STACK vs PlanSwift

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Our analysts compared STACK vs PlanSwift 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

STACK is a cloud-based estimating and materials management software solution that helps users measure plans, collaborate with stakeholders, create proposals and finalize estimates. It is designed for suppliers, manufacturers, general contractors and subcontractors and helps them with team collaboration, plan viewing and reporting. Its engagement inclusions and flexible offerings connect materials to customers.

It has robust callout, markup, invitation and sharing modules that align information between teams. Users can create proposals by adjusting markup tax, costs and overheads. Its centralized hub enables growth and project efficiencies. It also organizes documents and project details.

Pros
  • User-friendly interface
  • Cloud-based accessibility
  • Collaboration features
  • Mobile app availability
  • Integrations with other tools
Cons
  • Limited free plan features
  • Learning curve for advanced tools
  • Can be slow with large projects
  • Limited customization options
  • Customer support costs extra
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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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$49/User, Monthly
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Tailored to your specific needs
$1,749 Annually
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
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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

  • Improved Efficiency: Streamline workflows with automated calculations, standardized takeoffs, and real-time data access, reducing project time and minimizing manual errors.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Foster seamless communication and project visibility with cloud-based storage, shared models, and integrated communication tools, ensuring everyone stays on the same page.
  • Cost Optimization: Gain accurate material estimates and detailed cost breakdowns early in the planning process, enabling informed decision-making and budget control.
  • Reduced Risk and Errors: Minimize errors with standardized methods, pre-built libraries, and real-time error checking, leading to improved project quality and reduced rework costs.
  • Increased Transparency and Reporting: Generate comprehensive reports and track project progress in real-time, providing stakeholders with clear insights and improving project transparency.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: Adapt to projects of all sizes and complexities with customizable workflows, user roles, and integrations with existing software, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs.
  • Improved Mobile Accessibility: Access project information, update quantities, and collaborate with team members on the go using the mobile app, maximizing flexibility and productivity.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Leverage historical project data and industry benchmarks for informed bidding, resource allocation, and project planning, maximizing profitability and competitiveness.
  • Enhanced Team Performance: Empower teams with intuitive tools, automation, and real-time insights, enabling them to work smarter, faster, and achieve better results.
  • Reduced Administrative Burden: Automate repetitive tasks, streamline data management, and centralize project information, freeing up valuable time for strategic work.
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  • 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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  • Comprehensive Takeoff & Estimating: Calculate accurate material quantities and costs with advanced tools like multi-dimensional takeoffs, automatic assemblies, and integrated cost databases.
  • Cloud-Based Collaboration: Store project documents, plans, and models securely in the cloud, enabling real-time access, version control, and seamless collaboration across teams.
  • Mobile App for Field Productivity: Access project information, capture data, update quantities, and collaborate with team members directly from the field using the mobile app.
  • Integrated Issue & Punch List Management: Identify, track, and resolve issues and deficiencies efficiently with photo markups, task assignments, and progress tracking tools.
  • Advanced Drawing & Markup Tools: View, annotate, and collaborate on plans and drawings with features like layer control, dimensioning tools, and cloud-based markups.
  • Customizable Reports & Dashboards: Generate comprehensive reports and dashboards tailored to your needs, providing real-time insights into project progress, costs, and performance.
  • Open API & Integrations: Integrate STACK with existing software and tools like accounting systems, project management platforms, and industry-specific applications.
  • Role-Based Permissions & Security: Control access to project data and features based on user roles and permissions, ensuring data security and project integrity.
  • Offline Functionality: Access essential project data and tools even without an internet connection, maximizing productivity in remote locations.
  • Advanced Quantity Takeoff Tools: Utilize features like automatic takeoffs from 2D and 3D models, takeoff libraries, and integrations with estimating software for faster and more accurate material calculations.
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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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Product Ranking

#2

among all
Takeoff Software

#6

among all
Takeoff Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

82
83
87
87
90
92
57
29
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Reports and Dashboards
Trades Management
Measurement Tools
Plans Management
Measurement Management
Trades Management
Plans Management
Measurement Tools
Platform Capabilities
Project Management

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

STACK
PlanSwift
+ Add Product + Add Product
Measurement Management Measurement Tools Mobile Capabilities Plans Management Platform Capabilities Project Management Reports And Dashboards Trades Management 87 90 57 88 72 63 100 100 87 92 29 94 91 88 71 100 0 25 50 75 100
87%
0%
13%
87%
0%
13%
92%
0%
8%
92%
0%
8%
57%
0%
43%
29%
0%
71%
88%
0%
12%
94%
0%
6%
67%
0%
33%
83%
0%
17%
63%
0%
37%
88%
0%
12%
100%
0%
0%
71%
0%
29%
100%
0%
0%
100%
0%
0%

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

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

User Sentiment Summary

Excellent User Sentiment 1077 reviews
Great User Sentiment 411 reviews
90%
of users recommend this product

STACK has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 90% when considering 1077 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

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.

4.8 (1)
n/a
3.7 (10)
4.3 (23)
4.5 (1066)
4.3 (377)
n/a
4.0 (11)

Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated STACK and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Reports and Dashboards. STACK stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

User Favorite Award
Reports and Dashboards Award

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

Platform Capabilities Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

User-Friendly Interface: Users appreciate STACK's intuitive and modern interface that simplifies navigation and reduces the learning curve for new users.
Cloud-Based Accessibility: Being cloud-based enables team members to access project information and collaborate in real-time from any location, enhancing flexibility and remote work possibilities.
Accurate Takeoffs: STACK provides precise and reliable takeoff capabilities, which is critical for construction professionals to estimate materials, labor, and costs accurately.
Integrated Cost Estimating: Users can seamlessly transition from takeoffs to cost estimating, improving workflow and reducing potential for error between these integrated processes.
Customizable Reporting: The software offers customizable reporting features, allowing users to generate detailed and specific reports tailored to their needs.
Responsive Support Team: The customer support team is noted for being responsive and helpful, providing quality assistance when users encounter issues.
Continuous Updates: STACK is commended for its ongoing updates and feature enhancements, keeping the platform up-to-date with the latest industry standards and user requirements.
Comprehensive Training Resources: The provision of extensive training materials and webinars facilitates user education and maximizes the software’s value.
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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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Limited Customization: Some users report that STACK's customization options are not as extensive as they would prefer, leading to a less personalized experience that may not precisely fit unique workflows.
User Interface Complexity: The learning curve for new users can be steep, with some finding the interface and navigation to be not as intuitive, affecting onboarding and productivity.
Integration Challenges: Certain users have encountered difficulties when trying to integrate STACK with other systems, which can disrupt data flow and overall project management efficiency.
Performance Issues: There are occasional reports about the software lagging or being unresponsive, especially when handling large and complex projects or datasets.
Cost Considerations: For some small businesses or independent contractors, the cost of STACK can be prohibitive, particularly when considering the additional features and users that may be necessary.
Limited Reporting Features: Feedback indicates that the reporting functionality may not be as robust or versatile as required by some users for in-depth analysis and decision-making.
Customer Support Concerns: There have been instances where users have expressed dissatisfaction with customer support response times and the effectiveness of the assistance received.
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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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User reviews of STACK in the past year highlight its user-friendly interface, cloud-based accessibility, and collaborative features as key strengths. Many users appreciate the intuitive design and the ability to access project information and collaborate with team members from anywhere. Compared to competitors like PlanSwift or OnCenter, STACK is often praised for its ease of use, especially for those new to construction software. However, some users mention a learning curve for advanced features and limited customization options compared to more specialized estimating software. Another frequently cited advantage is STACK's mobile app, allowing users to capture data and update quantities on the go. This is seen as a significant benefit for field work and real-time project tracking, differentiating it from desktop-only competitors. However, some users report performance limitations with very large projects, which can be a drawback for complex builds. Overall, STACK seems to be a popular choice for small and medium-sized construction companies or teams valuing ease of use, collaboration, and mobile accessibility. While it may not offer the same depth of features as advanced estimating software, its user-friendliness and cloud-based platform resonate with many users. Carefully considering your project needs and team's technical expertise is crucial before deciding if STACK is the right fit.

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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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