We use the following programs:
JVSG
PowerPoint
Concept Draw
Quickbooks
Publisher
Adobe Acrobat
Insightly
ConceptDraw has replaced PowerPoint for us for a few reasons. We can lock objects to the board, so no accidental clicking and dragging of the wrong object. There are image libraries so we can quickly insert pre-made objects, and it has layers that we can quickly unview items on that layer.
We only use JVSG when we think the client really needs to see exact views, etc.
Once we have our design, we go to QuickBooks and line item everything. We have a checklist that helps us ensure we include everything.
Then we go to Publisher, and using a template we create the written proposal. Then save as PDF and insert any items such as the design from the design program or the estimate from QuickBooks.
We use Insightly for CRM.
We are starting to consider a service program, and looking for one that integrates with QuickBooks desktop. Any suggestions?