BeamChek vs. Beam

BeamChek is a user-friendly structural design application specifically designed for architects, engineers, home designers, and contractors, facilitating rapid and accurate calculations for beams, joists, rafters, and columns. It supports an array of materials such as steel, wood, timber, and composites, enabling users to assess various load scenarios while offering a selection of 57 wood species or the option to input custom values. With a clear and simple interface along with helpful instant diagrams, BeamChek enhances the design process by ensuring comprehensive boundary checks and error validation. Available as a one-time purchase, the software also provides free technical support, significantly improving the overall user experience. Its design minimizes menu navigation, incorporates common preset options, and reduces the necessity to toggle between forms, making the design process more efficient. BeamChek encourages uniform input methods for beam applications and conditions, equipping users with additional buttons for quick access to commonly used settings. This streamlined workflow leads to less typing and faster results, allowing users to efficiently compare suitable beams across two species groups and grades before finalizing their choices regarding member width, depth, or grade. The software not only aids in making informed design decisions but also fosters collaboration by enabling team members to easily share and discuss their designs. Furthermore, its accessibility and intuitive features make it a valuable tool for enhancing productivity in structural design projects.

Beam is an all-encompassing platform designed for construction and financial management, helping contractors efficiently handle sales, finances, compliance, and operational duties from a single interface. By combining a variety of tools, including spreadsheets, emails, shared drives, and accounting software, it simplifies workflows and boosts productivity. Among Beam's essential features are estimating and proposal development, invoicing with online payment capabilities, change order management, bill payment solutions, expense tracking, and task oversight, all supported by a dedicated cash management account. The platform also employs job costing techniques to improve project profitability, automates lien waiver collection through a streamlined management process, and monitors compliance with insurance and licensing regulations. Additionally, the client portal facilitates better communication by enabling the easy sharing of professional estimates, invoices, and change orders with clients. The Beam Visa Card further enhances the financial experience by easing receipt capture, increasing liquidity, and providing a 1% cash back benefit. With seamless integration into QuickBooks Online, Beam not only streamlines bookkeeping but also equips contractors with the necessary tools for effective project management. As a result, Beam emerges as an indispensable resource for contractors aiming to optimize their operational processes and elevate their financial oversight. The platform’s ability to consolidate multiple functions into a single solution ultimately leads to improved project outcomes and enhanced contractor-client relationships.