For small to medium-sized businesses, Master Builder can save significant time and money over basic programs such as QuickBooks and Peachtree accounting software. "Estimating time is cut by about 50%, payroll processing another 25%," Dion Langness said. "Approximately 50% is saved in generating construction specific reporting." There is also a significant reduction in errors.

With a price tag of $2,595 for the job cost accounting and construction project management applications for a single user, Master Builder is an affordable solution. It is also very easy to use as there is good integration between the modules, and there aren't a lot of "bells and whistles" that don't get used. "Very little experience is needed," explained Langness, a software consultant based in Minnesota. "Configuration, setup, and data conversion is simpler than most systems because of its structure. Most people who use it are bookkeepers and office manager level personnel."

According to Langness, the best features of Master Builder are estimating integration, Project Work Center and executive dashboards for those interested in the company's financial details. With setup, training, online courses, and award-winning customer service provided by Sage, the user is supported during every step of the implementation process.

However, what is needed is a more powerful and flexible dispatch board in the service management application, as the dispatch board is available for only one day at a time. Another shortcoming for larger service departments is the lack of "skill checking" when a work order is created, which would assist the dispatcher in knowing which technicians have the appropriate skills or certification to perform the service call.

Overall, on a scale of 1 to 10, Langness rated Master Builder a 10 for value, and an 8 for flexibility and customization of tools.