The Summary calculates quantities, extended material prices, and extended labor hours by item, and material and labor subtotals by level. Any or all levels taken off may be summarized at one time. The Summary File Maintenance window allows you to set-up your Summary report exactly how you would like it formatted, including only as much information as you require.
Summary is a very powerful and important part of the estimating process. Its reports can be used not only by the estimator, but also project managers, purchasing agents, and database administrators:
Estimator: He will often need to generate multiple reports as part of "what if" scenarios using different discounting options, materials, manufacturers, and pricing services. He may need to request quotes on specific items from the purchasing agent to complete the summary or override the pricing book costs due to special circumstances.
Project Manager: He will want high level views and reports of the Estimate items grouped and sorted by different criteria (levels) for cost and time projections.
Purchasing Agent: He will use the summary reports to comparison shop suppliers and inform the estimator that some items will be priced differently on this Estimate due to discounts or other factors.
Database Administrator: He may need the summary reports if data sets should be updated with Estimate pricing.
Once a Summary file has been created, it can be used in creating a bid.
This topic covers all aspects of working with the Summary module of Estimating programs, including:
Sections are also included which feature detailed explanations of each of the major Summary windows: