Complete Estimate Using IntelliBid & SureCount | Electrical Estimating Software Demo

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of creating a complete electrical estimate using IntelliBid and SureCount. This step-by-step guide is designed for electrical contractors, low-voltage technicians, and solar installers looking to improve their estimating efficiency and accuracy through digital takeoffs and detailed reporting.

Step 1: Setting Up SureCount for Digital Takeoffs

• Install SureCount: Begin by downloading and installing SureCount on your device.
• Create a New Project: Open SureCount and select 'New Project' to start your digital takeoff.
• Import Plans: Upload your project plans or blueprints into SureCount for reference during the takeoff.
• Use Measurement Tools: Utilize the various measurement tools available within SureCount to outline and quantify materials directly on your digital plans.
• Check for Accuracy: Review your measurements to ensure they are precise, minimizing errors in the estimation process.

Step 2: Leveraging IntelliBid’s Database

• Open IntelliBid: Launch IntelliBid after completing your digital takeoff in SureCount.
• Access Item and Assembly Database: Navigate to the item and assembly database to find relevant materials and labor costs.
• Select Items: Choose the items needed for your project based on your SureCount takeoff. You can filter items by category for easier navigation.
• Create Assemblies: If necessary, create custom assemblies to streamline your estimates for complex tasks.

Step 3: Creating Accurate Cost Estimates

• Input Measurements: Transfer the quantities from your SureCount takeoff into IntelliBid, ensuring all measurements are accounted for.
• Labor Calculations: Use IntelliBid’s labor calculation tools to estimate the necessary labor hours based on project requirements.
• Material Lists: Generate a comprehensive list of materials required for your project, ensuring you include all items selected in previous steps.
• Apply Real-Time Pricing: Leverage real-time pricing updates within IntelliBid to reflect the most current costs for materials and labor.

Step 4: Generating Detailed Reports

• Select Reporting Options: Choose from the various reporting options available in IntelliBid to create professional estimates.
• Customize Reports: Adjust the report layout and content to fit your project needs, including labor, materials, and overhead costs.
• Export Reports: Once satisfied with your report, export it in your preferred format (PDF, Excel, etc.) for sharing with clients or stakeholders.

Step 5: Utilizing Built-In Management Tools

• Auto-Labor Feature: Make use of IntelliBid’s Auto-Labor feature to simplify labor calculations and improve accuracy.
• Phase Breakdowns: Implement phase breakdowns to organize your project into manageable sections for easier tracking and reporting.
• Review and Adjust: Regularly review your estimates and adjust based on project changes or new information to maintain accuracy.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively streamline your estimating process using IntelliBid and SureCount. The integration of digital takeoffs with powerful estimating software not only saves time but also enhances the accuracy of your project estimates. To further improve your skills, consider requesting a demo of the software or exploring additional tutorials for advanced features. Happy estimating!