McCormick Systems’ Blog

The construction bidding process gets a complete overhaul when you connect your estimating software to other business tools. Contractors face constant pressure to submit accurate bids faster than ever before, but juggling multiple disconnected systems creates chaos. You’re switching between takeoff tools, accounting software, project management platforms and spreadsheets – all while racing against tight deadlines. Meanwhile, your competitors might

The construction industry’s landscape is changing rapidly, from building code changes to price hikes and supply chain issues; it’s a volatile economic environment. All of these challenges are reshaping what it takes to win the best construction jobs and deliver successful, profitable projects. For contractors and professionals working in commercial trades, such as electrical and plumbing, these challenges are hitting

Plumbing estimating software can be a game-changer — or a costly misstep. Between licensing fees, setup time and training, you can’t afford to choose the wrong tool. And with tech becoming a must-have in the trades, your long-term success depends on getting it right. Unfortunately, many providers overpromise and underdeliver. So, what red flags should you keep in mind during

Electrical estimating software is a significant investment — from the costs of purchasing the software to the time it takes to set up and train your staff. Finding the right solution for your operations is crucial to your long-term success. But it’s not easy. Many providers make themselves sound perfect but fall short when faced with basic electrical estimating challenges.

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