Estimating is a game of inches, and when it comes to a winning bid, inches can translate in tens of thousands of dollars, and the difference between winning or losing that bid. Many techniques are used for estimating…. Some still look at a job and compare it to other jobs they did and put a number together that way, others use the old method of rulers and colored pencils, and the rest tend to use an estimating software. Most software’s have on screen take offs that can be utilized, and can be most helpful, but to maximize these methods it is most beneficial to have field experience.
One of our newest clients wanted to compare our estimate to his, so he had us and his estimator take off the same job. His in house estimator had no field experience, but a strong knowledge base of the software. Our estimator had a strong knowledge base of the software and field experience. When it was all said and done, our estimate was $16,000 less than his, and he decided to go with ours. The end result was he won the job and made a 14.27% profit on the job.
This comparison is not out here to say we were better than his estimator or his estimator didn’t know what he was doing, we are just trying to make a point of how important it is to be accurate, because software makes us all very competitive, but can also be a crutch. At On Time Estimating we have over 30 years’ experience and knowledge in, and out, of the field, so all of our estimators come from a background of Electricians, Foreman, PM’s, Estimators and Contractors. We can look at a project and realize cost savings based upon our knowledge of not only how to put an estimate together by takeoff, but as well as how it gets put together in the field.
Since that first estimate, we have developed a working relationship with this client and work hand in hand with his estimating staff assisting them, and giving advice to them, as to how to look at estimating from a different perspective to become more competitive and win more profitable bids! We are not here to replace your estimator, we are here to assist them, and your firm, and become an asset to help all involved succeed.
We are here to pass on our knowledge to the next generation, so this industry can grow and become stronger. We believe in giving back to the industry, and people, that have gave to us and made us successful!
800-816-9130 Ext. 2