e4clicks Project Estimator vs. Raken

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.

Incentivized

Easy sub-contractor management ability, time tracking, resource planning and the easy tracking of project equipment using Raken is even enjoyable. Team coordination and project comments and recording sharing among the team members, this is a great tool for that.

Incentivized

• The estimates it produces are simple and easy to follow. The formatting is good.
• The tech support provided is very attentive.

Incentivized

• Great iPhone application - The application makes reporting and adding photos very easy.
• It's easy to navigate different days and reports. Or to find keywords or subcontractors and when they performed work.

Incentivized

• 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!

Incentivized

• Sometimes the app will run slow or crash on the guys in the field. It doesn't happen too often though.
• An easier way to download all project Daily Reports at one time.

Incentivized

Raken has an excellent support team. Raken are pretty prompt with getting back to you. Raken also has a convenient chat feature on their website. All their support members are friendly and are good at helping you understand and resolve your issues.

Incentivized

WinEst uses much the same database (RS Means/Gordion type) and has a similar interface. It is a bit cheaper.

Incentivized

Vista is TTI's accounting software program. It is extremely well suited for the construction projects. Team, which is similar to Raken, is more advance however the program is also more expensive.

Incentivized

• 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.

Incentivized

• Less need to travel to each job site.
• Automated emailed reports to clients reduces the number of meetings/conversations about what is happening on the project.

Incentivized