Basic MacNail Calibration

Just like with the HyperEstimators, you "calibrate" the MacNail construction estimating software by getting it to hit right on the nose for one or more of your old projects.

NOTE-- We retired the MacNail and BidMagic estimating programs in 2000, and replaced them with Goldenseal construction estimating software. Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, scheduling and contract writing. We keep these instructions online for our die-hard MacNail users! The calibration process for Goldenseal estimating, is similar to that for our older programs.

Once you've gone through and estimated one or more old projects, take a look at the detailed cost breakdown. To see it on the screen, choose *Summation from the MacNail menu. To see it in print, choose *Print Estimate from the File menu, then click on the Summation button.

The printed estimate breakdown will show either sixteen (CSI) or thirty (MacNail) cost categories, each broken down into labor, materials and subcontractors. It will also show an overall project cost (lower right), plus a cost per square foot of finished floor area.

Compare the overall cost and the itemized costs with what you think the project should cost-- either from actual job costs, or from your own estimate of costs.

If you see any significant differences (greater than 2% overall, or greater than 10% for any line item), you can use any of several methods to get them in line.