Issue link: https://construction.trimble.com/en/resources/i/1520114
SPECIALIZED ESTIMATING SOFTWARE WIN MORE OF THE RIGHT JOBS 13 Earning a profit begins with estimating. Construction companies that step up from spreadsheets or outdated software complete more bids in less time. They also achieve levels of accuracy, flexibility and analysis that help them win the right jobs at favorable margins. Essentials of an advanced software solution are: • A centralized resource database used by everyone preparing bids to access accurate, up-to-date costing information for labor, tasks, materials and equipment • Features and functionality that make it easy to pull in these cost structures according to the requirements of the specific bid • Scalable, enterprise-class performance so the software grows with your company and runs fast and reliably with one user or hundreds of users COMPREHENSIVE ESTIMATING SOLUTION Estimators want software that works the way they work. Creating item databases, crew and task templates and reusable cost structures must be easy and intuitive. Using these building blocks to create bids has to be logical. Additional features to look for include: • Flexibility – Bid with as much or as little detail as required according to pay items or WBS levels • Collaboration – Allow multiple estimators to work on a bid simultaneously • Mobility – Work remotely, with access to resources, and then synchronize with the server • Bid Management – Leverage built-in markup and pricing schemes • Market Analysis – Compare and analyze competitors' bids on public projects • Management Reporting – Aggregate data from estimates in your database for powerful intelligence • Audit Trail – Estimate history and recovery INTEGRATION IS ESSENTIAL Estimating is not an isolated activity. A strong software solution should deliver seamless integration advantages that improve accuracy and save time. • Excel tables and other cost databases • Electronic bidding systems, including built-in DOT capabilities • Vendors and subcontractors – automated process to communicate with subcontractors to move more rapidly and accurately through the bid process • Project management and accounting/ERP Integration