THE MAGAZINE FOR PROFESSIONALS

3 estimating technologies painting professionals can’t live without

by Brian Sodoma

When painting professionals answer questions about the technology that helps them most in their business, responses can be a mixed bag. You have some old-school personalities who prefer more manual processes, and others who are willing to test drive the latest app or tech solution out there.

In the Jan/Feb issue of inPAINT magazine, six pros weigh in on their favorite technologies for their business. While a wide range of solutions—from CRM software to time sheet apps and old standbys like QuickBooks—came up, estimating software was the most-mentioned technology of all. It appears that most of today’s pros can’t seem to live without it. Here’s a look at a few of the top estimating technologies pros tell us are a game changer for their business.

JOIST

Sean Irvin is the managing member of Georgia-based Professional Painting of St. Mary’s. For estimating and so much more, he turns to the Joist mobile and web app.

“I used to create Word documents for my estimates and contracts. Upon discovery of the Joist app, I have been able to estimate and produce contracts more quickly,” he added.

He’s able to program a price per square foot into the app and then simply add in measurements for quick, professional estimates in no time. It also allows him to invoice customers while recording and processing payments, and you can sync everything to QuickBooks as well. Plus, you can accept credit cards and electronic checks—and the app will even offer financing to customers if you ask it to, Irvin said.

ESTIMATE ROCKET

Kathleen Myers, owner of Kolor Pros Painting, in Austin, is a fan of Estimate Rocket. Myers says quick, easy setup was one of many reasons for choosing the software. With Estimate Rocket, it’s easy to upload your logo, terms and conditions, and other basic information about your company to create a professional-looking template. Then, in no time, you’re off and estimating.

This software can also be used for employee task management, scheduling, invoicing and payments, too. Above all, Myers loves the customer service. If she has questions, answers come quickly through phone or the Estimate Rocket website.

“From the initial inquiry, the customer service was superb,” she added.

PEP

360˚ Painting’s Sterling, MI franchisee, Sarah Brandenburg looks to PEP (Painter’s Estimating Program) as her go-to technology to run her company. The software is particularly adept at transforming notes into clean estimates and sales presentations. PEP, along with her trusty Bosch Laser Measuring Tool, make for a perfect estimating combination, Brandenburg says.

“I use the laser to measure the room, then I input the dimensions and select the items to be painted, such as trim, walls, ceiling, etc. I can complete an interior home in 30 minutes. Then, I select the proposal box and print out the estimate,” she said.

For more on the subject of tech products in the workplace, read the expanded Pro Picks feature article in the Jan/Feb 2019 issue of inPAINT magazine: inpaintmag.com

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