Very powerful software program in terms of simplicity and being customizable for different sectors

Ease of use

Pros

Prebuilt ML allows me to perform estimation tasks for my insulation company paperless and from any location. What I like best is I can set up each project in it's own folder, and always have access to it. Also, It eliminates the expense of copying or printing full-size blueprints. The cost savings in this alone is enormous, and helps increase net profit. Also, Prebuilt generates automatic quantity reports and piece counts based on product categories input by the end user. This eliminates the need to write notes on other paper and keep them organized and stored. The material reports can be exported to Excel or saved as PDF's. Also, I am able to make e-mailable crops and notes on the drawings should questions or discussion points arise. These items really add up to save time on any project, weather it's 3 or 300 sheets of drawings. Also, Prebuilt's customer support team has been an an incredible asset over the last few years. Customer rep and his team have always gone above and beyond in answering questions during setup and when an issue arises. I would call my computer skills better than average, however the layout of the software is such that anyone with beginning to intermediate skills can use Prebuilt without difficulty. Customers and contractors are always shocked when I show them this software for the first time. It makes a great sales tool as it generates exact quantities while eliminating the potential for human input errors.

Cons

Probably the single-most challenge in using Prebuilt is the need to input and scale each needed. sheet. This does take time, however it only needs to be done once. Once input, scales are automatically saved, and can be drawn on immediately. I find it goes pretty fast, and sometimes it helps identify measurement errors on especially hand drawn sheets. You can also add new sheets and delete new sheets as needed. Also, You can place un-needed sheets in a separate folder to reduce visual clutter in the file.

Great software

Pros

I am an estimator, and I use this software all day, five days a week. I started using it when it was first released. When I started, I was taught by another estimator, and he taught me to do everything the way he does his takeoffs. By watching the different videos, attending the online demos, and talking with customer support, I have figured out completely different ways to complete my takeoffs. What has impressed me the most is that you can put as little effort into learning the software as you want to. If you just want a point and click software that will give you square footage, linear footage, etc., you can do that. But if you want to use it like we do - importing stocking lengths, preferences, notes, and layout colors, or creating customized templates for each lumber yard and builder we work with - you can do that, too.

Customer service is great. I always get a response to my questions within the hour, and usually within a few minutes.

Lastly, the thing I think is most important is that the software developers work hand-in-hand on a daily basis with framers and contractors. The software reflects that. It's easy enough to use that you can pick it up once a month and do fine. It's complex enough that you can use it every day and still find ways to cut down on time and increase accuracy.

Cons

One of the things that I like best about the software, its flexibility, is also one of the pitfalls. It can do so much that sometimes it feels a little overwhelming. Once you start looking under the hood (stocking lengths, preferences, etc.), you realize how much is actually there.

Thankfully, you don't have to take advantage of all that stuff if you don't want to. You can always ignore it if you just want really simple takeoff software.

The New Side of Takeoff Software

Pros

I began using PrebuiltML when it was first released. The software was truly amazing and has become better than ever before in the months since its release.
As a full-time construction takeoff producer, I could not be happier with the firepower that PrebuiltML puts in the hands of a producer. Something that I have really liked about PrebuiltML is that the software engineers are always talking with full-time takeoff producers. It's not a software company that does not know the industry of their product. There is always that practical approach to everything in regards to real world material takeoffs, which are sometimes complex and messy.
Also, something that stands out above other takeoff software, is PrebuiltML's flexibility. There is a way to do nearly everything. Profiles can be set or imported/exported and stored for a certain builder/customer.
Each month or so, there is a new release, typically with new features. You might be a full-time takeoff producer, dealing with hardware, siding, rebar, trim, insulation, drywall, roofing, etc, and PrebuiltML will do the job.
If you do general SF/LF takeoffs from time to time, PrebuiltML is perfect for that as well. All in all, I am very pleased with PrebuiltML, and having used another big name Takeoff software out there previously before I began using PrebuiltML, I would not go back to the former.

Cons

I have not really found anything with the product or vendor that I didn't like.

Best Takeoff Software Around!!

I have been working in this profession for 12+ years and have worked with 2 other estimating software programs, and have had numerous demos of others. This takeoff software is by far superior to any other I have seen or worked with. As a former builder, I am most impressed by the way I can easily create layouts to convey "exactly" how the material is anticipated to be used. This allows the customer to ensure that the material has actually been accounted for by the estimator, and basically has a diagram of how to put the building together. As an estimator, I appreciate the ease of use. I like being able to do everything electronically over the drawings that are provided to us. I can add notes for myself or for the customer, and control what is seen. I can highlight information that is pertinent to the takeoff. I can perform measurements. All of this can be done without printing out the drawing, so it is all saved right in my computer. Thus saving us plotter paper, ink and space in my office for the hundreds of prints that used to accumulate. The customer service experience is excellent!! Any issues are immediately addressed. The available online videos can virtually walk you through about anything you try to achieve. Probably the most impressive thing is, they listen to ideas that users give. As a dedicated 40+ hours per week user I'll often think of enhancements that may improve the software. In my past software experiences I'd be told that the ideas would be passed onto development and it may take a year or so before they'd be incorporated into a release. Many of the ideas I have suggested for this software are available in just a few months after suggesting. There seems to be a release every few months, and I am always excited to find out what is new. This a great tool for sales! Being able to efficiently perform the takeoff, show that the material has been accounted for and present any issues in the design or material discrepancies, to our customer allows us to make a great impression and at the same time helps make sure that our customer is comparing "apples to apples", or that they're clearly able to see what our competition has simply left out or not addressed. There is simply nothing I'd rather be using! I already have the best there is!!

Hard to imagine a better support staff with this great product.

I was a Carpenter, Framing & General Contractor for over 47 years, always did my own estimating & material lists. Starting doing lumber lists for my lumber yard 3 years ago, and been using PrebuiltML X for almost a year now, and sure wish I started sooner. I researched several other takeoff products prior to choosing Prebuilt, the leasing option allows you to use it without big investment up front, and they extended the trial period to me for over a month. Couldn't be more pleased with my choice.

Pros

This software has so much flexibility in it, that you can find all kinds of ways to accomplish your lists the way you want, I did. The more you use it the more you see and learn different ways to do the work. Constantly finding ways to improve efficiency & methods .
The updates with improvements and added features often include your wish lists & always useful.
Updates seem to be released every few months.
The lists provided and trail of information to answer questions later are all there with ease of access.

On top of a great product is the service and support that comes with it.
I can't imagine a support service any better, just ain't possible. This staff is as good as it gets, and I have spoken with several of them many times.
Robbie is always helpful and quickly follows up with answers not at hand for him then, and always a pleasure talking to him and the other guys.

I rate this support team as 6 of 5 in all ways.

Cons

There are no cons to this product & support staff. whatever additional features & improvements can be made they are working on it, and listening to us as customers with our wants.

The New Side of Takeoff Software

Pros: I began using PrebuiltML when it was first released. The software was truly amazing and has become better than ever before in the months since its release. As a full-time construction takeoff producer, I could not be happier with the firepower that PrebuiltML puts in the hands of a producer. Something that I have really liked about PrebuiltML is that the software engineers are always talking with full-time takeoff producers. It's not a software company that does not know the industry of their product. There is always that practical approach to everything in regards to real world material takeoffs, which are sometimes complex and messy. Also, something that stands out above other takeoff software, is PrebuiltML's flexibility. There is a way to do nearly everything. Profiles can be set or imported/exported and stored for a certain builder/customer. Each month or so, there is a new release, typically with new features. You might be a full-time takeoff producer, dealing with hardware, siding, rebar, trim, insulation, drywall, roofing, etc, and PrebuiltML will do the job. If you do general SF/LF takeoffs from time to time, PrebuiltML is perfect for that as well. All in all, I am very pleased with PrebuiltML, and having used another big name Takeoff software out there previously before I began using PrebuiltML, I would not go back to the former. Cons: I have not really found anything with the product or vendor that I didn't like. Overall: If you are looking into buying software for doing takeoffs, whether this software or any other, ask yourself if the software is right for the job at hand. I have worked with software before that, in my opinion, was not adequate and required far too many work arounds. Also, is the software you are looking at overkill? If software takes you several months to learn, it is possible that you are using a Ferrari with tons of bells and whistles when what you need is a 4x4 to get the job done quickly and done right? PrebuiltML can be learned easily in a month if the user does takeoffs fairly frequently.

Experiencing Estima

Pros

It allows us to show the builder we are not just guessing at what they will need for framing etc, but we're using a tool to make his house and lumber package more accurate & efficient. Plus, it’s just fun in general using the program for roof, floors, ceiling joist etc.

Cons

It's missing some little things that will speed up the time it takes to complete the plan. It obviously takes longer to use the program than to do a manual take off most salesmen are use to for bidding, but it’s a lot more fun and gives a better end product for the customer. This, will be one of the bigger hurdles. The "old school" guys will be reluctant to switch to the program, because it takes more time (which they seem to think they don't have) and because most will be resistant to change in general.

Creates a nice presentation for takeoffs.

The software is continually improving and adding more features. Being able to create color coded takeoffs makes a nice description of material, usage, and placement. Tech support is very prompt in responding to questions and/or issues. That's invaluable in my opinion for a software company to provide.

Pros

The visibility and location of materials utilized for the takeoff.

Cons

I'd like to be able to remove items never used from the material list as well as be able to code some items for ease of transferring to a pricing software.

Estima is easy to use but still need lots of improvement.

Pros

1. I like the easy setup to start a job, like inputing job data and scaling, and manipulating tif or png file format background.
2. Using containers to input materials in a wide area of the plan is very convenient, though it still needs improvement when inputing small item accessories, like hangers and blockings.
3. Generating a material list is fast and easy. The different view list options are very convenient.
4. The option to be able to create different list of products, different levels, and application is very convenient.
5. Being able to create bookmarks is great.
6. I also like the option to be able to copy and paste a large amount or the entire product input on a plan.
7. Flashing objects on the plan is excellent.

Cons

1. The work becomes slow in working big projects.
2. Product labels get tight, and they crowd over one another. It would be very helpful if the user had the tool to detach labels and was able to manipulate its location and orientation (vertical or horizontal)
3. Creating and editing text is easy, but there is no option to resize already created text box.

Good I enjoy the software in general

Pros

I enjoy the ability to quickly make changes to lumber estimates and print out detailed reports quickly.

Cons

There needs to be an undo function to correct mistakes. Every software I have ever used has an undo function except this, and it can be frustrating.

Estima Review

I think the Estima Estimating Software is a First Class estimating platform, and I have worked with other estimating programs in the past for years. The learning curve, from not knowing a thing about the program's software to becoming productive is short in the big picture.

Pros

The number of "looks" you can print out. Your template system available is great.

Cons

Building the wall assemblies, previously programs build the assemblies before takeoff begins.
With Estima you build the assembly as you do the takeoff.... No big deal, you get used to that the more
Reps you take.

The new and ever improving Estima Software

Pros

They are always making it better. I started on the Planswift version. It was very difficult to use. Weyerhausauer has made many improvements to their product. This has made it very user-friendly. I love using this product!

Cons

The newer version, without the Planswift, is better, but tends to crash if I'm not working at the office. I can't understand how it knows I'm not there, but it does. But I'm not an IT guy either. I hope they can get that bug fixed.

PreBuiltML Review

At my age (65) not being computer literate, I was able (along with the Technical Support) to grasp the technology. The Program makes it possible to transform my knowledge of construction on to paper with Layouts and Lists. The accuracy of the program generates lists and layouts that are Informative to the Builder, Supplier, and Carpenter. The layouts are created in color and sizes that are legible. The program can be customized to fit various skilled needs. I would recommend this software to anyone who has the knowledge in the construction field or anyone who has the time to learn the construction techniques.

Pros

The accuracy and the ease of use.

Weyerhaeuser HDH feedback

Pros

We have a great relationship with PreBuiltML. They have actively resolved and found solutions to many of our issues to help improve our customers experience. We have found ways to improve our own process by using the tools available to our team.

Cons

As we've been trying to develop this software, when a new release is sent out, I don't feel that it has been correctly tested. We often get an update within hours or days of an update to fix a found issue. More testing could be completed before sending to all users.

I use Estima on a daily basis.

Pros

I like that you can quickly generate a take-off or material list based off of any imported PDF drawing at any scale. The recent upgrades to adjust document skew and rotation have been very helpful.

Cons

I dislike the features. There are a number of features or improvements that would make Estima even better. The ability to copy and paste between .pedb files would be a big help with long term productivity. I'd like better functionality between versions also. Sometimes importing older versions into the current version creates a lot of problems to the point where the take-off has to be re-drawn. Being able to export to a CAD file would also be a nice feature. We often use Estima as a preliminary design tool and then use CAD as a final design tool. Adding the ability to assign shortcut keys would be a great improvement as well.

PreBuilt is okay

Overall PrebuiltML is okay. it was a little difficult to pickup on. but after watching the videos it became very simple and I have started using it for work designing floor systems. although some things need to be added, like a UNDO BUTTON.. it is still good

Pros

what I like about this software is the ease of use (within the given abilities). Putting in most plans and doing a floor layout for work is very simple usually.

Cons

NO UNDO.
I mean come on, this is one of my biggest issues with Prebuilt. I just do not see the logic in not having one. Also dynamic input similar to autocad would be great! so that way if a drawing can not be scaled, we can set the page to whatever scale, and draw.

PrebuiltML is an excellent product with an even better customer support. They go above and beyond.

Great presentation and communication to clients.

Pros

I like the view port and engine for navigating project plans. Very fast and intuitive. Many other features are impressive like the obvious take off portion and color coding along with the custom functionality of creating categories and products. Lots of flexibility to customize quickly.

Cons

I wish there was an undo button and I wish it was available on Mac. This being said the Pros greatly outweigh the Cons.

Exhilarating

They are a constantly a change in motion. Updating the product to fit the customer's needs, never a response of it will not do that but how can we make it do that. Taking every ounce of customer input and fitting that into the big picture. Since every customer uses this software slightly different they value the input from all to make a better product for all. Use the software for several months, enjoy the many conversations with the support staff. Review all the support templates then make your review you will be pleasantly surprised with all it has to offer but you did not know how to look for it. Just like Nike is JUST DO IT there motto should be JUST ASK I have found no bugs or flaws that in the system that have not been addressed No question or comment ever goes un heard they also have a system that logs in the comment so that they are filed in specific areas so if one area needs to be addressed they can see this and move the support team in that direction to better assist the customer's needs instead of their wish list items.

PrebuiltML

I love using PrebuiltML and will continue to do so for years.

Pros

The customer service is second to none. They are there when I need them and their response time is incredible.
Prebuilt is constantly updating their product.
I love the finished layouts. They look professional and their is no mistaking what items go where. This saves time and material.
I also like that you can learn at your own pace. Their library of videos and tutorials is amazing.
Plus, you can't beat the price.

Cons

There is no undo button.
This software offers so much it can be overwhelming at times.

Excellent Software and Very Excellent Support

Increased sales immediately, due to the professional reports Better software than expected. I have used other software for over 10 years and will never go back.

Pros

Very Professional Reports and Layouts. Very little that has not been taken into account. Great built in Database.
Quick learning curve.
Again, I have been completly amazed at the level of support.
Support staff knows their software and quickly help solve the few issues that could come up.

Cons

No Complaints,