As the new Dr Who series hits the small screens this spring, a different type of time lord recently emerged in the form of Glenn Mellor.

That’s because Glenn, who runs a small building firm in Oldham (EG Mellor & Sons), recently upgraded his estimating software package to the latest version from estimating software specialists HBXL, called EstimatorXpress.

And since the upgrade, Glenn and his team are spending a lot less time working out quotes and estimates and more time on site doing the work.

Commenting on the software Glenn said: “Before we started using the estimating package we would spend anything up to one and a half days working out a quote. Now it only takes between one to one and a half hours!”

The fact that Glenn spends more time on site is backed by a recent survey which found that the average building company wastes 67 days a year providing estimates.

But it’s not just the time factor that has impressed Glenn and his team.

In addition, clear building drawings allow the user to visualise the project that the builder in question is planning to construct, such as foundations, walls and roofs, which helps with the costing of a job.

Glenn added: “Once you get to know the package and gain in confidence, it really does help with the production of estimates. The drawings in the programme allow you to input your dimensions correctly and makes sure you don’t miss any important details. This is a real benefit, especially when estimating more complicated areas such as hip roofs.”

Launched six months ago the latest software from HBXL is unique in that it links directly into the builders’ merchant Jewson’s price list, which is updated continuously via the Internet.

It also provides the user with expert building knowledge and handy hints, so it actually guides the user to exactly what materials, labour and plant they will need to complete the job, from quantities of sand required, to bricks and wall ties. The software even suggests dates to order goods by to ensure delivery on time.

Glenn continued: “One other benefit of the software is the way it allows you to break down the costs of a job using the professional reports and a customer quote. This allows the client to see exactly where the money is being spent and has really impressed people we’ve recently provided quotes for.

“Without a doubt, EstimatorXpress has helped us win more projects and I would recommend anyone involved in the building trade to at least have a look at a demonstration.”

For further information on EstimatorXpress please call T: 0870 850 2444 or visit the web site www.hbxl.co.uk

Issued 19 May 2005

Issued on behalf of HBXL by Martin Powell Communications. For further information contact Laurence Phillips on T: 01275 394400 or e-mail laurence@martin-powell.com