In essence, the Sage Estimating (SQL) spreadsheet is the estimate. It presents the items, quantities, and monetary amounts that make up an estimate in a format designed specifically for estimating. Changes you make to your estimates are saved automatically as you work.
You can customize the appearance of the spreadsheet to meet your needs:
- Display the spreadsheet in another order (such as, takeoff order, or work breakdown structure (WBS) code order).
- Change the size of the columns, and turn them on or off.
- Change the fonts and colors used on the spreadsheet.
- Collapse or expand the spreadsheet details.
- Save your favorite spreadsheet layouts for future use.
When you create an estimate, you simply copy information from the standard database into the spreadsheet (a process known as takeoff), entering dimensions and specifications as required.
The standard database and estimates are kept separately. Changes you make to the standard database do not affect existing estimates. Likewise, changes you make on the spreadsheet stay in the estimate and do not affect the standard database or other estimates. Before making changes, be sure to note where your changes will be stored.
Tip: The title bar in many windows indicates whether the information showing is stored in the standard database or the estimate.