Construction estimating and margin approval
When quotes live in different spreadsheets and the real margin is hard to see before the job starts.
I can build owned estimating and approval software when business-specific rates, variations, margin boundaries and handover rules no longer fit a standard package or shared workbook.
Problem diagnosis
The estimate stops being reliable when its decisions become separated.
- Estimators use different rates, spreadsheet versions or assumptions for similar work.
- Margin is visible too late, or only to the person who knows where to look.
- Variations and approvals become detached from the estimate that the customer accepted.
A job can begin without one agreed commercial record of scope, exclusions, assumptions, margin decisions and later changes.
Responsibility
The system should apply agreed commercial rules, not invent them.
I can diagnose the workflow, design and build the system, test its behaviour and document the handover. The people responsible for pricing and commercial judgement define and approve the rates, allowances and margin boundaries. If a mainstream estimating product fits, I will say so.
This is a more specific version of Bespoke operational software.
What I would build
The first useful version would be concrete.
- 01
A controlled estimate structure
Scopes, quantities, rates, exclusions and assumptions follow one agreed shape without turning the system into a take-off service.
- 02
Rate and allowance sources
Each working number can show where it came from and when it became effective.
- 03
Margin and approval boundaries
Estimates or variations outside agreed boundaries can be held for the right person to review before issue.
- 04
Version and variation history
What changed, why it changed and who accepted it stays attached to the job record.
- 05
Handover into delivery
The accepted scope and commercial decisions can move forward without being re-keyed from an email attachment.
Fit filter
Probably right, probably not.
Probably right when…
- Estimating is business-critical and genuinely differs from standard package assumptions.
- Several people contribute to or approve estimates and variations.
- Rates, margin boundaries and handover decisions matter commercially.
Probably not me when…
- A mainstream estimating or take-off product covers the workflow.
- The need is mainly quantity surveying or commercial advice.
- You want a cheaper packaged app, spreadsheet template or product comparison.
First step
Start with diagnosis, not a big commitment.
The first step is to map one recent estimate from its working numbers through approval, issue, variation and delivery handover.
The initial consultation is free and can take up to 60 minutes. Paid work is £150 per hour plus VAT where applicable, billed in 30-minute increments. No retainer or lock-in. Your project code is yours and your accounts stay under your control.
Useful things to send before a call
- Two recent estimates
- The rate and allowance sources
- An example variation
- The current approval route
Objections
Questions you may have before you get in touch.
Should we use an estimating product instead?
Yes, if one covers the real workflow. A custom build starts to make sense only where important rates, approvals, variations or handovers do not fit safely.
Can old spreadsheets move across safely?
The first task is to identify which rates, formulas, assumptions and estimate versions are authoritative before deciding what should be imported.
Do we have to commit to a full build?
No. A paid diagnosis can map the boundary and leave you with a written recommendation, including a product or spreadsheet route when that is the better answer.
Let's solve difficult problems.
We'll talk through your current infrastructure and systems, any problems or opportunities, and the goals you want to achieve. I'll be honest about where I can and can't help.