Sage Master Builder

 

Sage Software - Sage Master Builder
800-726-6278
www.sagemasterbuilder.com

From the July 2011 Review Construction and Contractor Accounting Systems

Best Fit:
Sage Master Builder is a comprehensive financial product designed specifically for mid-sized construction and contracting businesses.

Sage Master Builder is a comprehensive financial product designed specifically for mid-sized construction and contracting businesses. Sage Master Builder contains an easily navigated user interface and the job cost functionality that construction-related businesses need. The latest version of Master Builder is due out in July 2011.

BASIC SYSTEM FUNCTIONS:

Sage Master Builder contains an easy to navigate user interface with all system modules listed on the left side of the main screen. Function-level options are found at the top of the screen. Clicking on a module will display all related functions within that module. Data-entry screens are logically structured and contain various tabs that allow for additional information. Master Builder makes great use of templates and grids. The latest version of Master Builder also contains an enhanced Dashboard capability, with terrific customization and drilldown capability. Users can also create custom portals to store quick links to all frequently used system functions. Sage Master Builder also integrates with Sage CRM and is built on a Windows platform, working with Windows 7, Vista and XP.

Strengths:

  • Enhanced Dashboard capability
  • Offers custom portals for storing quick links to frequently used system functions
  • Integrates with Sage CRM
  • Strong payroll functionality
  • Excellent audit trail
  • Strong industry-specific feature set; includes enhanced dispatch/scheduling & three levels of estimating

Potential Limitations:

  • No SaaS capability
  • Cost could be prohibitive to smaller entities
..

CORE ACCOUNTING CAPABILITIES:

Designed to completely integrate with all job-related modules, Master Builder’s GL allows for up to a 10-digit account number structure that can be customized for each business. Users can choose to utilize one of four construction/contractor-specific chart of accounts or create a custom-built one if desired. GL transactions can be posted to previous or future periods as needed. The AP module allows users to create invoices and invoice credits, enter vouchers and lien waivers for invoices, and enter recurring payables. A credit card management option is also available. Vital items such as loan payments and vehicle purchases are also managed in the AP module. The AR module provides several billing options including progress billing, AIA billing and time & materials billing. It also tracks loan draws. The Master Builder Payroll module easily handles union benefit tracking, prevailing wage details and all benefit plans. Labor and job costs are also calculated in Payroll, which can support piece work payments and per diem rate calculations. Master Builder contains excellent audit trail functionality, including features such as the audit error function, the payroll audit function and the audit history. System user security is solid, with all users assigned to a user group, with the corresponding system access based on each group.

CONSTRUCTION/CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIC FEATURES:

Sage Master Builder offers three levels of estimating. The Basic level is aimed at smaller companies and those without specialized needs. For businesses requiring more specialized estimating features, such as industry-specific knowledgebases and the ability to utilize more analysis tools like greater takeoff and productivity, Standard and Extended estimated options are available, as well. Master Builder also integrates with various third-party estimating products if needed. Project managers will appreciate the excellent scheduling module that can generate specific task lists for both vendors and subcontractors, and the ability to update schedules as needed. Change order processing is easy, with most completed from a single screen. Change orders can also be added to any subcontract in the system.

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