The main strength of computer estimating software is in the reduced time it takes to perform the math, check for errors, and produce the documents necessary for a professional presentation. I've been using WinEst for three years, and I recently had an opportunity to try out the newest version — WinEst Pro Plus 4.0 ($3,999 from WinEstimator, 8209 S. 222nd St., Kent, WA 98032; 800/950-2374, www.winest.com). While software alone can't produce a good estimate, good estimating software will help an experienced estimator to organize and accurately project the cost of construction projects, including material takeoffs and sub and supplier quotes, as well as taxes, bonds, and markup. WinEst is one among many estimating programs, but I think it fits
