Using Suggested Quantities

NOTE-- In 2000 we introduced Goldenseal construction estimating software, and retired MacNail and BidMagic (our previous estimating programs). There are still die-hard users out there, so we keep the manuals online for them! Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, job costing and project management features. It also calculates suggested quantities for each construction item in an Estimate.

Using a Suggested Quantity

The third column in the Specifications list offers a 'suggested' quantity for most items. It is based on the dimensions that you entered in the previous section. Very often, you will want to use this number when working on a project in the MacNail construction estimating software.

To include an item in the bid, choose *Include in Bid from the EDIT menu.

For example, the Hyper*Estimator tutorial included a Town of Townville permit, but we'll move our Smith project to the City of Ithaca.

To change the permit (or to enter it in the first place, if you did not use Hyper*Estimator):
1. Click anywhere on the 'City of Ithaca' line.
2. Choose *Include in bid from the EDIT menu.
3. The 'units used' column will be set equal to the 'suggested' units column for that item.
4. Notice that the cost for this item is added to the estimate automatically (in columns E and F).
5. To exclude the Town of Townville permit, click in that line and choose *Remove from Bid from the EDIT menu.

We can also use *Include in bid to enter wallboard removal.
1. Scroll down to section B.3 (Demolition--surfaces). The suggested quantity for removal of wallboard should be correct.
2. Click anywhere on the 'Wallboard' line.
3. Choose *Include in bid from the EDIT menu.

There is a big advantage to using the suggested numbers this way. If we later change any dimensions (because of a design change, or to correct an error), the number of units included in the bid for this item will also automatically be changed.