WO2001029634A2

WO2001029634A2 - General construction computerized estimating software program

Info

Publication number: WO2001029634A2
Application number: PCT/US2000/026269
Authority: WO
Inventors: Joseph A. Papalia
Original assignee: Advanced Software Technologies Corporation
Priority date: 1999-10-21
Filing date: 2000-10-20
Publication date: 2001-04-26
Also published as: AU7985900A; WO2001029634A8

Abstract

A system and method for improving the level of estimating competency, detail, speed and accuracy at which General Contractors and Home Residential Builders can estimate their construction projects for their clients. In particular, the system assembles data entries from a "multitude" of various pre-built construction worksheets, where easy access and step by step construction procedures are pre-programmed for each individual worksheet. The system then performs all automatic calculations required for the production of the contractors final estimated construction bid costs along with itemized and categorized costs in an automatically prepared requisition for payment application to either the architect or the owner.

Description

GENERAL CONSTRUCTION COMPUTERIZED ESTIMATING SOFTWARE PROGRAM

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/160,833, filed October 21 , 1999.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the methods and procedures used to estimate costs for General Contractors and Residential Home Building Contractors and more particularly to computerized estimating software programs utilized to estimate building costs.

Description of the Related Art

In the design of typical computer estimating programs, the user is forced to create his/her own construction assemblies, meaning the building of all of the individual components required to create the whole. For example, to estimate the construction of Cast-in-place Trench Drains, the user, using the build-tools provided by the estimating software, would have to create all of the separate components worksheets, or templates required to estimate each phase of the construction, for example: (a) Excavate the footing; (b) Set the footing grade stakes; (c) Place the footing rebar; (d) Place the footing-to-wall waterstop; (e) Pour the footing concrete; (f) Form the trench drain walls; (g) Place the rebar in the walls; (h) Anchor the trench drain support angle to the forms; (i) Pour the concrete walls; (j) Strip the concrete wall form panels; (k) Rub the concrete walls; (I) Place the membrane waterproofing (if required); (m) Backfill the trench drain walls; (n) and place the trench drain cover. Now that all of the components have been created to estimate the cost of the Trench Drain, the user now has to estimate the quantities involved in each of the above listed steps to arrive at the Trench Drain cost.

Current estimating software programs are extremely difficult to learn how to use because of the fact that the user needs to understand and/or learn computer software build-tool methods just to create what is needed to begin estimating the project. Even though a contractor has taken the time to create the component pieces required and saves them for use on future projects, he/she is unable to quickly return and edit the work. In many cases, contractors have purchased two and even three different types of estimating software programs only to abandon them completely by placing them on a shelf above their desk.

The majority of contractors simply do not have the time, nor do they want to take the time to learn how to build their own estimating software programs, a desire that is a prerequisite when purchasing any of today's estimating software programs. Many contractors have reverted back to trying to build their own estimating spreadsheets within Lotus or Excel.

Typical estimating software programs, those recognized by the construction industry as being the most reputable, force the user into learning computer build-tool techniques with the end result being a method of estimating that is unfamiliar to the end user. The construction industry has successfully thrived and relied upon spreadsheet estimating procedures for many years. Because cost evaluation is so critical to contract negotiations and bidding procedures and the need to quickly view and analyze individual line item costs is of so much importance, most contractors are highly skeptical of current estimating software programs meeting the basic needs of the contractor. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention connects the problems noted above and provides a general construction estimating software system that employs prebuilt construction worksheets. The program also provides fast and simple access to the specific worksheets required to estimate a variety of construction projects. Each worksheet provides a pre-determined and accurate construction process for the user to follow. Unlike other construction estimating software, this invention has already performed the mundane and time-consuming process of having to create the category worksheet and its' proper construction procedures. The ultimate benefit of this invention is the "simplicity and accuracy of its' sophistication".

With the present invention, steps discussed above for the Trench Drains have already been pre-built. Thus, the user merely follows the pre-determined sequence and enters the appropriate quantities to arrive at the estimated cost. Space is also provided for the user to be able to add new items that may be specific requirements for a particular job.

The present invention provides the contractor with: Pre-built Construction Worksheets; Familiar spreadsheet formatting; Ability to build individual Labor & Equipment Crews for each component of each category item; High user-efficiency within several hours; Constant cost evaluation with every data entry; Fast database pricing adjustment capabilities; Simultaneous multiple project estimating; Automatically prepared Payment Requisitions; and Highly sophisticated and simple navigational features.

As the user completes each of the required worksheets for the project, the totals from that Worksheet are then stored within the program's Summary Tables. It is from these Summary Tables that final Cost Reports and Bid Summaries are produced. Automatic Payment Requisitions can also be produced with the single click of a button. The user is not permitted to edit the requisition's Category Totals. However, he/she can (a) apply Overhead and Profit in one of three- (3) different ways per Category line item, (b) allocate the amount of the current period's billing per Category line item and (c) allocate the amount to be billed for stored materials for each Category line item. Different and distinct individual retainage percentages can also be applied for work completed and for stored materials. Change Order additions and deductions can be made on a per requisition basis and the quantity of requisitions per project is unlimited. The automatic production of a requisition within an estimating software program is unique to this invention. Printed requisitions are also in a form that is acceptable to the construction industry.

There are other unique features to the invention, which are explained in greater detail in the Detailed Description section however they are also listed below.

(a) Detailed Construction Drawings specific to the selected Category Worksheet.

(b) The Toggle Switch Icon activates and deactivates the appearance of the worksheets on the users' screen. When the worksheet viewer is turned off, navigation from worksheet to worksheet automatically opens that corresponding Worksheet's Data dialog box for immediate data entry to take place. The user does not have to activate the Worksheet Data button in the Pricing Column to produce the dialog box for data entry to the worksheet.

(c) Back Button that allows the user to "jump" back-and-forth between the last two previous worksheets opened. (d) Calculator feature that can be activated from either the Main Screen or from within each dialog box that requires data input.

(e) Password protection of projects when in Multiple User Modes.

(f) Powerful Template capabilities allowing the user to perform estimating in an unlimited number of unopened projects from within a single opened project without having to exit the current project and open the others.

(g) Subcontractor and Vendor Tables easily accessed and specific to the Category Worksheet selected.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figure 0.9 illustrates an exemplary computer system on which the program may operate.

Figures 1.0 - 4.0 illustrate an exemplary functional flow chart of the program. Figures 5.0 - 5.1 show two exemplary diagrams of the Main Screen without a project opened.

Figure 5.2 illustrates exemplary options that may be accessed when a pre-built construction worksheet is selected from any of the 16 Construction Category drop-down Menus located within the Tool Bars of Figures 5.0 and 5.1.

Figures 5.3 - 5.11 illustrates accessing various portion of the database, all referred to in Figure 5.2, and describe the individual flow patterns.

Figures 6.0 - 6.2 show exemplary appearances of the Main Screen with a project opened.

Figure 6.3 provides exemplary Main Screen options that may be activated when a pre- built construction worksheet is selected from any of the 16 Construction Category dropdown Menus located within the Tool Bars of Figures 6.0 - 6.2. Figures 6.4 - 6.29 illustrates accessing various portions of the database, all referred to in Figures 5.2 and Figure 6.3.

Figure. 7.0 shows an exemplary logic flow that results in displaying the name of the Project in the Title Bar.

Figure 8.0 explains the operation of the Back Arrow Icon and how the user can go back- and-forth between various Worksheets.

Figures 9.0 and 9.1 illustrate exemplary functions contained within the File Button dropdown Menu.

Figures 10.0-10.6 lists exemplary functions contained within the Summary Button dropdown Menu.

Figure 11.0 lists the functions that may be contained within the Reports Button dropdown Menu.

Figures 12.0-12.3 illustrate exemplary functions contained within the Requisitions Button drop-down Menu.

Figures 13.0-13.8 lists exemplary functions contained within the Administrative Button drop-down Menu.

Figure 14.0 and 14.1 provide exemplary functions contained within the Print Button drop-down Menu.

Figure 15.0 lists functions that may be contained within the Help Button drop-down Menu.

Figure 16.0 displays an exemplary function generated by the License Button. Figure 17.0 displays an exemplary function generated by the Notes Button. Figure 18.0 displays an exemplary function generated by the Toggle Switch Icon and how the user can activate and deactivate the appearance of the selected Construction Category Worksheet on his/her monitor screen. Figure 19.0 displays an exemplary function generated by the E-mail Icon.

Figure 20.0 displays an exemplary function generated by the Calculator Icon.

Figures 21.0 and 22.0 lists the Construction Category Tables, the pre-built Construction

Category Worksheet Tables and the Sub-Category Worksheet Tables that are produced by the buttons located within the Tool Bars shown in Figures 5.0, 5.1 , 6.0, 6.1 and 6.2. These Tables, when selected and activated, produce the corresponding

Worksheet Data entry dialog boxes in the Pricing Column.

Figure 23.0 lists the Project Setup, Summary Sheet, Job Overhead, Subcontractor &

Vendor, Unit Pricing, Category Costs and Reporting Tables. Again these Tables, when selected and activated, produce the corresponding dialog boxes in the Pricing Column and the on-screen Worksheets.

Figure 24 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be used to log on to the program, this dialog box may be called after starting the program as shown in Figure 1.0.

Figure 25 illustrates a sample open project dialog box as shown in the functional diagrams of figures 1.0-4.0.

Figure 26 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to enable a user to create a new folder as illustrated in Figure 1.1.

Figure 27 provides an exemplary dialog warning box that may be called if a user fails to select a project as shown by the functional logic of Figure 1.1.

Figure 28 illustrates a dialog box that may be utilized when creating a new project as shown in the functional flow chart of Figure 1.1.

Figure 29 illustrates a warning dialog box that may be displayed in the event the user attempts to open a new project with a project opened as shown in the functional logic of Figure 1.2. Figure 30 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized by a user to create a template as illustrated in the functional logic shown in Figure 3.0.

Figure 31 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized when a user chooses to delete a template as shown in the functional logic of Figure 3.0.

Figure 32 illustrates a sample warning box that may be utilized to have the user confirm that they wish to delete a project as shown in the functional flow chart of Figure 4.0.

Figure 33 illustrates^ dialog box that may be utilized to notify a user of changes to template tables that are not included in the current project as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 1.2

Figure 34 illustrates an exemplary dialog box with drop down menu that may be displayed as shown in the flow chart of Figure 1.2.

Figure 35 illustrates an exemplary screen capture illustrating the graphic user interface shown in Figure 5.0.

Figure 36 illustrates an exemplary graphic user interface similar to that shown in Figure

35 but with a worksheet open as illustrated in Figure 5.1.

Figure 37 illustrates an exemplary graphic user interface illustrated in Figure 6.0.

Figure 38 illustrates an exemplary graphic user interface similar to that shown in Figure

37, but having a worksheet opened as illustrated in Figure 6.1.

Figure 39 illustrates a graphic user interface similar to that shown in Figures 37 and 38, and as shown in Figure 6.2.

Figure 40 illustrates an exemplary dialog box that can be used to display and/or update unit price used in the current project for a particular material as illustrated in Figure 5.3.

Figure 41 illustrates the unit pricing dialog box of Figure 40, but with the master data base selected to be updated. Figure 42 illustrates an exemplary unit pricing dialog box that may be displayed as illustrated in Figure 5.3 when selecting unit pricing for a particular material when logged on as an administrator without any projects open.

Figure 43 provides a sample job overhead dialog box utilized for displaying and/or updating items reflected in a job in a project's overhead for the current project as illustrated in the flow diagram of Figure 5.4.

Figure 44 provides a sample job overhead dialog box similar to that illustrated in Figure

43, but utilized for updating the master data base.

Figure 45 illustrates a third example of a job overhead dialog box that may be displayed when an administrator is logged on and selects the job overhead as shown in Figure

5.4, but without a project open.

Figure 46 illustrates a sample subcontract and vendor dialog box illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 5.5 utilized for updating the current project.

Figure 47 illustrates a sample subcontract and vendor dialog box shown in Figure 46 but used to update the master data base.

Figure 48 illustrates a sample subcontract and vendor dialog box similar to those shown in Figure 46 and 47, but utilized when a project is not opened to update the master data base.

Figure 49 illustrates a sample labor rates dialog box that may be displayed in the functional flow chart shown in Figure 5.6 and used to update the current projects.

Figure 50 illustrates a sample of labor rates dialog box similar to that shown in Figure

49 and used to update the master data base.

Figure 51 illustrates a sample labor rates dialog box similar to those shown in Figures

49 and 50, but utilized when a project is not opened to update the master data base. Figure 52 illustrates the assembly labor rates dialog box that may be displayed as shown in the flow chart of Figure 5.7 to update the current project.

Figure 53 illustrates a sample assembly labor rates dialog box similar to that shown in

Figure 52 and utilized to update the master data base.

Figure 54 illustrates a sample assembly labor rates dialog box similar to those shown in Figures 52 and 53, and utilized to update the master data base when a project is not opened.

Figure 55 illustrates exemplary equipment rates dialog box that may be displayed as indicated in Figure 5.8 to display and/or update equipment rates for the current project.

Figure 56 illustrates an exemplary equipment rates dialog box similar to that shown in

Figure 55 and used to update the master data base when a project is opened.

Figure 57 illustrates an exemplary equipment rates dialog box similar to those shown in Figures 55 and 56 and used to update the master data base when no project is opened.

Figure 58 illustrates an exemplary additional material pricing dialog box that may be displayed as shown in the functional flow chart of Figure 5.9 and utilized to display/update pricing for the current project.

Figure 59 provides an exemplary additional material pricing dialog box similar to that shown in Figure 58 and utilized to update the master database.

Figure 60 illustrates an additional materials pricing dialog box similar to those shown in

Figures 58 and 59 and utilized to update the master data base when no project is opened.

Figure 61 illustrates an exemplary worksheet data dialog box displayed in the functional flow chart of Figure 5.10 and utilized to display and/or update worksheet data for the current project. Figure 62 illustrates an exemplary worksheet data dialog box similar to that shown in

Figure 61 and utilized to update the master data base when a project is opened.

Figure 63 is a worksheet data dialog box similar to those shown in Figures 61 and 62 and utilized to update the master database when no project is opened.

Figure 64 illustrates a worksheet specific item (wire-woven fabric pricing) that may be displayed as shown in the functional flow chart of Figure 5.11 and utilized to display and/or update pricing for the current project.

Figure 65 illustrates a dialog box similar to that shown in Figure 64 and utilized to update the master data base.

Figure 66 is the dialog box similar to that shown in Figure 64 and 65 and utilized to update the master the data base when a project is not opened.

Figure 67 illustrates a sample additional material worksheet (specifically, sitework) that may be utilized when accessing the additional material as shown in Figure 6.3.1 and utilized to display and/or update information regarding additional material in the current project.

Figure 68 illustrates a dialog box of that similar shown in Figure 67 and utilized to update the master data base when a project is opened.

Figure 69 illustrates a dialog box similar to that shown in Figures 67 and 68 and utilized to update information regarding additional material in the master data base when a project is not opened.

Figure 70 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to add an additional worksheet to the current project as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 6.3.1.

Figure 71 illustrates an exemplary dialog box that may be utilized to delete an additional worksheet as illustrated in the functional flow chart shown in Figure 6.3.1. Figure 72 illustrates an exemplary construction drawing that may be displayed as shown in the functional flow chart of Figure 6.6.

Figure 73 illustrates an exemplary print set up dialog box that may be utilized to select a printer and set margins as provided for in the functional flow chart of Figure 6.6.

Figure 74 illustrates an exemplary screen capture showing worksheet data entered as illustrated in Figure 6.7.

Figure 75 illustrates a sample screen capture showing the right-side of the worksheet after entering the worksheet data illustrated in Figure 74.

Figure 76 illustrates a sample project set of dialog box that may be displayed as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 6.11.

Figure 77 illustrates a sample major subs dialog box that may be displayed as illustrated in the flow chart of Figure 6.23 and utilized to update the current project.

Figure 78 illustrates a dialog box similar to that shown in Figure 77 and utilized to update the master data base.

Figure 79 illustrates an exemplary performance bond dialog box that may be displayed as illustrated in the flow chart of Figure 6.24 and utilized to update the current project.

Figure 80 illustrates a dialog box similar to that illustrated in Figure 79 and utilized to update the master data base.

Figure 81 illustrates an exemplary dialog box that may be utilized to display and/or update percentages utilized in the current project as shown in Figure 6.25.

Figure 82 illustrates a dialog box similar to that shown in Figure 81 and used to utilize the update the master data base.

Figure 83 illustrates an exemplary permit and fees dialog box that may be displayed as illustrated in Figure 6.26 for the current project. Figure 84 illustrates a dialog box similar to that of Figure 83 and utilized to update the master data base.

Figure 85 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to display and/or update miscellaneous adjustments for the current project as illustrated in Figure 6.27.

Figure 86 illustrates an exemplary overhead and profit dialog box that may be displayed as shown in Figure 6.28 and utilized to update the current project.

Figure 87 illustrates a dialog box similar to that shown in Figure 86 and utilized to update the master data base.

Figure 88 illustrates a dialog box that may be utilized to select a project folder when saving a project under a new name as illustrated in Figure 9.0.

Figures 89 and 90 illustrate the selections under the scroll bar and the update box when logged on as an administrator with the project opened and the project was not created using a template, then going to update a particular worksheet as illustrated in the functional logic shown in Figure 10.1.

Figures 91 , 92, and 93 illustrate a similar selection to that shown in Figures 89 and 90, but including a project template when the project was created using a template.

Figure 94 illustrates a template dependencies dialog box that may be utilized to update projects other than the current projects after a template has been updated as illustrated in the functional flow diagram of Figure 10.1 and 10.3.

Figure 95 illustrates an exemplary dialog box utilized in the flow chart of Figure 10.3 when the user is logged on as an authorized user with the project opened, and attempts to update the master data base, this dialog box provides a vehicle.for the user to enter the administrator's password in order to update the master data base.

Figure 96 provides an exemplary screen capture illustrating an open requisition no. 1 as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 12.0. Figure 97 illustrates a screen capture illustrating a payment application status report that may be displayed as illustrated in the functional diagram of Figure 38.

Figure 98 illustrates an exemplary dialog box that permits a user to select a requisition to open as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 12.0.

Figure 99 illustrates an exemplary screen capture of an open requisition no. 2 as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 12.0.

Figure 100 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to enter project dates as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 12.1.

Figure 101 provides a sample dialog box that may be displayed to permit project information be entered as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 12.1.

Figure 102 illustrates an exemplary dialog box that may be utilized to edit change orders as provided for in the functional flow chart of Figure 12.1.

Figure 103 illustrates a sample requisition showing a drop-down dialog box that may be utilized to allocate overhead and profit as illustrated in the functional flow chart of 12.3.

Figure 104 illustrates a data entry dialog box for a category line item for requisition no.

2 as illustrated in the flow chart of Figure 12.3.

Figure 105 illustrates a sample calculator that may aide the user in estimating a building project.

Figure 106 illustrates an exemplary dialog box that may be utilized in establishing program settings.

Figure 107 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to enter project notes.

Figure 108 illustrates a sample copyright and license screen.

Figure 109 displays a sample help screen.

Figure 110 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to enter data for a transmittal letter as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 13.2. Figures 111, 112, and 113 are utilized in selecting the options and description utilized in a transmittal letter generated from the data entered in Figure 110 as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 13.2.

Figure 114 illustrates a sample screen that may be utilized to preview the transmittal document produced as illustrated in Fig 13.2.

Figure 115 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to enter data for a new facsimile as illustrated in the functional flow diagram of Figure 13.3.

Figure 116 illustrates a dialog box that may be utilized to enter data concerning a new telephone number for information as illustrated in the functional flow diagram of Figure

13.3

Figure 117 illustrates a sample window that may be utilized to preview the facsimile document produced as illustrated in the flow diagram of Figure 13.3.

Figure 118 illustrates a dialog box that may be utilized to select a transmittal to letter to open as illustrated in flow diagram of Figure 13.4.

Figure 119 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to enter information and/or review information in the address book as illustrated in the functional diagram of Figure 13.5.

Figure 120 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to import or export an address book as illustrated in the functional flow chart of Figure 13.5.

Figure 121 illustrates a sample window that may be utilized to do a list of the worksheets in use in the current project as provided in the functional flow chart of Figure

13.6.

Figure 122 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to enter company information data into the program as provided for in Figure 13.7. Figure 123 illustrates a sample window that may be utilized to provide a listing of the current users as illustrated in the flow chart of Figure 13.8.

Figure 124 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to add a new user as provided for in flow chart of Figure 13.8.

Figure 125 illustrates a sample dialog box that may be utilized to change the password as provided for in the flow chart of Figure 13.8.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The appearance of the Main Screen remains relatively consistent. This permits easy familiarity for the user. The Main Screen may consist of nine (9) basic parts. They are as follows:

(1) Title Bar

Indicates the Name of the Project selected.

(2) Menu Bar

Provides functions for navigation throughout the program, performing standard File and project organizational procedures, access to Database Tables and Reports, functions for creating Requisitions and Administrative documents relative to each project as well as Print options and access to Help Files and other miscellaneous program features.

(3) Tool Bars (2)

Contains sixteen- (16) Construction Category drop-down Menus. Each drop-down Menu displays a listing of pre-built worksheets contained within that specific category. These pre-built worksheets will then appear on the user's screen when selected.

(4) Worksheet Header

Displays the name of the Category selected along with the name of the Category Worksheet selected. Also located within this header is a Drawing button that, when selected, displays a construction detail that pertains specifically to the current worksheet selected and allows the user to view the construction procedure he/she is currently estimating. It also contains the standard headings for the columns located within the right- hand side of the worksheet when it appears.

(5) Pricing Column

Located within this column are buttons that access Tables from the database. In most cases, these buttons always appear in the same locations and always contain the same text designations; however, the Tables that they access will vary based upon the Category Worksheet selected. Each worksheet requires different and distinct pricing data from the database. When a worksheet is selected, these buttons located in the Pricing Column automatically access the Tables supporting that specific worksheet.

(6) Worksheet Left

When a worksheet is selected, the entire construction estimating process required for that worksheet is displayed on the user's screen within this left-hand section. The information displayed is a combination of pre- coded worksheet-specific static text and formulas that allow the user to immediately view the quantity results of his/her estimating procedures. The data entries made from the dialog boxes produced by the buttons in the Pricing Column are immediately transferred to the Worksheet Left and the pre-built static text and formulas display the results immediately upon the closure of any dialog box. This allows the user to determine if the software performed in the manner in which the user intended it to. If not, then the user can return to the dialog box in the Pricing Column and make the necessary changes. Other software programs do not allow for this on- the-spot checking procedure with this particular high level of ease and sophistication.

(7) Worksheet Right

The Worksheet Right is also a visual display only. Here is where all totals from the data entry to the Worksheet Left are performed. The Worksheet Right also consists of static text and formulas. The formulas contained in this section access and display data entered on the Worksheet Left and then performs automatic calculations that arrive at the total costs for Material, Equipment and Labor for each respective item or line on the worksheet. Once again this allows the user to immediately view the cost results of his/her estimating procedures.

(8) Totals Bar

Listed at the right side of this bar, and in line with the Material, Equipment and Labor columns in the Worksheet Right are totals of all Material, Equipment and Labor costs that were estimated on the worksheet. The are also automatically updated after any dialog box is closed and, again, allow the user to immediately review his/her estimating procedures on- the-spot and itemized accordingly.

(9) Pricing Window

Last of all, the Pricing Window, located at the bottom of the Pricing Column is also specific to the worksheet selected. The Pricing Window displays two distinct numbers, (a) The sum of the Material, Equipment and Labor cost totals from the Totals Bar and (b) the Unit Cost of the item being estimated. The worksheet item's Unit Cost is derived by dividing the Worksheet's total estimated costs by a specific quantity drawn from the Worksheet Left. This unit designation and quantity is different on each worksheet and is usually pulled from different locations on each respective worksheet.

Figure 0.9 illustrates an exemplary computer system 10 that may be utilized to operate the program 100. As is well known in the art, computer system 10 comprises a central processor 11 , an input/output controller 12, a keyboard 18, a pointing device

17 (e.g., a mouse, track ball, pen device, or the like), a display device 16, and a mass storage 15 (e.g., hard or fixed disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, flash memory,

CD-ROM, or DVD). Processor 11 may include or be coupled to a cache or an external cache (as shown). Additional input/output devices, such as a printing device 14, may be included in system 10 as desired. As shown, the various components of system 10 communicate through a system bus or similar architecture.

Figure 1.0 illustrates an example of the functional flow for program 100 that begins at start 102. The program 100 may allow the user to select either a "single" user mode or a multiple user mode.

When the program 100 is in the "single" user mode (multiple user option deselected in "Program Settings" dialog 10600 (Figure 106)) the program initializes in block 104. Thereafter, an "Open A Project" dialog 2500 (Figure 25) may be displayed in block 1100. Once the program has been configured with the Multiple User option active, as shown in the "Program Settings" dialog 10600, the program initialized in block 106. Thereafter, the user may enter a user name in a dialog box. When greater data security and integrity are desired or required, the user may be required to enter both a user name and password in blocks 108 and 110. One method to enter the user name and password is a dialog similar to "Logon" dialog 2400 (Figure 24). This dialog provides text box 2406 for entry of the user name and text box 2408 to entry of the password.

When the user selects/clicks on ok button 2402 in block 112, the data in text boxes 2406 and 2408 is verified using standard logon routines. After the program verifies that the data enter represents an authorized user, an "Open A Project" dialog 2500 may be displayed in block 1100. Alternatively, the user may activate the "cancel" button 2404 and the program ends in blocks 114 and 116. If the data entered is incorrect, the program may return to blocks 108 and 110 or may exit at block 116

Figure 1.1 provides an exemplary functional flow diagram for the various functions available to the user within the "Open a Project" dialog 2500. This dialog box may permit the user to select, create, or delete a Project Folder; select, create, or delete a project; or create or delete a template.

With the "Open a Project" dialog 2500 open the user may select the options menu item 2502 represented by block 1102. Upon activation of the menu item preferably a drop-down menu would be displayed that would illustrate the option menu choices for project folders, templates, and projects amongst others. Selecting project folders would move the program flow to project folders block 2000, selecting templates would move the program flow to templates block 3000, and selecting projects would move the program flow to projects block 4000.

When the user desires to select an existing project, the user typically selects the appropriate project folder in block 1104 utilizing the text box 2504. This text box lists the current project folders. Upon selecting a particular project folder in text box 2504, the program displays, in text box 2508, a list of projects contained in the folder selected in text box 2504. The user may then use the mouse or keyboard to select a project to open in block 1106. After selecting a particular project in block 1106, information about that particular project may be displayed in text boxes 2512, 251 and 2516. To open the selected project the user may double click on that project as indicated in block 1200, or may click ok button 2518 as shown in block 1202.

If the user selects ok prior to selecting a project folder and/or selecting a project program flow moves to block 1108. Thereafter, the program in block 1110 may display a warning dialog 2700 (Figure 27). To acknowledge the warning the user selects the ok button 2702 and the program flow in block 1112 returns to the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 at block 1100.

When the user wishes to move to the main screen without opening a project the cancel button 2520 is selected and block 5000 moves the program flow to the main screen without opening a project.

The user can create a new folder in block 1116 by selecting the new folder button 2506. Thereafter, a new project folder dialog 2600 may be displayed. This dialog box permits the user to enter a new project name in text box 2602 as indicated in block 1118. When the user selects the ok button 2604 the project folder is created in ok block 1120. Alternatively, if the user does not desire to create a new project folder they may select the cancel button 2606 and cancel block 1122 will return to the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 at block 1100.

A new project may be created in block 1300 by the user selecting the new project button 2510 as discussed below in Figure 1.3.

Figure 1.2 illustrates an exemplary functional flow chart illustrating the program flow after the user selects a project in box 1106 and clicked ok in box 1202 or double clicked 1200 on a particular project displayed in text box 2508 of the "Open A Project" dialog 2500. Two flow paths are outlined based upon whether the user is trying to open a new project with an existing project already open or with no projects open. When an existing project is already open, the program flow moves to block 1210, however when no project is open the program flow moves to block 1250 to enable the user to open the selected project. The current program only permits a single project be opened at a time, however it is anticipated that it would be within the ordinary skill of the art to modify the program to allow multiple projects to be opened in multiple windows.

Since the current program only permits a single project to be open at a time, it is preferred in block 1212 to display warning dialog box 2900. This dialog box provides the user three button choices, a yes button 2902, no button 2904, and cancel button 2906. When the user selects the yes button 2902 the program flow in block 1214 saves the existing project and returns the program flow to the "Open A Project" dialog box 2500 discussed above. When the user selects the no button 2904, the program flow in block 1216 moves directly to "Open A Project" box 1100 without saving the current project. When the user selects the cancel button 2906, the program flow in block 1218 returns the user to the main screen of the open project.

If there are no existing Projects open in block 1250, then two other flow paths are provided. If the user is trying to open a Project that was created without the use of a Template, the project is automatically opened in blocks 1252 and 1254.

If the project was created using a template, the program flow moves to block 1260. When the user is trying to open a project that was created with the use of a template, and no revisions have been made to that template since the project was last opened, the project is automatically opened in blocks 1262 and 1264. If the user is trying to open a project that was created with the use of a template, and revisions have been made to that template since the project was last opened, then block 1270 displays a Template Tables Modified dialog 3300. Utilizing dialog 3300 the user can evaluate whether or not to update this project with the modifications that have been made to that template or proceed with opening the project without accepting the Template Table Modifications. Before making this decision the user may view the contents of the Project Tables and the Template Tables.

To view the contents of either the current project tables or the modified template tables, the user right clicks on the modified template displayed in text box 3308. The right clicking on the table results in the display of a drop down menu 3310 (Figure 34) by block 1272. Thereafter, the user may select either a project table to view or a template table to view. Upon selecting a project table from drop-down menu 3310 block 1274 would display the project table for viewing purposes only. Thereafterthe user may close that display by selecting a close button and close block 1278 returns the user to the block 1270 and display the "Template Modification Detected" dialog 3300. If the user selects a template table from drop-down menu 3310 then block 1276 would open the template table for viewing purposes only. Once the user had completed his review of the information contained therein, the user could close the display window and block 1280 returns the program flow to block 1270 and "Template Modification Detected" dialog 3300 would again be displayed.

Using the text box 3308 of dialog 3300 the user can select which if any of the modified template tables the user wishes to incorporate into the current project. After selecting which template tables, if any, to update in the current project the user may click the ok button 3304 and the program flow in block 1282 would either update the tables selected in block 1284 or if no tables were selected for updating, then block 1286 would open a project without updating any template tables. Alternatively, the user may select the cancel button 3306 which in block 1288 opens the project without updating any of the template tables.

Figure 1.3 provides an exemplary flow chart for the Creating a New Project in block 1300 called from the Open a Project box 1100 by selecting new project button 2510 on the "Open a Project" dialog 2500. The create new project block 1300 displays the "New Project" dialog 2800 shown in Figure 28. New Project dialog 2800 permits the user to enter a new project name in text box 2802. The user may also protect the project from changes by other users by placing a checkmark in checkbox 2804 and entering a password in block 2806. When a Project is Password protected, other users are able to access the Project but they are prohibited from making changes to that Project unless they have access to or knowledge of the password that was used when the Project was created.

When the user places a check in checkbox 2808, the project is created using a template in block 1302. If the user leaves checkbox 2808 empty or unchecked, then the project would be created without using a template in block 1304. The user may select the cancel button 2818 at any time whereupon the program flow moves to the open project block 1100 where the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 is displayed. When the user places a check in checkbox 2804 the password text box 2806 is activated in block 1308. Similarly, when the user places a check in check block 2808 the text box 2810 with a scroll button would be activated and the existing templates would be displayed in text box 2810. Checkbox 2812 provides the user with the ability to prevent other users from making changes to that template by placing a check in checkbox 2812 and a password in text box 2814.

After entering data in the appropriate text boxes and checking the appropriate checkboxes, the user may select the ok button 2816. Upon selecting the ok button 2816 the project is created and stored for display in the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 with blocks 1310 and 1312. Thereafter, block 1100 displays the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 where the user may now select the newly created project by utilizing the project folders text box 2504 and the projects text box 2508 as previously discussed.

Figure 2.0 again continues the program flow from the Open a Project dialog box in Figure 1.1 and illustrates the procedure for creating, deleting and renaming Project Folders via the Options menu 2502 of dialog box 2500. Preferably, folders can not be deleted if projects exist within them. The projects are first deleted and then the folder deleted. This protects the user from accidentally deleting a much-needed project when accidentally selecting the wrong folder to delete.

Blocks 2002, 2010, 2012, and 2014 duplicate the functional program flow discussed above for blocks 1116, 1118, 1120, and 1122 of Figure 1.1 respectively. Additionally, if the user clicks ok button 2604 without entering a project folder numeric text box 2602, then a warning dialog may be displayed in block 2006. If a warning is displayed then the user may acknowledge the warning in block 2008.

When the user desires to delete a folder, the user selects a folder in text box 2504 of "Open A Project" dialog box 2500. If the selected folder contains projects, the program flow continues from block 2020. When the selected folder does not contain projects the program flow continues from block 2024. In either event, the user may select delete existing folder from the projects submenu in the options menu 2502. This selection is represented by either block 2022 or 2026. If the folder does not contain any projects the program flow returns to the "Open A Project" dialog box 2500 with the folder deleted. If the folder contains projects then the program flow may move to block 2028 to display a warning dialog in block 2028. The warning dialog informs the user that the projects in the folder must be deleted before deleting the folder. If a warning dialog is displayed, the user acknowledges the warning in block 2030. Thereafter, the program flow returns to dialog 2500.

The user may rename the folder selected in text box 2504 of "Open A Project" dialog 2500 with the program flow beginning at block 2040. Thereafter, the user selects the rename existing folder command from the project folder submenu of the options menu 2502. Upon selecting this command, a dialog box similar to that shown in Figure 26 may be provided for the user to enter the new name for the project folder in text box 2602.

Figure 3.0 again continues from the Open a Project dialog box in Fog. 1.1 and illustrates the procedure for creating and deleting Templates via the Options menu 2502 at the top of dialog box 2500. When a project template is created, the user can create the template with or without the use of password protection. When a project template is password protected, other users are able to access the template but they are prohibited from making changes to that template unless they have access to or knowledge of the password that was used when the project template was created. A project template used to create a project can not be deleted if the project created with that template still exists. The project must first be deleted before the project template can be deleted. This protects the user from accidentally deleting the project template database that supports an existing and possibly much needed project. Also, if a project template was created with password protection, entry of the password is required before the template can be deleted. This protects the creator of the project template from having their template deleted by another user who accidentally or. intentionally tried to delete it.

When the user selects the delete template command from the template submenu vice the options menu 2502, the exemplary functional flow begins at block 3002 and the select template to delete dialog 3100 may be displayed. Thereafter, the user selects which template to delete in block 3004. If there are not any projects using the template then when the user selects the delete button 3102 the selected template is deleted in blocks 3006 and 3008 and the user is returned to the "Open A Project" dialog 2500.

If the user selects a template to delete that is utilized in one or more projects, then the program functional flow moves through blocks 3010 and 3014 to block 3018 which may display a warning message. This warning message could inform the user that one or more projects were utilizing the template. Preferably, a list of projects that utilized the template would be provided. Thereafter the user may select ok in block 3020 to return to block 3004 and display the select a template to delete dialog 3100 without deleting the template. Alternatively, the user may select close in block 3016 where the selected template is deleted and the user is returned to the "Open A Project" dialog 2500.

Selecting the close button 3104 returns the user to the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 without deleting any templates with block 3012.

When the user selects the create template command from the template submenu, the create a new template dialog 3050 may be displayed in block 3030. Thereafter, the user enters a name for the template in text box 3052 as illustrated at block 3032. The user may select the cancel button 3059 at any time to return to the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 as shown in block 3034.

The user may also password protect the template in block 3036 by selecting check box 3054 and entering a password in text box 3056. To create the template, the user selects the ok button 3058 which creates the template and returns the user to the "Open A Project" block 1100 with blocks 3038 and 3040. Figure 4.0 again continues from the Open a Project dialog box in Figure 1.1 and explains the procedure for creating, deleting and renaming projects via the Options menu 2502 at the top of dialog box 2500. When a project is created, the user can create the project with or without the use of password protection. When a project is password protected, other users are able to access the project but they are prohibited from making changes to that project unless they have access to or knowledge of the password that was used when the project was created. This protects the creator of the project from having their project deleted by another user who accidentally or intentionally tried to delete it.

The user may be provided with the ability to rename projects, delete projects and create new projects from a project submenu called from the options menu 2502. The user may select a project in the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 utilizing text boxes 2504 and 2508 as indicated in block 4002. Alternatively, a separate dialog box may be employed after selecting the particular menu command.

When the user selects the rename command from the projects submenu in block 4004, a dialog box with a text box may be displayed that would permit the user to enter a new project name. Alternatively, a dialog similar to the new project dialog 2800 may be employed. To open the rename project the user may select enter followed by ok in blocks 4006 and 4008. Alternatively, the user may select cancel to open the main screen without a project opened.

When the user selects the delete existing project command from the projects submenu vice the options menu 2502 in block 4012, then the program determines if the project is password protected in blocks 4014 and 4022. If the project is not password protected, then a warning dialog 3200 may be displayed to confirm that the file selected in block 4002 should be deleted. When the user selects the yes button 3202 in block 4018, the selected project is deleted and the user returned to the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 in block 1100. Alternatively, the user may select the no button 3204 to return to the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 without deleting the file.

If the project is password protected, the functional flow continues from block 4022. Thereafter, the user must enter the project's password in order to delete the project. Alternatively, the program may only permit the user who created the project to delete the project. When the password protected project is being deleted by a user with the password or the user who created the project in block 4024, the functional flow continues to blocks 4016, 4018, and 4020 as discussed above. If the user is not authorized to delete the project in block 4026, then a warning may be displayed in block 4028 before returning the user to the "Open A Project" dialog 2500 with block 1100.

When the user selects the create new project command on the projects submenu via the options menu 2502, in block 4030 the functional flow illustrated in Figure 1.3 may be executed to create a new project.

Figure 5.0 represents an exemplary functional illustration of the Main Screen 5000 without a project opened where the Main Worksheet Left 5010 and Right 5020 sections of the screen along with certain buttons and functions are deactivated or inaccessible. It is from this screen that the Administrator can enter the Master Database and make any material and labor pricing revisions or worksheet structure revisions that are necessary without entering a project. A sample screen capture of the main screen without a project opened 5000 is shown in Figure 35.

Figure 5.1 represents an exemplary functional illustration of the Main Screen 5000 without projects opened but with a Worksheet open. Again from this screen, the Administrator can enter the Master database and make any material and labor pricing revisions or worksheet structure revisions that are necessary without entering a project. This screen also shows the interaction between the worksheet that is selected and how the selection of a worksheet directly affects other functions contained on the screen. Figure 36 illustrates a sample screen capture of main screen 5000 without a project open, but with a worksheet open.

Once a worksheet is selected, all functions within the Worksheet Header become activated. The Category that the worksheet was selected from now becomes named and visible and the Name of the Worksheet selected is also listed. The Drawing button 5032 located in the Worksheet Header 5030, when selected, will now produce a detailed construction 7200 (Figure 72) detail of the construction item being estimated on the selected worksheet.

The Worksheet Data button 5042 appears in the Pricing column 5040 and is specific to estimating the worksheet selected and applying data into the Worksheet Left 5010. Worksheet Specific buttons 5044 now appear beneath the Worksheet Data button 5042 in the Pricing Column 5040 and have specific names and access portions of the Master Database that apply to the worksheet selected. Revisions made to prices within these material database tables are applied to not only the worksheet that is selected but are also applied to any other worksheets where that same material item has been used.

The Worksheet Left 5010 and Worksheet Right 5020 sections of the screen now appear. The Worksheet Left 5010 shows the results of all data entries from the Worksheet Data dialog box and the Worksheet Right 5020 seeks out data entries in the Worksheet Left 5010 and performs calculations that create the Material 5020, Labor 5054 and Equipment Totals 5056 for the worksheet selected.

Material 5052, Equipment 5054 and Labor Totals 5056 from the Worksheet Right 5020 now appear in the Totals Bar 5050 at the bottom of the screen. The worksheet's Total Cost 5046 and the Unit Cost 5048 of the item being estimated now appear in the Pricing Window 5045 at the bottom of the Pricing Column 5040. The Subs and Vendors button 5041 located in the Pricing Column 5040 also produces the specific Subcontractor and Vendor Worksheet 4600 (Figure 48) for the specific Category that was selected.

The Unit Pricing 5058 button in the Tool Bar 5050 allows the user access to any of the other Material Pricing database items at any time regardless of what worksheet the user has selected. Revisions made to prices within these material database tables are applied to any worksheets where that material item has or is being used.

The Job Overhead button 5043 in the Pricing Column 5040 allows the user access to the Job Overhead worksheet 4300 (Figure 45) for the Project at any time regardless of what worksheet the user has selected.

The Labor Rates 5047, Assembly Labor 5049, Equipment Rates 5061 and Additional Material buttons 5062 located in the Pricing Column 5040 access those specific tables in the Master Database and, again, are accessible at anytime regardless of what worksheet the user has selected. Revisions made to prices within these material, equipment and labor database tables are applied to not only the worksheet that is selected but are also applied to any other worksheets where those specific items are being used.

It becomes quite evident, even at this early stage that, not only are selected pre- built worksheets already constructed for the user, but when activated, bring all database related items pertaining to that worksheet to the user instead of the user having to go and search for them. Finally, based upon the resolution setting of the user's monitor, if the worksheet is larger than the screen, vertical 5002 and horizontal scroll bars appear that allow the user viewing access to all portions of both sides of the worksheet. Only the Worksheet Left 5010 and Worksheet Right 5020 sections uniformly scroll. All other portions of the AB2000 Main Screen remain visible on the user's monitor and remain accessible.

Figure 5.2 is a functional chart that diagrams related functions and relationships that occur when a worksheet is selected from one of the Construction Categories 5071 within Tool Bar C 5070 illustrated in Figures 5.0 and 5.1. When the user selects one of the construction categories 5071 , for example, demolitions, a list of category items 5072 is displayed. The list of category items may contain both pre-named and user named category items. Each category item 5072 may provide users a list of sub- category worksheets 5074. The selection of a sub-category worksheet opens that worksheet and displays associated pricing options available for master database revisions to the corresponding worksheet. Figures 21 and 22 provide exemplary lists of category items and sub-category worksheets. Two examples of accessing portions of the master database related to a particular worksheet are the functions provided by the worksheet data button 5042 discussed below with Figure 5.10 and the worksheet specific buttons discussed below with Figure 5.11. Figure 5.2 illustrates that other functions provided in totals bar 5050 and pricing column 5040 may directly open portions of the master database without opening a worksheet. Examples of these functions are discussed below for Figures 5.3 - 5.11, 6.12 and 6.22.

Figures 5.3 - 5.11 all continue from Figures 5.0, 5.1 , or 5.2 and pertain to the pricing tables found within the Master Database and how they perform when activated. It is important to note that, even though each figure pertains to it's own specific portion of the Master Database, all figures follow the similar procedural functions that maintain continuity and consistency throughout the program. In all cases, the dialog boxes perform their functions in one of four different ways depending upon whether: (1 ) The Administrator is accessing them with project open blocks 5310 and 5314. (see discussion below for Figure 10.1); (2) the Administrator is accessing them without project open blocks 5310 and 5313. (see discussion below for Figure 10.2); (3) an Authorized User is accessing them with project open blocks 5320 and 5322 (see discussion below for Figure 10.3); or (4) an Authorized User is accessing them without project open blocks 5320 and 5324. (see discussion below for Figure 10.4).

Figure 5.3 illustrates the functional flow that occurs when the user selects the unit pricing button 5058 on the total bar 5050. The user would then select the unit pricing table to view and/or edit. For example, the user may select concrete and accessories 5302. An exemplary list of unit pricing tables is illustrated in Figure 23.0. Alternatively, the unit pricing table associated with the open worksheet would be displayed. Thereafter, the user may select a sub-table 5304, if provided. Some sub- tables may have further sub-tables 5306. An example of a unit pricing table displayed without a project open is shown in Figure 42.

Figure 5.4 illustrates the functional flow that occurs when the user selects the job overhead button 5043 on pricing column 5040. When button 5043 is selected a job overhead dialog block 5402 may display or call a dialog window 4300 shown in Figure 45 when no project is open.

Figure 5.5 provides a functional flow diagram of the events associated with selecting the subs and vendors button 5041. This button provides a menu list of work categories 5070 for the user to select from. For example, the user may select foundations 5025 or furnishings 5504. After the user selects the specific category, a subcontractor and vendor dialog may be displayed. Alternatively, if a worksheet is open then the subcontractors and vendors dialog 4600 associated with the open worksheet could be displayed. The exemplary subcontractors and vendors dialog 4600 shown in Figure 48 may be displayed if the user selected furnishings 5504 and a project is not open.

Figure 5.6 provides a functional flow diagram of the events associated with selecting the labor rates button 5047. Selecting this button without a project open calls and/or displays the labor rates from master dialog 4902. An example of which is illustrated in Figure 51.

Figures 5.7 - 5.11 provide similar functional flow diagrams of the events associated with selecting respectively the assembly labor 5049, equipment rates 5061 , additional material 5062, worksheet data, or worksheet specific buttons 5044. These buttons call and/or display their associated dialogs. For example, assembly labor rates from master 5202, shown in Figure 54; equipment rates from master 5502 shown in Figure 57; additional materials pricing from master 5802 shown in Figure 60; concrete slab on grade type A from master 6102 (associated with the concrete floor category - concrete slab on grade sub-category - slab on grade type A worksheet) illustrated in Figure 63; and wire woven fabric pricing from master (worksheet specific) dialog 6402 shown in Figure 66.

Figure 6.0 shows an exemplary functional diagram of a Main Screen 6000 with a project opened but without a Worksheet open. A screen capture of main screen 6000 is illustrated in Figure 37. Again, those functions that are directly related to the Worksheet, such as the Main Worksheet Left 5010 and Right 5020 sections of the screen along with certain buttons and functions are once again deactivated or inaccessible. Additionally, the project name may be displayed as a user reference in text box 6002. Figure 6.1 shows functional diagram of the Main Screen 6000 with a project opened and with a Worksheet open. All functions within the entire program are now all activated.

Figure 6.2 shows functional diagram of the Main Screen 6000 with a project opened and with the Summary Sheet opened. The Summary Sheet is where the user puts the finishing touches on their estimate. This Summary Sheet is accessible from any worksheet in the program by activating the Summary button 6004 at the top of the Pricing Column 5040. This fast and consistent means of access allows the user to immediately review their final costs at any time. All functions found on the Summary Sheet are identical to those found on all other worksheet screens except that the Worksheet Specific buttons found on the worksheet screens change to the following: Major Subcontractors Pricing 6006; Performance Bond Pricing 6008; Percentages required for Sales Tax and Tools/Equipment 6010; Permits and Fees 6012; Final Adjustments (last minute quick adds/deducts) 6014; and Overhead and Profit Application 6016. These buttons aid a contractor in preparing cost estimates for the final bid.

Figure 6.3 in a process similar to that described in Figure 5.2, is a flow chart that diagrams all related functions and relationships that occur when any of the worksheets are selected from any of the 16 Construction Categories 5071 within Tool Bar C 5070 from Figure 6.0, Figure 6.1 and Figure6.2.

Figure 6.3.1 illustrates the process employed to create and delete customized worksheets when a project is open in block 6302. If a project is not open this feature maybe disabled as shown in block 6304. To add or delete a worksheet the user selects the additional worksheets menu item 6301 shown in Figure 6.3. There are two flow patterns involved with this process: (1) If the user is creating or deleting an Additional Worksheet when previous Additional Worksheets have been created beginning at block 6310 and (2) If the user is creating or deleting an Additional Worksheet when previous Additional Worksheet have not been created beginning at block 6350. The differences between the two flow diagrams is that the delete additional worksheet option is deactivated when no additional worksheets have been created.

Additional Worksheets can be created from within any of the (16) Construction Category 5070 drop-down Menus. The option for creating Additional Worksheets 6301 maybe found at the bottom of the drop-down Menu listings when a user selects the additional worksheets 6301 menu item. The user may be given the choice of one or two submenu items, for example: add a worksheet represented by block 6312 and delete a worksheet represented by block 6330. When the user selects the add worksheet menu item an add an additional worksheet dialog 7000 may be displayed, an example of which is shown in Figure 70. When an Additional Worksheet is created, the user has the ability to select one of eight standard templates to use and can apply whatever name they choose to that Additional Worksheet in textbox 7002. Once the Additional Worksheet template type has been selected, named, and the user selects ok button 7006, the newly created worksheet listing will automatically appear within the Category drop-down Menu in which it was initially created. Preferably, after selecting the ok button 7006 in block 6320 the dialog 6700 associated with the new worksheet would be displayed in block 6322. An exemplary additional dialog 6700 is illustrated in Figure 67. The user may enter data into the worksheet at this point in block 6324 or simply review the worksheet created. Thereafter, the user may exit the worksheet and save any changes made to either the current project, the template, or the master data base depending on the selection made in drop down text box 6708 by selecting the ok button 6704 in block 6326. Alternatively, the user could select the cancel button 6706 to exit without saving any changes in block 6308. If the user elects not to create the worksheet after dialog 7000 is displayed the user selects the cancel button 7008 to return to the main screen 6000 at block 6329.

In blocks 6310, 6330 and 6332 a delete an additional worksheet dialog 7100 may be displayed. An exemplary dialog 7100 is illustrated in Figure 71. The dialog 7100 shown provides a list 7102 of the additional worksheets that have been added and provides a check box 7109 to aid the user in designating the specific worksheets to delete. The user may select the check box 7109 associated with the worksheets that the user decides to delete in block 6336. In some embodiments, a select all button 7104 may be provided so that the user may select for deletion all of the worksheets listed in list 7102 in block 6334.

If the user defines to exit without deleting any worksheets, the user selects the cancel button 7108 in block 6346. When the user has completed making the selections in blocks 6334 and 6336 and is ready to delete the selected worksheets the user selects the ok button 7106 in block 6338. Thereafter, an optional warning may be displayed in block 3340. Thereafter, the use clicks a yes button to delete the selected worksheets in block 6344 or clicks a no button to return to the main screen 6000 in block 6342.

Now all the user has to do to access that worksheet in the future is to "click" on that worksheet listing in the drop-down Menu and the worksheet will automatically appear on the screen. If the user would decide to delete the Additional Worksheet, then that corresponding worksheet listing is automatically removed from it's drop-down Menu. The Additional Worksheet feature is deactivated if a project is not currently open. The quantity of Additional Worksheets that can be created within Each of the (16) Construction Categories is unlimited. Figure 6.4 illustrates that when a worksheet is selected from any of the (16) Construction Category 5071 drop-down Menus, the name of that corresponding Category is automatically listed in the Worksheet Header D 5030 in block 5034.

Figure 6.5 shows that when a worksheet is selected from any of the (16) Construction Category 5071 drop-down Menus, the name of that Category Worksheet is automatically listed in the Worksheet Header D 5030 in block 5036.

Figure 6.6 shows that once a worksheet has been opened, the Drawing button 5032 located in the Worksheet Header D 5030 becomes activated and, when selected, produces a detailed construction drawing 7200 (Figure 72) in blocks 6601 , 6602, 6604, and 6606 that describes the construction process that is taking place on the Category Worksheet that has been selected. These construction drawings, if the user so chooses, can remain viewable on the screen while they are performing estimating procedures on the worksheet. Hard color copies of these detailed construction drawings can also be printed using the print menu 7202 in block 6608. The print menu 7202 may display a submenu that permits the user to select print setup or print. The drawing would be printed at block 6614 and the user display would return to the construction drawing 7200. If the user selected the print setup command, the flow moves to block 6612 where a printer setup dialog is displayed. An exemplary dialog 7300 illustrated in Figure 73 may be displayed. The dialog 7300 shown enables the user to select the printer with drop down text box 7304 in block 6614 and set the merging in text boxes 7302 in block 6616. Thereafter, the user may cancel the changes made and return to the drawing 7200 in block 6620 or save the changes and return to the print setup dialog 7300 in block 6618. Other print setup dialogs are well within the ordinary skill in the art given the disclosure provided herein. Figure 6.7 and Figure 6.8 display flow patterns and results of data entry that occur on the Worksheet Left 5010 and Worksheet Right 5020 portions of the screen. These worksheet visual displays are also specifically related to the Construction Category 5071 Worksheet that has been selected and are visual representations only, that show the user the results of their estimating procedures on that particular worksheet. If a project has not been opened or if a project has been opened but a worksheet has not yet been selected, then these visual representations are deactivated and do not appear. Once a project is opened and a worksheet is selected, both worksheet visual displays are activated and become visible to the user. The location of these worksheet displays can be seen in Figure 5.0, Figure 5.1 , Figure 6.0, Figure 6.1 and Figure 6.2. The following description provides the details about the events occurring within both of these visual displays:

In Figure 6.7, the Worksheet Left 5010 is a combination of static text and hard- coded worksheet formulas. The static text indicates the names of the worksheet components, the type of unit involved, the unit per time period headings, worker and equipment headings and equipment and labor type headings. The hard-coded worksheet formulas derive their contents from the tables that contain the results of the data entry from the Worksheet Data dialog boxes. It is within this section of the visual display that the user can view the actual step-by-step estimating procedure. They can view the actual estimating formulas that will calculate and produce the quantity of Material, the estimated hours of Equipment and the estimated hours of Labor for each individual component item of the worksheet. Each worksheet that is selected is distinct and different from the other and the nomenclature of the static text and the functions and locations of the formulas within the Worksheet Left 5010 appear in different places on all worksheets. Once data has been entered into the Worksheet Data dialog box (discussed below) and the user closes the dialog box, whatever data was entered is immediately transferred to the Worksheet Left 5010 and all formulas perform immediate calculations. It is at this point that the user can review the results of their data entries and can determine whether or not they have made any mistakes. Other estimating programs leave the user unsure as to whether the estimating process they chose performed calculations and estimating procedures in the manner in which they had intended. A screen capture for an exemplary worksheet left 5010 is illustrated in Figure 74.

Figure 6.8, the Worksheet Right 5020, is the second half of the visual display. This worksheet portion consists of either hard-coded formulas that obtain their results from a multitude of locations or tables throughout the program or cells that receive information being sent to them from formulas located in the Worksheet Left 5010 portion of the screen. The Quantity and Unit column formulas take information that was placed into the Worksheet Left 5010 and either transfer previously calculated totals directly into their cells or their formulas perform calculations on various pieces of information found in the Worksheet Left 5010 to arrive at the required totals. The Unit Price column contains formulas that derive their contents from many different tables, that contain the results of data entry into Labor Rates, Assembly Labor, Equipment Rates, Additional Material, and Unit Pricing dialog boxes. The Total Material Cost, the Total Equipment Cost and the Total Labor Cost columns contain simple formulas that search for the results found in the Quantity and Unit Price columns and calculate the corresponding total dollar costs for Each line item. The results of the estimated costs found within these three columns are then automatically added by column and their corresponding totals are then displayed in the Totals Bar 5050 at the bottom of the screen, as further described in Figure 6.12. From the Totals Bar 5050 the three cost totals are then added together and transferred to the Pricing Window 5045 located at the bottom of the Pricing Column 5040, as further described in Figure 6.22. Each worksheet that is selected is distinct and different from the other and the locations of the formulas within the Worksheet Right 5020 appear in different places on all worksheets. Once again, as discussed in the Figure 6.7, the user can review the results of their data entries and can determine whether or not they have made any mistakes because calculations are performed as soon as the Worksheet Data dialog box is closed. A screen capture of an exemplary Worksheet Right 5020 is illustrated in Figure 75.

Figure 6.9 is a continuation of Figure 6.0, Figure 6.1 and Figure 6.2 and shows the method of selecting one of the material Unit Pricing dialog boxes found within the program. This Unit Pricing button 5058 is also accessible from Figure 5.0 and Figure 5.1 and the function that occurs in those two figures was previously discussed above for Figure 5.3. The button 5058 that accesses these dialog boxes can be found located within the Totals Bar 5050 at the bottom of the screen 6000. The user can access these material-pricing tables at anytime, regardless of the worksheet they have selected. This enables the user to modify his/her material-pricing tables in the Master Database and change material pricing on all worksheets used in the entire estimate without leaving the worksheet they are currently on. Again, it is important to note that, even though each dialog box references it's own specific portion of the Master Database, all dialog boxes follow the similar procedural functions that maintain continuity and consistency throughout the program. The dialog boxes perform their functions in one of four different ways depending upon whether: (1) The Administrator is accessing them with project open blocks 5310 and 5314 (see discussion below for Figure 10.1); (2) the Administrator is accessing them without project open blocks 5310 and 5312 (see discussion below for Figure 10.2); (3) an Authorized User is accessing them with project open blocks 5320 and 5322 (see discussion below for Figure 10.3); or (4) An Authorized User is accessing them without project open blocks 5320 and 5324 (see discussion below for Figure 10.4).

Figure 6.10 continues from Figures 6.0, 6.1 and 6.2 and illustrates how the user, once a project has been opened, can review their estimated Category Costs 5051 from any place in the program without leaving the worksheet that they currently have selected. These cost reports may be static, i.e. changes in the worksheet do not cause changes in the displayed report or dynamic. The current program displays static cost reports to enhance the response time of the overall program. When the users select the category costs button 5051 , block 6110 provides a category menu 6116 that enables the user to display a variety of cost reports. If a project has not been opened then access to Category Costs is deactivated in blocks 6112 and 6114. The Category Cost reports, when selected, are displayed on the screen in worksheet form and provides the user with itemized results of the following estimated costs within the category selected: Subcontractor Costs; Vendor Costs; Material Costs; Material Tax Labor Costs; Trucking Costs; Tools and Equipment Costs. Once again, from anywhere in the program with the click of a button, the user has access to itemized construction costs per Construction Category 5070 and per Construction Category Worksheet.

Figure 6.11 also continues from Figures 6.0, 6.1 and 6.2, illustrates the functional flow pattern caused by selecting the Project Setup button 5053 located in the Totals Bar 5050 at the bottom of the screen. When a project is open and the user selects the project setup button 5053 a project setup dialog 7600 may be displayed in block 6120. An exemplary dialog 7600 is illustrated in Figure 76. Thereafter, the flow moves through blocks 6122 or6123 (depending on how the user has logged on to the system) and 6126 to block 6128 where the user may enter data into one or more of the text boxes in dialog 7600. In the one embodiment, the current program the user must first enter the project size in text box 7602 at block 6130 and click the apply button before entering any other data into the dialog 7600. In other embodiments the user may enter all the relevant data in sections 7602, 7604, 7606, 7608, and 7610 at blocks 6130, 6132, 6134, 6136, and 6138 respectively. The user may use the close button 7612 to close the dialog 7600 at block 6140. When the user wishes to save the information in dialog 7600 the users click the apply button 7614 in block 6142. The information entered in section 7602 of block 6130 is used to calculate the cost per square foot of the project and is utilized in the cost tables and summary sheet. The data entered in sections 7004, 7006, 7008, and 7010 at blocks 6132, 6134, 6136, and 6138 respectively is sent to the requisition portion of the software. The data entered in section 7004 is also sent to the summary sheet in block 6132. If a project is not open then this function is deactivated in block 6124. It is within this dialog box that the user enters all pertinent information relative to the Project as well as Architect, Owner and Contractor names, addresses, contact personnel, phone and fax numbers. Information entered here is then automatically transferred to the Requisition Manager that automatically prepares the requisitions for the project, see the discussion below for Figure 12.0.

Figure 6.12 was briefly discussed in Figure 6.8 and is continued from Figure 5.1 and Figure 6.1. This figure shows that the sum of the numbers from the Worksheet Right 5020 in the Total Material Costs column in box 5052, the Total Equipment Costs column in box 5054 and the Total Labor Costs columns in box 5050 are displayed in the Totals Bar at the bottom of the screen. These numbers are automatically updated with every data entry that is made within the pricing dialog boxes, as soon as the data is applied to the worksheet and the dialog box is closed. From this Totals Bar 5050 the three cost totals are then added together and transferred to the Pricing Window 5045 located at the bottom of the Pricing Column 5040, as further described in Figure 6.22.

Figure 6.13 is continued from Figure 6.0 and Figure 6.1 and shows the function of the Summary Sheet button 6004 located at the top of the Pricing Column 5040. This function immediately takes the user to the Summary Sheet for the project that is currently opened. An exemplary Summary Sheet is shown in Figure 6.2. If a project is not open, this button is deactivated.

Figures 6.14 -. 6.21 , continue from Figures 6.1 or 6.3. Once again, like the descriptions found in Figure 5.3 through Figure 5.11 discussed above the following figures pertain to the pricing tables found within the Master Database and how they perform when activated. It is important to note that, even though each figure pertains to it's own specific portion of the Master Database, all figures provide similar procedural functions that maintain continuity and consistency throughout the program.

In some embodiments of the invention, the appearance of the dialog box may change when the user selects the Master Database in the drop-down text box associated with the particular dialog box. One example of this appearance changing is to shade the cells a particular color, for example, yellow, for those cells whose data will be applied to the Master Database when the Apply button is selected. Similarly, in some embodiments it may be advantageous to only update some of the data when the user selects the project template in the drop-down text box.

Figure 6.14 illustrates a functional flow similar to that shown in Figure 5.4 and discussed above. When a project is open, however, the Job Overhead dialog 4300 illustrated in Figures 43 and 44 may be displayed. Figure 43 illustrates updating the current project in drop-down box 4304. Figure 44 shows updating the Master Database in drop-down text box 4304.

Figure 6.15 illustrates a functional flow similar to that shown on Figure 5.5 and discussed above. When a project is open, however, the subcontractors' and vendors' dialog 4600 illustrated in Figures 46 and 47 may be displayed. Figure 43 illustrates updating the current project in drop-down text box 4604. Similarly, Figure 47 shows updating the Master Database in drop-down text box 4604.

Figure 6.16 shows a functional flow similar that shown on Figure 5.6 and discussed above. When a project is open, however, the labor rates dialog 4900 illustrated in Figures 49 and 50 may be displayed. Figure 49 illustrates updating the current project in drop-down text box 4904. Figure 50 illustrates updating the Master Database in drop-down text box 4904.

Figure 6.17 shows a functional flow similar to that shown on Figure 5.7 and discussed above. When a project is open, however, the Assembly Labor Rates dialog 5200 illustrated in Figures 52 and 53 may be displayed. Figure 52 illustrates updating the current project in drop-down text box 5204. Similarly, Figure 53 illustrates updating the Master Database in drop-down text box 5204.

Figure 6.18 illustrates a functional flow similar to that shown in Figure 5.8 discussed above. When a project is open, however, the Equipment Rates dialog 5500 illustrated in Figures 55 and 56 may be displayed. Figure 55 illustrates updating the current project in drop-down text box 5504. Figure 56 illustrates updating the Master Database in drop-down text box 5504.

Figure 6.19 shows a functional flow similar to that shown in Figure 5.9 discussed above. When a project is open, however, the Additional Materials dialog 5800 illustrated in Figures 58 and 59 may be displayed. Figure 58 illustrates updating the current project in drop-down text box 5804 and Figure 59 illustrates.updating the Master Database in drop-down text box 5904.

Figure 6.20 shows a functional flow similar to that shown in Figure 5.10 discussed above. When a project is open, however, the appropriate worksheet data dialog 6100 illustrated in Figures 61 and 62 may be displayed. Figure 61 illustrates updating the current project in drop-down text box 6104 and Figure 62 illustrates updating the Master Database in drop-down text box 6104.

Figure 6.21 illustrates a functional flow similar to that shown in Figure 5.11 discussed above. When a project is open, however, the worksheet specific dialog 6400 associated with the specific worksheet open may be displayed. Figures 64 and 65 illustrate exemplary dialog boxes 6400 for woven wire fabric pricing. Figure 64 illustrates updating the current project in drop-down text box 6404. Similarly, Figure 65 illustrates updating the Master Database in drop-down text box 6504.

Figure 6.22 is continued from Figures 5.1 or 6.1 and describes the functions that take place within the Pricing Window 5045 at the bottom of the Pricing Column 5410. The Pricing Window 5045 is divided into two distinct parts (1) the current worksheet's Total Cost 5046 and (2) the current worksheet's Unit Cost 5048, both relating specifically to the worksheet that is open. The Total Cost number is derived at by adding the sum of the Material 5052, Equipment 5054 and Labor 5056 totals from the Totals Bar 5050. This Total Cost 5046 number represents the total estimated cost for all items that apply to the worksheet that is open. The Unit Cost 5048 number that is displayed directly beneath the Total Cost 5046 number is derived at by performing a calculation that is specific to Each worksheet. The Unit Cost 5048 divides the Total worksheet cost 5046 by a specific number 6024 from the Worksheet Left 5010 that represents the total number of units being estimated on that particular worksheet in block 6202. This feature again gives the user another means by which he/she can double-check the estimated costs for the worksheet selected.

Figures 6.23 - 6.28 are continued from Figure 6.2, the Summary Sheet screen. The following figures pertain to the pricing tables found within the Master Database and how they perform when activated: Figure 6.23 - Major Subs; Figure 6.24; Performance Bond; Figure 6.25 - Percentages; Figure 6.26 - Permits and Fees; Figure 6.27 - Adjustments; Figure 6.28 - Overhead and Profit.

These pricing tables are available when a project is open and the summary sheet of Figure 12 is displayed. Even though each figure pertains to it's own specific portion of the Master Database, all figures follow the similar procedural functions that maintain continuity and consistency throughout the program. In each case selecting a particular function calls and/or displays an associated dialog window for user intersection with the data base tables.

Figure 6.23 illustrates the functional flow that may occur when the user selects the major sub-button 6006 from the summary screen illustrated in Figure 6.2. Upon selecting this button, the program calls and/or displays the Major Subcontractors dialog box 7700. An exemplary dialog 7700 is illustrated in Figure 77 with the current project displayed as a default in the drop-down text box 7704. Figure 78 illustrates the Major Subcontractors dialog 7700 with the Master Database selected in. drop-down text box 7704. As discussed previously, only a user logged on as an administrator when multiple users are selected is authorized to make changes to the Master Database.

Figure 6.24 illustrates the functional flow that may occur when the user selects the performance button 608. Selection of this button calls and/or displays the Performance Bond dialog 7900. Examples of the Performance Bond dialog 7900 are illustrated in Figures 79 and 80. Figure 79 illustrates the dialog with the current project shown in the drop-down text box 7904 and Figure 80 illustrates the dialog with the Master Database selected in drop-down text box 7904.

Figure 6.25 illustrates the functional flow that results from selecting the Percentages button 6010. This button calls and/or displays the Percentages dialog 8100. Examples of this dialog are shown in Figures 81 and 82. Figure 81 illustrates the dialog 8100 with current project shown in the drop-down text box 8104 and Figure 82 illustrates dialog 8100 with Master Database displaying in drop-down text box 8104.

Figure 6.26 illustrates the functional flow that may result from selecting the Permits and Fees button 6012. This button may call and/or display Permits and Fees dialog 8300. Examples of the Permits and Fees dialog 8300 are illustrated in Figures 83 and 84. Figure 83 illustrates dialog 8300 with current project shown in the dropdown text box 8304. Figure 84 illustrates dialog 8300 with Master Database showing in the drop-down text box 8304.

Figure 6.27 illustrates the functional flow that may result from selecting the Adjustments button 6014 from the summary sheet table listings. This button may call and/or display the Miscellaneous Adjustments dialog 8500 illustrated in Figure 85. Typically, these Miscellaneous Adjustments are performed on a project-by-project basis. Thus, Figure 85 illustrates the current project selected in drop-down text box 8504. The Miscellaneous Additions dialog 8500 provides an avenue for the user to make any last- minute changes required in their bid.

Figure 6.28 illustrates the functional flow that may result from selecting the Overhead and Profit button 6016. When the user clicks and/or selects this button, the Overhead and Profit dialog 8600 may be displayed. Examples of dialog 8600 are illustrated in Figures 86 and 87. Figure 86 illustrates dialog 8600 with the current project displayed in the drop-down text box 8604. Figure 87 illustrates the Master Database displayed in drop-down text box 8604.

Figure 6.29 is also continued from the Summary Sheet screen, Figure 6.2, and is specific to that screen. This figure explains a function that allows the user to activate and deactivate the program's built-in automatic recalculation feature. The program is designed, when the Summary Sheet is opened, to do a complete program recalculation of all tables being used within the project every time a dialog box that is accessed from the Summary Sheet is opened and then closed. The automatic recalculation feature assures the user that all data entries made have been reflected in the final total cost for the project. However, the user may require speed when pulling together the final costs for the project in that last hour, prior to the submission of his/her bid, and needs to be in and out of the Sub & Vendor dialog boxes constantly and quickly. Consequently, the Auto-Calc feature 6014 can be set to one of two positions:

Auto-Calc-Off (block 6018) disables the default program setting for automatic recalculation of all project tables while navigating in and out of dialog boxes, accessed from the Summary Sheet, and disables the Worksheet Left 5010 so that there is not any Summary Sheet pricing information visible on the screen. The purpose of disabling the viewing of the screen is to protect the user from accidentally forgetting to turn the Auto-Calc feature back on and fail to calculate the revisions that were made while in the Auto-Calc-Off position. The user must reset the Auto-Calc feature to the "on" position to be able to view his final bid price.

Auto-Calc-On (block 6016) enables the default program setting for automatic recalculation of all project tables while navigating in and out of dialog boxes accessed from the Summary Sheet and activates the Worksheet Left so that all estimated totals can be viewed.

If the user chooses to set the Auto-Calc feature to the "off' position in block 6018, it will remain in that position until the user enables the recalculation feature by switching back to the "on" position in block 6016, with one exception. If the Auto-Calc feature is turned "off' and the user leaves the Summary Sheet to go to another worksheet, when they return to the Summary Sheet, an automatic recalculation of all project tables will then occur and the Auto-Calc feature will be automatically re-engaged with the Worksheet Left 5010 again visible.

Figure 7.0 shows that when a project is selected from the Open a Project dialog box 1100 the Name of the Project 6002 selected will appear in the Title bar on the screen.

Figure 8.0 is continued from Figure 5.1 , Figure 6.1 and Figure 6.2 arid describes a feature that allows the user to jump back-and-forth between the current worksheet that is open and the worksheet that was opened prior to opening the current worksheet. This feature is activated by clicking on the Back Arrow Icon 6020 at the left-hand side of the Menu Bar 6022.

Figures 9.0 and 9.1 are related to the Menu Bar 6022 and explain the flow encountered when accessing the functions found within the File drop-down Menu 6024. Listed below are the examples of functions that may be found within this menu: Open; Close; Save; Save As; Print; Logon as a Different User; Exit; and a Listing of last five projects accessed/opened. An exemplary save as dialog 8800 is shown in Figure 88.

The flow charts in these figures explain the processes involved when these functions are activated with or without a project being opened. Based upon the particular flow pattern followed, the user may be returned to the different Main Screens 5000 or 6000 shown in Figures 5.0 and 6.0. Since these are standard program commands, further description is not required.

Figures 10.0, 10.5, and 10.6 are also related to the Menu Bar 6022 and explain the flow encountered when accessing the functions found within the Summary dropdown Menu 6026. Listed below are the functions found within this menu: Summary Sheet 6028 performs the same function as the summary button 6004; Job Overhead 6030 performs the same function as the job overhead button 5043; Subcontractor & Vendors 6032 performs the same function as subs and vendors button 5041 ; and Unit Pricing 6034 performs the same function as the unit pricing button 5058. The above listed functions are identical to those same functions found in the Unit Pricing Column and the Totals Bar 5050 (see Figures 5.3 and 6.15).

The following four Figures, Figures 10.1 - 10.4 are the figures that have been repeatedly referred to throughout this entire description and explain the typical flow process for all dialog boxes that refer to them. Basically and simply put, the dialog boxes that refer to these figures are those that provide data entry to the project being estimated. These four figures explain the dialog box response when: (1) The Administrator is accessing them with a project open in Figure 10.1 ; (2) The Administrator is accessing them without a project open in Figure 10.2; (3) An Authorized User is accessing them with a project open in Figure 10.3; or (4) An Authorized User is accessing them without a project open in Figure 10.4.

Figure10.1 illustrates the functional flow when the Administrator accesses a project data entry dialog box after opening a project. After the Administrator has made the required data entries in block 10100, one of three simple methods may be selected to apply the data. If the project was created without the use of a Template, the Administrator has two options to choose from for applying the data entry: (1) Update the Current Project or (2) Update the Master Database. These choices are illustrated in Figures 89 and 90. If the project was created with the use of a Template, the Administrator has three options to choose from for applying the data entry: (1 ) Update the Current Project, (2) Update the Project Template or (3) Update the Master Database. These choices are shown in Figures 91-93.

These choices can be found in the drop-down Update List Box 8904 found at the bottom left-hand corner of the dialog box. This Update List Box 8904 appears in the same location on the dialog boxes and is programmed to apply data automatically to the Current Project as the default setting. This diagram shows the three processes involved, again based upon whether or not the project was created using a Project Template.

If the data entries required are to be applied to the Current Project only, then no selection is required from the Update List Box 8904 because it already defaults to the Current Project setting, as described above. This flow path is reflected in Apply block 10102. If the data entries required are to be applied to the Project Template only, then the Administrator must select that specific option from the Update List Box 8904 in blocks 10104 and 10106, before the data can be applied in block 10110. If this option is selected, a Template Dependencies dialog box 9400 (Figure 94) will appear when the Administrator chooses to Apply their data entries to that Project Template in block 10112.

When the Template Dependencies dialog 9400 appears, projects that were created using that particular Project Template are listed in text box 9402. Here the Administrator can apply the data to all of the projects listed, or they can pick and choose which projects they want to receive the data using check boxes 9406. The Administrator can also, without leaving the data entry dialog box: (1) apply one set of data to one project, (2) apply a different set of data to a second unopened project, (3) apply a different set of data to a third unopened project, and so on and so forth. This procedure can be performed from within any project that was created using a Project Template. If a project is not selected from the Template Dependencies dialog box 9400, then that unselected project will retain its' original data and will remain unchanged. The beauty of the feature is that projects created using a Project Template can receive pricing revisions without being opened.

If the data entries required are to be applied to the Master Database only, then the Administrator must select that specific option from the Update List Box 8904 in block 10120 before the data can be applied in block 10122. In the current embodiment when the Current Project and Project Template options are selected from the Update List Box 8904, the background color of the data entry cells within the dialog box remain white. When applying data from either of these two options, all data is applied. When the Master Database option is selected from the Update List Box 8904, the background color of predetermined data entry cells will change from white to light yellow. This advises the Administrator that only the information within the light yellow colored cells will be applied to the Master Database and data contained within the white colored cells will not be transferred. The feature allows the user to fully understand what data will be applied to the Master Database in block 1022 when that option is selected.

This powerful feature allows data entries to be applied in any combination using any one of the three methods, or two of three methods or all three methods combined without ever leaving the dialog box and with different data applied with each method, if required. The dialog box will always remain open until the Administrator chooses to close it, and when closed, returns the Administrator back to the Main Screen and with the Current Worksheet still selected and the data entry updates made and recalculated. When the project was created without using a template, then the functional flow utilizes block 10119 to update either the current project of block 10130 or the Master Database at block 10120.

Each project data entry dialog box contains a calculator icon 2100 at the top left- hand corner of the dialog. This feature is explained below for Figure 20.

Figurel 0.2 explains the process when the Administrator accesses a project data entry dialog box without a project being opened at block 10200. The flow process and options available here are far simpler. There is only one option available for the Administrator and that is to update the Master Database pricing tables. Figures 42, 45, 48, 51 , 54, 57, 60, 63, 66, and 69 provide examples of how the dialog boxes may appear.

Figurel 0.3 illustrates the process involved when an Authorized User accesses a project data entry dialog box after they have opened a project. The flow process begins at block 10300 and is almost identical to that of Figure 10.1 except that when the Master Database option is selected from the Update List box 8904, another procedure occurs. After the Authorized User has made the required data entries, they have simple methods to choose to apply the data. If the project was created without the use of a Template, the Authorized User has two options to choose to apply the data entry: (1) Update the Current Project using blocks 10310, 10330, and 10340, or (2) Update the Master Database using blocks 10310, 10330, and 10350. If the project was created with the use of a Template, the Authorized User has three options to choose from for applying the data entry (1) Update the Current Project using blocks 10310, 10320, and 10340; (2) Update the Project Template using blocks 10310, 10320, and 10360; or (3) Update the Master Database using blocks 10310, 10320, and 10350. These methods again are found in the drop-down Update List Box 8904 found at the bottom left-hand corner of the dialog box. This Update List Box 8904 appears in the same location on the dialog boxes and is programmed to apply data automatically to the Current Project as the default setting in block 10302. This diagram shows the three processes involved, again based upon whether or not the project was created using a Project Template.

If the data entries required are to be applied to the Current Project only, then no selection is required from the Update List Box 8904 because it already defaults to the Current Project setting, as described above. When the data entries required are to be applied to the Project Template, the Authorized User must select that specific option from the Update List Box 8909 before the data can be applied. If this option is selected, a Template Dependencies dialog box 9400 will appear when the Authorized User chooses to Apply their data entries to that Project Template.

When the Template Dependencies dialog box 9400 appears, projects that were created using that particular Project Template are listed. Here the Authorized User can apply the data to all of the projects listed, or they can pick and choose which projects they want to receive the data. The Authorized User can also, without leaving the data entry dialog box: (1) apply one set of data to one project, (2) apply a different set of data to a second unopened project, (3) apply a different set of data to a third unopened project, and so on and so forth. This procedure can be performed from within any project that was created using a Project Template. If a project is not selected from the Template Dependencies dialog box 9400, then that unselected project will retain its' original data and will remain unchanged. The beauty of the feature is that projects created using a Project Template can receive pricing revisions without ever being opened. If the data entries required are to be applied to the Master Database, then the Authorized User must select that specific option from the Update List Box 8909 before the data can be applied. Here lies the difference between Figure 10.3 and the previously described Figure 10.1.

An Authorized User is unable to Update and change the current status of the Master Database unless they have access to or knowledge of the Password that has been applied to the Master Database by the Administrator in block 1054. This feature protects company owners of the program from having accidental changes made to the Master Database pricing or from disgruntled employees trying to sabotage or destroy the company's main and important database and project pricing: An exemplary Password Required dialog box is illustrated in Figure 95. This dialog provides text box 9502 for the user to enter a password.

Figures 40-69 and 77-87 show how the appearance of the selected dialog box changes, based upon the Update option selected. When the Current Project and Project Template options are selected from the Update List Box 8904, the background color of the data entry cells within the dialog box remain white. When applying data from either of these two options, all data is applied. When the Master Database option is selected from the Update List Box 8904, the background color of predetermined data entry cells may change from white to light yellow. This advises the Administrator and/or user that only the information within the light yellow colored cells will be applied to the Master Database and data contained within the white colored cells will not be transferred. The feature allows the user to fully understand what data will be applied to the Master Database when that option is applied.

This powerful feature allows data entries to be applied in any combination using any one of the three methods, or two of three methods or all three methods combined without ever leaving the dialog box and with different data applied to Each, if required. The dialog box will always remain open until the Authorized User chooses to close it, and when closed, returns the Authorized User back to the Main Screen and with the Current Worksheet still selected and all data entry updates made and recalculated.

Figurel 0.4 illustrates the process flow when the Authorized User accesses a project data entry dialog box without a project being opened in block 10400. The flow process and options available here, as in Figure 10.2, are far simpler. Again, there is only one option available for the Authorized User and that is to update the Master Database pricing tables. However, an Authorized User is unable to Update and change the current status of the Master Database unless they have access to or knowledge of the Password that has been applied to the Master Database by the Administrator in block 10404. This feature protects company owners of the program from having accidental changes made to the Master Database pricing or from disgruntled employees trying to sabotage or destroy the company's main and important database and project pricing.

Figure 11.0 is related to the Menu Bar 6022 and explains the functional flow encountered when accessing the functions found within the Reports drop-down Menu 6042. If there are no projects open, then these features are deactivated. The functions that may be found within this Menu are: Labor Hours 1150, Equipment Hours 1160, and Category Costs 1170.

When activated, Labor Hours 1150 report appears on the screen as a worksheet. It provides an itemized listing of all Labor Types and Labor Rates used for the Project along with the corresponding estimated quantity of hours and dollars estimated for each labor type and from each of the sixteen- (16) Construction Categories listed in Tool Bar 5070. Currently these reports do not change once displayed. It is considered within the ordinary skill in the art to make this a dynamic report.

When activated, the Equipment Hours 1160 report appears on the screen as a worksheet. It provides an itemized listing of all Equipment Types and Equipment Rates used for the Project along with the corresponding estimated quantity of hours and dollars estimated for each equipment type and from each of the sixteen- (16) Construction Categories listed in Tool Bar 5070.

When activated, the Category Cost function 1170 produces a fly-out Menu at block 1172 that lists Cost Reports 1174 that the user can view. By selecting any of the reports 1174, the report will appear on the user's screen as a worksheet. Each Category Cost Report 1174 includes the associated estimated costs for that category and provides a listing of individually estimated items within that category. This list may include: Subcontractor Costs; Vendor Costs; Vendor Sales Tax; Material Costs; Labor Costs; Trucking Costs; and Small Tool & Equipment Costs.

These Cost Reports can be viewed at any time and from any worksheet and are automatically updated with each data entry made throughout the project. Access to these Reports is identical to the procedure previously outlined in Figure 6.10.

Figures 12.0 - 12.3 illustrate how the program automatically prepares Requisitions upon the completing of an estimated project and how the user can execute monthly requisitions.

Figure 12.0 shows the flow pattern of the functions contained within the Requisition drop-down Menu 6044 found in the Menu Bar 6022. Here the user can select from any one of the following three functions: Current 12010, Previous 12020, and/or Status Report 12030. Selecting Current 12010 opens the Current Requisition at block 12012, or if no requisitions exist, then the first requisition is created at blocks 12014 and 12016 when the project setup is complete. If the project setup has not been completed in block 12011 , then a warning may be displayed in block 12013 and the user returned to the current worksheet. An exemplary requisition 9600 is illustrated in Figure 96. A detailed description of this feature is described in Figure 12.1 below. The requisition program is a separate program within the main program and is called the Requisition Manager. When a requisition is created or opened, the main program is minimized to the user's Task Bar and the Requisition Manager appears on the Screen. When the Requisition Manager is closed, the Requisition Manager disappears and the main program is maximized from the user's Task Bar and reappears on the screen.

The Previous 12020 function displays a requisition dialog box 9700 (Figure 97) that displays all requisitions that have been created for the project and allows the user to select the requisition that is required. A detailed description of the Status Report 12030 feature is provided below in Figure 12.2.

Figure 12.1 illustrates the functional flow within the Requisition Manager once a requisition has been created and begins at block 12100. This Figure refers to the functions that exist within the Edit function 12110 found in the Requisition Manager's Menu Bar. When the Edit function is activated at block 12110, the user has four items to choose from in the drop-down Menu that produce data entry dialog boxes and it is within these dialog boxes that the user can: enter or edit project dates, enter or edit project information, edit change orders, and/or delete a current requisition.

When the user selects the Enter Project Dates command, the Project Dates dialog 10000 is displayed in block 12112. Thereafter, the user may enter data into one or more of the text boxes 10002 in block 12114. In the exemplary Project Dates dialog 10000 illustrated in Figure 100, the text boxes 10002 provide the user the ability to enter the contract date, the date of the current application; and the date for the application's period ending.

When the user selects the Project Information command, the Project Information dialog 10010 may be displayed in block 12116. An exemplary Project Information dialog box 10010 is illustrated in Figure 101. The Automatic Mark-up text box 10012 contains the combined overhead and profit percentages that were entered from the summary worksheet. The number in text box 10012 can be overriden by the user typing a new number into the text box. In the current embodiment, this number then feeds automatically into the data entry dialog box found on the requisition sheet and can be automatically applied to each category line-item, as discussed below. Thereafter, the user has the option to enter data into the dialog 10010 at block 12118. The data entered may consist of the owner's name and address; the billing contractor's name and address; the architect's name and address; the name and address of the project; the percentage to be retained for completed work; the percentage to be retained for stored materials; and a percentage for automatic mark-up discussed above.

If the user selects the Edit Change Order command, then the Requisition Change Order dialog 10020 may be called in block 12122. An exemplary Requisition Change Order dialog 10020 is illustrated in Figure 102. A plurality of text boxes 10022 are provided for the entry of appropriate change order information in block 12124.

The user may also select the Delete Current Requisition command illustrated in block 12126. Thereafter, a warning in block 12128 may be displayed to ensure that the user desires to delete the current requisition.

Figure 12.2 refers to the functions that exist within the File function 12130 found in the Requisition Manager's Menu Bar. When the File function 12130 is activated, the user has six items to choose from in the drop-down Menu that produce functions pertaining to the Requisition and it is through these functions that the user can: open a Requisition; save a Requisition; obtain a Summary Status Report; Print; Print Setup; and close the Requisition Manager.

The Open Requisition function allows the user to Open the Requisition of their choice, if more than one requisition has been created. The Save Requisition feature supports two functions. The user may Save As the Current Requisition which enables return to that same requisition so that additional work can be performed at a later date. Alternatively, the user may Save As Next Requisition if they have finished their work on the current requisition and want to create the next requisition. When a Current Requisition is saved as the Next Requisition, the Current Requisition becomes a "readonly" requisition and the user can no longer return to that requisition and make changes. At this point the Requisition Manager automatically creates the next requisition, which takes the data entries that were made on the previous requisition and transfers all numbers into the appropriate places on the newly created requisition. Further explanation of this process is described in more detail in Figure12.3.

The Summary Status Report feature produces a report that can be printed and provides the user with a line by line accounting of all requisitions that have been prepared for the project to date. This Status Report performs all of the calculations necessary for providing the user with a precise WIP Schedule (Work-in-Progress) that is a requirement of most reputable lending institutions and bonding companies. The user can view an exact accounting of change order totals, revised contract sum, totals completed and retained as well as current amounts due and balances to finish on a per- requisition basis. The Print and Print Setup functions are self explanatory and are well known in the art. When the user closes the Requisition Manager, the user is returned to the main program at the same location prior to opening the Requisition Manager.

Figure 12.3 continues from Figure 12.1 and Figure 12.2 and describes the features that are available and how the user can edit each of his requisitions, from the first requisition prepared to the last one required. This process is extremely sophisticated in its' "behind-the-scenes" execution, but for the user, it is simple. Editing a requisition occurs using two different but similar methods. Method 1 pertains to only the preparation of the first requisition and Method 2 pertains to all subsequent requisitions. Each method is described in further detail below.

Method 1 provides for editing the first requisition. This editing process is accomplished by double-clicking on any one of the line items listed in the requisition as illustrated in Figure 103. Figure 12.3 shows the various line items that are available, and that could appear, and their appearance or non-appearance depends strictly upon whether or not there are any associated costs applied to those categories in the project estimate. If costs have been incurred in the project for a particular category, then that category will appear in the requisition and the Requisition Manager will display the associated cost in the Scheduled Cost column, without any overhead or profit percentages applied.

By double-clicking on any of the line items listed, a pop-up dialog box may appear overtop of that line item with the entire line item highlighted. Within this pop up dialog, the following may appear: the Category line item selected; the Scheduled Value of the line item without any Overhead and Profit applied; the amount of Unallocated Overhead/Profit that is required to be applied, in total, to the various line items, so that the total of the requisition matches the total amount of the project cost. This Overhead & Profit figure is equal to the amount of Overhead & Profit estimated for the Project and is carried forward from the Project's Summary Sheet; an UP Arrow that allows the user to apply Overhead & Profit to the Scheduled Cost in $100 increments; a DOWN Arrow that allows the user to deduct Overhead & Profit from the Scheduled Cost in $100 increments; an AUTO button that automatically applies a percentage of Overhead & Profit to each Scheduled Cost based upon that Scheduled Costs' percentage of the Total Estimated Project Cost; a Data Entry box that allows the user to override all previous Overhead & Profit allocations and enter an amount of his/her choice; and two Data Entry boxes for entering the amounts for Work Completed and for Stored Material for the current requisition period. All data entries that are made within this dialog box, are applied to the requisition by clicking OK, are transferred directly to the requisition and the user can move on to the next line item. The user can move from line item to line item by simply pressing the up and down arrows on their keyboard and the dialog box will automatically move up and down from item to item. As Overhead & Profit is applied, via any one of the four- (4) previously described methods, the Unallocated Profit/Overhead total automatically adjusts informing the user of the remaining amount of Overhead & Profit to be applied.

Method 2 provides for editing all requisitions subsequent to the first requisition and again is accomplished by double-clicking on any one of the line items listed in the requisition (as illustrated in Figure 104). Once the first requisition has been completed and additional requisitions are created, there are only two functions that need to be performed to entirely complete each one. By again double-clicking on any of the line items listed, a pop-up dialog box appears over top of that line item with the entire line item highlighted. Within this pop up dialog, the following will appear: The Category line item selected and two Data Entry boxes for entering the amounts for Work Completed and for Stored Material for the that current requisition period. As described in the first requisition, all data entries that are made within this dialog box, when applied to the requisition by clicking OK, are transferred directly to the requisition and the user can move on to the next line item. The user, once again, can move from line item to line item by simply pressing the Up and Down arrows on their keyboard and the dialog box will automatically move Up and Down from item to item. And as Overhead & Profit is applied, via any one of the four- (4) previously described methods, the Unallocated Profit/Overhead total automatically adjusts informing the user what the remaining amount of Overhead & Profit to be applied is.

Figure 12.3 illustrates and outlines in greater detain the formulas that occur within each of the cells, in each line item, and how their results are determined. When a second or a third requisition is created, after the previous one has been finished to the user's satisfaction, the next requisition is created by pulling amounts from the current requisition. Through a sequence of formulas, the next requisition rearranges the numbers taken from the current requisition and automatically places them into their appropriate cells so that the only requirement of the user is to apply the work completed and stored material amounts for that requisition period.

Figure 13.0 and Figure 13.1 show the flow patterns of the functions contained within the Administrative drop-down Menu 6046 found in the Menu Bar 6022, depending upon whether: the Administrator is accessing the administrative functions in a multiple user mode with a project open (see Figure 13.0); the Administrator is accessing the administrative functions in a multiple user mode without a project open (see Figure 13.0); Administrator is accessing the administrative functions without being in a multiple user mode with a project open (see Figure 13.0); the Administrator is accessing the administrative functions without being in a multiple user mode without a project open (see Figure 13.0); an Authorized User is accessing the administrative functions in a multiple user mode with a project open (see Figure 13.0); an Authorized User is accessing the administrative functions in a multiple user mode without a project open (see Figure 13.0); an Authorized User is accessing the administrative functions without being in a multiple user mode with a project open (see Figure 13.0); or an Authorized User is accessing the administrative functions without being in a multiple user mode without a project open (see Figure 13.0).

The administrative functions that are found within the Administrative drop-down Menu 6046, and as referenced in Figure 13.0 and Figure 13.1 are as follows: New; Letters of Transmittal; Facsimiles; Telephone Confirmations; Address Book; List of Estimate Worksheets Used; Settings; and Users.

Figures 13.2 -13.5 continue from Figures 13.0 and/or 13.1 and outline the functional flow that a user can use to create new letters of transmittal (Figure 13.2) illustrated in Figure 114, using dialog illustrated in Figures 110-113. The functional flow utilized to create new facsimiles or telephone confirmations is illustrated in Figure 13.3. The flow at Figure 13.3 may employ the dialog shown in Figure 115 to create the text shown in Figure 117. Alternatively, the dialog shown in Figure 116 may be utilized to record a telephone confirmation.

Figures 13.4 and 13.5 illustrate the functions that permit a user to edit or print an existing file created using the functional flow of Figures 13.2 and 13.3. The user may utilize the dialog illustrated in Figures 118-120 in utilizing the functions provided by Figures 13.4 and 13.5.

Figure 13.6 is continued from Figure 13.0 and Figure 13.1 and outlines the function flow of the List of Estimate Worksheets Used. When this function is selected, an Estimate Worksheets Used dialog box 12190 appears that displays all of the worksheets that have been used on the project and list them in alphabetical order under their respective Construction Category. An exemplary dialog 12190 is illustrated in Figure 121. Here is where the user can go to quickly view all of the Category Worksheets that he/she has used. If the user chooses to visit any of those worksheets, all they have to do is to double-click on the item listed and that corresponding worksheet is immediately displayed on the screen for their review. This is an extremely fast method for a manager or supervisor to review a user's work without having to sit down with the user and find out what all they have done.

Figure 13.7 is also continued from Figure 13.0 and Figure 13.1 and outlines the flow patterns of the functions found within the Settings dialog box 10600 illustrated in Figure 106. Only the Administrator has access to this dialog box and its' associated functions. The only way that another user could access these functions would be if that user had knowledge of the Administrator's Password and would logon as the Administrator. It is within this dialog box that the Administrator can: Enable or disable the Multiple User Option; Enable or disable the Toggle Switch (see Figure 18.0); Enable or Disable the Networking Options; Establish and/or change the password to the Master Database; Activate the Mail interface via (1) their default Internet Browser's Interface or (2) establishing the Full Pathname to a specific Email Program; Establish and/or change the Company's address, phone and fax numbers (see Figure 122) that are automatically used on all administrative and requisition forms; and create and delete Authorized Users using Figures 123 and 124.

For example, if a company decides that a once-authorized user is no longer allowed to access the main program, the Administrator can go into the Program Settings dialog box 10600 and remove that user from the list. If that user would try to logon to the program, he/she would be denied access. Another example would be if a User #1 was afraid that another user had gained knowledge of their password, they could go to the Administrator and have the Administrator change their password using the dialog illustrated in Figure 125. This feature is extremely good in situations where an employee's services have been terminated. The Administrator can remove them from the authorized listing so that if that past employee became disgruntled for any reason, damage to program files could not be caused.

Figure 13.8 is the flow pattern for the user function found within the Settings dialog box and as previously described in Figure 13.7.

Figure 14.0 and Figure 14.1 show the flow patterns of the functions contained within the Print drop-down Menu 6048 found in the Menu Bar 6022. Here the user can select from any one of the following four functions for printing Reports and Administrative documents: Administrative, Reports, Current Worksheet, and Print Setup.

Figure 15.0 shows the flow pattern of the functions contained within the Help drop-down Menu 6050 found in the Menu Bar 6022. Figure 109 illustrates an exemplary help screen.

Figure 16.0 shows the flow pattern of the License function 6052 found in the Menu Bar 6022. Figure 108 shows an exemplary license screen.

Figure 17.0 shows the flow pattern of the Notes function 6054 found in the Menu Bar. An exemplary note pad is illustrated in Figure 107.

Figure 18.0 shows the flow pattern of the Toggle Switch Icon-function 6056 found in the Menu Bar 6022. The Toggle Switch Icon 6056 activates and deactivates the appearance of the worksheets on the users' screen. When the worksheet viewer is turned off, navigation from worksheet to worksheet automatically opens that corresponding Worksheet's Data dialog box for immediate data entry to take place. The user does not have to activate the Worksheet Data button 5042 in the Pricing Column 5040 to produce the dialog box for data entry to the worksheet.

Figure 19.0 shows the flow pattern of the Email Icon function 6058 found in the Menu Bar 6022. This icon activates the user's default Internet Browser E-mail Program.

Figure 20.0 shows the flow pattern of the Calculator Icon function 2100 found in the Menu Bar 6022. The Calculator Icon 2100 can be found in two different locations within the program. (1 ) At the far right-had side of the Menu Bar 6022 and (2) at the top left-hand corner of all dialog boxes that provide data entry to the Project's worksheets. Figure 20.0 shows how the user can not only View and Print a tape of all calculations performed but can also automatically send the results of calculations performed to selected cells within open dialog boxes.

Figure 21.0 and Figure 22.0 are listings of all of the Category, Category Worksheets and Sub-Category Worksheets found within the master Database.

Figure 23.0 is a listing of the Summary Sheet, Job Overhead, Project Setup, Subcontractor & Vendor, Unit Pricing, Category Costs and Report Tables found within the Master Database.

In summary, numerous benefits have been described which result from employing the concepts of the invention. The foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention has been prepared for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best illustrate the principles of the invention in its practical application, to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to best utilize the invention of various embodiments and with various modifications as they are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A system for estimating and calculating final bid costs for a general construction project comprising: computer processing means for processing data; storage means for storing data on a storage medium; first means for initializing the storage medium; second means for processing data regarding labor rates, material rates and equipment rates and for supplying the rates into appropriate rate fields across all unit sheets containing a rate field; third means for processing data regarding specific project information and for calculating specific costs relating the project information with the rates in the rate fields; fourth means for processing data regarding the specific costs and for calculating and presenting summary totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for a specific construction category; fifth means for processing data regarding summary totals and for calculating and presenting sub-category totals for the project.

2. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 1 , further comprising a sixth means for processing data regarding the sub-category totals and for separating and presenting individual category items across an entire category.

3. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 2, further comprising a seventh means for processing data regarding the category items and for calculating and presenting project totals for all categories for the project.

4. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 3, further comprising eighth means for processing data regarding the specific project information, the specific costs, the summary totals, the sub-category totals, the category items, and the project totals and for calculating and presenting one or more payment requisitions for the project.

5. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 4, further comprising a ninth means for processing data regarding the unit sheets and for presenting an addressable listing of the unit sheets utilized for the project.

6. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 1 wherein the first means comprises: means for inputting and storing on the storage medium data regarding labor types and a labor rate for each labor type involved in the project; means for inputting and storing on the storage medium data regarding materials types and a material rate for each material type involved in the project; means for inputting and storing on the storage medium data regarding equipment types and an equipment rate for each type of equipment involved in the project; means for displaying the unit sheets in a hierarchy of nested sheets, the unit sheets being organized at a first level in sub-categories, each unit sheet having appropriate rate fields displayed with appropriate data of the labor rate, material rate and equipment rate being provided.

7. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 6, further comprising a master database on the computer means which includes the means for inputting and storing on the storage medium data regarding labor types and a labor rate for each labor type involved in the project; the means for inputting and storing on the storage medium data regarding materials types and a material rate for each material type involved in the project; and the means for inputting and storing on the storage medium data regarding equipment types and an equipment rate for each type of equipment involved in the project.

8. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 7, wherein the data from the master database is displayed with particular color coding.

9. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 6, wherein third means for processing data regarding specific project information and for calculating specific costs relating the information with the rates in the rate fields includes: means for inputting and storing on the storage medium material type data including amount thereof concerning a particular piece of work in the project, means for means for inputting and storing on the storage medium labor type data including amount thereof concerning the particular piece of work in the project, means for means for inputting and storing on the storage medium equipment type data including amount thereof concerning the particular piece of work in the project, each unit sheet having appropriate amount fields displayed with appropriate data of the labor type, material type and equipment type for the particular piece of work being provided.

10. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 9, wherein each unit sheet is divided to display the rate fields, the type fields, the amount fields and text relating the amount data to the rate and type data on one side thereof and to display the specific costs calculated from the data on the other side thereof, the third means automatically calculating and immediately displaying the specific costs as the amount data is input.

11. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 10, wherein each unit sheet includes total fields showing totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for that specific unit sheet, the total fields being on a lower portion of the other side, and a sheet total field showing the sum of the totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for that specific unit sheet.

12. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 11 , wherein the fourth means for processing data regarding the specific costs and for calculating and presenting summary totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for a specific construction category includes a summary button adjacent the one side of each unit sheet, and a summary sheet accessible by the summary button, the summary sheet displaying in summary total fields, the total fields of the appropriate unit sheets, adjacent text indicating the appropriate category.

13. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 12, wherein the summary total fields are selectively automatically updated upon any change in any of the underlying data fields and total fields, and when the summary total fields are not updated, no numbers show in the summary total fields until such update.

14. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 1 , further comprising a drawing button on each unit sheet, and a drawing accessible by the drawing button showing at least one of the specific constructional details of an example structure, definitions of appropriate terminology, and specific construction standards for the specific category, category item or sub-category referenced on that unit sheet.

15. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 1 , further comprising a subs and vendors button on each unit sheet, and a subs and vendors sheet accessible by the subs and vendors button, the subs and vendors sheet having means for processing data regarding specific items needed for the project, a selection whether a subcontractor or a vendor, quantity needed for the particular item, and cost per item; means for calculating subtotals for each item with a running total for all items from subcontractors and all items from vendors; and means for presenting the subtotals in an appropriate field on the particular unit sheet.

16. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 6, further comprising a labor rates button on each unit sheet, the labor rates button accessing the means for inputting and storing on the storage medium data regarding labor types and a labor rate for each labor type involved in the project.

17. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 6, further comprising a additional material rates button on each unit sheet, the labor rates button accessing the means for inputting and storing on the storage medium data regarding material types and a material rate for each material type involved in the project.

18. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 6, further comprising an equipment rates button on each unit sheet, the equipment rates button accessing the means for inputting and storing on the storage medium data regarding equipment types and an equipment rate for each equipment type involved in the project.

19. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 12, further comprising a job overhead costs button on each unit sheet, and a jobs overhead cost sheet having means for processing data regarding labor rates, material rates and equipment rates obtained from said second means and for supplying the rates into appropriate rate fields on the jobs overhead sheet related to specific additional work needed and chargeable to general overhead; means for processing data regarding specific project information and for calculating specific costs relating the information concerning the specific items for general overhead; and means for processing data regarding the specific costs and for calculating and presenting summary totals of job overhead.

20. The system for estimating and calculating set forth in claim 19, wherein the summary sheet further displays the summary totals of job overhead.

21. A method for estimating and calculating final bid costs for a general construction project comprising: providing a plurality of preconstructed worksheets in at least one construction category; selecting a worksheet from the plurality of preconstructed worksheets; displaying the selected worksheet; entering data into the displayed worksheet; selecting the data file to save at least a portion of the entered data from the group consisting of: current project, project template, or master database; and saving the entered data to the selected data file.

22. The method of claim 21 further comprising: upon selection of a drawing button or drawing menu selection, displaying a construction drawing applicable to the displayed worksheet.

23. The method of claim 21 further comprising: in response to a first selection of a back button or back menu command, opening a previous worksheet and closing an original worksheet; and in response to a second selection of the back button or back menu command, closing the previous worksheet and opening the original worksheet.

24. A method for estimating and calculating final bid costs for a general construction project, the method comprising: providing a computer having a storage medium for storing and processing data; initializing the storage medium; processing data regarding labor rates, material rates and equipment rates; supplying the rates into appropriate rate fields across all unit sheets containing a rate field; processing data regarding specific project information; calculating specific costs relating the project information with the rates in the rate fields; processing data regarding the specific costs; calculating and presenting summary totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for a specific construction category; processing data regarding summary totals; and calculating and presenting sub-category totals for the project.

25. The method set forth in claim 24, further comprising: processing data regarding the sub-category totals; and separating and presenting individual category items across an entire category.

26. The method set forth in claim 25, further comprising: processing data regarding the category items; and calculating and presenting project totals for all categories for the project.

27. The method set forth in claim 26, further comprising: processing data regarding the specific project information, the specific costs, the summary totals, the sub-category totals, the category items, and the project totals; and calculating and presenting one or more payment requisitions for the project.

28. The method set forth in claim 27, further comprising: processing data regarding the unit sheets; and presenting an addressable listing of the unit sheets utilized for the project.

29. The method set forth in claim 24 wherein the step of initializing the storage medium comprises: inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding labor types and a labor rate for each labor type involved in the project; inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding materials types and a material rate for each material type involved in the project; and inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding equipment types and an equipment rate for each type of equipment involved in the project.

30. The method set forth in claim 29, further comprising: displaying the unit sheets in a hierarchy of nested sheets, the unit sheets organized at a first level in sub-categories, each unit sheet having appropriate rate fields displayed with appropriate data of the labor rate, material rate and equipment rate being provided.

31. The method set forth in claim 30, further comprising: displaying data from the master database with color coding.

32. The method set forth in claim 30, wherein the step for processing data regarding specific project information and for calculating specific costs relating the information with the rates in the rate fields comprises: inputting and storing on the storage medium, material type data including amount thereof concerning a particular piece of work in the project; inputting and storing on the storage medium, labor type data including amount thereof concerning the particular piece of work in the project; inputting and storing on the storage medium, equipment type data including amount thereof concerning the particular piece of work in the project; and displaying each unit sheet with appropriate amount fields displayed with appropriate data of the labor type, material type and equipment type for the particular piece of work being provided.

33. The method set forth in claim 32, further comprising: displaying each unit sheet with divisions to display the rate fields, the type fields, the amount fields and text relating the amount data to the rate and type data on one side thereof and to display the specific costs calculated from the data on the other side thereof; and automatically calculating and immediately displaying the specific costs as the amount data is input.

34. The method set forth in claim 33, further comprising: displaying each unit sheet with total fields showing totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for that specific unit sheet, the total fields being on a lower portion of the other side, and a sheet total field showing the sum of the totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for that specific unit sheet.

35. The method set forth in claim 34, wherein the step of processing data regarding the specific costs and the step of calculating and presenting summary totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for a specific construction category further comprises: displaying a summary button adjacent the one side of each unit sheet; and upon selecting the summary button, displaying a summary sheet showing summary total fields, the total fields of the appropriate unit sheets, adjacent text indicating the appropriate category.

36. The method set forth in claim 35, wherein the display of the summary total fields further comprises: selectively automatically updating the display upon any change in any of the underlying data fields and total fields, and when the summary total fields are not updating the display, displaying no numbers in the summary total fields until such update.

37. The method set forth in claim 24, further comprising: displaying a drawing button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the drawing button, displaying at least one of the specific constructional details of an example structure, definitions of appropriate terminology, and specific construction standards for the specific category, category item or sub- category referenced on that unit sheet.

38. The method set forth in claim 24, further comprising: displaying a subs and vendors button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the subs and vendors button, displaying a subs and vendors sheet; processing data regarding specific items needed for the project, a selection whether a subcontractor or a vendor, quantity needed for the particular item, and cost per item; calculating subtotals for each item with a running total for all items from subcontractors and all items from vendors; and presenting the subtotals in an appropriate field on the particular unit sheet.

39. The method set forth in claim 29, further comprising: displaying a labor rates button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the labor rates button, enabling the inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding labor types and a labor rate for each labor type involved in the project.

40. The method set forth in claim 29, further comprising: displaying an additional material rates button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the labor rates button, enabling the inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding material types and a material rate for each material type involved in the project.

41. The method set forth in claim 29, further comprising: displaying an equipment rates button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the equipment rates button, enabling the inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding equipment types and an equipment rate for each equipment type involved in the project.

42. The method set forth in claim 35, further comprising: displaying a job overhead costs button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the job overhead costs button, displaying a jobs overhead cost sheet; processing data regarding labor rates, material rates and equipment rates; supplying the rates into appropriate rate fields on the jobs overhead sheet related to specific additional work needed and chargeable to general overhead; processing data regarding specific project information; calculating specific costs relating the information concerning the specific items for general overhead; and processing data regarding the specific costs and for calculating and presenting summary totals of job overhead.

43. On a computer readable medium, a program for estimating and calculating final bid costs for a general construction project, the program comprising: means for initializing the storage medium; means for processing data regarding labor rates, material rates and equipment rates; means for supplying the rates into appropriate rate fields across all unit sheets containing a rate field; means for processing data regarding specific project information; means for calculating specific costs relating the information with the rates in the rate fields; means for processing data regarding the specific costs; means for calculating and presenting summary totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for a specific construction category; means for processing data regarding summary totals; and means for calculating and presenting sub-category totals for the project.

44. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 43, further comprising: means for processing data regarding the sub-category totals; and means for separating and presenting individual category items across an entire category.

45. On a computer readable medium, a program set forth in claim 44, further comprising: means for processing data regarding the category items; and means for calculating and presenting project totals for all categories for the project.

46. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 45, further comprising: means for processing data regarding the specific project information, the specific costs, the summary totals, the sub-category totals, the category items, and the project totals; and means for calculating and presenting one or more payment requisitions for the project.

47. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 46, further comprising: means for processing data regarding the unit sheets and for presenting an addressable listing of the unit sheets utilized for the project.

48. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 43 wherein the means for initializing the storage medium comprises: means for inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding labor types and a labor rate for each labor type involved in the project; means for inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding materials types and a material rate for each material type involved in the project; and means for inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding equipment types and an equipment rate for each type of equipment involved in the project.

49. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 48, further comprising: means for displaying the unit sheets in a hierarchy of nested sheets, the unit sheets organized at a first level in sub-categories, each unit sheet having appropriate rate fields displayed with appropriate data of the labor rate, material rate and equipment rate being provided.

50. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 49, further comprising: means for displaying data from the master database with color coding.

51. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 49, wherein the means for processing data regarding specific project information and for calculating specific costs relating the information with the rates in the rate fields comprises: means for inputting and storing on the storage medium, material type data including amount thereof concerning a particular piece of work in the project; means for inputting and storing on the storage medium, labor type data including amount thereof concerning the particular piece of work in the project; means for inputting and storing on the storage medium, equipment type data including amount thereof concerning the particular piece of work in the project; and means for displaying each unit sheet with appropriate amount fields displayed with appropriate data of the labor type, material type and equipment type for the particular piece of work being provided.

52. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 51 , further comprising: means for displaying each unit sheet with divisions to display the rate fields, the type fields, the amount fields and text relating the amount data to the rate and type data on one side thereof and to display the specific costs calculated from the data on the other side thereof; and means for automatically calculating and immediately displaying the specific costs as the amount data is input.

53. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 52, further comprising: means for displaying each unit sheet with total fields showing totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for that specific unit sheet, the total fields being on a lower portion of the other side, and a sheet total field showing the sum of the totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for that specific unit sheet.

54. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 53, wherein the means for processing data regarding the specific costs and the step of calculating and presenting summary totals of labor costs, material costs and equipment costs for a specific construction category further comprises: means for displaying a summary button adjacent the one side of each unit sheet; and upon selecting the summary button, means for displaying a summary sheet showing summary total fields, the total fields of the appropriate unit sheets, adjacent text indicating the appropriate category.

55. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 54, wherein the means for displaying the summary total fields further comprises: means for selectively automatically updating the display upon any change in any of the underlying data fields and total fields, and when the summary total fields are not updating the display, means for displaying no numbers in the summary total fields until such update.

56. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 43, further comprising: means for displaying a drawing button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the drawing button, means for displaying at least one of the specific constructional details of an example structure, definitions of appropriate terminology, and specific construction standards for the specific category, category item or sub-category referenced on that unit sheet.

57. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 43, further comprising: means for displaying a subs and vendors button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the subs and vendors button, means for displaying a subs and vendors sheet; means for processing data regarding specific items needed for the project, a selection whether a subcontractor or a vendor, quantity needed for the particular item, and cost per item; calculating subtotals for each item with a running total for all items from subcontractors and all items from vendors; and means for presenting the subtotals in an appropriate field on the particular unit sheet.

58. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 48, further comprising: means for displaying a labor rates button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the labor rates button, means for enabling the inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding labor types and a labor rate for each labor type involved in the project.

59. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 48, further comprising: means for displaying an additional material rates button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the labor rates button, means for enabling the inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding material types and a material rate for each material type involved in the project.

60. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 48, further comprising: means for displaying an equipment rates button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the equipment rates button, means for enabling the inputting and storing on the storage medium, data regarding equipment types and an equipment rate for each equipment type involved in the project.

61. On a computer readable medium, a program as set forth in claim 54, further comprising: means for displaying a job overhead costs button on each unit sheet; and upon selecting the job overhead costs button, means for displaying a jobs overhead cost sheet; means for processing data regarding labor rates, material rates and equipment rates; supplying the rates into appropriate rate fields on the jobs overhead sheet related to specific additional work needed and chargeable to general overhead; means for processing data regarding specific project information; means for calculating specific costs relating the information concerning the specific items for general overhead; and means for processing data regarding the specific costs and for calculating and presenting summary totals of job overhead.