What users are saying about
10 Ratings
<a href='https://www.trustradius.com/static/about-trustradius-scoring' target='_blank' rel='nofollow noopener noreferrer'>trScore algorithm: Learn more.</a>Score 8.4 out of 100
Based on 10 reviews and ratings
2 Ratings
<a href='https://www.trustradius.com/static/about-trustradius-scoring' target='_blank' rel='nofollow noopener noreferrer'>trScore algorithm: Learn more.</a>Score 10 out of 100
Based on 2 reviews and ratings
Likelihood to Recommend
Project Estimator
If you are considering purchasing this (very expensive) software, there is a 100% chance you are doing so because you have been awarded a Government contract that dictates you use 4Clicks Project Estimator. There are plenty of easier to use estimating packages out in the world, but you can't use any of them if you have a contract that requires 4Clicks.
General Manager
Infinite Energy Construction, incConstruction, 51-200 employees
Benchmark Estimating Software
I have used it for bulk earthworks, for roadworks, stormwater drainage, sewer reticulation, water reticulation, and associated works. It's easy to use a process called subcontractor manager to get multiple sub-contractor prices into your estimate for quick comparison, then pick the one that you really want to use in the estimate. It also has a process called auto allocation which can almost fully automate your estimating process, bringing in Items from the library that match the items in your bid. Haven't found a scenario that it's less appropriate, it all comes down to how detailed you set up your initial item library and resource library.
Owner/Estimator
Big Fish EstimatingCivil Engineering, 1-10 employees
Feature Rating Comparison
Estimating
Project Estimator
5.2
Benchmark Estimating Software
8.6
Takeoff tools
Project Estimator
5.0
Benchmark Estimating Software
7.0
Job costing
Project Estimator
2.0
Benchmark Estimating Software
7.5
Cost databases
Project Estimator
7.0
Benchmark Estimating Software
9.5
Cost calculator
Project Estimator
6.0
Benchmark Estimating Software
9.5
Bid creation
Project Estimator
6.0
Benchmark Estimating Software
9.5
Construction Project & Field Management
Project Estimator
—
Benchmark Estimating Software
6.5
Mobile app
Project Estimator
—
Benchmark Estimating Software
6.5
Pros
Project Estimator
- The estimates it produces are simple and easy to follow. The formatting is good.
- The tech support provided is very attentive.
General Manager
Infinite Energy Construction, incConstruction, 51-200 employees
Benchmark Estimating Software
- Progress Claims
- Standard quotes
Project Manager
RCA Civils Group Pt LtdConstruction, 11-50 employees
Cons
Project Estimator
- The software feels 20 years old. It has not kept up with modern times, and practically functions like an old DOS program.
- Clunky interface, arcane commands.
- Even their training info focuses on hotkeys like this is 1995. Even though I am of an age to remember computers in 1995, the younger generations of managers/estimators are not. It is time to bring the software into the new century!
General Manager
Infinite Energy Construction, incConstruction, 51-200 employees
Benchmark Estimating Software
- I haven't found anything yet. Benchmark is constantly evolving and adding new processes, I believe it keeps up to date with what it's users want.
Owner/Estimator
Big Fish EstimatingCivil Engineering, 1-10 employees
Support Rating
Project Estimator
No score
No answers yet
No answers on this topic
Benchmark Estimating Software
Benchmark Estimating Software 9.5
Based on 2 answers
The support guys were always helping and sorted out issues we had very quickly.
Project Manager
RCA Civils Group Pt LtdConstruction, 11-50 employees
Alternatives Considered
Project Estimator
WinEst uses much the same database (RS Means/Gordion type) and has a similar interface. It is a bit cheaper.
General Manager
Infinite Energy Construction, incConstruction, 51-200 employees
Benchmark Estimating Software
I have always found that Benchmark allows for a more rapid compilation of the estimate through the library system. It can also allow for easy duplication of an estimate for a second stage etc, using the original rates in the resources, or at a click of a button, reverting to updated resources from the library. I have found that other systems rely on a great number of spreadsheet type operations that can easily be changed in the estimate and can lead to errors if copied to another estimate.
Owner/Estimator
Big Fish EstimatingCivil Engineering, 1-10 employees
Return on Investment
Project Estimator
- As stated before, if you are buying this software, it is because you have a contract forcing you to. While it does work, it is clunky, awkward, and very expensive.
- The price of the software and databases has always been high, but with the fairly recent acquisition of 4Clicks by Gordion (who also bought RS Means for their databases), there is literally no competition. Prices will continue to be very high, with no check on how high they can go.
- Again, can't fault 4Clicks tech support, as I think it is the best in the industry. They know their product and they respond to issues immediately. Considering what we spend a year for this product, however, you would expect nothing less.
General Manager
Infinite Energy Construction, incConstruction, 51-200 employees
Benchmark Estimating Software
- Benchmark has created standardisation in quotes and tenders.
- Created standard progress claims.
Project Manager
RCA Civils Group Pt LtdConstruction, 11-50 employees
Pricing Details
Project Estimator
General
Free Trial
—Free/Freemium Version
—Premium Consulting/Integration Services
—Entry-level set up fee?
No