McCormick Systems’ Blog

Discover what’s happening through our blog. Stay up to date with McCormick System company news, project estimating best practices and industry updates.

Image

Answered: How Can Automating Construction Change Orders Improve Operations?

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
Image

Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Takeoff

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
Image

Building an Estimating Reputation With Advanced Construction Bidding Software

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
Image

Adaptive Construction Solutions Break Down Trade Barriers For Estimators

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
Image

How to Write a Construction Bid and Win More Jobs

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
Image

Frequently Asked Questions About Construction Estimating

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
Image

Most Common Construction Estimating Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

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
Image

8 Ways to Create Attractive Commercial Plumbing Cost Estimates

When bidding on plumbing projects, creating clear, commercial plumbing cost estimates is essential to winning jobs. From small installations to large-scale commercial projects, the accuracy and presentation of your estimate can set you apart from competitors. Plumbing is a highly competitive field — according to the Better Business Bureau®, it is the 5th largest construction category in the U.S. With
Image

What Is A Construction Takeoff?

Many new or inexperienced contractors find themselves asking “What is a construction takeoff?” Even if you have worked in the industry for years, technology and bid requirements are constantly changing, affecting the takeoff process. A construction takeoff is an important calculation that transforms blueprints and designs into a comprehensive list of required materials and related costs. This is an essential
Image

5 Must-Have Plumbing Estimating Software Features To Help You Win More Bids

One of the first steps in a successful construction plumbing project involves creating an accurate estimate. Precise estimates help account for: Increasing material costs Labor challenges and rising labor costs Job-specific plumbing requirements Many plumbing estimators are investing in plumbing estimating software to build more winning bids. The best estimating software for plumbing contractors offers a variety of features designed
Image

5 Must Have Features That Transform Electrical Estimating for Contractors

Accurate electrical estimating is the cornerstone of every successful electrical project. Detailed estimates help account for: Rising material costs Labor challenges Job-specific electrical regulations Many electrical estimators are investing in electrical estimating software to build more winning bids. The best estimating software for electrical contractors offers a variety of features designed to: Increase estimate accuracy and volume Minimize errors Increase
Image

Why Construction Items and Assemblies Matter for Your Bids

When it comes to estimating, the details matter. Whether pricing a small building renovation or a large-scale project, having the right construction items and assemblies in your estimating toolkit can make all the difference. Specialty estimators understand that trade-specific items and assemblies are not only helpful but essential for creating accurate, efficient and competitive bids. Technology also plays a crucial