If low cost software didn't exist, many contracting businesses simply would never be able to enjoy the benefits of computerization. Of course, low cost software does have it's drawbacks. Generally, the greatest drawback concerns advanced capabilities. For example, a low cost accounting package may only handle up to 500 customers. Some firms need software allowing over 5,000 customers.
Some contractors can get by with a loads program that works only for residential buildings.
Others need a program that works for both residential and commercial applications. Another common drawback to low cost software is the lack of documentation. The creation of a first class program user's manual complete with tutorial, subject index, and lots of examples is a major effort in and of itself. Many low cost programs are shipped with a manual that covers only the bare essentials needed to run the program. These manuals usually have little or no graphic material, and they rarely explain how the program calculates it's results.