Bidsketch - Detailed Review
Sales Tools
Bidsketch - Detailed Review Contents
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Bidsketch - Product Overview
Introduction to Bidsketch
Bidsketch is a proposal and quoting software that simplifies the process of creating, managing, and tracking business proposals. Here’s a breakdown of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
Bidsketch is designed to help businesses efficiently create and manage proposals. It automates many aspects of the proposal process, allowing users to quickly generate professional-looking proposals, track client interactions, and secure electronic signatures.Target Audience
The target audience for Bidsketch includes businesses and professionals who frequently need to create and send proposals. This can range from freelancers and small businesses to larger enterprises across various industries, particularly those in services that require frequent quoting and proposal submissions.Key Features
Proposal Creation
Bidsketch offers over 30 professional proposal templates that can be customized to fit specific industries and needs. The proposal creation process is divided into sections (Opening, Fees, Closing) that can be edited, reordered, and saved for future use. Users can reuse content, fees, and designs to save time.Client Engagement
Clients can view proposals online, comment on them, and accept or decline them electronically. Bidsketch also allows clients to export proposals to PDF and print them if needed. The platform tracks client interactions, including when they view the proposal, how long they spend on it, and whether they download the PDF version.Electronic Signatures
Bidsketch is compliant with U.S. and international e-signature laws, enabling clients to electronically sign proposals. The platform captures detailed information for an audit log, ensuring the signatures are legally valid.Customization and Branding
Users can customize their proposals with their company’s domain, ensuring brand consistency. This feature allows clients to see the company’s URL when viewing proposals.Collaboration
Bidsketch supports team collaboration with different user roles (Power Users and Normal Users). Team members can edit proposals in real-time and provide comments that are automatically emailed to collaborators.Integrations
The software integrates with various tools such as CRM systems (Salesforce, Highrise), accounting software (FreshBooks, HARVEST), project management tools (BaseCamp), and e-signature services (Docsketch). It also has a Zapier integration for broader connectivity.Notifications and Tracking
Users receive notifications when clients view their proposals, comment on them, or change the proposal status. This keeps users informed and engaged throughout the proposal process.Additional Benefits
Bidsketch helps in up-selling additional services by allowing users to mark specific fees as optional. It also provides approval messages that can prompt clients for deposits or guide them on the next steps after approving a proposal. Overall, Bidsketch streamlines the proposal process, making it easier and faster to create, send, and track proposals, while also enhancing client engagement and reducing the time to approval. Bidsketch - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of Bidsketch
The user interface of Bidsketch is designed with ease of use and efficiency in mind, making it a user-friendly tool for creating and managing proposals.
Ease of Use
Bidsketch is known for its intuitive interface, which allows users to quickly create professional proposals. The platform offers a simple and straightforward process for mixing and matching content, fees, and designs, enabling users to generate persuasive proposals in minutes.
- Users can select from a variety of templates and customize them using their own HTML/CSS designs or the built-in templates provided by Bidsketch. This flexibility ensures that proposals look professional and are easily exportable to PDF for added portability.
User Interface Features
- The interface allows users to reuse content, fees, and designs, which significantly reduces the time spent on writing proposals. Sample proposal content is also available to help users get started quickly.
- Bidsketch includes an electronic signature feature, enabling clients to sign proposals online, which speeds up the approval process. Clients can view, approve, and sign contracts directly from the proposal link, and users are notified when clients open or sign the documents.
- The platform provides a client landing page where clients can view, approve, export, and comment on proposals. This feature enhances client interaction and makes the process more organized and convenient.
Client Engagement and Tracking
- Bidsketch tracks client interaction, notifying users when a client opens the proposal and providing insights into how long the client spent viewing the document. This feedback helps users gauge client engagement and follow up accordingly.
- Clients can also comment on the proposal directly from the platform, and users receive these comments via email, ensuring that all feedback is captured and addressed.
Collaboration
- For teams, Bidsketch offers collaboration features where multiple users can be invited to work on proposals. There are different user roles, such as Power Users and Normal Users, each with specific permissions to see and edit proposals. Real-time editing and commenting capabilities facilitate smooth collaboration.
Overall User Experience
The overall user experience with Bidsketch is streamlined and efficient. The platform’s automation features, such as automatically inserting client information and enabling a content library, make the proposal creation process swift and hassle-free. While some users might find the design options and integrations somewhat limited compared to other tools, Bidsketch’s core features and ease of use make it a valuable tool for businesses looking to create and manage proposals effectively.
Bidsketch - Key Features and Functionality
Bidsketch Overview
Bidsketch is a comprehensive proposal management tool that offers a range of features to streamline the process of creating, sending, and managing client proposals. Here are the main features and their benefits:Proposal Creation
Bidsketch allows you to create professional-looking proposals quickly and efficiently. You can use reusable content, fees, and designs to save time. The software provides a content library with example content to help you get started, and you can embed images and videos directly into your proposals. This feature enables you to create visually appealing and detailed proposals with minimal effort.Customization and Branding
You can customize your proposals using your own HTML/CSS designs, ensuring that your branding is consistent across all documents. This includes setting your own colors, logos, and domain URL, giving your proposals a professional edge.Electronic Signatures
Bidsketch supports electronic signatures, which are compliant with U.S. and international electronic signature laws. This feature allows clients to sign proposals online, eliminating the need for physical signatures and speeding up the approval process. Once signed, documents are archived, and further amendments are disabled to protect both parties.Proposal Analytics
The software provides real-time analytics, notifying you when proposals are opened, viewed, or commented on. You can see how long clients spend viewing your proposals and whether they exported them to PDF. This feature helps you gauge client interest and engagement, allowing for timely follow-ups.Up-Selling Feature
Bidsketch includes an up-selling feature that allows you to mark certain fees as optional. This can increase revenue by an average of 32% and also boosts the chances of proposal approval. Clients can accept or decline these optional fees as they review the proposal.Collaboration Tools
The platform offers collaboration tools, enabling multiple team members to work on proposals simultaneously. The “Business” and “Team” plans support up to 8 and 3 users, respectively, facilitating real-time collaboration and team management.Automated Messages and Follow-Ups
You can set up automated messages to appear once clients have approved your proposal. These messages can prompt clients for a deposit or provide additional product information. This automation helps in maintaining a smooth client interaction process.Integration Capabilities
Bidsketch integrates with various other tools such as HubSpot CRM, FreshBooks, Harvest, and more. These integrations enable seamless workflow automation, allowing you to create and send proposals through multiple communication channels like SMS, email, WhatsApp, and voice, as seen in the integration with Whippy AI.Security
Proposals are sent via secure SSL connections, and each proposal has an encrypted link. This ensures that all proposals and signed documents are secure and not publicly accessible.AI Integration
While Bidsketch does not explicitly integrate AI in its core features, it does offer automation and workflow integration capabilities that can be enhanced through third-party AI tools. For example, integrating Bidsketch with Whippy AI’s workflow automation tool can streamline the proposal generation, tracking, and follow-up processes, making the overall workflow more efficient.Conclusion
In summary, Bidsketch is a powerful tool for creating, managing, and tracking client proposals, with features that enhance productivity, client engagement, and revenue potential. Bidsketch - Performance and Accuracy
Performance of Bidsketch
Bidsketch is a proposal management software that excels in several key areas, particularly in speeding up the proposal creation process and enhancing client engagement.Speed and Simplicity
Bidsketch is known for its simplicity and speed in generating proposals. It allows users to create custom proposals quickly by reusing templates, pricing items, content, and designs. This feature is particularly useful for businesses that need to produce multiple proposals in a short timeframe.Client Engagement and Tracking
The software includes features for tracking client interaction, such as notifications when a client opens or downloads the proposal. This real-time tracking helps in gauging client interest and timing follow-up actions effectively.Electronic Signatures
Bidsketch integrates electronic signatures, which significantly speeds up the approval process. This feature allows clients to view, approve, and sign contracts online, reducing the time it takes to close deals by up to 60% compared to traditional methods like PDFs.Customization and Content Library
Users can customize proposals using a content library that includes example content, images, and videos. This makes it easier to create visually appealing and professional proposals without extensive design skills.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Design Interface and Flexibility
One of the notable limitations of Bidsketch is its design interface. Users have reported that the process of creating proposals can be confusing, especially when combining blocks to form sections. The software lacks a drag-and-drop editor, which makes it less flexible compared to competitors like Proposify.Collaboration and Workflow
Bidsketch has limited collaboration features, particularly in its solo plan, where multiple users cannot work on a document simultaneously. It also lacks a comprehensive workflow management system, limiting its ability to support complex project workflows.Integrations and Payments
While Bidsketch offers integrations with CRM systems like Salesforce, accounting tools like FreshBooks, and project management tools like BaseCamp, these integrations are limited compared to other proposal software. Additionally, it lacks built-in payment processing options, which can be a drawback for businesses needing an all-in-one solution.Data Export and Granular Tracking
Users have noted that Bidsketch does not allow for the export of data input into the system, which can be problematic for companies that need to track proposals extensively. Moreover, the client tracking features lack granularity, such as detailed section-by-section viewing data.Pricing and Value
Bidsketch is considered one of the more expensive proposal creation software options, with pricing starting at $29 per month for the Starter plan. While it offers valuable features, the cost may not be justified for all businesses, especially those seeking more comprehensive and integrated solutions.Conclusion
Bidsketch is a solid choice for businesses looking to streamline their proposal creation process, especially those valuing speed and simplicity. However, it falls short in areas such as design flexibility, collaboration, and comprehensive workflow management. For businesses with more complex needs or those requiring a more integrated solution, other proposal software like Proposify might be more suitable. Bidsketch - Pricing and Plans
Plans and Pricing
Starter Plan
- Cost: $15 per month
- Features: 1 user, 25 clients, no electronic signatures, and no custom domains.
- Note: This plan is basic and suitable for small-scale operations or those just starting out.
Solo Plan
- Cost: $29 per month (or $23 per month if billed annually)
- Features: 1 user, unlimited proposals. Additional users cost $20 per month.
- Note: This plan is ideal for individual users or small businesses with a single user.
Team Plan
- Cost: $79 per month (or $47 per month if billed annually)
- Features: Up to 3 users, unlimited proposals.
- Note: This plan is recommended for small to medium-sized teams needing multiple users.
Business Plan
- Cost: $149 per month (or $119 per month if billed annually)
- Features: Up to 8 users, unlimited proposals.
- Note: This plan is suited for larger teams and businesses requiring multiple user access.
Free Options
- Free Trial: Bidsketch offers a 14-day free trial of the Team Plan. Credit card information is required to start the trial, and you can cancel at any time during the trial period without being charged.
- Non-Profit and Review Incentive: Bidsketch is free for non-profits. Additionally, if you write an honest review of Bidsketch in a blog post, you can use the service for free for a year.
Security and Accessibility
- All plans provide secure access through an SSL connection, and proposals are not public, accessible only via a unique encrypted link.
By choosing the right plan, users can leverage Bidsketch’s features such as reusable proposal templates, pricing items, content, and design tools to streamline their proposal creation process efficiently.
Bidsketch - Integration and Compatibility
Integrations with Other Tools
Bidsketch integrates with several popular tools to streamline your workflow. Some of the notable integrations include:
- CRM Systems: Bidsketch integrates with Salesforce, Highrise, and HubSpot CRM, allowing you to manage client relationships and sales processes seamlessly.
- Accounting Software: It integrates with FreshBooks and Harvest, facilitating smooth financial management and invoicing.
- Project Management Tools: Bidsketch is compatible with Basecamp, enabling better project organization and collaboration.
- E-signature Tools: It supports integrations with RightSignature and Docsketch for electronic signatures, ensuring legally binding documents.
- Zapier: Bidsketch also integrates with Zapier, which expands its connectivity to a broader range of applications.
Compatibility and Workflow Automation
Bidsketch can be integrated with other applications using Zapier or similar automation tools. For example, you can automate workflows by setting up triggers and actions. When a client accepts a proposal, you can trigger actions such as sending notifications, updating CRM records, or generating invoices automatically.
Customization and Multi-Step Integrations
While Bidsketch itself does not natively support multi-step integrations, using tools like Pabbly Connect or Zapier can help you create more complex workflows. These tools allow you to set up multiple triggers and actions, enabling more sophisticated automation.
Device and Platform Compatibility
Bidsketch is designed to be accessible across various devices and platforms. Clients can view proposals on any device with a web browser, and the platform provides a clean and user-friendly interface for both desktop and mobile devices. Proposals can be exported to PDF for easy printing, and clients can comment and sign proposals online.
Real-Time Notifications and Tracking
Bidsketch offers real-time notifications when clients view, comment on, or accept proposals. It also tracks client engagement, including how long they spend viewing the proposal and whether they export it to PDF. This tracking feature helps you stay informed and engaged with your clients throughout the proposal process.
Conclusion
In summary, Bidsketch integrates well with a variety of tools and platforms, enhancing its utility in managing proposals, client relationships, and workflow automation. Its compatibility across different devices ensures a smooth experience for both you and your clients.
Bidsketch - Customer Support and Resources
Bidsketch Customer Support Options
Support Channels
Bidsketch provides support through email and a web form where users can submit direct questions. There is no live chat feature available, but the email response time is generally under 24 hours, ensuring prompt assistance.
Support Documentation
The platform has a comprehensive support documentation site that users can refer to for answers to common questions and troubleshooting tips. This resource is designed to help users resolve issues independently before reaching out for further support.
Knowledge Base
Bidsketch maintains a knowledge base that includes guides, tutorials, and FAQs. This resource helps users get familiar with the software’s features and how to use them effectively.
Free Trial and Onboarding
New users can take advantage of a 14-day free trial, which includes the features of the Team Plan. This trial period allows users to explore the software and its capabilities before committing to a subscription.
Community and Reviews
Bidsketch also encourages user feedback and engagement through incentives such as offering the service free for non-profits or for a year in exchange for an honest review in a blog post. This approach helps build a community around the product and provides additional insights from real users.
Security and Compliance
While not directly related to support, it’s worth noting that Bidsketch ensures client communication complies with EU Compliance Consent (GDPR) and that client links are encrypted for security. This adds an extra layer of trust and reliability for users.
Overall, Bidsketch focuses on providing clear, accessible support through email, documentation, and a knowledge base, ensuring users can effectively use the software to manage their proposals.
Bidsketch - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Bidsketch
Bidsketch offers several key advantages that make it a valuable tool for sales teams and individuals:Efficient Proposal Creation
Bidsketch allows you to create persuasive proposals quickly, using reusable templates, pricing items, content, and designs. This significantly reduces the time spent on proposal preparation.Customizability and Up-Selling
The software enables you to mark certain fees as optional, making it easy to up-sell clients without pressure. This feature has been shown to increase revenue by 32% on average.Real-Time Tracking
Bidsketch provides real-time notifications when a client opens your proposal, helping you gauge their interest and follow up accordingly. It also tracks how long clients spend viewing the proposal and whether they download or print it.Electronic Signatures
Integrated electronic signatures streamline the approval process, allowing clients to view, approve, and sign contracts quickly. This feature can return deals 60% faster compared to traditional methods.Integration with Key Tools
Bidsketch integrates with various CRM systems (like Salesforce and Highrise), accounting software (such as FreshBooks and Harvest), and project management tools (like BaseCamp). It also supports Zapier integration for broader connectivity.Client Engagement
The platform offers a simple and effective client viewing experience, making it easy for clients to interact with your proposals.Disadvantages of Bidsketch
Despite its benefits, Bidsketch has some limitations:Limited Integrations
While Bidsketch integrates with some key tools, its list of integrations is limited compared to some competitors. If your workflow doesn’t align with these integrations, you may need to use the API for manual setup.Importing Data
Bidsketch does not allow the import of old proposals or client lists, which can be time-consuming for established businesses with active sales pipelines.Analytics Limitations
The analytics provided by Bidsketch are limited. You cannot produce detailed reports to gain deeper insights into proposal performance, and the platform lacks granular tracking of client interactions with specific sections of the proposal.Design and Feature Restrictions
Bidsketch is one of the more expensive proposal creation software platforms but offers fewer features than some competitors. It has restricted document design options and limited client tracking details.Support and Security
While Bidsketch provides support through a documentation site and a web form, it lacks a live chat feature. Additionally, there is limited information on the encryption process for client data protection. By considering these pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether Bidsketch aligns with your business needs and workflow. Bidsketch - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing Bidsketch with Competitors
Automation and Workflow
- Bidsketch stands out for its automation features, such as sending approval messages and prompting clients for feedback, which streamline the follow-up process. It also offers pre-defined sections and templates to speed up proposal creation.
- Nusii also automates tasks like inserting client details and company information, and it provides real-time tracking of proposal engagement and client interactions.
- Proposify offers a more interactive proposal experience with features like document tracking and real-time commenting, but it does not automate tasks to the same extent as Bidsketch.
Content Creation and Customization
- Bidsketch focuses on simplicity and rapid production of sales proposals. It uses a proposal compiler approach where users input information into text boxes, and the platform generates a formatted proposal. This is less flexible than real-time document editors but emphasizes ease of use.
- Proposify provides a more flexible and interactive proposal creation experience, allowing users to build proposals in a live environment. It also offers onboarding and design services for custom-designed proposals.
- Qwilr allows for highly customizable and interactive proposals with features like adding videos, quotes, and other dynamic elements. It also enables instant payment options and upsell opportunities within the proposal.
Integration and Compatibility
- Bidsketch integrates with Salesforce and other tools, but its integration capabilities are not as extensive as some competitors. It offers API access and unique flexibility around proposal templates.
- Proposify has a wider selection of integrations, including HubSpot, Salesforce, Zoho CRM, Stripe, and QuickBooks, making it more versatile for teams using multiple tools.
- Qwilr also integrates seamlessly with popular tools like HubSpot, Salesforce, Zoho CRM, Stripe, and Zapier, enabling automation of document creation and payment processing.
Pricing
- Bidsketch offers multiple plans: Solo ($29/month or $23/yearly), Team ($79/month or $47/yearly), and Business ($149/month or $119/yearly). It also has a 14-day free trial.
- Nusii is priced starting at $29/month or $290/year per user, with an agency plan at $49/month or $490/year, and a business plan at $129/month or $1290/year. It also offers a 14-day free trial.
- Proposify has a Team plan at $49/user per month and a custom-priced Business plan. It also offers a 14-day free trial.
- Qwilr starts at $35/month per user for the Business plan and $59/month per user for the Enterprise plan, with a 14-day free trial.
Unique Features
- Bidsketch is notable for its proposal expiry dates, which help nudge clients towards a decision, and its upselling features that allow clients to add additional services during review.
- Nusii offers detailed analytics on client engagement and contribution to the agency, as well as a built-in chat feature for live feedback and e-signatures.
- Proposify stands out with its CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) functionality, roles and permissions settings, and interactive pricing that allows for upsell opportunities.
- Qwilr is unique for its instant payment options and the ability to manage signing, payment, and upsell opportunities on a single interactive page.
Conclusion
Each of these tools has its strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different types of businesses and needs. For example, if automation and simplicity are key, Bidsketch might be the best choice. If you need more customization and interactive features, Proposify or Qwilr could be more suitable. For detailed analytics and client engagement tracking, Nusii is a strong contender.
Bidsketch - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Bidsketch
What does my client see when I send them a proposal?
When you send a proposal to your client through Bidsketch, they will receive a unique, encrypted link that allows them to view, approve, export, and comment on the proposal. The client can see the entire proposal, including any embedded images, videos, and attached files. They can also sign the proposal electronically, and once signed, they will receive an email for reference.How do I customize the design of my proposal?
To customize the design of your proposal on Bidsketch, you can use your own HTML/CSS designs or select from a library of professionally designed templates. You can add your company’s branding, including logos, colors, and your domain URL. Additionally, you can embed images and videos to make the proposal more engaging. The platform allows you to create a consistent and professional look for all your proposals.Can I include attachments and other files in my proposal?
Yes, you can include attachments and other files in your proposal. Bidsketch allows you to link to other files and resources from within your proposal content. This feature makes it easy to provide additional information or supporting documents to your clients without the need for printing, scanning, or faxing.How do electronic signatures work on Bidsketch?
Bidsketch has built-in electronic signatures that allow clients to view, approve, and sign contracts directly within the platform. These electronic signatures are compliant with U.S. and international electronic signature laws, making the signed documents legally binding. Once a client signs the proposal, you and the client will receive an email confirmation, and the signed document will be archived to prevent further amendments.Can I track the performance of my proposals?
Yes, Bidsketch provides insights into the performance of your proposals. You can receive real-time notifications when proposals are opened, when comments or changes are made, and how long clients spend viewing your proposal. You can also see if clients have exported the proposal to PDF. This feature helps you monitor the engagement and response to your proposals.How do I change my plan or billing information on Bidsketch?
You can change your plan at any time on Bidsketch. All features of the new plan will be effective immediately, but the billing adjustment will take effect at your next billing date. To update your billing information, you can access the relevant settings within your Bidsketch account. The platform also offers a 14-day free trial for all plans, and you can cancel or change your plan during this trial period without being charged.Can I add a cover letter to my proposal?
Yes, you can add a cover letter to your proposal on Bidsketch. The platform allows you to customize your proposal content, including adding introductory sections or cover letters. This helps you personalize the proposal and make it more engaging for your clients.How secure is Bidsketch?
Bidsketch ensures the security of your proposals through a secure SSL connection. Proposals are not public and can only be viewed using the unique encrypted link created for each specific proposal. This ensures that your documents remain confidential and protected.Can I revoke my client’s access to the proposal without deleting it?
Yes, you can revoke your client’s access to the proposal without deleting it. Bidsketch allows you to manage client access to proposals, including revoking access if needed. This feature helps you maintain control over who can view and interact with your proposals.How do I export my client list from Bidsketch?
To export your client list from Bidsketch, you can use the platform’s export features. While the exact steps are not detailed in the sources, you can typically find this option in the client management section of your Bidsketch account. If you need more specific instructions, you can refer to the Bidsketch knowledge base or contact their support team.Is Bidsketch compliant with electronic signature laws?
Yes, Bidsketch is compliant with U.S. and international electronic signature laws. This ensures that all signed documents are legally binding and valid, providing a secure and reliable way to obtain client approvals. Bidsketch - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Bidsketch
Bidsketch is a streamlined and efficient proposal management tool that excels in automating and simplifying the sales proposal process. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and who would benefit most from using it:Key Features
- Automation and Speed: Bidsketch allows users to generate professional proposals quickly by using pre-designed templates, reusable content, and a structured step-by-step process. This significantly reduces the time spent on proposal creation.
- Ease of Use: The platform is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy. Users can select templates, add their company branding, text, images, and pricing details with ease.
- Electronic Signatures: Bidsketch includes an electronic signature feature, allowing clients to sign proposals online. This feature is compliant with U.S. and international electronic signature laws, ensuring all signed documents are legally binding.
- Client Interaction: The platform enables clients to view, approve, export, and comment on proposals through a dedicated client landing page. It also provides real-time notifications when proposals are opened or modified.
- Customization: While Bidsketch is not as flexible in real-time document editing as some competitors, it offers a library of sections and content blocks that can be mixed and matched to customize proposals. Users can also embed images and videos and use their own HTML/CSS designs.
Who Would Benefit Most
Bidsketch is ideal for businesses and individuals who need to generate a high volume of proposals quickly and efficiently. Here are some specific groups that would benefit:- Small to Medium-Sized Businesses: These businesses often lack the resources to invest in complex proposal tools but still need professional-looking proposals to compete. Bidsketch’s simplicity and cost-effectiveness make it a great fit.
- Freelancers and Solo Entrepreneurs: The “Solo” plan is particularly suited for freelancers who need to manage their proposal process independently. It offers all the necessary features at an affordable price.
- Teams with Limited Design Needs: For teams that prioritize speed and efficiency over extensive design customization, Bidsketch provides a streamlined workflow that helps them produce great-looking proposals without getting bogged down in design details.