Estimator’s Edge

March/April 2026

Summation 2025

Things that happened for the first time seem to be happening again. “Where or When…”–Rogers and Hart With the sight of new calendars constantly popping up on screens everywhere, I am compelled to roll out...

January/February 2026

Poker Hand

In my esteemed capacity as senior estimator, I am constantly compelled to dismiss a plethora of sometimes absurd questions presented by prospective “bidmeisters.”

2025 November/December

A Positive Pivot

You have probably become aware of some significant shifting in the economic winds.

2025 July/August

Data Center Explosion:

I had to chuckle when an earlier “instructions to bid” (ITB) notice came to me attached to a non-disclosure agreement (NDA).

2025 May/June

Mind Games of General Contractors

At the risk of offending several of my esteemed superiors, I am now prepared to address the delicate topic of general contractors (GCs).

2025 March/April

Construction Delays: Counting the Costs

Upon reviewing the many topics that I have touched upon in this column over the years, it amazes me that I hadn’t yet raised the issue of scheduling delays and their attendant impacts.

2025 January/February

The Fog of Uncertainty

Having had the past privilege of shepherding a number of prospective estimators from time to time, I’ve experienced an amusing misconception among many of these “bidmeister” “want-to-bes.”

2024 December

Find the Cost

The 2024 hurricane season is finally ending, thank goodness.