Problem
what's the difference between BidMagic and MacNail Estimating software?
contrasting BM & MacNail
Construction Estimating Software
NOTE-- Both of these programs have since
been replaced by Goldenseal construction
estimating software.
It has good features from both of our older estimating
programs, and is an improvement over either.
Diagnosis
BidMagic has these advantages over MacNail
Estimating:
•
standalone! Requires no add'l software (do not mention HyperCard at all, unless user asks
how it was written)
•
Faster and friendlier- not spreadsheet-based, so it's easier to use than McN.
•
superior for remodeling and insurance work, because BM can do a room-by-room breakdown of
costs, and user can specify what work will be done on each room. (Stress however that BM can handle all
types of projects)
•
handling subcontracted work is is easier than in McN, although McN can also handle it.
•
easier to create custom templates for different kinds of building
Solution
MacNail
Estimating advantages over BidMagic:
•
Can handle multiple wage rates- rooferwage, plumber wage, etc. BM has only two wage rates,
skilled & unskilled
•
More detailed specifying- in MacNail you can subcontract individual items, whereas in BM
you can only subcontract categories.
•
Links directly to scheduling and accounting for material takeoffs & job costing. To link BM to these,
you must go through MacNail Estimating.
•
Greater variety of reports. Also, reports can be easily customized for font, size, etc.
•
can flag items as allowances
•
overall McN is a little more accurate than BM, although not much.
•
Links to McN Customizing for creation of custom estimators with custom category systems.
BM is limited to 31-cat BM system, and 16-cat CSI.
Comments
What the programs have in common:
•
both take a unit-price approach to estimating.
•
large, customizable price book (1000 + items)
•
both link to MacNail Customizing for unit price management
•
both produce highly accurate bids as well as rough estimates (McN somewhat more accurate,
BM better for rough)
•
both handle new construction as well as additions, remodels etc., although BM is superior
for remodels. Entered 3/30/94 by Vinay. Updated 11/23/2010.
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