Replies

1. 
   Stretch_Cole | Apr 26, 1999 07:44am | #1

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   For my money, I have found Microsoft Project the best. I have used it on projects from several thousand dollars to several hundred thousand. But you title says estimation programs! Did you want scheduling or estimating? Go with Exactimate for estimating, but wait for the Windows version to come out. The DOS version works but it had been so long since I had seen a DOS program I had to be retrained. Good luck looking for a program. Just check all out and pick the one that fits your present and future needs.

1. 
   D_Smale | Apr 29, 1999 09:45am | #2

   *Stretch;Do you have a source for Microsoft Project at hand? How long have you used it? Will it grow with your business?Also, Have you a sourc for standardized contract forms for home builders?My company has just taken a huge leap forward into the large custom home area from a reno. based income. This has happened quicker than I've been able to respondMy contracts for a renovation just won't cut it. Ineed a professional, simple contract for a whole different clientele.Dave.

1. 
   jcallahan | Apr 30, 1999 09:00pm | #3

   *D., Try NEBS ...www.nebs.com. They have all sorts of forms, software, checks etc., some of which is geared specifically for contractors. They might have what you need.

1. 
   Stretch_Cole | May 01, 1999 09:29pm | #4

   *AJ-I live in a University town and found I could get the MicroSoft Project program through the school computer store for about half of what it would cost from a regular retail store. But you had to be a student to do that. Project is like huge uninflated balloon-it expands to the size you need, so it should fit your custom home business very well. As for forms, the most widely accepted forms for new construction are those published by the AIA (American Institute of Architects). I suspect they have a web site or you could contact a local architect to see where they get their forms. Very comprehensive, if not a bit wordy. Good luck.

1. 
   andrew_d | May 02, 1999 11:49pm | #5

   *Any thoughts of the JLC "Legal Kit" publication?

2. 
   andrew_d | May 02, 1999 11:52pm | #6

   *http://www.aiaonline.com/

3. 
   jim_"crazy_legs"_blodg | May 15, 1999 07:51pm | #7

   *over at jlconline.com they have a very active "computer solutions" section. If no one helps, their technologies editor will jump in with LOTS of helpfull guidance. Great site, not as rowdy, but very helpful. - yb

4. 
   zone | Sep 11, 1999 05:01pm | #8

   *streth,will that "Exactimate" work with remodels?

5. 
   Joseph_Cole | Sep 20, 1999 01:41am | #9

   *Exactimate works bigtime for remodeling. I estimate water and fire restoration projects for the company I work for. I can work up an estimate for a fire loss (+/- $100K) in as little as eight hours. It comes packaged with costs but you need to customize that for your particular area.

6. 
   T1m_ | Nov 15, 1999 05:30am | #10

   *One program that I've used is Timberline. This is probably way out of your price range (about 3k for the basic version)it is one of the most universal systems I've seen. With the right equiptment the program will read the blueprints estimate time and materials and as long as the lumber yard is hooked up to the system, will even change the price of materials as the price changes.tim

7. 
   Jon_Thompson | Nov 16, 1999 01:39am | #11

   *Andrew,I've been using it for a few years and I like it! The contracts are written to protect the contractor. As opposed to the AIA contracts where everything is the contractor's fault.Jon

2. 
   AJ | Jan 04, 2000 11:33pm | #12

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   I'am Looking for some insite on project managment software.Specificly for scheduling. What are you currently using? Whats the Best program for the dollar? Any Infornmation You can provide would be most helpful.