BMS Estimating and Engineering
PART II: Estimating: From Concept to Cost
Session 9: Estimate Creation Workshop
Course Code: CENG-09
Goal: Apply estimation skills in a guided, hands-on workshop designed to simulate real-world estimating scenarios using CUBE.
Session Overview
Duration: 1 Hour
Format: Live, instructor-led workshop (Microsoft Teams or in-person)
Level: Intermediate
Resources Provided:
- Workshop Checklist.
- Sample Project Scenario.
- BOM Template (Blank).
- System Configuration Reference Guide.
- Price Summary Review Guide
Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Independently create and configure a complete estimate in CUBE.
- Build out a new area and apply appropriate systems and components.
- Assemble a Bill of Materials (BOM) from scratch using manual and library inputs.
- Analyze total estimate pricing, review component-level variance, and make real-time adjustments.
- Engage in open Q&A to resolve real-use challenges and reinforce key workflows
Session Agenda
9.1 Create a Sample Area
- Set up a new project or estimate area using best practices.
- Apply standard naming conventions for traceability.
- Define project details: location, phase, and system group
9.2 Add Components & Systems
- Select and add systems from the Library Estimate or build from scratch.
- Add individual parts or kits as needed to reflect custom scope.
- Apply labor classifications and adjust hours as necessary.
- Use system-level notes and tags to clarify scope and design intent
9.3 BOM Build from Scratch
- Manually assemble a Bill of Materials using selected parts.
- Ensure unit costs and vendor data are assigned correctly.
- Validate material quantities and labor ratios.
- Cross-reference against internal standards or project requirements.
9.4 Price Evaluation and Variance Analysis
- Navigate to the Price Summary and review cost breakdown.
- Evaluate cost variances due to overrides, substitutions, or labor adjustments.
- Compare estimated costs to historical data or expected values.
- Discuss pricing strategies and markup application
9.5 Live Q&A
- Open forum for participants to ask questions based on workshop activity
- Troubleshoot issues in real time with instructor guidance.
- Share tips, shortcuts, and recommended workflows across attendees.
- Clarify advanced concepts or unique estimating use cases
Hands-On Workshop Tasks
Participants will:
- Create a sample area and assign project details.
- Add 2–3 systems or component groups based on a mock scope.
- Build a BOM and adjust cost items as needed.
- Analyze pricing and adjust inputs based on instructor scenarios.
- Export their estimate for review and discussion.
Post-Session Action Items
To reinforce learning, participants are encouraged to:
- Repeat the full estimate creation workflow using a real or archived project.
- Review their completed estimate with a manager or peer for feedback.
- Save a version of their workshop estimate as a reference template.
Document any questions or feature requests to bring into future training.
Note: When scheduling, make sure to include this session code: CENG-09.
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