Deciding how to code phases

Phase codes let you organize phases numerically and alphabetically into two levels known as group phases (divisions) and phases (subdivisions). Within the coding scheme, there are three main concerns.

  • Should phase codes be strictly numeric or allow other characters? Your decision determines the order of phases on the screen and in reports.
  • How many characters should the phase codes have? In general, short codes are easier to enter. The maximum length is 9 characters.
  • Should codes include a decimal point and suffix? The suffix can be 1, 2, or 3 digits in length. If you expect to add a suffix later, you should:
    • Never use all 9 characters (123456789)
    • Never include spaces (A 001)
    • Never include a decimal point (1000.6)

Tips:  

  • It is important for the job cost phase codes in the Sage Estimating (SQL) software to have the same format (length, suffix, punctuation, and justification) as the codes in your job cost application. For more information, see Formatting job cost phase codes.
  • If you are using the Sage Estimating (SQL) software with Sage 300 Construction Job Cost, you can import data such as cost codes and categories into your standard database. When you set up your standard database, select Sage 300 Construction as the Job cost interface type and select the Use Sage 300 Construction’s Job Cost data option.