Estimating Glossary

NOTE-- In 2000 we completely replaced MacNail with the newer Goldenseal construction estimating software. There are still die-hard MacNail users, so we keep the manuals online for their use! Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, job costing and contract writing features. There are answers to many Goldenseal questions on our website.

Estimating Glossary A to C

Alerts: Alert boxes or 'alerts' are similar to dialog boxes. Some alerts only allow you to click OK.

Allowances: Construction items that are 'allowed' a set price in contract specifications. At the end of the job, the difference between the allowance and the actual costs will be added or deducted from the contract price.

Bomb: See system error.

Bug: A program error. Please let us know if you find any.

Byte: A fairly small piece of computer data. Approximately equal to one typewritten character.

Cell Addresses: The row number and column letter for the cell.

Cell: 'Box' in a worksheet

Charts: Excel creates three different kinds of documents: worksheets, macros, and charts. Each one has a different icon.

Clearinghouse: The section of an estimator that assembles costs into subcategories and categories. See it in the lower left window of the multiple window display.

Click: Press once on the mouse button.

Column: A vertical line of cells, running up and down the worksheet. See Row.

Command key: On the Macintosh keyboard is marked with the 'cloverleaf' symbol. You use it for Macintosh 'keyboard shortcuts '.

Condensed estimate: An estimate that has had the unit prices removed. It takes up much less memory than the original estimator.

Contingencies: An amount put into an estimate to cover unexpected conditions.

Cost Control: The MacNail system of single-entry job cost accounting. It uses a set of macros and worksheets to itemize costs by jobs and by categories. Works along with the MacNail construction estimating software.