Artificial intelligence (AI) is a buzzword in all sectors, and the electrical estimating sector is not an exception. The question that is most frequently asked of the contractor is: Does this software use any AI? Yes, AI is referred to in many electrical estimating solutions.
But, the more significant question is: to what degree is AI necessary for estimation software, and is it always justified to use it?
Electrical Estimating Software AI:
New Electrical Estimating Software have automatic symbol recognition, predictive calculations, and a popular option called Auto Count. Auto Count reads drawings, counts symbols, and reduces labor. Although it is predictive of the future of estimating, its application in the field on a day-to-day basis demonstrates its strengths and weaknesses.
Auto Count: It is a Selling Point, but Not the End of the Story:
Auto Count was one of the earliest features of Best Bid, and one of the most requested. We value the fact that we are transparent, unlike our competitors, who show cherry-picked demos. Auto Count can:
- Increase the identification of repeat symbols.
- Clear rapidly at landings.
- Assistance on any large projects that have repetitive patterns.
Auto Count is not that perfect, however. Its weaknesses in AI are more evident in drawings that are more complex or in the subtle differences between symbols.
Laws of artificial intelligence are weak in Estimating:
Typical problems with AI counting in electrical plans are:
Missing Objects: AI can disregard objects in different locations or indicators; it is annoying to lose a receptacle, and it is disastrous to lose a $2000 light.
False Positives: Auto Count cannot identify elements, and it requires cleaning up time.
Context Blindness: AI lacks the ability of a trained estimator and cannot trade off missing items with the overall accuracy. This is why the accuracy of AI in electrical estimating software is not even.
Auto Count vs Manual Count: The Balance:
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Best Use Case |
| Auto Count (AI) | Rapid on large drawings; handles repetitive elements quickly | May miss context-sensitive details; risk of errors | High-volume projects with simple, repetitive layouts |
| Manual Count | Context-sensitive; highest accuracy through human oversight | Time-consuming; slower for large-scale drawings | Complex, detail-heavy, or value-intensive projects |
| Hybrid (AI + Manual) | Speeds up repetitive processes; human review ensures accuracy | Slightly slower than AI alone, but more reliable | Most projects – balances efficiency with correctness |
Best Bid Electrical Estimating Software: Smart, Accurate and Cost-effective:
Where other businesses are using AI as a marketing gimmick, Best Bid integrates technology with real-world viability. Our products are available to a contractor seeking speed and accuracy without an ongoing expense.
Best Bid is a favourite of thousands of contractors:
- Simple, cheap, powerful electrical estimating.
- No subscription, and you possess it forever.
- Unlimited license, lifetime updates, lifetime support, open source.
- On-screen takeoff: right count and measure on your screen.
- Flexible database: build custom assemblies, raceways, fittings, and conductors.
- Accuracy and accuracy: the detailed reports of labor, profit margin management and integration of NetPricer to real-time pricing.
- Open pricing: there is no secret pricing or seat fees.
Pricing (one-time):
- Best Bid Next Generation – $2,500
- Best Bid Hybrid Pro – $1,995.95
- Accura Cadd PDF Draw – $250
In comparison to competitors, who charge monthly subscriptions, the upfront investment of Best 1:1 is a business scale.
The reason why Best Bid is a preferred Contractor:
Best Bid is not software; it is collaboration. Contractors praise our quick moves, simple systems and practical results. Clients say:
“Best Bid is fantastic! The most useful thing I have ever bought. Support is fast and personal.” – Allen Briggs.
It is easy to master, accurate and inexpensive. Hands down the best software.” – Will Harris
“I’ve used Best Bid for 14 years. Nothing is more user-friendly, flexible or easy. – BCM Electrical
Advantages and disadvantages of AI in software estimation:
AI in electrical estimating software could be summarised as follows:
Pros:
- Faster project startups
- Reduces repetitive tasks
- Primary symbol recognition
- Good at secondary symbol recognition.
Cons:
- Accuracy is inconsistent
- Misses high-value items
- Requires manual review
Lesson: Do not buy software that claims to use AI, and there is no evidence to support it. Choose solutions that are automated and controlled by estimators.
Credo: The Just Enough AI
Therefore, is electrical estimating software AI? Yes. How much AI is truly needed? It depends on priorities.
We provide tools at Best Bid, which are:
- Quick and fast where possible.
- True in the right place.
- No additional charge is required, and it is cost-effective.
We want to simplify electrical estimating, make it more precise and less expensive, and not so artificial as a hyped AI.
Call us today at 800-941-7028
See our Best Bid promotional video or download a free trial of Best Bid Hybrid Pro now!
Best Bid – The best electrical estimating software.
