Thursday 30 October 2014

Smart is Visual Estimating

HBXL’s revolutionary Visual Estimating software gives life to a whole new method of estimating; making it possible for you to take the job details straight from a set of plans, by synchronising CAD drawing tools with estimating calculators.



Visual Estimating consists of two software programmes, EstimatorXpress and PlansXpress, working in unison using our X-Connex compatibility technology. The result is an integrated system of working that optimises your performance and makes your job easier – now that’s smart. Take a look at our video on Visual Estimating here.

We’ve highlighted some of the principles of smart working to show you how Visual Estimating really delivers.

Productivity 
The Visual Estimating process is significantly faster than any other estimating technique and produces useful building plans into the bargain, so you get double the results, in less time. 

PlansXpress was specifically created for the building industry; so all the CAD drawing tools make drafting up building plans quick and easy – even for the CAD novice! EstimatorXpress link to live builders’ merchant materials lists makes sure you don’t waste time hunting around for the latest material prices. 


Profit protection
Along with EstimatorXpress’ merchant price lists keeping your quotes up-to-date and accurate, the software also reminds you about hidden costs such as wastage and wear and tear of equipment. Then there are the cost breakdowns and cashflow forecasts, so you can monitor your budget and ensure you make the profit you’ve anticipated. 

Drafting the plans yourself means you’ll save more money on architect outsourcing and as the materials are calculated straight from the PlansXpress documents so data entry errors will be a thing of the past. Nothing cost is overlooked - if it’s on the plan, it’s on the estimate! 

Job control 
Visual Estimating helps to put you in the driving seat – set your own material and labour rates for your estimate, as well as inflation allowances and profit mark-ups. EstimatorXpress also provides you with materials schedules, build programs and cost summaries as handy management aids for the job, once it’s been won. 

And, if the customer changes the plans part way through a job, there’s no need to wait around for architects to amend the plans – you can do it yourself and use them for Building Regulation and planning submission approval. 

Professionalism
First impressions with customers are powerful – they could well be the final deciding factor for winning the work. Handing over a comprehensive, professional estimate along with a set of building plans and a 3D visualisation of the proposed project really helps you stand out against your competitors and gets the customer excited. 

Diversifying and offering something different could also pull in new customers: Visual Estimating provides you with everything you need to offer an attractive design and build service – it means less money, faster delivery and minimal hassle for the customer, so there’s plenty of potential. 

Smart is Visual Estimating – we’re on hand to chat talk you through software in more detail or organise a product demo – so you can see the benefits for yourself.

Call us on 0845 1234 065 or 0117 916 7898.