Software helping contractors forge ties with subs

(Salt Lake Tribune) Several Utah contractors are using a new software program that allows them to interact more easily with subcontractors so they can submit more successful job bids.

Called SmartBidNet, the program enables contractors to keep better track of available subcontractors for different types of projects and gives subcontractors online access to blueprints and other materials pertinent to a project.

"The easier you can make it for the subs, the more likely they are to give you a preferential bid, simply because of the way you organize things and do things," said Reed Ewell, a chief estimator for Sandy-based Layton Construction.

Added Spencer Bradley, chief estimator for Wadman Construction in Ogden: "It's all about getting the word out and having an easy way for subs to look at the plans."

SmartBidNet is a product of JBKnowledge, a Texas company formed in 2006. Founder and co-owner James Benham said he found general dissatisfaction in the construction industry with existing bid database systems that often required the use of third-party intermediaries to print copies of drawings and deliver them to potential subcontractors.

Original Article