2004 OVERALL RATING:
(5 Star Rating)
Toolbox Software
Toolbox Construction Management Software
888-212-7990 Ext. 321
Learning Curve - 5 Stars
Because Toolbox utilizes a relational data structure rather than
individual data structures for each module, the use of batches,
month-end or year-end closings are not necessary for data to
agree between modules. (The company noted that since data is not
duplicated, integration between data structures is not
necessary. The integration concept becomes obsolete with a
relational data structure. A database structure is relational if
it is normalized, and normalized data structure eliminates
duplicated data. Since the same data is not stored under
multiple modules, many closing and posting procedural processes
are eliminated, and users don’t have to worry about problems
with data discrepancies between modules. Toolbox is an
application that not only utilizes a relational database tool,
but also has actually implemented a relational data structure.)
After logging into Toolbox, a toolbar appears at the top of the
screen, along with a series of function icons in a vertical bar
to the left. Navigating through Toolbox is easy, with drop-down
menus that provide access to all system functions and reports.
Under Utilities, you can access both the preferences and
customization functions to set up the program for use. Toolbox
also installs a demo company that you can use to familiarize
yourself with system functions prior to entering live data. The
Help file could be more comprehensive since it only includes
very basic information.
Drill-down capability lets you search varying levels of account
details. Entering new information is simple. Just click on the
appropriate choice, and Toolbox will provide you with an
all-purpose screen that displays current entries listed
(vendors, employees, jobs, etc.). Intuitive screens make adding
a new job an easy task. Tabs at the top of the entry screen let
you enter additional job information, including job address,
scales and notes. You can also view the job budget, scheduled
value and job status.
Trish Simmons of Hammers Construction, a Toolbox user since
1999, thinks that “Toolbox is very user friendly,” and claims
that it makes her job easier.
Import/Export/Integration - 5 Stars
Real-time posting, without the use of batches, and using one
centralized database rather than data structures ensures that
all modules are truly integrated. What I like about the
import/export capabilities in Toolbox is that they are found
throughout the various modules, reports and functions, rather
than in a separate module. This means you can export spreadsheet
or estimating information directly into your budget, while in
the budgeting feature, rather than using a separate procedure.
The same can be done throughout Toolbox, which makes importing
and exporting easier than ever.
Support & Training - 4 Stars
Along with implementation guidance, Toolbox also offers several
training programs, including Implementation 101, Crystal Reports
and Toolbox Basics.
Security - 4.5 Stars
Security is multi-level, with the ability to set security
options at the module level. For more system access, you can
also set security at the menu level. As well, you can choose to
set up each menu item for either ‘view only’ or ‘full access.’
Customization & Productivity - 5 Stars
Toolbox has excellent customization capability. You can
customize AP and AR invoices, quotes, purchase orders,
subcontracts, manual cash disbursements, manual cash receipts,
and both equipment and inventory transaction screens. You can
use the CSI cost code structure that is included with Toolbox or
create your own. Because Toolbox creates an automatic audit
trail, you can feel comfortable editing and changing previously
posted items.
Job structure is fluent in Toolbox, with the ability to enter
unlimited levels, phases, cost codes and cost types. The Job
Cost module lets you import data for use in budget setup, and
there is an unlimited number of user-defined cost types. In the
Fixed Assets module, you can track profit on all of your
equipment, track insurance and licenses, and generate monthly or
yearly depreciation schedules. Additionally, the user can define
an unlimited number of user-defined custom text, numeric and
date fields under Job Cost, AR, AP, PR, Inventory and Fixed
Assets.
Throughout the system, the user is able to select optional forms
for AR invoices, progress payment applications, cost plus
invoices, AR and AP lien releases, change order requests,
purchase orders, subcontracts, certified payrolls, AP checks,
payroll checks, and AR Statements. Additionally, these forms can
be modified/customized using Crystal Reports. Automated
month-end journal entries for over/under billings, accrued wages
and depreciation increase productivity with respect to the
month-end process.
Reporting - 5 Stars
Reporting options are excellent, with several specialty reports
available, including a Job Cost Summary, a Detailed Budget
Variance, Job Billings History, and a Labor Usage Report that
seamlessly ties into your payroll. You can also print an
Insurance Expiration List, a Cost and Burdens Summary and a
Fixed Assets report. Toolbox also works with Crystal Reports to
create custom reports.
Modules - 4.5 Stars
Toolbox includes the following modules: GL, AP, AR, Payroll, Job
Cost, Subcontract, Purchase Order, Work Order, Quote, Inventory
and Fixed Assets, Plant Control, and Bank Reconciliation.
Relative Value - 4.5 Stars
Toolbox Construction is a solid financial construction program.
Designed for mid-sized companies, this program seems to be worth
the investment.
2005 OVERALL RATING:
2004 OVERALL RATING:
