Using Multiple Category Systems

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 features. It also lets you switch category systems very easily.

Using Multiple Construction Systems

The MacNail construction management software allows you to use as many different cost category systems as you want. However, you'll probably be happiest if you use just one or two category systems in your business. This is especially important if you use MacNail Accounting for your job costing, since you will enter actual construction costs using the same categories as in the original estimates. It's much harder to remember the cost categories when each project uses a different system!

Some architects prefer to see estimates based on the sixteen CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) divisions. This cost system is also used by the AIA (American Institute of Architects), in Means estimating books, in the Sweet 's Catalog, and by some other construction-related organizations.

Unfortunately many builders find the CSI category system to be awkward when estimating, job costing and scheduling their residential construction projects. You may want to have estimators in both CSI format and in some other system that is more 'builder-friendly'.

If you run two very distinct types of businesses (for example, both plumbing and general contracting), you will probably use separate category systems for each business.