Navigating in BidMagic

Before covering the specifics of estimating with BidMagic, we'll first look at some basic techniques you'll use when working with the BidMagic estimating software.

Getting Around in BidMagic

BidMagic software uses about forty different cards to handle different steps in the construction estimating process. Each card covers one specific aspect of the project. When you make a new estimate, you'll go to most or all of these cards and enter measurements or construction choices for the project.

Moving in Sequence

Click the Right Arrow button at the upper right corner of the BidMagic window to move to the next card in the estimating sequence. This button moves you forward by one card.

EXAMPLE: If you click the Right Arrow when you are on the Welcome card, you'll move ahead to the Instructions card, where you'll find helpful instructions in the use of BidMagic. Click again to move ahead to Basic Costs, where a few basic business numbers are entered.

To move through a complete BidMagic estimate from start to finish, follow these steps:

1. Click the Right Arrow button at the upper right corner of the window. You'll move to the next card in the estimating sequence.
2. Fill in everything on the card that applies to this particular project.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 until you have gone through every card, and the Right Arrow is no longer visible. The estimate will then be complete, and you'll be at the Bottom Line card (where you can see a detailed cost breakdown).

To move backwards in the estimating sequence, click the Left Arrow button at upper right. This button takes you backwards by one card.