Creating Estimating Templates

NOTE-- We retired the BidMagic construction estimating software in 2001. It has been replaced by Goldenseal construction estimating software.

We still include this BidMagic estimating software manual as a convenience for users of our older program. Many features are similar, in Goldenseal estimating.


Creating a new Template from an Estimate

To make a template from a project estimate that you'd like to use to handle similar projects, follow all the steps described in the previous section except for step 6 (clearing Specifications). When turning a project estimate into a template, watch out for the following items:

  • 'Other' items-- Special items added to Specs should be removed, unless you are sure you want them in all future projects also.
  • Modified formulas-- If you have modified any 'suggested' formulas (see page 89), be sure to return them to their original status before using the template for new estimates.

Creating a New Template from an Archive File

To set up a template from an Archive file, follow these steps:

  1. Open any BidMagic template.
  2. Click Cancel to work on the template itself.
  3. Choose Save As from the File menu to make a new copy of BidMagic. Type in a file name for the new template.
  4. Choose Open Archive from the Data menu.
  5. Select an Archive file to open, then click OK.
  6. Once the Archive information has been imported, follow steps 4 through 15 in the instructions on pages 72-73.

Once you've created a template, you can use it anytime with the BidMagic construction estimating software.