Excel sheets can be a powerful tool, but when it comes to project estimation they simply don’t deliver in comparison to dedicated estimating software. The time spent on double-checking formulas, math, and data will end up costing you a lot in the end – so what platform should you use instead of Excel? Sage Estimating. Here are the top reasons why you should use Sage Estimating instead:
- Cut your estimating time by 50% or more
- Increase your accuracy dramatically
- Its UI is similar to Excel and familiar-feeling
- BIM ready, with powerful 3D takeoff tools
- Standalone or integrates with Sage 100 Contractor
Cutting your estimating time by 50% or more is a pretty big deal. It gives you more time to accomplish other tasks and fuels efficiency in the bidding process. In small shops, this lets you focus on building your business. You can give tasks like marketing, business development and building relationships the time they deserve as that time is no longer eaten up by estimating.There’s an inherent risk in using spreadsheets for complex estimating. Formulas break and added rows may not be included in a total. It is impossible to compare versions of estimates and have the differences clearly called out. We’ve seen some very complex Excel templates. Have you considered the amount of time required to build them? Who maintains the template if that person leaves the company?
Also consider that an excel template can easily walk with an employee out the door and directly to a competitor – not a comfortable thought.
Learning a new platform is kind of like learning a new language – it can be difficult and overwhelming. That’s why Sage Estimating was developed to look and feel like using Excel. That helps in a variety of subtle ways, but most the most important is the drastic reduction in your learning curve and smooth transition to this new platform.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is coming, whether you’re ready for it or not. Sage Estimating is BIM-ready, and has the most powerful 3D takeoff tools on the market. You can leverage this capability to drive your business forward and be prepared for BIM-connected projects.
There is more going on right now in construction technology than at any other point in Bangert’s 35 years in business in the construction industry. It’s an exciting time to be in this industry, and a great time to streamline efficiency in estimation. For more information on how Sage Estimating can help take your business to the next level get in touch.