#electrical estimating

[estimatingsolutionsgroup9]

Improve Your Electrical Estimating with Estimating Solutions Group

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share a great resource I came across—Estimating Solutions Group. They offer professional electrical estimating services for residential, commercial, and industrial projects across Australia.

Their team helps contractors with accurate material take-offs, supplier pricing, and complete tender submissions—perfect if you’re tight on time or want to avoid the overhead of an in-house estimator.

If you’re looking to streamline your estimating process, definitely check them out: https://estimatingsolutions.com.au/

Cheers, [Dale Foster]

[estimatingsolution]

Electrical Estimating: Pros and Cons of Each Method.

When it comes to planning an electrical project—whether it’s residential wiring, commercial installation, or industrial systems—accurate estimating can make or break the job. Estimating isn’t just about crunching numbers; it's about balancing cost, time, and resources while staying competitive and profitable.

There are several methods used in electrical estimating, each with its own strengths and limitations. Let’s break them down in plain language to help you choose the one that suits your project best.

1. Manual Estimating

This is the old-school way—think spreadsheets, calculators, printed price books, and a lot of brainwork.

✅ Pros:

Cost-effective: No software expenses involved.

Full control: You’re handling every detail yourself, which some estimators prefer.

Good for small projects: Perfect for straightforward jobs where the extra tech would be overkill.

❌ Cons:

Time-consuming: You’ll spend hours flipping through catalogs and checking prices.

Prone to errors: Human error is more likely, especially under tight deadlines.

Limited scalability: As projects grow, this method becomes harder to manage.

2. Unit Cost Estimating

Here, you estimate the job by applying a fixed cost per unit (like per foot of wire or per outlet).

✅ Pros:

Faster than manual: Once you have your cost database set up, it’s much quicker.

Consistent: Helps you maintain standard pricing across similar projects.

Useful for repeated tasks: Great if your projects often involve similar setups.

❌ Cons:

Not very detailed: It may miss project-specific variables like labor challenges or site conditions.

Needs regular updates: If your unit prices are outdated, your whole estimate could be off.

3. Assembly Estimating

This method involves grouping components together—like all materials and labor for installing a panel—and estimating them as a package.

✅ Pros:

More detailed: Gives a better picture than simple unit pricing.

Efficient: Speeds up the process while keeping a good level of accuracy.

Great for estimating recurring setups: Especially helpful for commercial jobs with repeatable tasks.

❌ Cons:

Still needs adjustments: Unique project elements may not fit pre-made assemblies.

Takes time to set up: You’ll need a well-built database or estimating software to make it work smoothly.

4. Software-Based Estimating

Using specialized electrical estimating software like Accubid, McCormick, or Trimble can automate much of the process.

✅ Pros:

Fast and accurate: Reduces manual work and catches errors.

Real-time pricing: Many tools integrate with live price databases.

Project management integration: Helps track labor, material, and change orders in one place.

❌ Cons:

Costly upfront: Good software isn’t cheap, especially for small businesses.

Learning curve: Teams may need training to get up to speed.

Can become too reliant: If you're not careful, you might trust the software too much and overlook real-world variables.

5. Design-Build Estimating

This method involves estimating costs while also participating in the design process. It’s collaborative and often used in fast-track projects.

✅ Pros:

Flexibility: You can adjust the estimate as the design evolves.

Improved collaboration: Close coordination between engineers, contractors, and clients.

Helps with value engineering: Cost-saving changes can be made early in the design phase.

❌ Cons:

Can be uncertain: Without final designs, estimates are less precise.

Not ideal for competitive bids: Hard to compare apples to apples when every design is different.

Wrapping Up

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to electrical estimating. The best method depends on the size of your project, your team's experience, available tools, and the level of detail required. Small residential jobs might only need a manual or unit-based estimate, while large-scale commercial work could demand advanced software or assembly estimates.

The key is to strike a balance between speed, accuracy, and practicality. And no matter the method, double-checking your numbers never goes out of style.Want help choosing the right estimating tools or streamlining your workflow? Let’s chat—we’d be happy to help you power up your process.https://estimatingsolutions.com.au/

[mccormicksystems]

When selecting electrical estimating software, it's important to consider features that align with your specific needs, whether you're a small contractor or a large firm. Here are some of the top options available:

Top Electrical Estimating Software

McCormick Electrical Estimating

McCormick Systems has offered a comprehensive electrical estimating software solution since 1979.

Key Features of McCormick's Electrical Estimating Software

Estimating and Takeoff Integration

McCormick provides an all-in-one solution that combines estimating and digital takeoff functionalities. This integration allows users to complete estimates and takeoffs in a single program, streamlining the process from PDF to proposal.

Features: Known for its comprehensive solutions and built-in digital takeoff capabilities. It offers various product levels for different business sizes.

Projects: Supports commercial, industrial, residential, low voltage, and solar power systems.

The software speeds up the takeoff process with:

Prebuilt items and custom assemblies

Automatic counting of assemblies, receptacles, and measurements

Real-time pricing updates from preferred suppliers

Labor Organization

McCormick offers tools to manage labor effectively:

Unlimited job storage

Ability to price out subcontractors, direct job expenses, and equipment rentals

Control over employee assignments and hours

Customization and Efficiency

Users can customize their experience with:

Prebuilt and customizable symbols, items, and assemblies

Customizable dashboards for ideal bid setups

View bid summaries, automatic graphs, and labor scheduling

Specialized Databases

McCormick's software comes with extensive databases tailored for different project types:

Commercial

Residential

Industrial

High & Low voltage

Specialized databases for both US and Canadian markets

Cloud-Based Solution

McCormick offers a cloud-based version called "McCormick Hosted" which provides:

Automatic database backups and software updates

Unlimited storage

High-level data security

Accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection

Industry Applications

McCormick provides:

U.S.-based, industry-leading support

Interactive, educational estimating classes6

Integration Capabilities

The software can integrate with other systems:

Ability to import critical estimating data into accounting software like FOUNDATION

Transfer of material lists, item lists, unit costs, units of measure, and item quantities

McCormick's focus on automation, customization, and comprehensive databases makes it a powerful tool for electrical contractors looking to streamline their estimating process and improve bid accuracy.

FreshBooks

Features: Offers a user-friendly interface with pre-made templates for quick estimates. It integrates well with accounting software, making it ideal for managing financial aspects like profit margins and bid management.

Projects: Suitable for commercial, residential, industrial, and solar power projects.

Houzz Pro Software

Features: An all-in-one project management tool with 3D floor planning, lead management, and client dashboards.

Projects: Best suited for home remodeling and renovation companies focusing on residential projects.

PlanSwift

Features: Offers fast and accurate takeoffs with customizable templates. It supports automatic materials calculation and is tailored for unique project requirements.

STACK

Features: Provides cloud-based access with automated takeoffs and estimating processes. It includes an Autocount feature for quick symbol recognition and integrates with other business tools.

Benefits: Enhances collaboration and project management efficiency.

Conest IntelliBid

Features: Offers a large database of items and assemblies with auto-labor factoring and material price updates. Available both on-premises and cloud-based.

Strengths: Known for its comprehensive suite of estimating, takeoff, and reporting tools

Electrical Bid Manager

Features: Suitable for companies of all sizes, offering a flexible database and electronic on-screen plan takeoff.

Integration: Works with QuickBooks for job costing.

[whoslaurapalmer]

the adult horror conversation with yourself of 'i could have tortillas with dinner tonight. i just had tortillas the other day. that's okay. i can, in fact, have tortillas again! i am putting a different filling in them! but if i have these tortillas, i will have a total of six tortillas left in the freezer. eventually i will have to buy more tortillas. by god, girl, you are allowed to eat the things you have in the freezer, instead of feeling like you have to save them for some potential eventuality so you don't run out of them, and like, what situation are you even imagining where the tortillas would be better to have later instead of for this particular dinner??? if you keep feeling like you have to save them for Something you will just not eat the tortillas!! eventually EVERYTHING runs out and you have to buy more of them!! that is the way the world works!! you are allowed to not have things aggressively stockpiled, except for like, tissues, but that was a purchasing incident on mom's card while she was still here, so you just happen to have, a bizarre amount of tissue boxes. AND WHILE YOUR FINANCES ARE STILL BIG RED QUESTION MARKS, YOU CAN, IN FACT, AFFORD TO GO BUY MORE TORTILLAS IF YOU FUCKING WANT TO!!! YOU GET THE STREET TACO SIZE AND THEY'RE LIKE $2.99!!!!! AND WHEN DID YOU EVEN BUY THESE TORTILLAS, HUH???????? YOU DON'T KNOW, DO YOU???? WHICH MEANS YOU HAVE GONE THROUGH THE TORTILLAS AT AN ACCEPTABLE PACE!! WHATEVER THE HELL THAT SENTENCE MEANS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!'

anyway i'm eating the tortillas. or i mean they're on the counter defrosting while i have some chicken toasting in the toaster oven

[ecgekg]

not an ecg, these electrodes are passing a current from one bicep to the other resulting in a hypercontraction. The upper chest muscles are also contracting and the sensation will be intense

[darkest-depravity]

How would you feel about a sub that pushes back? One that pushes you away from her and curses at you when you try to pin her down? Or one that refuses to repeat the things you tell her to repeat?

Also opinion on shock collars?

Sounds exciting. I love brats just as much as I love doormats ;) A big hobby of mine is powerlifting, and I relish any opportunity to physically overpower a willful submissive. If she wants me to earn my dominance, all the better. She'll just have to pay the price for her behavior once I win.

I do want to say, though, that any particular power dynamic can have both (as well as many other) elements during separate scenes. In a single kink relationship, a sub can be a brat in one scene and a doormat in the next. You can switch up it up every time if you want. Or, maybe a sub is ordinarily a doormat in the day-to-day life of their relationship but would like to try out being a brat for a particular scene, or vice versa. One way to go about this is through role play, something that I'm a big fan of incorporating into kink. The possibilities are endless, honestly, and I'd urge you not to get too locked into any one particular way of expressing your role, as it could preclude you from trying new things that you might really like :) As always, though, if you're trying something brand new make sure to discuss it beforehand with your partner(s), establish any new relevant limits, and talk afterward about what did/didn't work. As far as shock collars go, although the idea is incredibly hot, I must urge you to PLEASE DO NOT DO IT. I'll probably do a longer post on electric play sometime, but the short answer is that there's no way to effectively manage risk with regard to an electrical signal applied anywhere around the neck. There are just far too many vulnerable areas that can easily be permanently damaged by an electrical current.

Here's an article containing a very thorough explanation from a neuromusculoskeletal specialist of why shock collars are a terrible, terrible risk.

A fun alternative could be to place electrodes on nipples instead. Although, there are risks involved with this as well (don't use unipolar electrodes close to the heart) and several factors (including but not limited to: nipple piercings, epilepsy, and heart conditions) which make this unviable as well.

Basically, electrical play is a high-risk activity no matter how you slice it, and you must be very careful and very well-informed before attempting it. IT IS NOT A BEGINNER FORM OF PLAY AND YOU SHOULD ABSOLUTELY BE SURE YOU DO YOUR READING BEFORE ATTEMPTING IT.

[firstdegreefangirl]

Me: Hey, weird question for you. Engineer: What? Me: Do you know the cubic footage of [Sales Director]'s office? Engineer: What??? No idea. Me: I led off with "weird question for you." I'm not sure what you were expecting.

[walkawaytall]

People always buy flashlights for if their electricity goes out — and I do own flashlights and a lantern — but I also bought a pack of headlamps at Costco awhile back and, boy howdy, are these things handy.

[estimatingsolutionsgroup9]

Green Building Projects: Estimating Electric Costs in Energy-Efficient Designs.

 In today's fast-moving construction environment, sustainability is no longer a catchword — it's an essential standard. Green construction, intended to minimize ecological footprints and enhance energy performance, is growing in residential, commercial, and industrial markets. But with innovation comes intricacy, particularly in estimating costs.

One area that is frequently problematic but also absolutely essential in green construction is electrical cost estimating. Why? Because energy-saving design involves all sorts of smart technologies, alternative energy sources, and regulatory standards that need to be accounted for right from square one.

So how do you guarantee that your estimates are accurate, remain competitive, and align with your sustainability targets?

Let’s explore.

Why Electrical Estimating in Green Buildings Is an Entire New Game

Traditional buildings have more predictable electrical footprints — standard lighting uses, common wiring configurations, and uncomplicated load demands. Green buildings are different from those traditional ones, however. Estimators have to take into account:

Progressive lighting technologies (dimmable LEDs, motion detectors)

Intelligent controls and automation

Solar panels, battery storage, EV chargers

Integrated Controls with High-Efficiency HVAC

Energy monitoring systems

Inverter systems Inverter technology is used in

Each component comes with an associated cost — not only in terms of material costs, but also installation labor, ongoing service costs, and integrating with other systems. Additionally, they can trigger other compliance and certification processes impacting budget and scheduling.

Rational Estimating Methods

Here's how premier estimating experts, such as Estimating Solutions Group, facilitate navigation through such intricacies:

1. Know the Green Scope from Day One Early engagement is important. Estimators must closely coordinate with project managers, architects, and sustainability consultants to get complete insight into energy-saving features. A minor design adjustment — such as conversion to a smart lighting control system — can significantly impact cost as well as labor estimates.

2. Use Modern Estimating Software Advanced computing facilities are able to replicate energy performance, calculate load demands, and offer dynamic pricing information for green products. The latest software is used by estimators at ESG to calculate all their work with accurate results — essential in order to secure tender bids, not to mention safeguard profit margins.

3. Create a Green Product Library Green projects typically use pre-determined brands or models of electrical components with assigned energy performance ratings. Using an in-house, carefully maintained internal database simplifies estimating and ensures compliance with certifications such as LEED, NABERS, or Green Star.

4. Future-Proofing in Consider Most green buildings are constructed with scalability in mind -- provisions for eventual solar system, EV stations, or energy monitoring upgrades. Such "planned future costs" might not be necessary now but need to be factored into today's infrastructure. A good estimator understands how to optimize present needs with foresight.

ESG Advantage: Efficiency Coupled with Expertise

Estimating Solutions Group (ESG) has created a specialty in the Australian construction industry by providing demand-based electrical estimating. They know how stressful contractors are when submitting proposals for complicated, energy-focused construction.

With thorough knowledge of Australian standards, green building regulations, and intelligent electrical systems, ESG provides:

Competitive bids that are successful in tendering

Personalized assistance for residential, commercial, and industrial projects

Ability to adjust with your work volume

Rapid turnarounds without jeopardizing quality

Whether you are working to design a net-zero home or a green commercial development, working with an expert team such as ESG guarantees that your electrical estimates are accurate, clear, and in conformity with your green objectives.

The Future Is Green — Is Your Estimate Ready? As governments and developers increasingly focus on energy efficiency, demand for green buildings will continue to rise. That means, for contractors, not only having to change your construction methods — but also your bidding process. Precise electrical estimating in green construction is not merely numbers. It is knowing about sustainability, foreseeing technological innovation, and keeping ahead.Ready to future-proof your tenders? Get in touch with Estimating Solutions Group today — and power your projects with precision.

[estimatingsolution]

Choosing the Right Electrical Estimating Service: What to Look For.

Accurate cost estimation is essential for any electrical project. The right electrical estimating service helps you stay within budget, allocate resources efficiently, and meet deadlines. But with so many services available, how do you pick the best one? Here’s a simple guide to making the right choice.

1. Experience and Industry Expertise Matter

A seasoned electrical estimating service understands the nuances of different projects. They can anticipate costs, prevent costly errors, and provide reliable projections. Companies with years of experience, such as Estimating Solutions, have a strong grasp of industry requirements and can deliver accurate estimates tailored to your project. 

2. Comprehensive Service Offerings

Different projects have different needs. Whether it’s a commercial building, a residential setup, or an industrial project, your chosen service should be capable of handling diverse project types. Companies like Estimating Solutions offer customized estimates for various sectors, ensuring accuracy for each unique requirement.

3. Flexible and Scalable Solutions

Not every business requires a full-time estimator. A good estimating service offers on-demand support, allowing you to scale your needs as your project demands change. Estimating Solutions provides flexible options, ensuring you get expert assistance without unnecessary costs.

4. Fast Turnaround Times

In construction, delays can lead to missed opportunities and increased costs. A responsive estimating service should provide quick and accurate estimates to keep your project moving. Estimating Solutions delivers estimates within 2-5 days, helping businesses submit tenders on time.

5. Cost-Effective Services

Hiring a full-time estimator can be costly. Outsourcing to a professional estimating service allows you to get the same expertise at a lower cost. Companies like Estimating Solutions provide high-quality estimates without the financial burden of hiring in-house. 

6. Trust and Reputation

A reliable electrical estimating service should have a strong track record and positive client feedback. Look for testimonials and case studies that showcase their credibility. Estimating Solutions prioritizes long-term client relationships and is known for its integrity and professionalism. 

7. Use of Advanced Technology

Modern estimating services utilize the latest software and cost databases to improve accuracy and efficiency. Companies that stay updated with technology, like Estimating Solutions, can offer more precise and reliable estimates. 

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right electrical estimating service is vital for project success. By focusing on experience, service offerings, flexibility, speed, cost-effectiveness, reputation, and technology, you can ensure accurate estimates and smooth project execution.Need a trusted estimating partner? Check out Estimating Solutions for expert, precise, and efficient electrical estimating services.

[mccormicksystems]

What Software Do Electrical Contractors Use?

Electrical contractors use specialized software to manage various aspects of their business operations.

Here are some key types of software used by electrical contractors:

Electrical Estimating Software: An Essential Tool for Contractors

Electrical estimating software is a specialized tool designed to help electrical contractors accurately price jobs and create detailed project proposals. This software plays a crucial role in the bidding process and overall project management. Here's an overview of electrical estimating software and its key features:

Core Functionality

Material and Labor Calculations:

Automatically calculates material quantities based on project specifications

Estimates labor hours required for installation

Factors in current market prices for materials and local labor rates

Database Management:

Maintains an up-to-date database of electrical components, fixtures, and materials

Stores pricing information from multiple suppliers

Allows for custom items and pricing adjustments

Takeoff Integration:

Many estimating software solutions integrate with digital takeoff tools

Allows for direct import of measurements and quantities from blueprints or CAD files

Customizable Templates:

Provides pre-built templates for common electrical installations

Allows contractors to create and save custom templates for frequently performed work

Advanced Features

Proposal Generation:

Automatically creates professional-looking bid proposals

Includes detailed breakdowns of materials, labor, and other costs

Offers customizable formatting options to match company branding

What-If Scenarios:

Allows contractors to quickly adjust variables and see how they impact the overall estimate

Helps in creating competitive bids while maintaining profitability

Historical Data Analysis:

Tracks the accuracy of past estimates compared to actual project costs

Helps refine future estimates based on historical performance

Integration Capabilities:

Seamlessly integrates with other business management software

Can export data to accounting systems, project management tools, and scheduling software

Benefits of Electrical Estimating Software

Increased Accuracy: Reduces human error in calculations and improves overall estimate precision

Time Savings: Automates many time-consuming aspects of the estimating process

Consistency: Ensures a standardized approach to estimating across the organization

Competitive Edge: Enables contractors to quickly generate accurate bids, potentially winning more projects

Profitability Analysis: Helps contractors identify which types of projects are most profitable

Business Management Software

Electrical contractors often use all-in-one business management platforms that integrate multiple functions:

Scheduling and Dispatching

These tools allow contractors to efficiently schedule jobs, assign electricians, and optimize routes. Features typically include:

Drag-and-drop calendars

Real-time dispatching

GPS tracking of technicians

Automated appointment reminders for customers

Estimating and Quoting

The software helps create professional quotes quickly, often including:

Customizable templates

Optional line items for upselling

Digital signature capture

Automated follow-ups

Invoicing and Payments

Contractors use software to streamline billing processes:

Generate invoices from estimates or work orders

Accept online and mobile payments

Automate payment reminders

Integrate with accounting software

Field Service Management

Mobile apps allow technicians to access critical information on-site:

View customer history and job details

Update electrical work orders in real-time

Capture photos and signatures

Access wiring diagrams or technical documentation

Project Management

For larger commercial jobs, contractors may use software to:

Track project progress and milestones

Manage resources and equipment

Collaborate with subcontractors

Monitor job costs and profitability

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

CRM features help electrical contractors manage customer interactions:

Store contact information and communication history

Track sales opportunities

Manage service agreements and recurring maintenance

Reporting and Analytics

Advanced software provides insights to improve business performance:

Track key performance indicators (KPIs)

Generate financial reports

Analyze technician productivity

Identify trends in service calls or equipment failures

Popular software options for electrical contractors include McCormick Systems, BuildOps, Jobber, and FieldEdge. Many of these platforms offer integrations with accounting software like Foundation Software to further streamline operations.

When choosing software, electrical contractors should consider factors like ease of use, mobile accessibility, scalability, and integration capabilities to find the best fit for their business needs.

[jackstockhypno]

EstimWithJack 

Fire up your estim device and join me for a stim session.

This is the same video from the "Lets talk about Estim" video, but without the voiceover.

So you can listen to Jack experiencing it and even follow along with your own device. 

Watch it here: https://www.manyvids.com/video/5779366/EstimWithJack/

Connect with me at JackDominates.com/links

[janemyotherside]

Got this to my collection, fun to play with

[ecgekg]

Not all electrodes are painless ECG's. Some will shock you

[abawaterheater]

ABA Water Heater

ABA Water Heater supplies an extensive choice of water heaters made to meet your specific requirements. We have the ideal solution for you, whether you're searching for a contemporary tankless water heater that heats water on demand or an old-fashioned storage tank water heater that can store and heat a large amount of water.

Contact us on 346-569-8006 .

[wa-associate-and-builder]