McCormick Systems’ Blog

With supply chain disruptions in construction and rising supplier prices, now is the time for estimators to reevaluate their bidding process to ensure they’re still able to win jobs and maximize their profits. The current uncertainty surrounding tariffs has already led to price increases across the industry. According to Associated Builders and Contractors’ (ABC) analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor

Commercial plumbing projects are evolving. Today, it’s not just about installing plumbing fixtures and piping — it’s about delivering long-term value that addresses a building’s biggest risks. With non-weather water damage costing the construction industry an estimated $16 billion per year, according to a Grand View Research report, owners and developers are actively seeking solutions that protect their assets. This

According to the Construction Management Association of America, commercial construction estimators are having a really fruitful bidding year if they’re winning 1 out of every 10 bids. However, in our current competitive landscape, it’s far more common for an estimator to win 1 job out of every 25-35 bids than it is for them to hit the magical bid ratio

Plumbing estimators face unique challenges in the commercial construction industry. Between complex mechanical systems, changing material prices and evolving project scopes, creating accurate bids isn’t easy. Add the pressure of fast turnaround times, fierce competition and the risk of underbidding or overbidding can seriously affect an estimator’s bottom line. That’s where specialized plumbing estimating software with integrated takeoff tools, comprehensive

Modular construction and MEP estimating are colliding in ways that are completely changing how we approach building projects. If you’re a contractor or estimator who’s been watching the construction industry evolve, you’ve probably noticed that traditional methods aren’t the only structural options anymore.  Prefabricated components and modular construction techniques are gaining serious traction. They’re forcing us to rethink everything we know about estimating mechanical, electrical and

Managing construction change orders manually creates chaos that ripples through every aspect of your project. You’re constantly battling delayed approvals, cost miscommunications and budget overruns that seem to multiply overnight. How many times have you watched a profitable project turn into a financial nightmare because change orders got buried in paperwork, lost in email chains or approved without proper cost analysis? The

Construction takeoff is an essential piece of any construction project. Closely tied to estimating, takeoff looks specifically at measuring spaces and then calculating quantities of materials that are needed to ensure a project stays on time and on budget. Whether you’re new to the construction industry or a seasoned professional, you might find yourself asking some questions about the takeoff

An estimator’s reputation directly impacts their ability to secure profitable work. In today’s competitive construction market, accuracy separates thriving businesses from those struggling to maintain margins and grow their client base. The most successful contractors understand that estimating extends far beyond calculating material and labor costs. They recognize that their bidding process reflects their overall professionalism, project management capabilities and

Most basic tools lock professionals into rigid workflows that break down when crossing into trade requirements. Modern adaptive construction solutions offer a path forward for estimators tired of dealing with generic systems. Construction firms waste countless hours when estimators switch between disconnected generic systems. The frustration multiplies when basic estimating tools force specialists to adapt their methods to software limitations

As bidding season ramps up, estimators need to know how to write a construction bid that helps them stand out against the competition. This involves creating accurate estimates that not only secure contracts but also help them deliver profitable projects while maximizing their profit margins. Preparation is key, and a well-thought-out strategic approach can make the difference between winning a

The construction estimating process is a critical component of construction, responsible for keeping projects on budget. All construction companies should have an in-depth understanding of how estimating works and why it is important. Although cost estimating is crucial for profitable construction projects, it is still complex and often professionals may have a few questions. We’ve answered some of the biggest

Estimators play a crucial role in the construction industry, determining project costs that can make or break a contractor’s profitability. According to the National Cooperative Highway Research Program, construction estimating errors cost U.S. construction companies an estimated $273 billion annually. It’s a major drain, accounting for up to 20% of total project costs and causing as much as 52% of