Need help selecting report software

[Chuck Lambert]

3D for me is the only way to go. I started using it about 6 years ago and have not since looked back. I have tried Homeguage, Porter Valley and a few others, but to me 3D stands out. At first glance NO software is the best out of the box. 3D can be totally customized in the way it looks and the comment library is by far the easiest to update. I find that if I have to make a new comment I just enter it and boom it is done, the comment will be in the library from now on.

You can add headings, subheadings, comments with a few clicks. You can add whole sections on the fly. Heck with a bit of time you can create your own forms. Cut and paste is easy. Adding and editing pictures is a breeze.

The support staff at 3D is GREAT!! Updates are created on an on-going basis to make the software better. A few years ago I met one of the developers at a symposium, I asked him if he could make it so you could merge two or more reports from two or more computers into one (multi-inspectors on one large building or project). Like one can merge a PDA with a desktop or laptop. He looked at me and said hmmm...next update had the capabilities!! They listen and make it happen!!

Chuck Lambert

[Russell Buchanan]

Everyone uses the software of their choice for different reasons. If you listen to me or anyone else but your own due diligence you may be disappointed.

While I do believe HomeGauge is easiest on features, the ability to modify, number of clicks etc with any other software competitor, it will not get your business. What I suggest is to download them all and try each one. Write down your questions for each one and call the software company and grade their answers and their friendly support. Don't listen to me or anyone else that says we are the best. Find out yourself.

Here are some tours to check out HomeGauge
http://www.homegauge.com/inspector/support/tours4.html

oh and btw, HomeGauge is the best!

[Nick Gromicko]

Correction Russell... 2nd best.... behind www.InterNACHIGauge.com

[Bob Elliott]

Nick, How could you dare forget the very best.
Home Inspector Pro.
How many times has Dominic been on NACHI TV?
Who has the best customer service Nick?
Nick ,which software runs on Mac, Windows,and Linex.?
Who has the biggest tech knowledge of Computers, Web site SEO, and will be the next Member of the year Nick?

Answer those questions for me (truthfully and from the heart Nick)

There is only one #1. HOME INSPECTOR PRO

[Humberto Carvajal]

Originally Posted by relliott

Nick, How could you dare forget the very best.
Home Inspector Pro.
How many times has Dominic been on NACHI TV?
Who has the best customer service Nick?
Nick ,which software runs on Mac, Windows,and Linex.?
Who has the biggest tech knowledge of Computers, Web site SEO, and will be the next Member of the year Nick?

Answer those questions for me (truthfully and from the heart Nick)

There is only one #1. HOME INSPECTOR PRO

LOL. Bob I suppose this is not a paid advertisement right?..(Just Kidding). I too have to agree with you..HIP is the best! It's cut down my report writing time in almost half.

Regards,

[Bob Elliott]

Do ya tink I made me point.

[David Keating]

How specifically has it cut your time in half?
Please give an example.
Square feet home...etc

[Bob Elliott]

Dave he means Report time.

It does that through use of the tabs and fast photo download.

200 pics in less than a minute.
You need to take it for a spin to understand.
everythink is set up for a quick click, with as much verbage and control as you wish.

[Humberto Carvajal]

Yes you certainly made your point Bob. HIP is all that and more. And, Dave, yes I was referring to time I spend on the reporting end. It cuts it down considerably. As Bob stated, photos are downloaded very fast. The tabs are arranged in a fashion that makes it extremely easy to use. Dom is constantly adding and tweaking the program based on the inspectors suggestions. The program is really that good. As Bob suggested, take it for a spin and see if it is for you.

Regards,

[Jeff Knight]

Originally Posted by hcarvajal

Yes you certainly made your point Bob. HIP is all that and more. And, Dave, yes I was referring to time I spend on the reporting end. It cuts it down considerably. As Bob stated, photos are downloaded very fast. The tabs are arranged in a fashion that makes it extremely easy to use. Dom is constantly adding and tweaking the program based on the inspectors suggestions. The program is really that good. As Bob suggested, take it for a spin and see if it is for you.

Regards,

Humberto,
On average...how long is it taking you now to produce your report after you are done doing your inspection ? and how long was it taking you before ?

Jeff

[Humberto Carvajal]

Hi Jeff. On average before when I was doing it online between uploading the pics and writing the captions for them and all the arrows and what nots, and writing the report, I would say roughly 2 and 1/2 hours. Now on average including all the above already mentioned, I would say a little over an hour. And I should add, I have doe very little customizing to the program (HIP) so far. I believe that once I do that, I may be able to shave off a bit more. All in all I'm very pleased with the program. I feel if I'm able to shave off just 1/2 hour from where I was before, I've made a big acomplishment. That translates into more time for other things like...honey do's around the house. Hmmm. maybe I should go back to before?..LOL.

Regards,

[Bob Elliott]

I have cut my time in half

[mcervenka]

I use Inspect It because its simple and completely custom if you want to put in some time or not. Word is also great and can be made to look and function exactly like Inspectit if you have a great learning curve. Ive tried at least 6 others and wont use any of them for differing reasons. Inspectit can be had at AHIT.com and paid for any way you want after 10 freebies. You can buy the program or per report or part of a package etc...

[Jeff Knight]

Originally Posted by hcarvajal

Hi Jeff. On average before when I was doing it online between uploading the pics and writing the captions for them and all the arrows and what nots, and writing the report, I would say roughly 2 and 1/2 hours. Now on average including all the above already mentioned, I would say a little over an hour. And I should add, I have doe very little customizing to the program (HIP) so far. I believe that once I do that, I may be able to shave off a bit more. All in all I'm very pleased with the program. I feel if I'm able to shave off just 1/2 hour from where I was before, I've made a big acomplishment. That translates into more time for other things like...honey do's around the house. Hmmm. maybe I should go back to before?..LOL.

Regards,

Humberto,
What are you using in the field to actually collect your inspection data ? A field worksheet ? camera ? voice recorder ? How much writing are you having to do in the field on the worksheet if you are using one ? How long does your average inspection take in the field ?

Jeff

[Humberto Carvajal]

Jeff, I use a camera and take dozens of pictures and also take a few notes as needed. I spend on average 2 hours. Some homes/buildings take a bit longer and some less. This method works for me just fine. I tried the PDA (Dell Axim X51v) a few times and it really never clicked with me. Can't remember what software it was but, it just never seemed right. At least not for me. In fact I remember at the time thinking it was really slowing me down. I ended up selling it on Ebay. Not to say I won't ever give it another try. But, for now I'm happy the way I've been working it. HIP has made it alot simpler for me. I guess it just fits my style. Besides the customer service in MHO is #1.

Regards,