Streamline your construction projects: Exploring the benefits of builders estimating software in Australia.
Are you a builder, construction company or contractor in the Australian market looking to improve your construction cost estimation process? Look no further. In this article, we dive into the power of builders estimating software and how it can help you master cost estimation.
Construction cost estimation is a critical aspect of any construction project, large or small. Accurate quantity takeoffs and material cost calculations can make or break a project’s success. However, the traditional manual estimation methods can be time-consuming, prone to errors, and limit your ability to scale. That’s where builders estimating software (also known as construction estimating software) comes to the rescue.
With advanced features and functionalities, these software solutions offer a powerful tool to streamline the cost estimation process. From automating calculations to providing accurate material and labour costs, these software solutions can save you time, improve accuracy, and help you make more informed decisions.
In the Australian market, where construction projects are booming, builders estimating software has become indispensable. It enables builders, construction companies or contractors to stay competitive, deliver accurate quotes, and win more projects.
The importance of accurate cost estimation in the construction industry
Accurate cost estimation undertaken by a qualified Quantity Surveyor, is absolutely crucial in the construction industry. It allows construction companies to accurately budget for projects and enables them to make informed decisions on whether to proceed with a project or not. Accurate cost estimation also helps construction companies to identify potential risks and uncertainties, allowing them to take proactive steps to mitigate these risks.
However, traditional methods of cost estimation in construction have been known to be inaccurate and time-consuming. These traditional methods rely on manual calculations and spreadsheets, which are prone to human error and can result in inaccurate cost projections. This is where builders estimating software comes in.
Traditional methods of cost estimation in the construction industry
Traditionally, construction companies have relied on manual calculations and spreadsheets to estimate their costs. This method involves people manually measuring and calculating the quantities of materials required for a project, and then using this information to estimate the cost of the project. The process is often labour-intensive and given the human element, possibly prone to errors.
Another traditional method of cost estimation is the use of historical data. This involves looking at past projects and using this information to estimate the cost of a new project. While this method can be effective, it relies on the assumption that the new project will be similar to past projects, which may not always be the case. Costs of raw materials also change over time so using historical pricing data may introduce fundamental price inaccuracies.
Limitations of traditional cost estimation methods
Traditional methods of cost estimation in construction have several limitations.
Firstly, they are time-consuming and can be prone to human error, which can result in inaccurate cost projections. The larger and more complex the project, the more time-consuming cost estimation can be. Not to mention the risk of errors increases with every level of complexity.
Secondly, most traditional methods do not allow for real-time updates, which can make it increasingly difficult to adjust estimations as a project progresses.
Thirdly, they do not factor in unforeseen expenses, which can result in costly surprises down the line. This is something routinely faced by modern construction projects, meaning cost overruns are a real possibility.
Embracing the future – builders estimating software
Builders estimating software is a game-changer in the construction industry in Australia. It takes care of all the heavy lifting when it comes to cost estimation, from quantity takeoffs to material cost calculations. With just a few clicks, you can get accurate cost projections for your project.
Builders estimating software also allows for real-time updates, which means you can adjust your cost projections as the project progresses. This is particularly useful in situations where there are unforeseen expenses or changes to the project scope.
Key features and benefits of builders estimating software
Building and construction software packages generally come with a range of features and benefits that make them indispensable tools for builders, contractors and construction professionals. Some of the key features and benefits include:
Quantity takeoffs
Builders estimating software automates the process of quantity takeoffs, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors when done manually. This feature allows you to accurately estimate the quantities of materials required for a project, which in turn allows you to accurately estimate the cost of the project.
Material cost calculations
Builders estimating software also automates the process of material cost calculations. This feature allows you to accurately estimate the cost of materials required for a project, which is a key component of cost estimation.
Real-time updates
Builders estimating software allows for real-time updates, which means you can adjust your cost projections as the project progresses. This is particularly useful in situations where there are unforeseen expenses or changes to the project scope.
Cost tracking
Builders estimating software allows you to track costs throughout the project lifecycle. This feature allows you to identify potential cost overruns and take proactive steps to mitigate these risks.
Collaboration
Builders estimating software allows for collaboration between team members, which improves communication and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Factors to consider when choosing builders estimating software
When choosing from the ever-increasing choice of building and construction software available in Australia, there are several factors to consider.
These factors include:
Cost
Builders estimating software can be expensive, so it is important to consider the cost when choosing a software option. It is important to consider the long-term benefits of the software and whether it will provide value for money.
Features
Different builders estimating software options come with different features, so it is important to choose a software option that has the features you need.
User-friendliness
Builders estimating software should be user-friendly and easy to navigate. It is important to choose a software option that is easy to use and does not require extensive training.
Customer support
It is important to choose a software option that comes with good customer support. This is particularly important if you are new to using any of the current estimating software solutions available in Australia today.
Popular builders estimating software in the Australian market
There are many popular software options available in the Australian market, many of which include cost estimation as a feature.
Some of the most popular options include:
| Software | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Procore | Contact for pricing |
| Oracle Aconex | Contact for pricing |
| CostX | Contact for pricing |
| Buildertrend | $299-$499 per month |
| CoreLogic | Contact for pricing |
| BuildXact | $175-$245 per month |
| Buildsoft | Contact for pricing |
| MYOB Advanced Construction | Contact for pricing |
| InEight | Contact for pricing |
| Contractor Foreman | $49-$89 per month |
| Stack | $999-$1,999 per year |
| Bluebeam Revu | $349-$599 per year (Standard edition) |
| CoConstruct | $299 per month |
| HeavyBid | Contact for pricing |
| PlanSwift | $1,195-$1,995 one-time |
| PlanHub | $49-$199 per month |
| Builterra | Contact for pricing |
| Sage Construction Management (was Corecon) | Contact for pricing |
Please note that the prices mentioned are approximate and may vary based on factors such as the specific features included, the size of the organization, and any additional services or support provided by the vendors. Always check with the respective vendors for the most accurate and current pricing information.
TASKT has experience in using many of these software platforms, particularly the cost estimation component.
We plan on reviewing as many of these construction management software packages as we can, to find out which we would recommend and for whom they might be suitable.
Are there any downsides or negatives to estimating software?
In short, yes there can be. Here are three possible downsides to using construction estimating software:
Accuracy
Construction estimating software is a powerful tool, but it is important to remember that it is only as good as the data that is input into it. If the data is inaccurate, the estimate will be inaccurate. Additionally, construction estimating software is not able to account for all of the variables that can affect the cost of a project, such as unexpected weather conditions or unforeseen site problems. This can lead to inaccurate estimates, which can be costly for contractors.
Cost
Construction estimating software can be expensive to purchase and maintain. Additionally, many software providers charge subscription fees, which can add up over time. For small contractors, the cost of construction estimating software may not be justified.
Time commitment
Learning how to use construction estimating software can be time-consuming. Additionally, creating accurate estimates requires a significant amount of time and effort. Contractors need to be willing to invest the time required to learn how to use the software and to create accurate estimates.
Despite these downsides, construction estimating software can be a valuable tool for contractors of all sizes. It can help contractors to streamline their estimating process, improve the accuracy of their estimates, and win more projects.
Who uses estimating software in the construction industry?
Builders estimating software is used by a variety of people in the construction industry, including:
- Builders and contractors: Builders and contractors use builders estimating software to create accurate estimates for construction projects. This helps them to win more projects and to ensure that their projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Estimators: Estimators are responsible for creating and managing estimates for construction projects. They use builders estimating software to automate many of the tasks involved in the estimating process, which can help them to save time and improve the accuracy of their estimates.
- Project managers: Project managers use builders estimating software to track the progress of construction projects and to ensure that they are completed on time and within budget.
- Architects and engineers: Architects and engineers use builders estimating software to help them to develop their designs and specifications. They can also use it to create estimates for their clients.
- Subcontractors: Subcontractors use builders estimating software to create estimates for the work that they will be performing on construction projects.
In addition to the people listed above, this type of software platform can also be used by other people in the construction industry, such as real estate developers, insurance companies, and government agencies.
The future of construction cost estimation with builders estimating software
Builders estimating software has revolutionised the way construction companies estimate their project costs. With its power and efficiency, this software has become an indispensable tool for construction professionals looking to streamline their operations.
The days (and many nights I’m sure!) of relying on manual calculations and inaccurate spreadsheets are – thankfully – long gone. Builders estimating software can take care of it all, from construction takeoffs to material cost calculations.
Don’t let outdated estimation methods hold you back. Embrace the power of construction estimating software and take your cost estimation process to the next level.
Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to maximising cost efficiency and accuracy.
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Estimating Software FAQs
What is construction estimating?
Construction estimating is the process of calculating all of the required costs for a construction or building project. This includes direct costs, such as materials and labour, as well as indirect costs, such as equipment depreciation and office worker salaries.
What is “builders estimating software”?
Builders estimating software is a type of software that is designed to help builders and contractors create accurate estimates for construction projects. This software can help to streamline the estimating process, improve the accuracy of estimates, and win more projects.
Who uses construction estimating software?
Estimating software for the construction industry is used by a variety of people, including Builders, Contractors, Estimators, Project Managers, Architects, Engineers and sub-contractors.
How much does builders estimating software cost?
Pricing for construction estimating software ranges from around $49 per month for basic or limited features to over $2,000 per month for full featured software for professional construction businesses. Most software companies require you to contact them for a custom quote.
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If you are looking for a reliable and experienced partner who understands the industry and uses current local market data, TASKT is the perfect choice for you next project.
Contact Warren to discuss your specific requirements.
