|
FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions about this Workshop
1. Is it trade specific
Perhaps
the most frequent question of all. While this program does not
specifically address the trades, the instructor has vast experience
estimating at the trade level. This workshop was developed to
teach the principles of construction estimating that transcend any
specific trade. While we recognize the incredible differences out
there, we have capitalized on the common elements of which every
Estimator must be aware. However, we do address every specific
question and trade specific example raised by participants throughout
the day.
2. I'm a Subcontractor - will I benefit?
This
training session is very well balanced. We have both Subs and GCs
in every workshop we conduct. The positive responses from the
seminars are almost evenly divided between both groups. One of the
greatest values to having both groups represented, is that both sides
get to see what the other side "is up to" and what the
challenges are on both sides of the equation. It seems that Subs
benefit most by learning how to develop a "real project" work
breakdown structure that accurately reflects the specific job
being bid and then how to arrive at and distribute overhead and profit
to specific line items within that WBS.
3. I'm a GC - Will I benefit?
This
training session is very well balanced. We have both GCs and GCs
in every workshop we conduct. The positive responses from the
seminars are almost evenly divided between both groups. One of the
greatest values to having both groups represented, is that both sides
get to see what the other side "is up to" and what the
challenges are on both sides of the equation. It seems that General
Contractors benefit most by learning how to develop project
specific bid packages, work with subs to develop scope, and then analyze
incoming bids for completeness and price. GCs also benefit from
the discussion on bid day strategies for overcoming last minute bid
submissions and learning how to arrive at plug numbers to ensure
adequate pricing and analysis while waiting for sub bids.
4. What do I get to take home?
Every
participant leaves with: a 1" three ring binder
containing printed text that coincides with every slide shown on the
screen at the front of the room throughout the day, 11x17 plan sheets
from our sample seminar project, blank worksheets and spreadsheets
to use as samples, A simple log system that helps estimators become and
stay more organized, a sample working electronic Excel spreadsheet
that can be used to bid jobs (It's not a template - just a good working
sample of a pretty good spreadsheet)
5.
Does the course include Audio CDs?
No.
But we do have a recording of a live session on 4 CDs that you may
purchase for only $49.00 (Most of the time, the Instructor even has some
available on event day)
6.
What if I'm new to construction estimating?
This
is one of the best things you can do for yourself as a newcomer to the
construction estimating arena. The entire process is discussed in
enough detail to expose you to the right way to do it. You will
establish routines and practices based on either trial and error, or on
tried and proven methods that work (with short cuts built in) We
suggest you go the tried and proven route. That's what the day is
all about. You will learn what is important, what's not, how
to organize for maximum efficiency and how to maximize the profit
potential of every project you bid.
7.
What If I'm a seasoned veteran of construction
estimating?
Some
of our most flattering comments at the end of the day are from seasoned
veterans of construction estimating. We are constantly told
that they learned some valuable new stuff, were validated in many of
their existing methods, and that they wish they had attended a session
like this long ago. Once in awhile we even find out (by their own
admission) that some "old timers" have been going about it
completely wrong for a good long time. We have Estimators with
experience in excess of 5-10 years (many times even more) in every
session we conduct
8.
Is this Computer training?
No.
This is not computer based training. We do consider and use
a spreadsheet created in Microsoft Excel. It is used as a sample
of how we would go about the process of construction estimating
including the process of applying costs, overhead and profit to the bid
items. The principles taught in this program can readily be
applied to any system you have in place or are considering.
9.
What software does this workshop promote?
We
do not promote any software or developer in this session at all.
We speak of specific applications and hear participant's experiences
throughout the course of the day, but we do not endorse a particular
product.
10.
How is the workshop presented?
This
workshop is presented with enthusiasm and conviction through the use of
a combination of Instructor interaction, graphical PowerPoint slides,
On screen computer spreadsheet applications, and hands-on
exercises that help participants work through the estimating process
using real world forms and processes as they apply the concepts being
taught.
11.
Will I be "sold" all day on the back
of the room resources and other services?
Absolutely
Not. While there may be limited resources made available, they are
only mentioned in passing. This is not a front to sell consulting
services, additional training opportunities or anything else. It
is a stand alone program where each participant realizes full value from
the day's content and activities. (That's not to say we won't
be glad to see you again next time though!)
|
