In the professional AV industry, the tools you use directly impact your workflow efficiency, project accuracy, and overall business growth. For years, D-Tools has been a popular solution for AV system design, documentation, and proposal generation. However, as the industry shifts toward cloud-based platforms, real-time collaboration, and automation, many integrators are searching for smarter and more scalable solutions.
If you are one of those professionals looking for D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators, this product review will help you explore the top software options available today. We will focus on the most efficient, modern, and user-friendly platforms that can fully replace D-Tools. At the top of that list is XTEN-AV—a cutting-edge cloud-based AV design and automation tool that is redefining how integrators work.
Let’s take a closer look at why XTEN-AV leads the pack and which other solutions are worth considering.
XTEN-AV – The Top Choice for AV Design and Proposal Automation
XTEN-AV is a cloud-native software platform designed specifically for AV system integrators. It offers end-to-end functionality, from system design and documentation to proposal creation and project collaboration. With a clean user interface and AI-driven automation, XTEN-AV is built for modern AV workflows.
Key Features
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AI-Powered Design: With the X-DRAW tool, integrators can design racks, signal flows, and floor plans with drag-and-drop precision. The platform automatically generates cable schedules and system diagrams based on your layout.
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One-Click Proposal Generation: Create branded, professional proposals directly from your design with pricing, scope of work, product images, and terms—all auto-populated.
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Cloud-Based Collaboration: Work with team members in real time from anywhere, access your projects securely on the cloud, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
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Extensive Product Library: XTEN-AV offers a massive manufacturer database with real-time updates on specs and pricing, which eliminates manual entry and pricing errors.
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Automation Across the Workflow: From design to documentation, everything is linked and updated in real time.
Pros
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Streamlined interface that reduces learning time
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Complete design-to-proposal workflow in one platform
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Strong manufacturer integrations
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Scalable for both small firms and enterprise teams
Cons
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Primarily focused on AV workflows (not suited for general construction or IT-only projects)
Final Verdict
XTEN-AV stands out as the most robust and forward-thinking D-Tools alternative. It is the perfect fit for integrators who want to simplify their process, reduce manual tasks, and win more business with professionally designed proposals.
Jetbuilt – Proposal Tool with Estimating Power
Jetbuilt is a cloud-based AV sales platform known for its fast proposal generation and cost estimating features. It is ideal for sales teams that need to quickly create accurate quotes without diving deep into system design.
Key Features
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Fast quoting interface with drag-and-drop functionality
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Custom templates for proposals
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Equipment cost management and margin controls
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Integrated client approval workflows
Pros
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Easy to use and quick to set up
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Clean proposal templates for client-facing documents
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Cloud-based for team collaboration
Cons
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Limited technical system design tools
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Manual integration with drawing and documentation platforms
Final Verdict
Jetbuilt is a solid tool for AV sales professionals who want to streamline quoting and proposals. However, for integrators who also need in-depth system design, XTEN-AV provides a more complete solution.
System Surveyor – AV Mapping and Site Planning
System Surveyor is a mobile-friendly platform focused on mapping devices and planning AV systems during site surveys. While it does not offer full proposal or design automation, it is useful for capturing data on the go.
Key Features
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Visual system layouts and device placement
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Mobile access for field teams
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Notes, images, and documentation linked to system diagrams
Pros
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Excellent for field use and pre-design planning
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Intuitive for non-technical users
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Good for early-stage client presentations
Cons
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No direct proposal generation or cost estimating
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Requires additional platforms to complete design and quote workflows
Final Verdict
System Surveyor is best used alongside other tools. It does not replace D-Tools on its own but serves as a valuable supplement, especially for field surveys and discovery sessions.
Proposify – General Business Proposal Tool
Proposify is a general-purpose proposal management tool used across many industries. While not built specifically for AV, it can be adapted to AV workflows with some customization.
Key Features
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Template-based proposal creation
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E-signature and client approval tracking
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CRM integrations for sales automation
Pros
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Clean and professional proposal templates
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Sales analytics to track client engagement
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Easy approval and follow-up tools
Cons
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No technical design capabilities
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Not built for AV product catalogs or systems integration
Final Verdict
Proposify is a good option for firms focused heavily on sales and client interaction. However, if you need technical accuracy, real-time equipment data, and design tools, a dedicated AV platform like XTEN-AV is a better fit.
PandaDoc – Contract and Proposal Automation
PandaDoc offers strong document automation for proposals, contracts, and service agreements. It is a favorite for legal and finance teams that want fast turnaround and secure e-signature workflows.
Key Features
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Prebuilt templates for proposals and contracts
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Built-in e-signature capability
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Integration with tools like Salesforce and QuickBooks
Pros
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Smooth document delivery and approval process
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User-friendly interface for document creation
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Great for managing client agreements
Cons
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Not tailored to AV workflows
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Lacks system design and AV catalog integration
Final Verdict
PandaDoc works well for finalizing proposals and contracts, especially in enterprise environments. However, it is not a replacement for a tool like XTEN-AV when it comes to technical AV system design and estimation.
Conclusion
For AV professionals who have outgrown D-Tools or are looking for a modern alternative, there are several strong options available. However, only a few can deliver end-to-end project automation and AV-specific features.
XTEN-AV leads this new generation of platforms with cloud-based design, AI-powered automation, and one-click proposal generation. It offers a complete workflow solution and stands out as the most advanced and user-friendly option among all D-Tools alternatives for AV integrators.
While tools like Jetbuilt, System Surveyor, Proposify, and PandaDoc offer value in specific areas, XTEN-AV brings everything together in one cohesive platform. If you want to save time, reduce manual errors, and impress clients with top-tier documentation and proposals, XTEN-AV is the best software to replace D-Tools.
Make the switch today and take control of your AV projects with smarter tools designed for modern integrators.
Read more: https://digital24hour.com/av-project-estimation-without-using-d-tools/
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