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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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