GeneralCOST Estimator for Excel vs. Raken

Specific scenarios where GeneralCOST Estimator for Excel is well suited include:

• Small to medium sized contractor who typically works on small to medium sized projects with limited complexity
• Contractors who value low prices over full functionality (this software application is very affordably priced)
• A new contractor or new contracting accounting / finance professional who would appreciate the specific limitations imposed by the software

Specific scenarios where GeneralCOST Estimator for Excel is not well suited include:

• Larger contractors who think about and price projects in line with typical commercial design and construction
• Residential projects (the software is much better suited for commercial lease buildouts, for instance)
• A contractor whose finance department already uses full-suite accounting software

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

• Convenient estimating
• Streamlines the price quotation process
• Standard cost application
• Overhead calculation and pplication

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

• Only CSI construction cost database data
• Only works with Microsoft Office (Excel)
• The online help system has limited functionality

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

GeneralCOST Estimator for Excel is cheaper, easier to use, more streamlined and is easily installed and up and running. The flip side to the ease of use is the limited functionality, somewhat outdated cost bucketing profile and general lack of sophistication. The add-in also does not talk with full suite accounting software which requires additional reconciliations if used within a large organization.

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

• Allows us to quickly bid on small projects
• Allows us to pay less for accounting / finance professionals
• Allows us to standardize our cost structure

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