Electrical Estimators: If you are an electrical estimator and have found success in this field, you are likely using software specifically designed for electrical estimating. However, the question of which software electrical estimators use can spark a lively debate. If you ask ten different estimators, you will receive ten different responses based on their current software.
From our discussions with electrical estimators, it is clear that they generally dislike change and are often reluctant to switch estimating software once they feel comfortable with one. Therefore, the answer to what software is used by electrical estimators may differ significantly from the question of which software is the best.
If you are new to electrical estimating and looking for estimating software, asking other estimators what they use may not lead you to the right choice. Many estimators use the software that their company purchased, often many years ago, and may not keep it updated.
Once someone takes the time to learn a software program and becomes comfortable with it, they are usually hesitant to switch due to their heavy workloads, making the idea of learning a new product seem overwhelming.
Some of the commonly known software programs include:
McCormick:
McCormick was the first electrical estimating software available for mainstream sale. I remember a representative from McCormick visiting electrical shops, akin to a Fuller Brush salesperson. After watching the demo, I found it quite complex and was not impressed. At that time,1979/80 the price was around $10,000. In my opinion, McCormick’s software can be difficult to learn and still has an outdated feel.
Accubid:
Accubid began around 1983 and, before its acquisition by Trimble, spent more on advertising than any other electrical estimating software company. Today, Accubid remains a prominent name in electrical estimating software due to its significant marketing efforts.
While Trimble’s acquisition may have resulted in a loss of some market share, Accubid was once considered the industry standard. I have used both Accubid and McCormick, and I wouldn’t say one is categorically better than the other, but Accubid certainly enjoys greater popularity.
Best Bid:
Best Bid may surprise many as it is the third notable electrical estimating software company to emerge, having started under the name 1stChoice Electrical Estimating Software in 1991. Unlike Accubid, Best Bid focused on developing top-quality software instead of aggressive advertising.
After using Best Bid, I found it to be the best value for your money—flexible and capable of handling any electrical project. It’s the best electrical estimating software that you might not have heard of simply because it doesn’t advertise heavily.
Choosing electrical estimating software can be likened to selecting between a Rolex watch and a reliable timepiece that looks great and never breaks. The market offers options for both types of users.
If you have never used electrical estimating software before, keep an open mind while exploring your choices. You may be surprised by what you discover.
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Important Factors to Consider When Purchasing Software:
- How long has the company been in business?
- What kind of support do they offer, and at what cost?
- What are the annual fees?
- How much does each license cost?
- How easy is the software to learn?
- Does it come with a built-in On-Screen Takeoff feature?
- Can the database be shared?
- Is internet access required to operate the software?
- What is the total cost, including fees?
- Can they assist you with your estimating questions?
- Is the software user-friendly?
Remember that once you commit to a software purchase, you are essentially tied to that company. Ensure that you can communicate comfortably with their support team and that they are willing to help you and share their expertise.
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