Estimating Tips and Software

Key takeaways

Phil has over 30 years of experience in electrical work and has developed a keen understanding of estimating through his practical experiences.
Estimating is evolving from traditional qualitative methods relying on heuristics to more quantitative analysis with detailed takeoffs.
The Unity Build software aims to make estimating easier and more collaborative, integrating significant AI features while maintaining essential estimating tools.
The importance of continual improvement in estimation processes and the use of technology to enhance accuracy in project costs.
Good estimating provides valuable insights that help facilitate the transition from estimating to production phases.

Summary

Phil's Journey in Estimation

Phil, an executive electrical team leader at Kalos, shares his extensive journey in the electrical trades since 1994. From taking high school electives in electrical to running his own business for several years, Phil's experience shaped his understanding of estimating. He discusses how he learned estimating through hands-on experiences in the field and explains the evolution of estimating from traditional methods to current practices.

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Estimating

The episode delves into the fundamental differences between qualitative and quantitative estimating. Phil elucidates that good estimating is all about finding the truth in project costs, emphasizing the importance of quality labor and material pricing. The discussion elaborates on how traditional estimating often relies on heuristics and past experiences while quantitative estimating involves comprehensive takeoffs and assembly-based counting for more accuracy.

The Role of Estimators

Phil elaborates on the estimator's role in organizations, stating that estimating isn't just about producing a final number. Instead, it's about providing valuable insights that can transfer into production. The discussion includes details on how estimators gather information, analyze costs, and input this data into project management.

Introducing Unity Build Estimating Software

A highlight of the episode is Phil's introduction to Unity Build, the estimating software he developed. The software integrates AI technologies, allowing for a collaborative environment among estimators and others in the team. Phil walks through the purpose of the software, its features, and how it can streamline estimating workflows. The software is cloud-based, meaning it can be accessed from anywhere, and is currently priced at $125 per month per seat.

Future of Unity Build and AI Integration

Phil shares his vision for the future of Unity Build, focusing on continuous improvement and additional AI integrations that will enhance user experience. He mentions that the software may currently be in a beta stage but highlights its robust core functions. The conversation underscores the significance of adapting to modern tools for estimates and staying relevant within the contracting space.

Show notes

In this episode of the HVAC School Podcast, host Bryan sits down with Phil, the executive electrical team leader at Kalos who has transitioned into the world of estimating. Phil shares his extensive background in electrical work dating back to 1994, from his high school electrical elective to running his own business for eight years before joining Kalos and eventually establishing their estimation department.

The conversation delves deep into the fundamentals of estimating in the trades, contrasting traditional qualitative approaches with more rigorous quantitative methods. Phil emphasizes that good estimating is about "finding the truth" - understanding the actual costs of materials and labor for a project. They discuss how traditional estimating often relies on heuristics and past experiences with similar jobs, while more detailed estimating involves comprehensive takeoffs and assembly-based counting. The pair explores how estimation isn't just about producing a final number but should provide valuable information that transfers to the production phase.

A highlight of the episode is Phil's introduction of his self-developed estimating software called Unity Build. He explains how his interest in AI technologies led him to learn programming and eventually create this cloud-based solution that integrates AI assistance while maintaining the fundamental tools needed for thorough estimating. The software allows for collaboration between team members, is entirely browser-based, requiring no downloads, and is priced at $125 per month per seat. Bryan emphasizes that this is Phil's own business venture that he's taken an interest in, and they both stress that potential users should buy it for what it currently offers, not future promises, though they are committed to continuous improvement.

Topics Covered:

Phil's 30+ year journey in electrical work and how he learned estimating
The difference between qualitative (heuristic-based) and quantitative (detailed takeoff) estimating approaches
Unit pricing vs. assembly-based takeoffs in estimating
How good estimating transfers value to the production phase
The workflow of detailed estimating from information gathering to closeout
Labor factoring and how it affects cost calculations
Phil's development of Unity Build estimation software using AI integration
Cloud-based advantages of the new software, including collaboration capabilities
How Unity Build facilitates handoff from estimating to production
Pricing model ($125/month per seat) and target customers (small to mid-sized contractors)
The importance of estimating honesty and finding the "truth" in project costs

Check out Unity Build Estimation at https://unitybuildestimation.com/.

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