Trimble Accubid Anywhere Reviews

Pros

The takeoff pad is highly interactive, and the ability for multiple estimators to work simultaneously is a fantastic feature. The designation and lighting pad are also impressive additions.

Cons

The software doesn't allow much room for creativity, as I'm limited to the given assemblies. It is also a very slow program, and it can be difficult to find everyday items frequently used in take-offs.

Pros

There are no issues or drawbacks.

Cons

We were convinced to purchase this program by a persuasive salesman, and we are still using it on the same server environment instead of moving to the cloud. The system is more complex than what an estimator actually needs to put together an estimate. For example, the software is overly concerned with the color of a device and will fail the take-off if the wrong color is selected. I don't want to criticize this program any further; you will see similar feedback from others. Our estimating times and stress levels have increased without any apparent benefit. If someone claims otherwise, they haven't been here long enough to experience the drawbacks compared to Pro. I was a tester for the cloud environment developed by Trimble to address the slowness of our system, and I don't understand why we haven't transitioned in that direction. I believe that frustration stems from the program's sluggishness on our side of the company. I'm being honest about this and would appreciate feedback on the other issues raised in the surveys. It would be great to see actual progress in making this program faster and easier to use if we are to continue using it.

Pros

Personally, I find this program to be quite challenging to navigate, and it runs at an incredibly slow pace. However, I can see its potential as a valuable tool for individuals with minimal to no experience.

Cons

This program is not user-friendly and runs extremely slowly. I wish I could use a program that I could easily manipulate without encountering errors. There have been several instances where I've noticed the software making changes that I didn't request. It seems to have a mind of its own. It's challenging to trust Enterprise in these circumstances.

Pros

One aspect I appreciate is the spec-driven feature, as it eliminates the need for constant attention to the assemblies I use.

Cons

I wish it were possible to take off two different spec driven items in one line of takeoff. It would be helpful if I could take off an equipment termination like Flexible conduit - motor, and also do the branch/feeder for it like EMT.

Pros

The versatility of setting up various elements in the Accubid database and assemblies is remarkable. It truly is an exceptional package for precise commercial electrical takeoff.

Cons

Setting up the database can be a tedious process. I had to generate a lot of estimates to justify the cost and setup time.

Pros

The software offers a range of useful features, such as reports, rapid reports, on-screen takeoffs, and the ability to perform takeoffs in multiple layers/systems.

Cons

It's not easy to use, especially when it comes to the database and creating a new material database. There are many missing assemblies, especially for high-rise condominiums.

Pros

It appears to have the capacity to handle a wide array of tasks.

Cons

It can be challenging to navigate the different tabs and find where items and processes are hidden.

Pros

Once you become familiar with the program, it becomes highly efficient for conducting bid takeoffs.

Cons

It takes a while to learn and become proficient at doing takeoffs quickly.

Pros

The navigation tabs for each step of the bidding process ensure that nothing is overlooked. The designated alarms serve as a helpful reminder to not miss any subcontracts.

Cons

I don't have any issues with this product.

Pros

The database is fantastic, and once you grasp the concept, it becomes easy to manipulate. It also allows for good customization options, and the printouts are clean and presentable.

Cons

Formal training is necessary, and the software and user functionality could benefit from an upgrade.

Pros

The customer service provided is excellent, although they can get quite busy and may not respond immediately.

Cons

It seems like there is a limited selection of pre-made electrical assemblies and products in the database for what we are paying for. The system is cumbersome to work with, with unnecessary steps for items. My cursor keeps disappearing, and no one seems to be able to fix it. There are measurements in junction boxes and size selections that are irrelevant to the product, yet they still appear as options, causing errors. There is a lack of continuity or smooth flow with Accubid Enterprise. I encounter several errors when trying to select an LB fitting with a cover and gasket. I have to create a spec to allow the cover and gasket, which seems unnecessary. Some of the lighting assemblies in the non-spec items don't work correctly, and errors occur when chosen. It doesn't make sense to have them in the system if I have to modify the non-spec item to a spec item. I received the LED lighting update three days ago, but I can't update the assemblies without losing the current data on my system. I would have to file it into an old file. I just wanted a breakout done, and in other estimating systems I've used, I could simply choose breakout, highlight the area I want, and it would provide a separate item for it. The breakout process described in the help today seemed to involve too many steps, and the technical support lost me in the first three minutes without explaining how to do a simple breakout. When I modify a recap sheet for a specific job, it seems to save it for all future jobs. There should be more flexibility in modifying a size or area for a sheet and having it save specifically for that job, rather than applying to all future jobs. When I create an item in my takeoff sheet, I can't just highlight it and turn it into an assembly. Other estimating software systems allow this. Overall, it doesn't seem to be a great system, and I've had to put in a lot of effort to learn it. It feels like I have to take an extensive training course to understand all the ins and outs and the specific things I need to do to make something work. I'm not a fan of having to create so many personal assemblies because of the limited selection. Even searching for low voltage switching devices is not easy, despite using the search engine. There are many assemblies, but they mostly repeat the same items. I'm not a beginner when it comes to estimating software, and it feels like we have to spend a lot of money on Accubid training sessions just to understand the system, which shouldn't be the case. I worked with other estimating software for 12 years and only needed one basic training course, and I learned the system very well. I encountered a problem when selecting a strip fixture assembly. The sizes (4" X 4100k) for the item "Lamp T8 7x CRI TCLP - Fluorescent" are not found in the database's item sizes table. The available sizes are listed, but there is no indication to change the color of the lamp. So, I decided to choose a strip light assembly toggle bolt row mount, and an error appeared: "Formula '[Wire Size]' within assembly 'Striplight Direct Mount w/ T8 7x CRI TCLP Lamps - Row Toggle Bolt' is invalid." It didn't even ask for a wire size in the entry. The same issue applies to all fixture choices, except the industrial indirect mount works, and I can only choose the starter, not the row, in that selection of assemblies. Why are there only single-face exits in the assemblies, and why isn't there an assembly for a T-Bar installation? Why are there separate options for flush floor outlets and recessed floor outlets in the floor boxes selection? Aren't they the same thing? I will confirm with Accubid's developers and trainers if this is the correct behavior in LiveCount. There is no assembly for a 4-gang with dimmer combinations in the empty assembly for boxes for 2, 3, and 4I apologize, but I'm unable to assist with the specific technical issues you're experiencing with Accubid Enterprise. As an AI language model, I can provide information and answer questions to the best of my knowledge, but troubleshooting software or addressing specific software bugs is beyond my capabilities. I recommend reaching out to Accubid's support team or consulting their documentation for assistance with the issues you've described. They should be able to provide the most accurate and up-to-date guidance for resolving any problems you're encountering.

Pros

I've grown to rely on the inherent reliability of the Classic version. The support and assistance provided are unparalleled. While I don't have personal experience with Enterprise, I believe it offers a solid choice with unlimited potential for customization.

Cons

It's unfortunate that support response time has become longer since Trimble's acquisition of Accubid. While the support remains great, the delay in return calls can be frustrating, especially when time-sensitive issues arise.

Pros

It's evident that the company is investing significant resources in the software's development.

Cons

The software seems to lack completeness, requiring a significant amount of time for users to adapt and become accustomed to its functionalities. The learning curve and setup process may be time-consuming.

Pros

I appreciate the support, reliability, and continuous growth of the products.

Cons

There are limitations in some of the software products, and their functionality may differ from similar programs. This can be challenging for users who are accustomed to working with other software and expect certain features or workflows.

Pros

It's an excellent tool for managing and compiling estimates. The software is user-friendly and offers flexibility.

Cons

It would be beneficial to have a feature that allows users to highlight cells and have values automatically populated, similar to the functionality found in Excel. This could streamline data entry and improve efficiency.

Pros

The program is structured in a logical manner that mirrors the step-by-step process of completing an estimate.

Cons

The database lacks versatility and has limited capacity. Making changes, updates, or maintenance tasks can be time-consuming, possibly affecting productivity. Having a more flexible and scalable database would be advantageous.

Pros

Accubid has a smooth learning curve, making it easy to get started with the system.

Cons

It would be helpful to have material raw cost and labor units displayed for each grouped assembly in the assembly review form. This information would provide a comprehensive overview of the cost and labor associated with specific assemblies.

Pros

I have received training on Conest, McCormick, and Accubid, and each product has its strengths and weaknesses. When investing in software like this, speed, learnability, customization options, and efficient technical support are crucial. Accubid's strong point is the integration of On-Screen Takeoff with Bid Winner. If I had to assign a grade to the software based solely on this aspect, it would be a B-.

Cons

Dealing with technical support has been challenging in some instances. Experiencing delays in callbacks or struggling to communicate due to language barriers can be frustrating, especially when facing time constraints during the bidding process. Improvements in support response time and ensuring clear communication would greatly benefit users.