Construction estimating software has rapidly overtaken traditional estimation methods throughout the construction industry. As digital formats and information systems have been prevalent in other industries around the world, the construction industry has been quick to implement the latest software, although some companies still lag.
There are numerous reasons for some companies to be slow in implementing new software. Companies may feel traditional methods are more suitable due to the nature of the business i.e. accidents occurring, last minute changes etc.
However, as the technology and input methods have improved, construction estimating software has begun to show a huge impact on the industry especially among small firms throughout the UK. With increased positive results more firms are beginning to use software to track estimations and time of completion especially among firms bidding for contracts. We are going to discuss the benefits and negative aspects of construction estimating software for small to medium-sized firms.
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The benefits of construction estimating software:
Reducing cost:
The goal of almost every business is to reduce costs and deliver top quality products and services. This is especially true in the construction industry. Construction estimating software UK such as Buildsoft’s Cubit allows the user to develop detailed plans for material, labour, man-hours etc that will be needed to complete a project successfully.
Having a software system which can pull up past projects, material requirements and all the other necessities will reduce overspending. This allows firms to bid for a contract in a much shorter period than their competitors.
Businesses will also benefit from reducing the time spent manually inputting data and generating formulas to determine the cost of projects.
Professionalism:
Using the latest software and methodology shows a level of professionalism. This is a perfect way for companies to build a rapport with one another.
For larger construction companies that may be receiving bids, by using the same software, you can establish if the tender price is correct and that the models used are accurate. This helps develop a level of trustworthiness between companies that can be developed on throughout the life of the project.
For a small or medium sized business to place a bid with an accurate understanding of the cost, materials required, and time needed for completion it will be easier for developers to make a choice.
Management:
Project management is a huge part of any construction project big or small and estimating software allows managers to be more diligent with their projects.
By knowing the schedule of materials and the time of completion of smaller projects, managers can delegate equipment, labour and material resources. This allows stages of the project to be completed or altered in a timely manner if the needs arise.
Rapid growth within the industry:
Construction estimation software is being constantly updated, this can have both positive and negative impacts. The negatives we will look at below.
The positive aspects are very beneficial, especially for small or medium sized business. The software is readily available that serves every niche of the construction industry. Scaled models, electrical wiring for homes, plumbing installation in warehouses, environmentally friendly construction methods are all catered for by new software developments.
Training:
Many software development companies such as Buildsoft now provide in-house or hands-on training to their clients. This allows for companies to have skilled members of staff who know how to use the software from the time of installation, a huge benefit to reducing downtime.
Most companies that have such programmes have a long-standing history and client base and this is an added advantage to allow you to connect with other business within your network. This has the potential to further reduce costs and increase business as you will be joining an already established network.
Negative aspects of construction estimating software:
As with every aspect of the business, every pro will have some cons. Luckily for construction estimation software, these are much less.
Software development:
One area that has both a pro and a con is the rapid development of software. Many companies have seen time wasted as they learn one piece of software only for it to be outdated quite quickly. This is due to there being no standardised method of calculations yet. This though is very minor as many facets of newer software is usually similar to previous products. If there are any major developments in software production companies will surely be notified before it is rolled out.
Initial cost:
Depending on the size of your business and what aspect of construction you are undertaking. Construction estimation software can be quite costly. This puts you on the back foot primarily if you are bidding for projects which require software that you do not have.
New customers need to research the ROI on this type of software and if it will be beneficial to them in the long run.
Time and patience:
Although when procuring software, the primary goal is to reduce cost, man-hours and human error. It will still take time for employees to learn how to use the software correctly and produce the best results possible. This will create additional costs in the preliminary stages, but the results will far out weight any detrimental early stages.
The continued use and development of construction estimating software is something every business should be monitored within the construction industry. It is changing how companies operate, estimate bids and ultimately hand out contracts.
For companies that wish to be modern, dependable and reliable it is important to begin investing early in such software so that they have an advantage over the competition. As you can see the advantages far outweigh the negatives with regards to investing. Sure, initial costs may be high, but this is the same with any investment. Another huge benefit is the technology is that the completely transferable to other regions and sectors of your business such as accounting and stock checking, allowing for a more streamlined business.
