If you are still blindsided about Low Voltage Estimating Software, then you have been living under a rock! An estimating software can make quick and accurate cost calculations regarding different types of construction projects. With the help of software, project managers and property owners can manage financial costs much more efficiently. It streamlines construction projects by improving the allocation of resources and controlling expenses 

LOOKING FOR ELECTRICAL SOFTWARE FOR YOUR NEEDS? READ THIS ARTICLE TO GAIN FULL INSIGHT AND MAKE THE RIGHT AND INFORMED CHOICE

Why Do Estimators Use Low Voltage Estimating Software?

Software is truly a game changer for the estimation agency. Low Voltage Estimating Services are now making the best use of this AI-powered software to create precise financial budgets for their clients. Software is not only more efficient, but it is also free from human error. With the help of predictive analysis, one can draw out accurate cost estimates for any type of electrical project.
But how does one choose the right software?

Most Used Low Voltage Estimating Software

Here is a list of some of the most popularly used low-voltage estimating software:

1) PlanSwift

Planswift is developed by ConstructConnect, and it has become a widely used estimation software. It is infamous for providing accurate takeoffs along with material and labor cost predictions. One can also factor in profit margin, equipment cost, overhead expenses, and pretty much every cost related to construction.

Pricing

Starting Price: $2000 per year. 

Pros

• It is considered one of the best Low Voltage Estimating Software programs for the quantification of material and labor
• Comes with a free trial and lots of demos
• It is easy to use, and beginners find it easy to follow the instructions
• PDF drawings can be attacked and scaled according to needs 

Cons

• Some users find the cost estimation features to be complex 
• Cannot markup shapes like arrows and circles
• Limited support from agents 

 2) Stack

Stack is powerful software for electrical takeoffs and estimates. Cost calculators widely use it for Commercial Low-Voltage Estimation. Stack makes it easy to find the measurements for wires, cables, and other electronic components.

Pricing 

Essential: $599 per user/year

Pro: $699 per user/year

Pro Plus: Price depends on the features needed

Pros

• It comes with autocount features that help to save time
• It is easy to make adjustments to the dataset
• It has a user-friendly interface
• Can be accessed from anywhere online 

Cons

• Navigating all the features can be overwhelming initially
• It does not have an offline mode
• Pricing is by the number of users. Multiple people cannot use the same account unless they are paying individually 

3) Trimble

Another Software for Estimating Low Voltage Wiring is Trimble. Trimble is mainly an MEP Estimating Software and offers many features for electrical estimations. It helps contractors, electricians, and builders save time and money.

Pricing

Personal Plan: Free

Business Plan: $12.99 /user/month

Business Premium: $23.95 /user/month

Pros

• It is beginner-friendly
• Good integration capabilities
• AI-powered features such as the automation of simple tasks
• Yields accurate electrical estimates 

Cons

• Not compatible with every computer
• Not ideal for every type of construction project
• Is prone to bugs
• Issues with the earthwork module 

4) McCormick System

McCormick Systems offers two levels of software designed specifically for low-voltage estimating: McCormick and McCormick Pro. This software offers the most effective electrical estimating software. It is capable of performing digital takeoff very easily and in a fast manner from a project’s design. Its multiple features makes it the best choice for Residential Low Voltage Estimating and for commercial as well.

Pricing

$300.00 per user, per month

Pros

• It possesses a pre-built library of various electrical projects.
• It can automatically estimate labour and material rates during takeoff.
• One can create and modify assemblies easily 

Cons

• The process of installing the software and running it can be time-consuming
• There’s no free version available
• Limited roll-up tool

How to Pick a Suitable Low Voltage Estimating Software?

Now you have a better grip on the most used softwares in the market. Let’s dive into the process of how to select the most appropriate software.

1) Price Range

Is the software in your budget? That is the first thing that you have to account for. Exceeding the budget in an electrical software acquisition process can impact negatively on the profit margins. Therefore, it is pivotal that a Low Voltage Estimating Software Pricing is within the budget.

2) Requirements

Are the requirements being met? The second key factor to consider is that the chosen software meets all the requirements of your project. If that is not the case then you haven’t conducted a thorough selection process.

3) Features

Estimating softwares offers a variety of features. So it is important to make sure that the feature you want is offered by the selected Low Voltage Estimating Software.

4) Interface

It is important to note that a user-friendly interface can go a long way. On top of that, having such an interface will minimise the cost of training the staff. So, make sure to choose software having a user-friendly interface.

5) Data Handling and Sharing

The larger the project, the more data is there to be handled and shared. That being said, there is tons of data involved in the Industrial Low Voltage Estimating process. Thus, it is necessary to make sure that the selected software is capable of handling that with ease and without causing any delays in the estimation process.

CHOOSE AN OPTIMAL LOW VOLTAGE ESTIMATING SOFTWARE THAT INCREASES EFFICIENCY AT THE SAME TIME TO BOOST THE PROJECT’S ACCURACY.

Closing Remarks

In summary, selecting the best Low Voltage Estimating Software can make an impactful difference. But how can one achieve that objective? This article provides you with all the necessary information on how to choose the right software. Not only does it give you a clear understanding of why such softwares is necessary for the estimation process. It also discusses in detail some of the most used softwares in the industry. Lastly, it also mentions what key tips you can use in your selection process. Thus, by reading and implementing this article you can get the accuracy you desire and make your project an ultimate success.