Job Costing Feedback Options

NOTE-- We retired the MacNail estimating program in 2000, and replaced it with Goldenseal construction estimating software. There are still a significant number of die-hard MacNail users, so we keep the manuals online for them! Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, scheduling and contract writing.

Setting Feedback Options

Before you feed back any job costs from the MacNail construction management software, choose Feedback Options from the Options menu, and use it to set exactly how you 'll perform the feedback.

The Maximum cost overrun and Maximum cost underrun quantities allow you to limit the impact that any one job will have on your price book. The overrun number limits the percentage adjustment upwards when actual costs are much higher than the original estimate. The underrun number limits the downwards adjustment when costs are much lower than the original estimate.

If you type in high limits, incorrect unit prices will be adjusted very quickly-- but there is also more danger that data entry errors will create inaccurate unit prices. If you type in a low number, there is little danger of errors causing harm, but it will also take longer to adjust your unit prices to where they should be.

If you turn on the use prompt at each category button, The MacNail construction management software will stop and ask you how to handle any complications. This includes costs that have overrun or underrun by more than the maximum permissible amount, or items that are not fully completed. If you choose to be prompted, you'll need to be at the computer while the Cost Control worksheet is being examined. You'll also have more control over the whole process.