Extending skills key to riding out recession

30/10/2009 19:15:19

Article appeared in Professional Builder, October 2009

The famous saying ‘a jack of all trades is a master of none’ describes someone who is regarded as more of a generalist but is not outstanding in any particular area, but should, in the current economic climate be viewed with a slightly different interpretation.

That’s the view according to Anthony Botibol, marketing manager at HBXL who thinks that builders who focused solely on one area, for example new builds would be well advised to extend their skill base and start looking at other areas of work.

Anthony believes hurdles such as costing and scheduling could be preventing builders expanding their business.

He says: “Someone who has concentrated primarily on new builds will no doubt be able to price up a job based on their experience and expertise quite easily. But those who have only done new builds might find costing and project management of a loft conversion or extension a bit unfamiliar. Similarly a bricklayer may find the thought of costing a much larger project a daunting task.

“If they were able to do this sort of work it would allow them to diversify into new areas not previously considered and extend the range of services they offer.

Anthony believes those wanting to extend the range of services they offer should take a look at the latest version of HBXL’s EstimatorXpress software which includes a range of workbooks designed specifically for a wide range of jobs such as loft conversions, extensions, alterations, renovations, new builds and much more.

The software has over 30 years of building knowledge built in for all types of projects and makes costing and quoting extremely easy.

Hailed as the fastest and most accurate estimating software on the market, it simply uses on screen drawings so all users have to do is input the dimensions of the project.

EstimatorXpress then does the rest providing a full breakdown of costs, cutting lists, material schedules (Bill of quantities) and labour schedules. It will also tell you how much profit you are going to make and provide cash flow analysis.

The software is so accurate due to the fact that it downloads, via the internet, prices direct from local builder’s merchants meaning the costs given are right up to date and totally accurate.

Anthony added: “EstimatorXpress will help users tap into new markets. It will provide better quotes than the competition meaning users will be more likely to win the work. Plus the software doesn't make mistakes when tired or unsure. It won’t forget the calculations and dimensions used if distracted, or accidently overlook VAT, wastage, critical costs and/or profit.

“As other businesses struggle gaps will appear in the market that can be exploited. It’s at times like these that builders need to think about taking steps to provide services they perhaps didn’t consider possible.

“What HBXL is doing is giving builders both the tools and the confidence to make the most of opportunities that before they might not have thought possible.”

For further information on EstimatorXpress v.8 please call 0845 1234 065, visit the web site at www.hbxl.co.uk or chat online now

Magazine/Press reviews