An automated construction estimating process involves using specialised software to increase the speed and accuracy of estimating and cost planning, a benefit that professional contractors do not receive with manual systems and spreadsheets.

By using construction estimating software, contractors can eliminate errors and redundant data entry as well as increase collaboration and efficiency across different departments. If you are in the construction business and perform estimates manually or use an outdated construction estimating software to do it, here are the advantages you will receive if you use an advanced construction estimating software such as Cubit:

1.    More Speed and Improved Accuracy

Would you like to save both time and money? As a contractor, you would jump at the idea of saving these two precious resources. If you use a construction estimating software, you will save money, as you will no longer have to spend long hours calculating the numbers to come up with an estimate. If use a software, it will do all the work for you. Just enter a few variables and let the software give you a realistic estimate that can be passed on to your customer.

Construction estimating software will also increase your accuracy. There are more chances of making an error if you calculate by hand. Calculating an estimate using construction estimating software such as Cubit, you will reduce the chances of making an error. You will also receive an accurate result based on the information loaded into the package. At the end of the day, you want a realistic and accurate estimate.

You can use this information to come up with the estimate in less time than if you estimated manually.

 

2.    Construction Estimating Software is Better than Old-Fashioned Intuition

Construction estimating software is better than old-fashioned intuition. For some, intuition has always been the go-to option, but once you start using estimating software, your perception will change and you will have a better understanding of your costs.

Using old-fashioned intuition, can result in a shortage of labour towards the end of the construction job. Even though you may be able to estimate a number that wins you bids – is it correct and will you make a profit?

Without using a software package, the whole estimating can be an unorganised process. Perhaps, you can relate to this, if you still have not automated your construction estimating process — sticky notes plastered everywhere, numbers sprawled on the whiteboard, and papers spread all over the desk.

This is not to say it does not provide you with a realistic estimate; it can. But it is a far more tedious and meticulous process. Sharing it with other members of your team is an additional problem you end up with when you estimate by hand.

By using construction estimating software, you can take real data and produce an organised estimate that can serve as both a marketing and bidding tool for your construction company as well as a roadmap to plan and complete the job.

 

3.    Increase Consistency and Improved Procurement

You want to churn out consistent estimates every time – then use construction estimating software such as Cubit. An automated construction estimating process allows you to store data and information from previous jobs. You can use the saved data and information to define the prices of the new jobs you undertake. When you complete a job, you can easily and quickly compare the estimate to the final price of the project.

Procurement will also improve, as different members of your team will have access to the data and information needed to perform their job better. For instance, the project manager can refer to the data and information saved in the construction estimating software to learn what equipment, labour, and subcontractors are required for the job.

An automated construction process will keep you on track to completing the job in a timely manner by helping you track your progress. Even the purchasing department can benefit from the software, as it will help them figure out the type of materials they need to obtain to complete a job.

 

4.    Streamline Project Management

A reliable construction estimating process is needed to streamline project management. Technicians view the data used to estimate a price for specific installations and the accounting department can use the software to track job costs and develop a schedule of values.

It also streamlines other processes such as allowing you to make purchasing decisions more efficiently than before and ensuring communication between all the parties involved in the project. The software is smoother, efficient, clearer, and professional, thus eliminating the chance of miscommunication.

 

Quick Overview of the Benefits of the Construction Estimating Software

  • Save money on projects by calculating accurate and realistic estimations and avoid unforeseen expenditures, last minute overheads, and blocked working capital.
  • Save time by calculating an error-free estimation.
  • Convert more bids by showing correct and realistic estimations.
  • Build stronger relationships with your clients by delivering consistent results and completing projects on time.
  • Practice flexibility by inputting and adding last minute data and information.
  • Streamline all departments by providing everyone involved in the project the ability to view the data and information.

If you are in the construction business, you should use a construction estimating software package such as Cubit Pro.