investing in it can seem expensive. You should make sure you’re partnering with a proven provider that has a demonstrated history in research and development, and providing evolving improving systems.
Buildsoft has been innovating estimating software for more than 35 years, with a track record of ongoing enhancements and improvements that respond to industry feedback. We have invested significantly in the development of our software solutions, research into new methodologies to provide you with a competitive edge, and have a large locally-based development team. On top of that, our relationship to and backing of both MiTek and Berkshire Hathaway gives us further combined development resources globally, so we can use the best minds and most talented developers to bring you the greatest solutions.
Major and minor updates and upgrades provided by evolving technologies not only give you innovative new features and functionality, but also improvements and upgrades that enhance usability and provide added protection and security.
In 2017 the world was rocked by a massive international cyberattack, which saw individuals and businesses infected by ransomware; with some serious and devastating repercussions. Having up-to-date software is a key preventative measure to ensure you are protected. The release of regular updates and upgrades in your software gives you the opportunity to benefit from the most up-to-date risk mitigating features that have been built into the software.
There is no substitute for good customer service. Whether you’re eating at your favourite restaurant, buying a new car, or seeking help with your estimating software, good old-fashioned customer service should always be delivered.
When choosing your software provider, consider the service and support offering available. You never know when you will need to call upon them for help, and you should have the confidence of knowing that they will be there for you when you need them; so your business can continue to run smoothly.
At Buildsoft, every facet of operations is driven around customers, incorporating their needs, supporting them when help is needed, and driving their successes. We’re committed to not only offering the right solutions, but also providing the best service and support possible.
Our specialised, Australian-based services department has more than 100 years combined experience in technical support and customer service. With an enviable customer satisfaction rating of 98%*, and an average support ticket response time of only 18 minutes*, you can be sure each time you contact us we’ll always do the best to help you overcome your challenges.
Running a business is not easy or cheap, so when it comes to selecting your systems, there is a temptation to be as frugal as possible. It’s important to look beyond the easy choice of picking the cheapest option, and look for the greatest benefit you can get back from your spend.
When it comes to estimating software, the return on your investment is easy to calculate. The ability to perform your work faster and more accurately means you can be producing more estimates, submitting more tenders, and winning more work; so before you know it, the software has paid for itself.
We do realise however that sometimes costs can be prohibitive. You should investigate the options available to make it a viable choice for your business. That’s why Buildsoft has a team of Product Consultants and Trainers to help guide you through the options available, and help you make the best decision for your business.
Buildsoft has also introduced Cubit as a subscription service, so you can experience the benefits of faster and more accurate estimating with no large upfront costs. It’s simple to manage, makes your business spending predictable, and can spread costs over the life of your subscription to help with cash flow. Not only does this make Cubit more immediately affordable, there’s also the option to choose monthly or annual payments to suit your circumstances.
It’s flexible payment options like these that can make all the difference when it comes to implementing new technologies, and choosing the right estimating solution for your business.
To find out more about Buildsoft’s estimating solutions and how they can help you achieve your estimating goals, get in touch with us today on 1300 133 745 to chat with a Product Consultant. We’ll discuss your needs in detail and recommend the best options to suit your circumstances, so you can create your fastest and most accurate estimates.
* Buildsoft support times and ratings taken as average from January - May 2019.
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