Glossary

Here is a glossary of words used in the ESTIMATION software

Constant parameter

This parameter is associated with an item.  The value or formula is found EVERYWHERE the item is present.  This parameter cannot be optional.  The change of value generates a modification on the item.

Cost type

The type of cost is a qualifier associated with an item. It can be Unitary or Flat.

A unit cost type indicates that the item has a cost for each unit. It is by indicating a quantity that we obtain a total price.

A flat rate cost type indicates that the item has a cost for the item.  The quantity is not taken into account to obtain the total price.   Ultimately, it could be assigned a quantity of 1 or 0 indicating that the item is present or not.

Current Formula

Designates the parameter formula of an item that uses its own parameters.

Disconnected Formula

Refers to the formula of a parameter that does not find all its variables to make the calculation.  Only ONE parameter needs to be disconnected for a formula to be said to be disconnected.

In the case of a SUM FORMULA, it is said to be disconnected if this formula does not sum the parameter of ALL its children.

External Formula

Designates the parameter formula of an item that uses the parameter of another item than itself or its children.

Internal Formula

Designates the parameter formula of an item that uses the parameter of a child.

Item

Designates an item in the catalog.

Non-constant parameter

This parameter is associated with an assembly.  The value or formula is found EVERYWHERE on the current item within the parent item.  In this case, the change of value generates a modification on the parent item unless the parameter is optional.  This formula or value will be the same for all equivalent items in the assembly.

Permanent item modification

Expression used to designate that the change of an item will affect all the places where this item is inserted.  The item code is its unique identifier.

Quote, Quote section

Here is the list of quotation sections

00- General Requirements
01- General Conditions
02- Layout
03- Concrete
04- Masonry
05- Steel structure and metal work
06- Carpentry and Joinery
07- Waterproofing and Insulation
08- Doors, Windows and Glazing
09- Interior Finishing
10- Special elements
11- Equipment
12- Furnishing and Decoration
13- Special Works
14- Handling
21- Fire Protection
22- Plumbing
23- Heating/Ventilation/Air Exchanger
26- Electrical
27- Communications
28- Security and electronic protections

Simple item

Designates an item that cannot contain a sub-item.