Working with Cost Categories

NOTE-- We retired the MacNail estimating program in 2000, and replaced it with Goldenseal construction estimating software. There are still a significant number of die-hard MacNail users, so we keep the manuals online for them! Goldenseal is an integrated program that also includes accounting, scheduling and contract writing. Goldenseal lets you choose categories from a pop-up list, so you don't need to remember codes.

Working with Cost Category Codes

Nearly all estimating systems divide the cost of a project into a system of categories or divisions, to make the complexities of the building process more manageable. Exactly how to divide up the world of construction is a matter of opinion, of course, and there is no 'universal' cost category system that is ideal for everyone.

The MacNail construction estimating software starts out with two 'stock' cost category systems designed for remodelers, general contractors and home builders-- a MacNail system with 30 lettered cost categories, and a CSI system with 16 numbered cost divisions. Both category systems cover the whole gamut of construction, from excavation to framing, trim, painting and final cleanup.

Using MacNail Customizing, you can create your own cost category systems-- whether you are a remodeler or home builder, a specialty contractor or a subcontractor. These new category systems might be minor modifications of one of the 'stock' systems, or they might be completely new systems that you've built from the ground up, so to speak.

The MacNail construction management software allows you to use different cost category systems at the same time. It uses the Category Code Master to store the inter-relationships between different category systems.

MacNail Customizing also provides a Code Systems command that allows you to convert line items and worksheets from one cost category system to another.