PlanSwift vs HeavyBid

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Our analysts compared PlanSwift vs HeavyBid based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Construction Estimating 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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Developed by HCSS, HeavyBid provides estimating and bidding solutions to help automate daily tasks. Verify material and labor prices to identify estimating errors. Import takeoff data from external programs to produce precise cost estimates. Store files in a secure cloud environment. Enable managers to track project progress via the dashboard.

Managers can create, modify and analyze supplier and subcontractor quotes. Generate estimate recap reports to summarize quotes for better understanding. It integrates with Microsoft Project, Excel, Primavera P6, Word and Outlook, and accounting tools.
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$1,749 Annually
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$3,195/User, Annually
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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
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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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  • Reduce Estimating Errors: Access bid item, activity and material codebooks to automatically build estimates. Use custom calculation routines to avoid performing repetitive calculations. 
  • Promote Collaboration: Enable multiple estimators to work on the same quote to improve estimating accuracy. Attach photos, audio clips and videos to plans to keep everyone on the same. 
  • Make Data-driven Decisions: Produce preconfigured revenue reports to evaluate the company’s financial performance. Integrate with Tableau and Power BI to analyze key performance indicators. 
  • Generate Professional Proposals: Customize Word- and Excel-based bid proposals in just a few minutes. Add company logo to proposals to increase brand recognition. 
  • Maintain Data Integrity: Integrate with accounting systems like QuickBooks, CMiC and Foundation to generate error-free quotes. 
  • Stay Secure: Store files in ISO 27001, SSAE16/SOC compliant data centers to protect them from hackers. 
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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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  • Estimation: Copy and reuse past quotes to save time and avoid data entry mistakes. Add activities to estimates in just a few clicks. Assign resource codes to items such as equipment, labor and materials to speed up estimating processes.  
  • Bid Management: Find bid items using the keyword search function. Add desired columns to the bid pricing screen to view detailed information. Mark up estimates by cost types. Export data directly to DOT’s bidding system to eliminate re-entering bid prices. 
  • Quote Management: Create folders for subs and suppliers to help them access data quickly. Perform multiple quote comparisons, update estimates and detect advantageous pricing. View scope differences among quotes and make last-minute changes. 
  • Bi-directional Interface: Export cost and resource schedules to Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project. Import modified schedules to the system’s database to merge them with estimates. 
  • Calculations: Calculate quantities, production rates, costs and risk factors using the built-in calculator. Copy calculations to notes and reports to help review bids. 
  • Insights: Compare past and actual estimates to identify errors and reduce risks. Create custom key performance indicators to gain valuable insights. Conduct what-if analyses to make strategic business decisions. 
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Product Ranking

#7

among all
Construction Estimating Software

#34

among all
Construction Estimating Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

61
77
8
84
38
84
89
93
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Takeoff Capabilities
Document and Database Management
Estimate Management
Reports and Dashboards
Document and Database Management
Platform Capabilities

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

PlanSwift
HeavyBid
+ Add Product + Add Product
Bid Management Cost Management Document And Database Management Estimate Management Platform Capabilities Project Management Reports And Dashboards Takeoff Capabilities 8 38 89 65 62 34 65 99 84 84 93 97 87 66 95 41 0 25 50 75 100
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86%
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90%
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75%
57%
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67%
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33%
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63%
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Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

67%
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67%

User Sentiment Summary

Great User Sentiment 411 reviews
we're gathering data
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.

we're gathering data
4.3 (23)
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4.3 (377)
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4.0 (11)
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Awards

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

Takeoff Capabilities Award

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated HeavyBid and concluded it deserves the award for the Best Overall Construction Estimating Software available today and earns best-in-class honors for Document and Database Management and Estimate Management.

Analysts' Pick Award
Document and Database Management Award
Estimate Management 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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Comprehensive Estimating: HeavyBid offers a wide range of features that cater to various aspects of construction estimating, including takeoff, pricing, bidding, and reporting. This comprehensive approach allows estimators to manage the entire bidding process within a single platform.
Customization and Flexibility: HeavyBid provides a high degree of customization, enabling users to tailor the software to their specific workflows and requirements. This flexibility ensures that estimators can adapt the software to their unique estimating processes and preferences.
Integration Capabilities: HeavyBid integrates with various other software applications commonly used in the construction industry, such as scheduling, accounting, and project management tools. This integration streamlines data flow and enhances collaboration between different departments within a construction company.
Industry-Specific Focus: HeavyBid is specifically designed for the heavy civil construction industry, with features and functionalities tailored to the unique needs of this sector. This industry-specific focus ensures that estimators have access to tools and resources that are relevant to their projects.
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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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Steep Learning Curve: HeavyBid's extensive features and functionalities can be overwhelming for new users, requiring significant time investment to master the software effectively.
Customization Challenges: Adapting HeavyBid to specific workflows or unique project requirements can be complex, often demanding advanced knowledge of the software's underlying structure.
Integration Limitations: Integrating HeavyBid with other construction management software or external databases may pose challenges, potentially hindering seamless data exchange and workflow efficiency.
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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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HeavyBid is a powerful construction estimating software that has garnered a mixed reputation among users over the past year. While its comprehensive features and ability to handle complex projects are widely appreciated, some users find the software's interface to be outdated and cumbersome. The learning curve associated with HeavyBid is often cited as a drawback, as it requires significant time and effort to master. However, users who invest the time to learn the software find it to be a valuable tool that can streamline the estimating process and improve accuracy. Compared to competitors like Bluebeam Revu and PlanSwift, HeavyBid offers more advanced functionality for detailed cost estimation and bid preparation. Its ability to integrate with other construction management software is also seen as a major advantage. However, HeavyBid's higher price point and steeper learning curve may deter smaller companies or those with simpler estimating needs. Overall, HeavyBid is best suited for large construction firms or those that handle complex projects with a high degree of detail. Its comprehensive features and ability to integrate with other software make it a valuable tool for streamlining the estimating process and improving accuracy. However, smaller companies or those with simpler needs may find the software's complexity and cost to be prohibitive.

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Screenshots

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