Estimating Solutions Reviewer's Comments

Estimating Solutions construction estimating software is a good program for the small construction company. Although it lacks some of the features available in more sophisticated software products, its uncomplicated navigation and installation processes contribute to Estimating Solutions' rank among the top ten construction estimating software programs.

Feature Set:  

Estimating Solutions is configured to run under Microsoft Windows, and as a result, the mouse controls all operations in the program. Unlike an MSDOS based system, there are no automatic functions available in this program. For every application, you must select the desired task from the menus or buttons. To begin the program, set up your database by adding your Job task categories. This software has the convenient add/delete feature which allows you to add or subtract line items and their associated costs within each category. This feature also allows you to add and delete assemblies to expedite the estimation creation process. Once your database is setup then you can simply remove the items and/or assemblies you want included and transfer them to the "Work on Estimate" screen. This program also allows you to add or subtract a percentage cost universally throughout the labor and material costs in one simple process.

Ease of Use:  

Estimating Solutions greatest asset is its user-friendly format. You begin by adding the line items and assemblies to the database, followed by transferring the desired items to the estimate. At this point you need to add the various quantities and adjust the cost of each item needing adjustment. Finally, you must consult the totals page to observe the finished estimate. These simple steps simplify the construction estimating process.

Ease of Installation:  

The installation of this product was simple. We encountered no problems throughout the process.

Help/Documentation:  

Estimating Solutions offers excellent help documentation. The entire process of building an estimate is outlined in a 15-page document. If you print these instructions, you can use them as a guide during your use of the program.

Summary:  

Estimating Solutions is a very basic software program that can be used by general contractors and subcontractors, and small and medium sized construction companies. A medium-sized construction company will most likely desire a more sophisticated program which offers greater job cost and reporting capabilities. Estimating Solutions is relatively easy to use and allows you to accurately formulate an estimate. The reporting and job costing and tracking capabilities are extremely limited in this program. There are no "bells and whistles" in the program, it simply performs accurate and basic estimates.