Benchmark Estimating Software vs. 4Clicks for Federal vs. SAPPHIRE Structure

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.

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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.

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In our organisation, we are 10 designers working with sapphire. We are able to design multiple units of building without any problems. The learning curve is not small but when you start to master the software, it is incredible. The precision of this software is amazing. If needed, you can easily share your file with a coworker if you need helps...

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• Progress Claims
• Standard quotes

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

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• Automatically generating different elements to save time.
• Designing and calculating elements.
• Providing a clear material listing.

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• 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.

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• 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!

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• Not friendly user
• Maybe providing to many options to do one thing.
• Big Learning curve if you want to to big buildings.

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The support guys were always helping and sorted out issues we had very quickly.

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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.

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

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SAPPHIRE is way more complete and precise than EzCad. You can't just draw a bunch of lines and make it works( even if in reality it doesn't work). Your work needs to make sense in order to design it. If you make mistakes the software will tell you and you will need to correct your mistakes.

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• Benchmark has created standardisation in quotes and tenders.
• Created standard progress claims.

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• 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.

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• Faster turn around time
• More precise than ever
• Great data exportation

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