Home renovation projects can be filled with uncertainty. You may not know where to start estimating or even have a wrong estimate. That's where construction estimating software comes in. These programs help you estimate the costs of construction projects, speed up the estimating process, and provide detailed estimates for labor and material and anything else that might be needed for your project.
But with so many out there, how do you know which is the best? Choosing the right construction estimating software ensures correct quantity and cost estimates. A construction estimating software like CostCertified will help you avoid the pitfalls of the estimating process by making data more accessible and manageable.
Choose a Cloud-Based Solution
Cloud-based solutions are advantageous as they can be accessed through various devices. So, if you're on the go with your tablet or smartphone, you can access your estimates just as easily as you can with your computer or laptop. Cloud platforms also offer multiple levels of security that keep your estimates and other sensitive data safe. You also get updated information in real-time, so you can adapt to changes easily.
It also promotes collaboration with other construction professionals. You can share files, assign tasks, share ideas, and edit documents simultaneously. These estimates are also stored on a secure server to access them even offline.
Ensure It Supports Your Estimating Practices
Whether you use custom classifications or prefer imperial over metric measures, you should ensure your construction estimating software supports it. This might also affect your budget planning as well as the time estimation of your project. If you're using a cloud-based solution, ensure it has the functionality to support custom measures.
Get System Requirements
Some construction estimating software needs additional programs to be installed before they can run, while others are standalone and don't require any additional programs. While this isn't necessarily a deal breaker, it suggests that the selected software might not give you everything you need from an estimating program. Getting a package that works right out of the box is safer.
Integration
Integration with other software programs is important as it makes sharing estimates and project information easier. Your construction estimating software should also be compatible with your network, which makes it easier to share and access critical data.
Time can be lost if you manually move data between your software programs. However, you can quickly and easily obtain insights and transmit data with an integrated system. This will speed up the process, safeguard your data's integrity, and simplify the job.
Has a Range of Functions
You need to check whether it will span your project management needs or provide specialized solutions. This could include forecasting capabilities, quantity take-offs, subcontractor management modules, master templates, and planning and scheduling functions.
If you're looking for something simple like just estimating labor, some programs are designed exclusively for this purpose. These are perfect for contractors who are just starting or those who only need a basic estimate. On the other hand, if you need to plan, you'll want to get software that helps you plan and manage your construction budget.
Has Great Technical Support
You should check if your construction estimating software supports 24/7 tech support, which is important for dealing with data and information needs. This will ensure your estimates are getting the necessary attention from technical experts. Adopting new solutions is easier when you can access a good technical team to help you develop a customized system that's best for your project.
Cost
It's crucial to pick an estimation software with a pricing plan that works for your business. No matter how amazing the software is, it is useless if you cannot afford to purchase it. Check out full packages, upgrade process, and monthly subscription fees before purchasing construction estimating software.
A construction estimating software implemented correctly allows you to focus on your project and get it done faster. Automation reduces human error, while collaboration tools allow team members to work together closely and provide the best possible estimate. It also makes finding and retrieving data more efficient. Once you have the best construction estimating software, you can concentrate on your renovation project and be confident in the results.
