The Crow's Nest Estimating module is unique: it includes a programming language to handle many levels of custom configuration. This makes it more flexible and also more complex to learn and use than other estimating applications, which tend to simplify and “dumb down” the estimating process.
The first phase in estimating with Crow's Nest is to set up and configure the database, labels, formulas, etc. This is typically done by an IT manager and/or production manager, not necessarily the person who will be producing estimates. This takes a considerable amount of time and effort up front.
Documentation for this first phase will include how-to and reference articles for managing data and settings.
Second phase is using the configured estimating tool to produce estimates, often done by a different employee. They will work through the estimating process and may add or edit products on the fly.
Documentation for the second phase will cover how to use the estimating functions, add and edit products, and produce reports.
Estimating process
INPUT = Invitation to Bid (ITB) documents
Drawings
Specifications
Supporting documents
PROCESS = Create an estimate
Takeoff
Labor budget
Materials budget
OUTPUT = Bid documents
Cost estimate
Schedule estimate
Other documents
DONE = Bid documents submitted and filed
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