TopSteel ERP/MES
Quoting software for steel construction
TopSteel is an ERP/MES for steel construction companies. Its quoting module breaks down the cost of steelwork and calculates selling prices. Material, manufacturing and erection remain identifiable cost items, helping estimators understand the forecast margin before submitting an offer.
For estimators and project managers in structural steel and metalwork who need to explain prices and keep track of the assumptions behind a quote.
Request an ERP/MES demonstrationThe workflow
Describe
Organise the work items, quote lines and quantities.
Estimate
Enter the costs, time allowances and rates for each item.
Review
Check the selling price, discount and margin before approval.
Understand the cost behind each work item
TopSteel estimating uses a breakdown by cost item. Depending on the configured item, calculations can use quantities, weight, hours and rates. This separates material costs from manufacturing and erection work.
For a job involving steel sections, prepare the quantities, material costs and time assumptions. The result depends on these inputs: supplier prices, hourly rates and ratios need to reflect your business. A standard ratio is a starting point to check against your completed work.
Review the margin when a discount changes
The calculation compares forecast cost with the selling amount. Margin can be reviewed as an amount and as a percentage of the selling price. A discount changes that result, so it needs to be assessed against cost as well as the quote total.
This is a forecast margin. It does not replace the tracking of actual purchases and hours worked. The quote establishes an economic assumption; project execution provides the actual data needed to examine differences.
Keep reference points as the quote develops
TopSteel provides quote history and saved versions. These help distinguish the original offer from a revised proposal. Access depends on the versions retained; history does not record every keystroke.
During a demonstration, use a representative job: change a quantity, a material cost and a discount, then revisit the assumptions in an earlier saved version. This makes it possible to assess the workflow against your own estimating method.
What to check during a demonstration
Bring an anonymised quote and its assumptions. We suggest checking:
- One work item with its quantities, unit and cost breakdown.
- A change to material price or manufacturing time and its effect on cost.
- Selling price, a discount and the resulting margin, followed by a saved version review.
Quoting belongs to the TopSteel ERP/MES offer. The 3D configurator is a separate offer. File imports, CAD exchanges and migration of your estimating libraries must be checked using your own examples before defining the project.
Request an ERP/MES demonstrationFrequently asked questions
Which software can prepare quotes for steel construction?
TopSteel is one option to evaluate. Its ERP/MES includes estimating by cost item, forecast margin calculations and saved quote versions. Check your units, data and calculation methods during a demonstration.
Can the quote separate materials and labour?
The breakdown can distinguish material, manufacturing and erection items according to configuration. Amounts use the quantities, weights, time allowances or rates entered for those items.
Is the displayed margin the final project profitability?
No. The quote gives a forecast margin based on estimated cost and selling price. Final profitability also depends on actual purchases and work performed, which need to be tracked during execution.
Is the 3D configurator required to prepare a quote?
No. Quoting is part of the ERP/MES, a separate offer from the 3D configurator. The workflow and data exchanges depend on your work items and existing tools.