Location of Estimate Backups
I recommend keeping the backups automatically created (like when exiting HeavyBid) in a separate directory so the manual backups are easily viewed in their own folder. This is easy to set up. First create the folders you want the automatic backup and manual backups stored…
Customizing the Look of Tree View
I know when estimating my eyes after a long day have trouble distinguishing between the biditems and activities. This is especially true when the biditem numbers are large (like in JV estimates) and they resemble the activity codes. There is a user setting so that you…
Ranking Efficiency and Accuracy in HeavyBid
It is relatively easy to rank methods of creating an estimate in HeavyBid as I have seen them all, and I have been training now for 23 years if I count my time training in the 90s. What is “efficient”? In HeavyBid it is the…
HCSS HeavyBid Assessment Program
HCSS recently rolled out this service, where your HeavyBid will be reviewed and an assessment provided. Part of their consulting group for HeavyBid headed up by Ray Zanon. Tired of just doing the same old thing while knowing that HeavyBid use can be more efficient?…
Key Indicators – Import File calculate Margin
The text file for download available here will calculate Margin (% Profit) four different ways. By balanced and actual bid. These Key Indicators are suggested as a starter for companies bidding public work where takeoff quantities will be inputted. If you import this file it…
Creating a Conformed Estimate
What is “conforming” an estimate? You might not be familiar with the term. A “conformed” estimate is just an estimate copied from the original and modified after the project has been awarded. Here is the workflow model. First you estimate the project. At the conclusion…
Checking your HeavyBid Calendars and Work Rules
When I am training a company already using HeavyBid one of the first items that I review are the Calendar and Work Rules Setups. A few basic setup features that should be reviewed are as follows: 1. Make sure all your work rules are setup…
Options-Quote Folders Must Do
Be sure to activate the option in quote folders to show the additive quantity in the information grid so you don’t have to look at the bottom of the screen to see the quantity. There is plenty of room, so be sure all of your…
Revise the Equipment EOE Factors to Current Market Costs
If your estimate’s Equipment EOE cost is calculating on fuel usage per hour be sure to update fuel rates in your master and current estimates. Sometimes estimators start using this feature, but don’t change the default gallon price when HeavyBid was installed or update the…
Why setting up the workers comp option in HeavyBid is important
Where do you have the workers comp percentage? I find some companies put the workers comp percentage as part of the labor taxes in the labor setup. Not that this is incorrect, but they might not be aware of the cost ramifications to this setup….
HeavyBid – Basics and Beyond is devoted to everything HCSS HeavyBid and estimating. Updated regularly with helpful insights and tools of the trade, this blog is designed to make your estimating easier and more successful.
