Model workflow

The workflow of a model is threefold:

1. Build a model. A model contains questions, items, and assemblies as well as the logic to prefill values for takeoff. The first step is to create the models you may need in the database. Estimating enables you to develop an unlimited number of models, which are stored in the SQL server estimating database.
2. Perform model takeoff. When you take off a model, it appears in an interview form and prefills any values with the defaults you determined when you created it. The only input required during takeoff is for missing values. You simply fill in the blanks, or change the defaults, and let the model determine what to include in the estimate.
3. Generate a model to the estimate. After you have completed model takeoff, you are ready to generate it to the spreadsheet. This is a takeoff function that pulls all the items and assemblies from the model into the estimate. If necessary, you can go back to the model, make changes, and regenerate it to the spreadsheet.