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PC-Estimator (tm) Tutorial Copyright 1988-94 by CPR, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Update: 10/01/1994 TABLE OF CONTENTS ------------------- 1. GENERAL INFORMATION Welcome to PC-Estimator 'Not Enough Memory' message Shareware Notice Benefits of Full user registration Disclaimer Notice 2. INTRODUCTION Minimum System Requirements Program Installation How to Make a Printed Copy of This Tutorial On-screen Takeoff Calculator with Memory File Transfer to dBIII, Lotus, Symphony Text-file reporting 3. ESTIMATE BASICS Introduction Estimate Identification Estimate Markup Rates Labor Wage Rates Construction Equipment Rates Standard Costcodes Assembly Costcodes Vendor Identification 4. ESTIMATE DEVELOPMENT Introduction Build Estimate Detail Append File Build Work Assembly 5. REPORTS Introduction Display/Print Estimate Identification Print Labor Wage Rates Print Construction Equipment Rates Print Standard Costcodes Print Assembly Costcodes Display/Print Vendor Identification Display/Print Estimate Summary Print Estimate Table Form Print Estimate Bid Items Print Work Assembly Listing 6. UTILITIES Setup PC-Estimator Program Reindex Basic Files Reindex Estimate Files Reindex Work Assembly Files Update function(s) Printer Installation 1. GENERAL INFORMATION ------------------------ >> Welcome to PC-Estimator << Welcome to the fascinating and productive world of PC-Estimator. PC-Estimator is a complete, stand-alone system that does not require the use or assistance of any other software. All you need is your computer and your MS-DOS operating system. PC-Estimator is a high productivity software designed for use by general and specialty contractors, engineers, architects, manufacturers, cost estimators, consultants and other individuals who need to estimate costs for projects of all sizes and kind. From high rise projects to tiny kitchen remodels. >> 'Not Enough Memory' Message << If you are using MS-DOS 6.0 and more, you may get a 'Not Enough memory' message when you attempt to start the PC-Estimator. To correct this problem, add the 'novcpi' switch to your Config.sys file as follows: In your Config.sys file: device = c:\dos\emm386.exe noems novcpi The device line as shown above with the 'novcpi' switch at the end shall eliminate the memory message. Note that your device line may contain some other switches too. Just add the 'novcpi' at the end of the line after leaving a space. Do not forget to reboot your computer after you make the change. >> Shareware Notice << With this notice you are granted permission to make, share and distribute unmodified copies of PC-Estimator program disk and Tutorial. Shareware is a low cost alternative to commercially available software programs. Please support shareware by becoming a registered user. >> Benefits of Full User Registration << The disk that you already own contains the full set of program files as well as this on-disk tutorial in the form of an ASCII file. You can make a printed copy of this tutorial as explained in Chapter 2 below. If you use this program, and want to benefit even more from what it offers, please consider a full PC-Estimator User Registration. User registration will provide you with the following benefits. 1. PC-Estimator full registration program disk set. 2. Printed User Manual with screen reproductions, detailed instructions, special tips, program structure information and other data as well as free, unlimited telephone support from our expert staff. 3. 3000-item complete industry-standard costcode database file including built-in material prices, labor and equipment rates. The database is set up in the standard CSI (or AIA) format used by contractors, architects, engineers and government offices in the USA and covers all 16 construction cost categories. 4. Bill of Material report - This report cumulates materials used in the estimate in the form of a bill of material which can be used as a field list or purchasing document. 5. Backup and restore utility - This function shall create backup of estimate files for archive or for transfering to other computers. To register: Complete form below (or at the end of this tutorial), include your user registration fee for $ 99.00 (VISA / MC, check, money order or C.O.D.) and send to: PC-Estimator, CPR, Inc., P.O. Box 3465, Berkeley, CA 94703 Phone orders: (510) 654-8338 California orders, add California Sales Tax Add $8.50 for Shipping & Handling (Overseas orders, add $12.00). Add $5.00 for COD orders. Add $5.00 for rush orders. Fill out the user registration form printed at the end of this tutorial or supply the following information. Payment: __ VISA __MC , Card No:________________ Exp date:______ __ Check enclosed, __ Money order enclosed, __ Send C.O.D. Name:_____________________________________________________ Company:__________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________ City:__________________ State:________ Zip:_____________ Telephone number:_________________________________________ Signature:____________________ (Required for VISA/MC orders) >> Disclaimer << This software product and tutorial was developed in the USA. Construction Productivity Research, Inc. believes that the information contained within the tutorial and the software program databases is correct. CPR, Inc. reserves the right to make periodic changes in the contents of the tutorial and the program without any direct or inferred obligation to notify any person of such revision or changes. We do not cover under warranty material that has been lost, stolen, or damaged by accident, misuse, or unauthorized modifications. Furthermore, we make no warranty, express or implied, to you or to any other person or entity. Specifically, we make no warranty that the software or the data contained inside the databases or in this tutorial is fit for a particular purpose. 2. INTRODUCTION ----------------- >> Minimum System Requirements << The following are minimum system requirements to run PC-Estimator on your computer. - IBM PC/XT, AT, PS-2 or 100 % compatible computer. - MS-DOS 2.0 or later - Hard disk drive system. - Minimum 384 K RAM memory. - Monochrome or color monitor. - Standard track or wide-track compatible printer (laser or dot-matrix). >> Program Installation << Insert disk supplied in drive A or B. At DOS prompt A> or B>, type INSTALL X: (press ENTER) (X represents the hard disk drive that you want the system files to be copied. For example, if you want files to be copied to C drive, then type INSTALL C:) To run PC-Estimator: At pcshare directory, type PCEST (press ENTER) >> How to Read or Make a Printed Copy of This Tutorial << This tutorial is supplied in a file called "PCTUTOR.DOC" in the ASCII format. You can read or print it by using DOS commands or text processor. To read the contents of this tutorial file, insert PC-Estimator diskette in your A (or B) disk drive. Close door. At DOS A> or B> prompt, type: TYPE PCTUTOR.DOC (press ENTER) The file will scroll down your screen. To stop scrolling, Press CTRL and NUMLOCK keys simultaneously. Then continue reading. To print the contents of this tutorial file, insert PC-Estimator diskette in your A (or B) disk drive. Close door. Make sure your printer is ready to print approximately 10 pages. At DOS A> or B> prompt, type: COPY PCTUTOR.DOC PRN (press ENTER) With your paid registration, you will receive the printed User Manual which has more detailed instructions. To get the most benefit from this program, we recommend a full user registration. >> On-screen Takeoff Calculator with Memory << PC-Estimator on-screen take-off calculator is available from all screens. This is a full function memory calculator patterned after a desktop calculator. Just press function key F10, and it will appear. Use it for takeoff calculations. To exit calculator, press (Escape). The calculator will remember the last calculated result. To paste result to any field, press (Ctrl-P). >> File Transfer to dBIII, Lotus, Symphony << PC-Estimator database files are 100% compatible with dBaseIII Plus program. By using dBaseIII, one can tie PC-Estimator files to other dBaseIII applications or simply design additional report formats. PC-Estimator files can also be translated to Lotus and Symphony by using the Translate functions from higher versions of these programs. The PC- Estimator records will be rows and attributes will become column headings. Detailed data structure of PC-Estimator which can be used in data translations is available in the User Manual which is provided with User registration (See section 1 above). >> Text file reporting << Using this feature it is possible to create a text file (ASCII file) of any report for further customization using any word processor. This feature is useful primarily where custom reports are required for client transmittals. PC-Estimator creates and stores the text file in the same directory where system files reside. 3. ESTIMATE BASICS -------------------- >> Introduction << PC-Estimator's database files can accommodate virtually unlimited records of information. In fact, the only restriction on the amount of information is the size of your hard disk storage system. Since floppy disks are limited in storage capacity as well as slow access time, they are not suitable for powerful data management systems like PC-Estimator. >> Estimate Identification << Before starting to build a new estimate, it must be identified by assigning a unique estimate number. An estimate number can be up to 6 digits long and can be an alphanumeric. e.g. AB1988, NEW56, CO102a, AA1, X1988, etc. Identify a new estimate by assigning a unique estimate number and entering relevant information. To do this select (Basics - Estimate identification) by moving highlight on Basics and pressing (Enter), then follow screen prompts and instructions. The screen will show existing estimate files and descriptions. If you have several files, view them by the navigation keys. To do database management functions such as add a new estimate number, edit existing information, or delete existing information, select Add, Edit, Delete by typing the command letter, which is the capitalized letter (generally the first letter) of the command. Remember, (Escape) key will always back you out of the current screen to the previous screen. Example: Add Edit Delete <Esc> to exit To add a new estimate number, select (Add), then assign estimate number and enter other information in the window. When finished, PC-Estimator will store the information and open a new estimate file which will be used to build the new estimate. >> Estimate Markup Rates << PC-Estimator supports different markup rates for each estimate. To access markup rates, select (Basics - Estimate markup rates). If no markup rates are assigned to an estimate number, PC-Estimator will use Standard Markup Rates automatically. These are the markup rates under estimate number "0STD" which is already initiated in the program. The markups are initiated at 0%. Therefore, after installing PC-Estimator, you should modify the standard markup rates to reflect your most commonly used (standard) markup rates. >> Labor Wage Rates << Installed with this program, you will find wage rates for a number of different construction trades. These entries are for basic trades only and do not represent all available trades and professions. The entries are tied to 4-digit codes commonly used by the construction industry. The wage rates are based on union wage rates and are average for major US cities. The actual wage rates in your area can be less or more. You can add new classifications, modify to reflect more accurately wages in your area or delete any that you do not use. The wage rates can be accessed and selected conveniently thru lookup windows from the estimating worksheet. (*) The full registration package contains utilities whereby any change in labor wage rates can be automatically made applicable to the entire costcode database and also selected estimate files. >> Construction Equipment Rates << Similar to labor wage rates, we have supplied a representative number of entries for construction equipment. The entries represent only a small selection of all available construction equipment. Add, modify or delete equipment classification and hourly rentals as necessary for your geographic area. The construction equipment rates can be accessed and selected thru lookup windows from the estimating worksheet. >> Standard Costcodes << By using this section of PC-Estimator, the user can identify Standard costcodes and enter material, labor, subcontract equipment and other unit costs against each costcode. PC-Estimator allows for easy development and use of standard costcodes. Once set up, each time a user enters the costcode during an estimate, the description and all other unit prices will be automatically transferred to the current worksheet. The lookup window can be used to search the costcode database and select appropriate costcode for transfer into worksheet. A costcode can be maximum 11 digits long and may consist of alphabetic characters, numbers or combination of both (alphanumeric). Examples: 01200000000, 0921821000, 14960, CO22912, ST234A0001, etc. With full user registration, we will provide a complete costcode database with unit prices. This costcode database represents most (if not all) activities typically used in general and building type of construction. You can further customize the database to your specific application by the addition of your job-specific activities. (*) The full registration package contains a utility where material price multipliers can be applied to the entire costcode database or selected portion of it automatically. >> Assembly Costcodes << Work assemblies are a very efficient way of estimating composite work activities. Assembly costcodes are similar to standard costcodes in format. They are 6-digit long alphanumerics. Assembly costcodes identify work assemblies, which are, in effect just like individual estimates. They are usually sub-systems of construction end produscts. For example, the following work activities could be made into work assemblies: Concrete-in-place, per cubic yard, Stud partition wall, per linear foot, Roofing, per square feet, Electrical work, per circuit,Plumbing, per foot run. During an estimate, you can recall a work assembly and incorporate it to your current worksheet. >> Vendor Identification << During the course of an estimate, a cost estimator usually contacts several vendors offering different goods or services. The vendor identification system of PC-Estimator keeps track of information related to vendors in an efficient manner and offers immediate access to data thru vendor number as well as database search for selected criteria such as vendor number, keyword, etc. A vendor is identified by a Vendor Number which is 6-digit alphanumeric. The following are valid vendor numbers: 12600, AB323, ARTCO, etc. To access vendor identification select (Basics - Vendor identification) from the Main Menu. Then carry out database functions to add, edit or delete vendor identification records. 4. ESTIMATE DEVELOPMENT ------------------------- >> Introduction << This section of PC-Estimator addresses the procedure for building a detailed estimate. Appending all or part of an estimate to another estimate file and building work assemblies are also included in this chapter. >> Build Estimate << Before starting to build an estimate, the estimate must be identified by assigning an estimate number. This is done by using (Basics - Estimate identification) from the Main Menu. An estimate is built by entering the estimate of the costs to perform cost items associated with a job or project. The cost for each item is further broken down into cost categories which are Material, Labor, Subcontract, Equipment and Other categories. One or more of the cost categories for a cost item may be zero. Each cost item is identified by a costcode. However, there may be more than one entry for the same costcode. During estimating, the Lookup screen is always available to search and select records such as activity descriptions, material prices, labor and equipment rates from other databases. To build an estimate, select (Development - Build estimate). Then enter estimate number. If you do not remember the estimate number press F9 for Lookup. Then move highlight and press (Enter). The estimate file will open on your screen. If it is a new estimate, no line items will show. You can now build your estimate by adding line items and entering associated costs. Estimate Detail Worksheet: Each cost item occupies a line on the estimating screen. However, there is more to it than that. Each cost item is stored in the memory with manhour rates as well as unit dollars and totals. To see this, select Edit from the command line menu. Now enter a costcode number. When a costcode is entered, the costcode database is searched for matching data records (If a record already existed, it would automatically be retrieved). Now, the estimate worksheet window will open on your screen. For Labor Class (Classification) use Lookup screen. If you had entered a labor record for carpenter in your labor database, classified as, let's say, CAR1, then you would lookup labor database and select the entry. The wage rate would be exported right into the workscreen. Continue estimating the cost item. Press (Enter) to skip any field. When finished, PC-Estimator will figure out line item unit cost and total cost. By selecting (Totals) from the command line menu, you can get running totals of your estimate at any time. The (Select) function will allow the user to select and transfer several costcodes from the costcode database to the current estimate. This is done by tagging selected cost items to be transferred. >> Append File << Often, a new job to be estimated will resemble in many ways another job for which an estimate has already been developed. In such a situation, using the "Old" estimate as the starting point and making modifications on it will save a great deal of time in comparison to starting a new estimate from scratch. PC-Estimator offers a step by step feature to do this. When a new estimate file is identified, select (Development - Build Estimate Detail) to retrieve the file and make necessary modifications. >> Work Assemblies << By choosing this option from the submenu, you can retrieve an existing work assembly file, modify if necessary and incorporate the totals into your current worksheet. For example, if you prepare a master work assembly file for installation of concrete foundations, all you have to do is to measure the quantity of concrete in your current estimate and use Work Assembly feature to figure out totals and incorporate cost activities and material costs for excavation, rebar, formwork, concrete and finishing labor. To build a work assembly, first identify a work assembly costcode by selecting (Basics - Assembly costcodes). Then select (Development - Build assembly) and continue to set up the master work assembly just as you would build a small estimate. 5. REPORTS ------------ >> Introduction << Several printed reports may be generated by using the report printing functions of PC-Estimator. Most reports are available on 11" X 15" wide- track format as well as 8 1/2" X 11" standard size paper. PC-Estimator automatically switches to 17 cpi (compressed print) standard size paper.. PC-Estimator offers an advanced reporting feature whereby reports are generated based on database search on selective criteria. By using this feature, a user can generate more informative, focused reports which will address specific information requirements. To cancel printing at any time, press Alt-C. >> Display/Print Estimate Identification << This printing function is used to generate screen or printed reports for the Estimate identification section of PC-Estimator. To display and/or print an estimate identification listing select (Reports - Estimate identification) from the Main Menu. A 'Print options' screen will be displayed. Press return to skip over fields if no selection is required. No selection means all existing records will be included in the listing. before starting to print, check to make sure that the printer is turned on and on-line. You can also view the estimate identification records fitting selected criteria on the computer screen. >> Print Labor Wage Rates << To print a complete labor wage rate listing, select (Reports - Labor wage rates) from the Main Menu. >> Print Equipment Rates << To print a complete equipment rates listing, select (Reports - Construction equipment rates) from the Main Menu. >> Print Standard Costcodes << To print a complete or selective listing of Standard costcodes already existing in the costcode database, select (Reports - Standard costcodes) from the Main Menu. The selection window will appear on the screen. Enter selection criteria or press ENTER to skip. Check to make sure the printer is on-line before starting to print. >> Print Assembly Costcodes << Similar to printing standard costcodes above. >> Display/Print Vendor Identification << To display on screen or print a vendor identification listing, select (Reports - Vendor identification) from the Main Menu. Then enter selection criteria or press (Enter) to skip. You can view vendor information on the computer screen or send output to printer. Make sure the printer is turned on and on-line. >> Display/Print Estimate Summary << To display on screen or print estimate summary with markups itemized separately, select (Reports - Estimate summary) from the Main Menu. Then enter estimate number or select using the Lookup screen. The estimate will be categorized by division ( i.e. the first two characters of the costcode) and further by Phase if selected. The estimate summary can be viewed on screen with the "Bottom-line" figured out. Use this for quick phone-in bidding. >> Print Estimate Table Form << To print estimate detail report in a tabular format, select (Reports - Estimate Table Form) from the Main Menu. This report will show unit cost as well as total cost for each line item. Grand totals will be printed before markup applications. >> Print Bid Items Report << By using this option, you can view on screen or print bid item reports showing unit cost and extended total costs with markups built-in. Very suitable for for formal bidders and heavy and highway construction bidders. >> Print Work Assembly Listing << To generate a one-page tabular listing of an existing work assembly file, select (Reports - Work assembly listing) from the Main Menu. Then select thru Lookup screen. 6. UTILITIES ------------ >> Setup PC-Estimator Program << To setup the program, select (Utilities - Setup program) from the Main Menu. If it is the first time that you are using PC-Estimator, the Setup screen will appear by default. Follow screen prompts and instructions to enter your name as it should appear in report headings. Also enter a second line in report headers (if required). >> Reindex Database Files << During the course of data entry, a power cut, surge, spike or inadvertent use of the Reset button may cause interruption of PC-Estimator database management operations. As a result of this, a number of records may be left unindexed. this may cause error messages and other unpredictable results. The Reindex utility will remedy such a situation by reorganizing all files. The reindex feature may also be useful when data is imported from other dBaseIII files. To carry out reindexation, select (Utilities - Reindex files). The rest will be done by PC-Estimator. Remember, running the Reindex utility will not cause any harm on the database files even if no disorganization was present in the first place. >> Update << A series of update functions that shall update estimate and assembly files based on current status of labor wage rates and material prices. >> Printer Installation << Installation of currently used printer. Laser printers are supported. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- >> USER REGISTRATION FORM << To register: Complete form below, include your user registration fee (Check, money order or C.O.D.) and send to: ---------------------------------- PC-Estimator CPR, Inc. P.O. Box 3465 Berkeley, CA 94703 ---------------------------------- Phone orders: (510) 654-8338 ******************************************************* Clip and Mail ***** PC-Estimator User Registration Form ----------------------------------- PC-Estimator User Registration Fee ............ $ 99.00 Sales Tax (CA residents add Sales Tax) ..... Shipping & Handling charge (Overseas $12.00) .. 6.50 C.O.D. orders (if applicable - $5.00) ......... ..... Rush orders (if applicable - $5.00) ........... ..... --------- Total ........... $ _____ Indicate payment: __ VISA Card No:_________________________ Exp. date:__________ __ MC Card No:_________________________ Exp. date:__________ __ Check enclosed __ Money order enclosed __ Send C.O.D. Name:_____________________________________________________ Company:__________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________ City:__________________ State:________ Zip:_____________ Telephone number:____________________ Signature:___________________________ (Required for VISA/MC orders) ***************************************************************************