InEight

Powerful tool for cost estimating projects. New format to be similar to excel makes it easier to use.

Program has so many features that learning all of them can be cumbersome.

Connected Data and Open API. Flexibility and customization. Sorting, organizing, filtering, views. All the things that drive me nuts about HeavyBid, InEight can do.

The vast amount of customization can be overwhelming for some. Not me though. Chief estimators simply need to create relevant views and workflows to help estimators who want a more simplistic platform.

the free form CBS structure that allows the estimate to be re-configured easily on the fly when a scope or idea changes

it allows modification in fields/cells that should not be able to be changed in that location. You should have to go to a setup screen to make these type modifications

What I find most appealing is how InEight works to handle several aspects of a project at the same time. This software means that small details of cost estimates will easily be broken down into manageable data that can work well for projects such as those in construction.

I have discovered that for some reason, it might take a while to generate its report if a project contains many components. This can be disheartening especially when preparing to submit reports to clients and other parties within a short span of time.

I have been working with Hard Dollar for 10 years and it has been a very good tool to procure work in my industry. The software works great for large complicated projects, I believe we have been successful due to the Hard Dollar system. The corporation I work for is very pleased with the work we have procured using the software over the last two and a half years.

It takes a long time to learn the program and get familiar with the actions when putting an estimate together. Because of the complexity of the system our firm was hesitant about continuing to use it shortly after I started working here. Once they saw the rewards of the work we procured they have since changed their minds. I believe smaller firms would be more apt to using the software if there was a less complex version that could be offered.
Last thing I would say, the customer support was lacking two and a half years ago when I purchased the product. I used you-tube videos to help get the software set up properly but some of my questions could not be answered. it took some time but I ended up figuring it out well enough to bid work. Since I came aboard, the company has grown from roughly 33 million to 45 million in gross revenue per year.