PlanSwift vs Esticom

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Our analysts compared PlanSwift vs Esticom based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Takeoff Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Product Basics

PlanSwift, a ConstructConnect offering, is an estimation software designed for general and specialty contractors. It helps manage concrete, drywall, electrical, flooring, framing, HVAC and more while improving accuracy, saving time and increasing profit margins.

Users can complete estimation for simple and complex areas, volumes, items, perimeters and length with point and click support. They can also drag-and-drop assemblies like labor costs, waste and materials and calculate expenses. It can do internal, material and labor calculations and export them to users’ Excel sheets.

Pros
  • Easy to learn & use
  • Fast, accurate takeoff
  • Flexible reporting tools
  • Good customer support
  • Cloud-based & mobile
Cons
  • Limited 3D capabilities
  • Fewer integrations
  • Higher cost for some projects
  • Can be slow on complex models
  • May require training for advanced features
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Esticom is a web-based estimation and takeoff software that supports electrical, construction, HVAC, plumbing and residential estimating. It includes quantity takeoff and bid management and helps construction businesses build cost estimates and bid on projects. Its customer service module helps users utilize KPI data to optimize performance. Its project templates streamline processes, lower set up time and simplify the estimating system.

Other features include plan management, auto count, linear and area measurements, proposals, plan and design markup tools, and customizable databases.

Pros
  • Easy to learn & use
  • Intuitive interface
  • Fast takeoff creation
  • Cloud-based access
  • Good customer support
Cons
  • Limited customization
  • Fewer features than some competitors
  • Can be slow with large projects
  • Limited reporting options
  • Integration issues with other software
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$1,749 Annually
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Tailored to your specific needs
$139/User, Monthly
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Tailored to your specific needs
Small 
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Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Faster Takeoff Times: Drag-and-drop interface and automated calculations dramatically reduce manual work, saving significant time on takeoffs.
  • Improved Accuracy: Eliminate manual errors with PlanSwift's precise measurements and automatic calculations, leading to more reliable estimates.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Real-time cloud-based access allows teams to collaborate efficiently, ensuring everyone works with the latest information.
  • Streamlined Estimating: Generate professional estimates quickly and easily with flexible reporting tools and customizable templates.
  • Increased Project Visibility: Gain insights into material needs, costs, and potential risks with detailed takeoff reports and visual aids.
  • Reduced Material Waste: Accurate takeoffs lead to more precise material ordering, minimizing waste and saving costs.
  • Improved Bidding Competitiveness: Submit faster, more accurate bids with confidence, giving you an edge in the competition.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Access project data and takeoffs on the go with the mobile app, enhancing flexibility and productivity.
  • Scalability for Growth: As your business grows, PlanSwift easily adapts to handle larger and more complex projects.
  • Peace of Mind: Trustworthy customer support and regular software updates ensure you have the ongoing assistance you need.
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  • Increased Efficiency: Intuitive interface and automated calculations accelerate takeoffs and estimate creation, saving valuable time and resources.
  • Improved Accuracy: Cloud-based platform reduces manual errors and inconsistencies, leading to more precise and reliable estimates.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Real-time access and project sharing enable seamless collaboration between estimators, project managers, and stakeholders.
  • Streamlined Workflow: Integrated takeoff, estimating, and bid management tools eliminate cumbersome data transfer and manual processes.
  • Optimized Bidding: Powerful quoting tools help generate professional bids quickly and accurately, increasing bid competitiveness.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Customizable reports and insights provide valuable data for informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: Cloud-based architecture adapts to the needs of growing businesses and diverse project types.
  • Reduced Costs: Improved efficiency, accuracy, and bidding processes contribute to overall project cost savings.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Access projects and data from anywhere on any device, ensuring greater flexibility and responsiveness.
  • Enhanced Client Satisfaction: Timely and accurate estimates coupled with improved communication lead to better client experiences.
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  • Intuitive Drag-and-Drop Interface: Simplify takeoffs with point-and-click measurements and direct placement of pre-defined assemblies onto plans.
  • Automatic Calculations: Eliminate manual errors with PlanSwift's automatic calculations for lengths, areas, volumes, and more.
  • Multiple File Format Support: Seamlessly import and work with various file formats, including PDFs, DWGs, and images.
  • Customizable Assemblies: Create and save reusable assemblies for frequently used materials and components, streamlining takeoffs.
  • Advanced Measurement Tools: Handle complex shapes and curved lines with tools like arc calculations and automatic cut-out deductions.
  • Color Coding and Annotation Tools: Highlight different takeoff items, track progress, and add notes directly on plans for clear communication.
  • Powerful Reporting Tools: Generate detailed takeoff reports with customizable layouts, filtering options, and cost summaries.
  • Cloud-Based Collaboration: Work together on projects in real-time with team members and clients, regardless of location.
  • Mobile App Integration: Access project data, view plans, and perform basic takeoffs on the go with the mobile app.
  • Open API Integration: Connect PlanSwift with other software you use through its open API for increased data flow and automation.
  • Scalability and Customization: Adapt PlanSwift to your specific needs with customizable settings, user roles, and data fields.
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  • Automating Cost Estimates: Remove time-consuming Excel sheets and build accurate construction cost estimates on the web-based system.
  • Bid Management: Catalog projects according to bid due date, estimator or project value to keep track of deadlines.
  • Review: Review projects with the management team and improve performance through key performance data.
  • Cloud-Based Software: Access construction takeoff and estimating software from anywhere, any time on any device.
  • Ready-Made Templates: Get project templates to bid on more projects and streamline takeoff and estimating processes.
  • Area & Linear Measurements: Measure conduits, wire runs and add fittings automatically.
  • Customizable Database: Customize the database with out-of-the-box parts and assemblies, including labor units and material prices.
  • Plan Management: Organize plan sheets into folders by automatically renaming them. Update projects with new versions of the software.
  • Proposals: Customize bid proposals by adding a company logo, inclusions, exclusions and detailed pricing.
read more...

Product Ranking

#6

among all
Takeoff Software

#7

among all
Takeoff Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

83
66
87
76
92
62
29
0
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Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

PlanSwift
Esticom
+ Add Product + Add Product
Measurement Management Measurement Tools Mobile Capabilities Plans Management Platform Capabilities Project Management Reports And Dashboards Trades Management 87 92 29 94 91 88 71 100 76 62 0 63 0 84 71 79 0 25 50 75 100
87%
0%
13%
80%
0%
20%
92%
0%
8%
67%
0%
33%
29%
0%
71%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
94%
0%
6%
69%
0%
31%
83%
0%
17%
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
we're gathering data
N/A
88%
0%
12%
86%
0%
14%
71%
0%
29%
57%
0%
43%
100%
0%
0%
82%
0%
18%

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

60%
0%
40%
30%
0%
70%

User Sentiment Summary

Great User Sentiment 411 reviews
Excellent User Sentiment 114 reviews
86%
of users recommend this product

PlanSwift has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 86% when considering 411 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

90%
of users recommend this product

Esticom has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 90% when considering 114 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

4.3 (23)
5.0 (1)
4.3 (377)
4.5 (110)
4.0 (11)
4.9 (3)

Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated PlanSwift and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Platform Capabilities.

Platform Capabilities Award

Esticom stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

User Favorite Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

User-Friendly Interface: Planswift is praised for its intuitive and straightforward interface which allows users to easily navigate and utilize the software, enhancing productivity for takeoff and estimating tasks.
Accurate Takeoffs: Users appreciate the precision that Planswift provides, enabling them to quickly generate accurate materials and labor estimates, essential for competitive bidding and managing project margins.
Customizable Templates: With Planswift, the ability to create custom templates for various project types helps streamline the estimating process, saving valuable time while ensuring consistency across estimates.
Integration with Other Software: The software's compatibility with third-party applications ensures a seamless workflow, allowing for the easy import and export of data and enhancing overall efficiency.
On-Screen Takeoff: The on-screen takeoff feature allows users to directly measure plans on their computer screen, reducing the need for physical plans and promoting a paperless environment.
Support and Training: Responsive customer support combined with a robust set of training resources empowers users to maximize the potential of the software.
Cost-Effective: Many users find Planswift to be an affordable solution without compromising the functionality required for managing takeoff and estimating complexities.
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Ease of Use: The solution offers an intuitive and user friendly interface, according to 75% of users.
Functionality: According to 81% of users who reviewed this pro, the software offers a complete product suite for construction companies to optimize their processes.
Cost: About 87% of users affirmed that the application is worth the price range. The features and user-friendly interface justify the price completely.
Support: Regarding support, approximately 76% of users said the support team quickly responds to calls and resolves issues efficiently.
Connectivity and Integrations: According to 75% of users, the application integrates seamlessly with third-party solutions.
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Steep Learning Curve: For new users, PlanSwift can be quite daunting to learn and master, particularly for those with limited tech experience, potentially delaying project starts.
Occasional Bugs: Users have reported running into software glitches that can disrupt the takeoff and estimating process, requiring workarounds or customer support intervention.
Inconsistent Customer Support: While some users find the support helpful, others report slow response times and varying levels of assistance when facing issues with the software.
Performance Issues with Large Files: Handling large and complex projects can sometimes slow down the software, leading to longer loading times and decreased responsiveness.
Limited Cloud Capabilities: Compared to competitors, PlanSwift's cloud features are not as robust, potentially hindering collaboration and remote access for teams.
Cost Prohibitive for Small Businesses: The pricing structure can be on the higher end, presenting financial challenges for small firms or independent contractors.
Outdated Interface: Some users feel that the user interface is not as modern or intuitive as other solutions, affecting user experience and efficiency.
Limited Integration with Other Platforms: PlanSwift's ability to integrate with other construction management or accounting software is often seen as insufficient or overly complex.
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Data Visualization: According to 84% of users, navigating the solution and locating icons can be challenging at times.
Learning Curve: With a complete suite of features, the solution can be difficult to leverage and learn without step-by-step guidance according to 78% of users.
Performance: About 75% of users said that the solution tends to lag in the event of internet failure.
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Users consistently praise Planswift's user-friendliness and affordability compared to industry giants like Bluebeam Revu and OnCenter Estimating. Newcomers find its interface intuitive and training resources abundant, enabling them to become productive quickly. Additionally, Planswift's subscription model makes it financially accessible to smaller firms and individual contractors. However, some users lament a perceived lack of advanced features present in competitors. While Planswift boasts core functionalities like 3D takeoff and integration with popular CAD programs, it may not cater to highly complex projects requiring specialized tools for intricate assemblies or detailed cost estimating. A key differentiator highlighted by users is Planswift's customer support. They commend its responsiveness and helpfulness, often exceeding expectations compared to competitors. This personalized support is crucial for users encountering technical issues or seeking guidance on advanced functionalities. Ultimately, user reviews depict Planswift as a valuable tool for those prioritizing ease of use, affordability, and reliable customer support. However, users requiring in-depth features for highly specialized projects might find themselves needing to explore alternative solutions. Weighing individual needs against Planswift's strengths and weaknesses is crucial for making an informed decision.

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Esticom users in the past year have lauded its ease of use and intuitive interface, praising its fast learning curve compared to competitors. They emphasize the time-saving benefits of features like auto-count and pre-built libraries, enabling them to generate estimates quickly and efficiently. The cloud-based platform is also a major plus, allowing for real-time collaboration and access from anywhere. However, some users have expressed concerns about limited customization options compared to more established software. While Esticom offers basic customization, it may not cater to highly specialized needs. Additionally, the reporting capabilities have been cited as less robust than some competitors, potentially hindering in-depth project analysis. A key differentiator for Esticom is its competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for smaller companies and startups. Its scalability is also praised, allowing users to upgrade as their needs grow. However, larger companies may find its feature set less comprehensive compared to industry giants. Overall, Esticom is a strong contender in the takeoff and estimating software market, particularly for ease of use, affordability, and time-saving features. However, users seeking in-depth customization, advanced reporting, and experience with larger projects may need to consider alternative solutions.

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Screenshots

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