Changing an existing database model
Entering default values using ad hoc formulas
Entering default values using question formulas
Entering default values using questions
Model window
This window is used to enter the ID, description, and notes for a model; to create questions and question formulas; and to choose the necessary items and assemblies. Estimating saves your entries when you click [OK].
To open the Model window:
- On the ribbon, from the Elements group on the Data tab, click Models.
- In classic view, click Database menu > Models.
Note: This command is available only when a standard database is open.
Tips:
- When you click a line in an existing model, Estimating refreshes the current variables from the items and assemblies in the database. If it encounters any changes made to the database since you last loaded the model, it asks if you would like to run Check Model.
- The warning Incomplete – Check model appears at the top of the window
if your model contains fields with incomplete or incorrect information.
Estimating marks these fields with a red exclamation mark (
). Hover your cursor over the exclamation mark to see error
details. - Click
to search for errors in the model
or click [Check Model] for a complete
list of errors.
Items in this window
Model
Enter the unique code (up to 20 characters) that identifies each model in the database. The codes determine the order of models throughout Estimating.
Tips:
- Click
to see
a list of models. - Click [Renumber] to change the code for this model.
Group
Allows you to designate a model as a top-level heading for organizing other models with similar characteristics. If you set up group models, there are two levels in the model list.
| Setting | Result |
|---|---|
|
☐ |
Creates a database model. |
|
☑ |
Creates a group heading. |
Tips:
- Only the model code and description are required for a group model.
- To mark this option, press Alt+G.
Description
Enter a few words (up to 70 characters) describing the model. This should be specific enough to distinguish this model from other similar models. The description appears in lists and reports.
Tips:
- For regular models, capitalize only the first letter of important words.
- For a group model, use upper case letters to make the description stand out. Either way, be consistent.
[Notes]
Opens the Notes window where you can enter additional information about a model. A paper clip on the button means that something has already been entered.
Estimating displays these notes in the estimate after you generate the model to the spreadsheet.
There is an option to print these notes on the Model Database report.
[Check Model]
Opens the Check Model Selection window where you select what models to verify for integrity. Whenever you create or modify a model, you should check its integrity to ensure the accuracy of your estimates.