Before You Begin

NOTE-- MacNail estimating was replaced by Goldenseal construction estimating software back in 2000. There are still die-hard MacNail users, so we keep the MacNail manuals online for them! Goldenseal also includes accounting, job costing and project management features.

Getting Started with MacNail Customizing

You should already be familiar with the use of the Macintosh before you begin to use MacNail Customizing.
If you are brand-new to the Mac, you might start off with an introductory course in Macintosh basics. Knowing how to manage folders and files, and how to navigate in a WIMPy world (windows, icons, mouse and pointer) will make your use of the MacNail project management software (and every other program) much easier!

HINT: Call (800) 538-9696 ext 500 for the name of your nearest Macintosh User Group. Most offer inexpensive classes and telephone 'hot lines' to help beginners.

You should also be familiar with the Excel spreadsheet program and MacNail Estimating before you begin to use MacNail Customizing. Many of our users report that an introductory course in spreadsheet basics helps make MacNail much easier to use!

If you are a remodeler, home builder or general contractor, run a few MacNail estimates on projects you've already done, so you can become familiar with what is already included in MacNail Estimating. If you are a specialty builder or subcontractor, it's still a good idea to glance through a MacNail estimate, so you can better understand how it works before making your own estimators.