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Numerous computer aided cost estimation software systems are now available. These range in sophistication from simple spreadsheet calculation software to integrated systems involving design and price negotiation over the Internet. While this software involves costs for purchase, maintenance, training and computer hardware, some significant efficiencies often result. In particular, cost estimates may be prepared more rapidly and worthless effort
Some of the common features of computer aided cost estimation software include:
• Databases for unit cost items such as worker wage rates, equipment rental or material prices. These databases can be used for any cost estimate required. If these rates change, cost estimates can be rapidly re-computed after the databases are updated.
• Databases of expected productivity for different components types, equipment and construction processes.
• Import utilities from computer aided design software for automatic quantity-take-off of components. Alternatively, special user interfaces may exist to enter geometric descriptions of components to allow automatic quantity-take-off.
• Export utilities to send estimates to cost control and scheduling software. This is very helpful to begin the management of costs during construction.
• Version control to allow simulation of different construction processes or design changes for the purpose of tracking changes in expected costs.
• Provisions for manual review, over-ride and editing of any cost element resulting from the cost estimation system
• Flexible reporting formats, including provisions for electronic reporting rather than simply printing cost estimates on paper.
• Archives of past projects to allow rapid cost-estimate updating or modification for similar designs.
A typical process for developing a cost estimate using one of these systems would include:
1. If a similar design has already been estimated or exists in the company archive, the old project information is retrieved.
2. A cost engineer modifies, add or deletes components in the project information set. If a similar project exists, many of the components may have few or no updates, thereby saving time.
3. A cost estimate is calculated using the unit cost method of estimation. Productivity and unit prices are retrieved from the system databases. Thus, the latest price information is used for the cost estimate.
4. The cost estimation is summarized and reviewed for any errors.
