At the turn of 2019, FastEST, Inc. released the latest and greatest versions of its estimating software programs. FastEST is well into its third decade of providing top-tier estimating solutions and continues to improve upon the already award-winning FastDUCT®, FastPIPE®, and FastWRAP™ programs. The programs have changed and improved in a variety of ways. Let’s take a look at a few of the examples within the FastDUCT® 18 program.
Improved takeoff interface
As technology evolves, FastEST is staying on the cutting-edge. The latest version is programmed to be able to handle the details and intricacies of HD, ultra HD, and 4K monitors. The display, both in-program and, most importantly, in the takeoff screen, is now higher-resolution with an optimized layout. The simplified takeoff screen design streamlines how the buttons are organized, plus increases the plan viewport window, so users can see more of their digital plan as they takeoff. This improved takeoff screen means faster takeoffs than ever before, which means more bids completed faster and more awarded projects in a contractor’s backlog.
New features galore
Within the latest version of FastDUCT®, there are many new, innovative features available, along with the opportunity to add more features down the road. One example is our new Visual Deduct takeoff tool, which grants users the ability to takeoff on the digital plan with highlighted mark-ups like usual, but it will actually count towards deducted work, or perhaps change order work (where there is some removal but some new work installed as well, for example). Another instance of a new feature is the ability to create scalable assemblies so that a kit of parts (for example, a run of multiple ducts on a trapeze hanger) can be scaled off in linear feet.
File compression, program speed
The file structure has changed with the latest versions of the FastEST programs, as well. These changes “under the covers” wouldn’t be easily explained to a layman, but the bottom line is, the changes affect estimators, project managers, and other users of the programs for the better. Files have been compressed, which means faster saving of estimate data, quicker report calculations, and faster real-time movement within the active takeoff screen. It’s also very handy for improved file back-ups, so estimates can easily be recovered should a user’s computer crash or if the network connection gets interrupted.
Benefits for multi-user and network users
This file compression also extends benefits into the realm of contractors who use our program within an office, across multiple users, and especially in a networked environment. Users sharing a network database experience exponentially improved response times accessing their estimates and the program catalogues, and within the takeoff and report portions of the programs.
If you’re interested in finding out more, visit FastEST’s website at https://fastest-inc.com and check out videos of our new versions in action. Or, give us a call at 800.828.7108. We’re happy to answer any questions you have or schedule a live online demonstration at your convenience. Bid more and win more with FastEST, Inc.
