For 10 years Dion Langness has used Sage Estimating software for estimating costs, generating proposals and scheduling work. Before spending $2,000 for the software, he looked at other products and found that most are similar, but the deciding factor was the availability of local help. "that ensured my chances of using it would be higher," Langness said.

There were many benefits, most notably in assessing whether we should self-perform the work, or select subs who provide bids. "All the details are at our fingertips to make decisions," Langness said. He added that this has not only proved valuable in the decision making process, but has cut estimating time in half, while still allowing for things like "a more detailed estimate analysis or a chance to bid on more work."

Helpful features include the "Excel ease of use with database engine, and many things that reduce duplication, transfer, and organization. Smart assemblies are also a great feature, as they allow variables to dictate materials, labor and equipment costing in one step."

Sage Estimating software was less of an investment than Langness originally expected. "Learning how to use the program is very easy," he said. "Getting the database to fit our specific company's needs takes time, but the time is well worth the value received."

Langness would like to see the addition of "a specific 'bid day' function," and he has no use for the metric conversion feature, but these points are minor. He would recommend Sage Estimating software to "any contractor who self-performs work and wants to save time, increase accuracy, and improve their estimating success and profitability." Very little computer experience is necessary to use Sage Estimating software, he said, but having experience with Excel helps.

Regarding support, Langness said, "The online knowledgebase, built-in Help, and phone support services provide the assistance we need." And now that Langness is also a Sage business partner, he noted, "A national customer service award identifies Sage as responding to 80% of its support calls in less than two minutes."

He will consider upgrading in the future, "as small improvements can have a very large impact on our estimating processes and requirements." Overall, Langness rates the current version of Sage Estimating software a 9 out of 10.