How to Know When It's Time to Upgrade Your Construction Estimating Software

Everything revolves around timelines, budgets, and efficiency in construction. Having the right construction estimating software is crucial in achieving all three. Whether you're a foreman, a bidder, an estimator, or a contractor, you know how vital accurate estimates are in winning bids and executing projects. 

The estimating software you choose should help you streamline your processes, improve accuracy, and save time while providing granular control over material costs, labor, and overheads. But what if your current software falls short? That's when you know it's time to upgrade!

In this blog from SharpeSoft, we'll discuss construction estimator software and how to know when it's time to upgrade your current system.

How to Know When It's Time to Upgrade Your Construction Estimating Software

Table of Contents:

1. What Exactly is Construction Estimating Software?

2. How to Know When It's Time to Upgrade Your Estimating Software

3. You're Experiencing Compatibility Issues Due to Outdated Technology 

4. You've Outgrown Your Current Software 

5. Your Current Workflow Processes are too Time-Consuming 

6. You're Losing Opportunities 

7. Your Company's Collaboration is Messy

8. Program Maintenance and Customer Support is Poor 

9. Conclusion 

People Also Ask:

What to look for in estimating software?

A good estimation software should have an intuitive, user-friendly interface that doesn't require much training. The software should also offer streamlined documentation and reliable customer support. 

What is construction estimating software?

Estimating software is a digitized program developed for construction contractors to assess project costs as accurately as possible. An estimator typically uses this program to estimate their bids for projects. 

What Exactly is Construction Estimating Software?

Time and accuracy are of the utmost importance for construction estimators. That's where state-of-the-art construction estimating software can make all the difference. 

From first look to project completion, estimators are tasked with providing accurate bids that reflect the scope of work to be done as precisely as possible. With the estimating process involving so many moving parts, keeping track of everything can be daunting. 

Construction estimator software is an essential tool for estimators wishing to streamline their processes and ensure accurate bidding. The technology helps simplify generating project bids by automating and optimizing many process aspects.

These aspects can include everything from calculating labor and material costs to project planning and scheduling. 

With access to so much comprehensive data, estimators can make informed decisions and produce competitive bids that reflect the true cost of a project. Construction estimating software also enables estimators to collaborate with team members and clients on the same platform. 

This streamlined collaboration makes the software vital for construction professionals looking to stay competitive in this fast-paced industry.

How to Know When It's Time to Upgrade Your Estimating Software

A successful construction estimate leads to better budgeting, improved project planning, and overall success. But how do you know when it's time to upgrade your software?

Continue reading to learn more. 

You're Experiencing Compatibility Issues Due to Outdated Technology 

Technology evolves at a breakneck pace. Like any technology, construction estimator programs can become outdated quickly. 

Discontinued software systems and outdated estimating programs can be liabilities for construction estimators. It's essential to analyze the features and functionality of your software to determine if they still meet your current and future needs. 

Does your estimator program support cloud computing? Is it mobile and smart device compatible? Does the technology integrate with your project management and accounting software? If you've answered no to any of these questions, it's likely time to upgrade. 

Why? Because if you're experiencing any compatibility issues with newer operating systems, hardware, or browsers, it could lead to system errors, crashes, and workflow disruptions. 

Lastly, a program that cannot fix bugs or provide advancements to support new features can severely impact your estimating and accuracy. 

You've Outgrown Your Current Software 

Basic estimating software tools, like Excel spreadsheets or other template-based programs, can be sufficient for small projects with straightforward scopes of work. However, as your business grows, your estimating needs will become more complex, and you will need more advanced features. 

These advanced software features include anything from import and export capabilities to bid simulations, customizable templates, enhanced quality tracking, and much more. If your construction company needs estimator software with more robust features, it's time to

upgrade. 

Your Current Workflow Processes are too Time-Consuming 

If your current estimating process involves any manual data entry, piles of paperwork, or repetitive tasks, it's already taking too much of your valuable time. Upgrading to an innovative construction estimating software can improve your workflow by automating repetitive tasks and simplifying your entire estimating process. 

You're Losing Opportunities 

Opportunities come and go in the blink of an eye in today's highly competitive construction industry. If your current software cannot cater to your clients' needs, it's time to switch to an updated program. 

An upgraded and customizable estimating software solution that's versatile and scalable can offer a better chance to win bids and expand your customer base.

Your Company's Collaboration is Messy

Streamlined and timely communication is crucial, especially if your team and stakeholders work closely together. Outdated software can lead to significant inefficiencies, project setbacks, and delays. 

Upgrading your current system can enable improved real-time collaboration and communication with your stakeholders and team. 

Program Maintenance and Customer Support is Poor 

Gaps in software maintenance can lead to software breakdowns, significant operational issues, and costly reworks. Poor customer support can lead to overall anxiety and stress when you're already dealing with software system issues. 

Upgrading your estimating software means better system maintenance and often comes with stronger customer support from your software provider. At SharpeSoft, we provide around-the-clock technical support and 24/7 customer service support. 

Conclusion

Staying ahead of the curve is essential for success, especially in the construction industry. By upgrading outdated estimating software, you stay aligned with industry standards and have access to innovative features that can help you win more bids and streamline your workflow. 

Unsure if it's time to upgrade? Contact our trusted software providers and industry-savvy professionals at SharpeSoft!