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What is CostX?

Industry Specialties: Construction

Designed by RIB, costX provides cost estimating and takeoff solutions that help to plan budgets, determine material quantities and create reports. Managers can compare drawings and highlight model changes to identify modifications. Compare multiple subcontractors simultaneously to make strategic business decisions.

It supports BIM files exported from SketchUp, Revit, Tekla, Microstation, ArchiCAD, Mudshark and several others. Color code estimates to streamline the review process. Integrate with Microsoft Excel to avoid duplicate entries.
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#24

CostX is ranked #24 in the Takeoff Software product directory based on the latest available data collected by SelectHub. Compare the leaders with our In-Depth Report.

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CostX Pricing

Based on our most recent analysis, CostX pricing starts at $4,500 (One-Time).

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Starting From
$4,500
Pricing Model
One-Time
Free Trial
Yes, Request for Free

Training Resources

CostX is supported with the following types of training:

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars

Support

The following support services are available for CostX:

Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Help Desk
Knowledge Base
Tickets
Training
24/7 Live Support

CostX Benefits and Insights

Why use CostX?

Key differentiators & advantages of CostX

  • Generate Precise Quotes: Upload BIM files to estimate quantities and costs with just a few clicks. Develop forecast models to test what-if scenarios to improve efficiency. Enable multiple cost planners to work on the same estimate to promote collaboration. 
  • Eliminate Data-entry Errors: Drag and drop dimensions directly from the system to Microsoft Excel spreadsheets to save time. Automatically update changes made to estimates to keep everyone on the same page. 
  • Perform Accurate Takeoffs: Cut takeoff time by up to 80% with 2D takeoff tools. Automatically assign random colors to negative and positive measurements in each dimension group. 
  • Make Informed Decisions: Create and analyze data using reporting modules. Categorize tasks by zones and codes. Generate charts and graphs to identify trends and outliers. 
  • Deploy on the Cloud: Access files from remote locations through web-enabled devices. Track project statuses in real time. 

Industry Expertise

Designed for quantity surveyors, subcontractors, estimators, builders and BIM managers. Serves landscaping, roofing, civil, commercial and residential industries. Caters to companies of all sizes.

CostX Reviews

Average customer reviews & user sentiment summary for CostX:

User satisfaction level icon: excellent

34 reviews

90%

of users would recommend this product

CostX has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 90% when considering 34 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Based on an aggregate of CostX reviews taken from the sources above, the following pros & cons have been curated by a SelectHub Market Analyst.

Pros

  • Detailed Cost Breakdown: Users appreciate the ability to break down costs into granular detail, allowing for precise tracking and analysis of project expenses. For example, they can easily see the cost of labor, materials, and equipment for each specific task.
  • Streamlined Bidding Process: CostX simplifies the bidding process by providing a centralized platform for managing bids, allowing users to easily compare different bids and make informed decisions. This eliminates the need for manual data entry and reduces the risk of errors.
  • Improved Accuracy: Users find that CostX helps them create more accurate cost estimates by providing access to real-time data and allowing for adjustments based on changing market conditions. This leads to more competitive bids and a higher likelihood of winning projects.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: CostX facilitates collaboration among team members by providing a shared platform for accessing and updating project data. This ensures everyone is working with the same information and reduces the risk of miscommunication.

Cons

  • Limited Customization: Some users have found that CostX's customization options are limited, making it difficult to tailor the software to their specific needs. For example, they may not be able to create custom reports or modify the interface to suit their workflow.
  • Steep Learning Curve: CostX can be challenging to learn, especially for users who are new to construction estimating software. The interface can be complex and the software has a lot of features, which can be overwhelming for beginners.
  • Lack of Mobile Functionality: CostX is primarily a desktop application, which can be inconvenient for users who need to access their data on the go. The lack of a mobile app can make it difficult to work on projects remotely or to quickly check estimates while on site.
  • Price: CostX can be expensive, especially for small businesses or individual contractors. The cost of the software, combined with the potential need for training and support, can be a significant investment.

Researcher's Summary:

Does CostX make your construction bids "cost-effective" or just "costly"? CostX is a popular software for construction bidding and takeoff, but user reviews are mixed. Some users praise its flexibility and accuracy, highlighting its ability to handle specialized work and provide reliable quantities for negotiations. They appreciate the speed and efficiency it brings to the bidding process, allowing them to tender more projects and increase profitability. However, others find the software lacking in training and support, leading to difficulties in maximizing its potential. The lack of a streamlined backup procedure is also a concern, as losing data in CostX can be detrimental to a company.

CostX is most suited for construction companies that require a flexible and accurate takeoff and estimating solution, particularly those specializing in niche areas. Its ability to handle various drawing types and provide detailed quantities makes it a valuable tool for negotiating contracts and ensuring profitability. However, companies should be prepared to invest in training and ensure proper backup procedures are in place to mitigate potential data loss.

Key Features

  • BIM Takeoff: Extract material quantities from 3D models to create accurate estimates. Customize takeoffs by creating model maps. Encourage multiple employees to work on a single project. View BIM takeoffs using costX Viewer. 
  • 2D Takeoff: Calculate lengths, areas and counts of scanned 2D drawings, CAD files and PDFs. Integrate with costXL to link changes in dimensions and quantities into Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. 
  • Workbooks: Live-link material quantities to drawings and cost databases to help eliminate costly errors. Import Excel data retaining existing formulas. 
  • Subcontractor Comparison: Build databases consisting of relevant quotes using the bid day tool. Integrate subcontractors’ data with associated reports to make informed decisions. 
  • Auto-revisioning: Load initial measurements into revised DWG drawings to highlight modifications, make comparisons and update quantities. 
  • Reports: Build cost plans and bills of quantities as per client requirements using customizable report writing functionality. Automatically add page breaks to reports. 
  • Rate Libraries: Extract workers’ information, create bills of materials and generate cost estimates from BIM files. Access system administration to create rate libraries. 

Limitations

At the time of this review, these are the limitations according to user feedback:

  •  Doesn’t offer robust reporting functionality. 
  •  Can be expensive compared to other takeoff and estimating solutions. 
  •  Steep learning curve. 

Suite Support

Access support services from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on business days.

mail_outlineEmail: Not specified.
phonePhone: (512) 768-8111.
schoolTraining: Request private training at an additional cost. Register for online, self-paced training consisting of videos, interactive exercises and assessment tasks for a fee. Access training and demo videos, webinars, and guides for free.
local_offerTickets: Login via a Jira-powered service desk to submit business support tickets.
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