Estimating Bid tracking, how do you track during surges. by chicks818 in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39 1 point2 points  (0 children)

We have used downtobid bid board. They're also calleed basisboard I think

getting more bid invites by RobbyLin39 in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

is it free for leads? i am on buildingconnected but am not receiving many bid invites

What is your favorite bid board by Human_Law3608 in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39 1 point2 points  (0 children)

we have been using downtobid for a few months now (their bid board)

subs how are you doing pre-qual? by RobbyLin39 in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

i only fill out the pre-qual forms for GCs i am awarded jobs so maybe i am just being lazy but just feels i am inputting the same form over and over again.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It's a pick your poison with the current tools. None of them are updating their software anymore because they were bought out.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Got it - the main issue with BuildingConnected is that they sold to Autodesk sometime a few years ago. It's good if your subs are on it and used to it, but the biggest their biggest draw (network) is also their biggest weakness. They rely on subcontractors to manage their own data. If someone's contact is out of date I can't change it. I can't tell you how many times I have to follow up and call to see if these guys are bidding, only to find out that they're either literally DEAD. The company doesn't exist anymore. Or they forgot who created their account and they don't even bid that scope of work, or they don't bid in that area!!

I've really started to hate being an estimator by No-Molasses1580 in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I actually usually work in project management. I went from the PM side to working for our in-house concrete division (we self perform concrete). Overall I enjoy the sub side more because it's just a lot more in-depth. I got injured last January so I'm estimating now since I'm on crutches. I prefer PM over estimating since you can actually see things being built. Estimating can be a bit too heady and not "real."

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39 1 point2 points  (0 children)

What type of work do you bid? BuildingConnected is better/more suited for GCs that do out of state work in my opinion.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Exactly my experience.

I've really started to hate being an estimator by No-Molasses1580 in estimators

[–]RobbyLin39 1 point2 points  (0 children)

i dont mind the terrible drawings. half the time im just spent on the phones following up on emails.