Opening Estimates

NOTE-- MacNail estimating was retired in 2000, and replaced with 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, scheduling and contract writing features. It's a standalone program that does not require Excel, and that stores all estimating data in a single file.

Opening Estimates

Although we don't recommend it, it is possible to work with MacNail estimates without using the Estimating Manager. You may find it useful if you have a few small changes to make on an estimate created previously with the MacNail construction estimating software.

To open an estimate, follow the steps described for reports, then look in the Current Estimates folder.

A few things to keep in mind if working on estimators without the Estimating Manager:

* Beforehand: set the multiple-window display on, and show unit prices. It makes it possible for you to navigate quickly to each section of the estimate.
* If you are using just one window, panes, you may need to turn off freeze panes. When you choose Unfreeze Panes from the OPTIONS menu, the whole worksheet will be available to you. It is also easier to get lost since the headings may not be correct. See the map on page 62.
* To add items to the bid--click in the 'units used' column. Type an = (equal sign). Click in the 'suggested' column. Type the ENTER or RETURN key.
* To remove items from the bid--click in the 'units used' column. Type 0 (zero).
* To print--the Summation will print automatically unless you set a different area. To set another area--drag the mouse through the area you want to print. When it is all selected (dark), choose Set Print Area from the OPTIONS menu. Print.