#value of professional estimating

[asestimationsconsultants]

Choosing a Reliable Estimating Service | What to Look For

Selecting the right estimating service can make or break your project’s financial planning. A reliable estimator not only delivers accurate numbers but also offers valuable insights and clear communication. This article outlines key qualities and criteria to consider when choosing an estimating service to partner with your construction project.

Experience and Industry Knowledge

Look for services with demonstrated experience in your project type—be it residential, commercial, industrial, or infrastructure. Familiarity with local codes, material costs, and labor markets is essential to producing realistic estimates.

Comprehensive Service Offerings

A good estimating service provides more than just quantity takeoffs. Check that they offer detailed cost breakdowns, risk assessments, value engineering suggestions, and revision support to handle design changes.

Use of Modern Technology

Reliable estimators use current software tools such as CostX, Bluebeam, or Planswift, often integrated with BIM systems. These tools improve accuracy, speed, and collaboration.

Transparency and Clear Communication

Choose a service that explains assumptions, inclusions, and exclusions clearly. Open communication ensures you understand the estimate’s basis and can ask questions or request updates easily.

References and Reputation

Ask for references from previous clients or look for online reviews. A strong track record of on-time delivery and accuracy is a good indicator of reliability.

Pricing and Value

While cost is important, avoid choosing solely on price. Consider the value the estimator brings in accuracy, risk reduction, and timely delivery.

Flexibility and Responsiveness

Construction projects evolve, so pick an estimator who is flexible with changes and responsive to your needs, providing timely updates as designs develop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I hire a local estimating service? Local estimators tend to have better knowledge of regional costs and regulations, making them a smart choice.

Can I switch estimators mid-project? It’s possible, but continuity is better. Ensure clear communication if a change is needed.

Do estimating services guarantee accuracy? No one can guarantee exact costs, but reputable services strive to minimize errors through expertise and tools.

Conclusion

Choosing a reliable estimating service requires evaluating experience, technology, communication, and reputation. A trusted estimator is a partner who supports your project’s financial health and helps navigate challenges confidently.

[rahulp3]

What Are The Major Factors Driving Retinal Biologics Market Growth?

The Retinal Biologics Market is experiencing a surge in demand, fueled by advancements in eye disease treatments and a growing emphasis on vision health. According to a recent analysis by Future Market Insights (FMI), a leading market research firm, the market is currently valued at an impressive US$22.25 billion in 2022. Looking ahead, the market is projected to witness a remarkable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.1% over the next six years. This translates to a staggering market valuation of US$41.92 billion by 2028, highlighting the significant potential of retinal biologics in revolutionizing eye care.The remarkable expansion of the Global Retinal Biologics sector is fueled by advancements in technology, innovative research, and a growing demand for cutting-edge treatments. As the industry continues to evolve, it presents unprecedented opportunities for stakeholders, investors, and healthcare professionals alike.Key Retinal Biologics Market Insights:

Rising Prevalence of Diabetes-related Eye Disorders and Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) The prevalence of diabetes-related eye disorders and age-related macular degeneration is on the rise, underscoring the growing need for innovative solutions within the Retinal Biologics Industry.Substantial Investment in R&D for Biologics in Retinal Disorders The industry is witnessing a significant influx of research and development resources, aimed at advancing biologics for both infectious and non-infectious retinal disorders. This investment underscores the commitment to addressing unmet medical needs.

Emergence of Specific Biologic Molecules as Therapeutic Targets Specific biologic molecules are gaining prominence as highly promising therapeutic targets, offering new hope for patients with retinal conditions.Gene Therapy as a Solution for Monogenic Retinal Illnesses With a growing number of monogenic retinal illnesses, gene therapy is emerging as a pivotal component of the Retinal Biologics Market, presenting innovative solutions for these challenging conditions.

Request a Sample Copy of This Report Now.https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-8663

[crispyladyland]

Medford Gutter Cleaning: Essential Protection Against Southern Oregon’s Seasonal Hazards

Medford Gutter Cleaning is a vital maintenance task for homeowners in Southern Oregon, where seasonal weather patterns and natural debris demand proactive care. Situated in the Rogue Valley, Medford faces heavy rainfall, winter storms, and an abundance of pine needles and deciduous foliage. These factors make Medford Gutter Cleaning essential to prevent water damage, protect structural integrity, and maintain a safe property. Clogged gutters can lead to overflowing water, foundation erosion, roof leaks, and pest infestations, underscoring the need for regular upkeep tailored to the region’s unique challenges.

The area’s climate poses specific risks for gutter systems. Autumn leaves, pine needles, and wind-blown debris quickly accumulate, obstructing water flow. Without routine Medford Gutter Cleaning, stagnant water can freeze during winter, forming ice dams that strain gutters and roofs. Professional services in Medford use specialized tools like high-pressure vacuums, gutter scoops, and inspection cameras to clear blockages efficiently. Many also install gutter guards to reduce debris buildup, offering long-term solutions for homes surrounded by Medford’s dense tree canopy.

Neglecting gutter maintenance carries hidden dangers. Overflowing water seeps into walls, promoting mold growth and compromising insulation. Over time, improper drainage can weaken foundations, leading to costly repairs. Local experts emphasize biannual Medford Gutter Cleaning—ideally in spring and fall—to align with peak debris seasons. Post-storm inspections are equally critical, as sudden weather events can dislodge branches or deposit unexpected materials. Early detection of issues like rust, loose fasteners, or misaligned gutters helps prevent minor problems from escalating.

Choosing a reliable Medford Gutter Cleaning service requires evaluating experience, safety protocols, and eco-friendly practices. Reputable companies are licensed, insured, and trained to navigate steep roofs and unstable ladders safely. Many offer free estimates, transparent pricing, and debris recycling, aligning with Southern Oregon’s sustainability values. Seasonal maintenance contracts simplify scheduling, ensuring gutters remain functional year-round without homeowners needing to coordinate individual appointments.

While DIY gutter cleaning may seem cost-effective, it poses significant risks. Climbing ladders without proper safety gear or expertise increases the likelihood of accidents. Untrained individuals might also overlook subtle issues like pest nests, hidden decay, or improper gutter slope. Professionals specializing in Medford Gutter Cleaning spot these problems during inspections, performing minor repairs and ensuring optimal water flow. Their work not only safeguards properties but also extends gutter lifespan, saving homeowners money over time.

In conclusion, Medford Gutter Cleaning is a non-negotiable investment for preserving home value and safety in Southern Oregon’s dynamic climate. Partnering with local experts ensures efficient debris removal, system upgrades, and preventative care tailored to Medford’s environmental demands. Regular maintenance mitigates risks of water damage, pest activity, and structural decay, offering homeowners peace of mind. By prioritizing Medford Gutter Cleaning, residents protect their properties from the region’s relentless weather while contributing to the longevity of their most valuable asset. 🏡🌲

[emergencyplumbingil]

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[pejasurveying1]

PEJA Surveying offers expert Freelance Quantity Surveyor services for construction projects in London and beyond. Our team provides cost estimating, change management, procurement, risk management, budget management, and more. Partner with us for flexible, professional, and cost-effective quantity surveying solutions. Contact us today!

[bluegiragi]

I don't want to sound rude, you may have already answered this question (if so, I'm sorry, I didn't find that answer), but I'm wondering why you're so against AI bots specificly. Obviously, this is a personal matter for everyone, but I'm a little confused by such harshness. Of course, I'm not going to prove anything to anyone, but I just wanted to understand the roots of your position. I really like your work, but to be honest, your last answers have thrown me into a kind of stupor :(

i have an ideological opposition against AI as a whole to be fair. a lot of it comes down to it's environmental impact

Globally, AI-related infrastructure may soon consume six times more water than Denmark, a country of 6 million, according to one estimate. That is a problem when a quarter of humanity already lacks access to clean water and sanitation.  

but i also believe it's inherently anti-human.

In a time when global literacy rates are diving (did you know that half of american adults read at a 6th grade level or below?) , I think it's incredibly short-sighted to be essentially surrendering your ability to write your own emails/essays/messages to an AI, when doing it yourself, despite what online contrarians will say, does have value (emails teach you how to communicate professionally, messages improve your social skills, essays improve your critical thinking skills). In this political landscape, it also feels dangerous to have your ability to read critically by yourself get dampened by AIs which are, at the end of the day, owned by silicon valley billionaires many of whom attended trump's inauguration, which is a good indication of where they lie politically.

Generative AI when it comes to art is also killing culture, removing opportunities for existing artists who are the ones who can extend the ceiling for human creation and helping society devalue art even more even though it's the only thing keeping us all sane. How would you feel if all you had in your life was just school or work, leaving out music, movies, tv shows, books, art? Doesn't art bring enough value to your life that it's worth properly compensating the people responsible for it? Why should we ever encourage or normalise throwing art into a meat grinder and feeding on the approximated soulless sludge it generates?

For AI chat bots, my beef with it is that it's an inherently anti-social product. All it does is remove the need to ever communicate with another person, which is horrible for people's brains. Some people are "falling in love" with their ai chatbot, some people are using their ai chatbots as therapists. The desire for real human connection is getting lost. An AI chatbot also makes RP obsolete, which is a foundational part of fandom which, i always feel like i need to remind people, is based on community. The point is to connect with people! I just fear that the popularisation and normalisation of this technology is going to end up with people shut in their homes their entire life, lost to whatever toxic pipeline their anti-social behaviour inevitably leads them down.

i know people love to play with AI like it's a fad, and it's "not that deep bro" but i think it's shameful and embarrassing to act as if you don't have agency in your life. You can choose to abstain from technology, you can choose to find entertainment elsewhere, you can choose to be a person independent of technology. If all AI went away tomorrow, would you be able to still do your job? Write a story? Read a book and understand its meaning? AI is a product built on instant gratification and entitlement - not to get too deep on an ask about AI chatbots, but i think art, relationships, culture, all of it is worth the journey to get there.

[comicaurora]

When creating art, how do you deal with the fact that seemingly everyone's opinions and tastes are completely individual? Like, how do you make good art, when around 40-50% of what even is "good art" changes from person to person? Sure, we have points we can all agree, but I'm baffled by how three people can agree and disagree on the same pieces of media. I can like movies A and B, and feel like they're very alike, but a friend might love B and hate A and another friend thinks the opposite.

The confusion is because "good" is being used to mean several different things:

To My Personal Taste. If you like a piece of art, you could very easily describe it as good just because you had a good time with it.

Well Put Together. If a story is well-crafted, lacking in plotholes or contrivances, broadly carefully woven, makes sense the more you think about it, etc - you could deem it to be good because it's been put together well. If a work of art looks good, the light sources and shadows make sense with one another, the colors work well together, the composition has clarity, the anatomy is correct - then the work was put together competently and skillfully, and could be called good for this reason.

Objective Quality. When people describe a movie as good, this is usually what they are trying to judge. Whether an objective judgment can be rendered on something as subjective as art is something people have been yelling about for centuries. In my estimation, the quality of a work has to be judged based on what the artist was going for and how close their execution was to that goal. An attempt at photorealism might be seen as "objectively bad" if it doesn't look photorealistic.

And by the same token, "bad" can mean a BUNCH of different things:

Bad Because I Had A Bad Time

Bad Because It Didn't Deliver What I Expected From It

Bad Because It Hit Me With A Personal Dealbreaker

Bad Because I Couldn't Take It Seriously

Bad Because It Didn't Make Sense To Me

Bad Because It Said Something I Really Disagreed With

And many more. This is why I think it's helpful to unpack a story further than just "is it good or bad" because those judgments are almost always concealing a more interesting personal analysis. There are stories I find highly ineffective that are still professionally well-crafted and accomplishing the creator's goals. There are stories I enjoy the hell out of that are weighed down by ropey characterization and dubious values. It's usually more effective, in my experience, to narrow in and identify what parts of a work are working for you, and what parts aren't clicking.

[reasonsforhope]

"Millions of Australians just got official permission to ignore their bosses outside of working hours, thanks to a new law enshrining their "right to disconnect."

The law doesn't strictly prohibit employers from calling or messaging their workers after hours. But it does protect employees who "refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact or attempted contact outside their working hours, unless their refusal is unreasonable," according to the Fair Work Commission, Australia's workplace relations tribunal.

That includes outreach from their employer, as well as other people "if the contact or attempted contact is work-related."

The law, which passed in February, took effect on Monday [August 26, 2024] for most workers and will apply to small businesses of fewer than 15 people starting in August 2025. It adds Australia to a growing list of countries aiming to protect workers' free time.

"It's really about trying to bring back some work-life balance and make sure that people aren't racking up hours of unpaid overtime for checking emails and responding to things at a time when they're not being paid," said Sen. Murray Watt, Australia's minister for employment and workplace relations.

The law doesn't give employees a complete pass, however...

"If it was an emergency situation, of course people would expect an employee to respond to something like that," Watt said. "But if it's a run-of-the-mill thing … then they should wait till the next work day, so that people can actually enjoy their private lives, enjoy time with their family and their friends, play sport or whatever they want to do after hours, without feeling like they're chained to the desk at a time when they're not actually being paid, because that's just not fair."

Protections aim to address erosion of work-life balance

The law's supporters hope it will help solidify the boundary between the personal and the professional, which has become increasingly blurry with the rise of remote work since the COVID-19 pandemic.

A 2022 survey by the Centre for Future Work at the Australia Institute, a public policy think tank, found that seven out of 10 Australians performed work outside of scheduled working hours, with many reporting experiencing physical tiredness, stress and anxiety as a result.

The following year, the institute reported that Australians clocked an average of 281 hours of unpaid overtime in 2023. Valuing that labor at average wage rates, it estimated the average worker is losing the equivalent of nearly $7,500 U.S. dollars each year.

"This is particularly concerning when worker's share of national income remains at a historically low level, wage growth is not keeping up with inflation, and the cost of living is rising," it added.

The Australian Council of Trade Unions hailed the new law as a "cost-of-living win for working people," especially those in industries like teaching, community services and administrative work.

The right to disconnect, it said, will not only cut down on Australians' unpaid work hours but also address the "growing crisis of increasing mental health illness and injuries in modern workplaces."

"More money in your pocket, more time with your loved ones and more freedom to live your life — that's what the right to disconnect is all about," ACTU President Michele O’Neil said in a statement.

The 2022 Australia Institute survey... found broad support for a right to disconnect.

Only 9% of respondents said such a policy would not positively affect their lives. And the rest cited a slew of positive effects, from having more social and family time to improved mental health and job satisfaction. Thirty percent of respondents said it would enable them to be more productive during work hours.

Eurofound, the European Union agency for the improvement of living and working conditions, said in a 2023 study that workers at companies with a right to disconnect policy reported better work-life balance than those without — 92% versus 80%."

-via GoodGoodGood, August 26, 2024

[durtblog]

CHAMPPAİNTİNG (3)

Welcome to Champ Painting, where your vision meets our expertise in transforming spaces! Whether you're searching for top-notch commercial painting contractors or skilled interior house painters, our dedicated team is here to serve your specific needs. Based in your local area, we understand the importance of quality and craftsmanship in every project, ensuring that whether it's a large-scale commercial endeavor or a cozy kitchen renovation, your satisfaction is our priority. Notably, we specialize in providing the best paint options for kitchen cupboards, enhancing both aesthetics and durability.

Commercial Painting Contractors Near Me

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İnterior Painting Near Me

When it comes to enhancing the beauty and comfort of your home, professional interior painting services are essential. If you’re searching for interior painting near me, you’ve landed at the right place. At Champ Painting, we specialize in delivering top-notch interior painting solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Our team of experienced house painters is dedicated to transforming your living spaces into stunning, vibrant areas that reflect your personality and style. We understand that choosing the right color and finish can be overwhelming. That's why we offer personalized consultations to help you make informed decisions that will elevate your home’s aesthetic.

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Don't wait any longer! Contact us today for a free estimate and let our expert painters bring your vision to life. Whether you need commercial painting contractors near me or a reliable house painter near me, we are here to serve you!

House Painter Near Me

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Choosing the right paint can elevate your home's aesthetic and create a welcoming atmosphere. At Champpainting, we offer personalized consultations to help you select the best paint for your specific needs, including options ideal for cupboards in kitchens that are both durable and stylish.

Don’t settle for less when it comes to your living space. Contact Champpainting today, and let our house painters turn your vision into reality, leaving you with a beautifully painted home that you can be proud of!

Best Paint for Cupboards in Kitchen

When it comes to kitchen renovations, selecting the right paint for your cupboards can make a world of difference. Whether you want to refresh your kitchen’s aesthetic or increase its functionality, choosing the best paint for cupboards is kitchen. Here are some top picks and tips that will help you achieve a professional finish.

Eco-Friendly Choices

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To ensure a flawless painting job, always consult with professional commercial painting contractors who can help guide you through the process. From choosing the perfect shade to applying it seamlessly onto your cupboards, their expertise can elevate your kitchen's appearance. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a house painter near you for help!

[clonerightsagenda]

Thank you for applying for a library card!

We are a large metropolitan library with twelve branches here in the city and a consortial agreement with ninety-seven different timelines (and counting). Your card is your ticket to our physical and digital collections, where we have something for everyone.

You’ve indicated that you are licensed for time travel and regularly travel in time or between timelines for work purposes, so you are eligible for our trans-timeline borrower’s card. Please read this document carefully to ensure you’re using your new card to its fullest potential and in compliance with library policy.

Our services:

The library has a floating collection, meaning items remain at the branch where they were returned rather than being sent back to the lending branch. However, we do return inter-timeline loans to their home universe to minimize temporal strain. If you’re browsing the shelves and see a book phasing in and out of existence, alert an employee. It’s probably misshelved.  

Our new online system allows you to keep the same login information in all timelines. No more keeping track of dozens of passwords! If you previously created multiple logins tied to one card, visit the circulation desk, and we’ll merge your accounts for you. No, this will not make you responsible for alternate selves’ outstanding fines, and any version of yourself telling you that is lying to you.

You asked, and we listened. Our new online catalog displays reviews from patrons from all relevant timelines on items exceeding a 90% similarity score. We request that patrons keep debates over the superiority of their timeline’s version to venues other than our catalog.

Although our staff members are not medical professionals, they have been trained to recognize signs of temporal instability. If you are experiencing characteristic symptoms (faintness, disorientation, physical and/or mental age changes, etc.), a staff member can administer grounding agents until emergency services arrive.

The library has a robust inter-timeline loan system. If you’re looking for a book or article not published in this timeline, fill out our online form or ask at the circulation desk. The average wait time for an ITL request is five business days. That’s shortened to three if you’re requesting an item stored at the James Patterson Interdimensional Warehouse. (Note: This estimate may change as the warehouse continues to expand under its own power, or if our courier gets lost there.)

Our policies:

We do not accept returns before the publication date (month and year). Cataloging books paradoxically created through stable time loops gets too complicated. You can check a book’s month of publication in a review journal like Booklist, which we make available online and in our non-circulating magazine collection.

We’ve recently gone fine-free in this timeline, meaning we no longer charge fees for overdue books. This policy varies between consortium timelines depending on whether certain people on the board of directors have retired yet.

If a book is damaged beyond repair, lost in a Time Hole, or overwritten out of existence by timeline changes, you will be responsible for the replacement cost or a flat fee of $30, whichever is lower. We do not recommend attempting to rewrite time to avoid losing or damaging the book, as we would prefer to purchase a new copy rather than tear a hole in the fabric of reality.

Patrons may use our computers for two hours. You can extend this time if there are no other patrons waiting. Show respect to other library users and do not abuse time travel to circumvent the policy when there is high demand. We will notice if there are two of you at our computing stations. Yes, even if one of you is wearing a funny hat.

The library values your privacy. We will not disclose account information or the content of reference transactions to anyone, including alternate versions of the account holder. The library also does not keep a record of the materials you check out. However, some of our databases do track user data. If you need to conceal your presence in this timeline to avoid paradoxes, the Time Cops, or your ex, we keep a collection of electronic resource licenses at the reference desk so you can judge which products to avoid.

Holder vs. Holder found that copyright protections extend across timelines and prior to publication, and copyright is exclusive to the iteration who created the work. Patrons attempting to copy library materials and publish them under their own name will have their cards revoked, even if they created the material in another timeline. This policy was adopted after consultation with our legal team. Trans-timeline copyright enforcement is very aggressive.

The library respects the personhood and autonomy of patrons no matter their timeline of origin. However, this respect is not always universal. If you need to know what the laws are for time travelers/alternate selves/dimension-hoppers/“timeclones”/etc. in this dimension (or the terminology used to refer to them), stop by the reference desk.

Violence is against library policy. If you are about to battle your alternate self from another timeline because you ran into each other in the cookbook section, take it to the parking lot.

In conclusion:

Libraries are committed to free access to information, and with the resources of dozens of timelines available to us, our mission has only gotten bigger. In fact, we’re hiring! If you’re looking for somewhere new to apply your time travel certification, we’re looking for team members in our inter-timeline loan department. Entry-level courier positions do not require an MLIS. Familiarity with James Patterson is a plus.

We can’t wait to see you in our library. (Maybe we already have.)  

[elwenyere]

The way class and money work in Austen is really interesting, and it's specific to the transition from a system of income and prestige based primarily on land ownership to a capitalist one where wealth increasingly circulated through commercialism and market exchange. In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Bennet is a member of the gentry: the only one in Meryton aside from Mr. Darcy whose source of wealth (a 2000-pound-a-year income from the family estate) is solely landed and generational (the Bingley sisters don't acknowledge it, but their fortune was acquired by trade, and Bingley's - and his father's - unfulfilled intention to purchase an estate at some point would be a way to acquire some old-money prestige). This is what makes Elizabeth, even by Lady Catherine de Bourgh's estimation, a "gentleman's daughter." This is also a key part of what puts the Bennet sisters in a precarious financial position. The family estate is entailed to the male next-of-kin (Mr. Collins), so none of the daughters can inherit it or plan to live on its annual income after Mr. Bennet's death. In the meantime they're still required to undergo certain expenses to keep up the social appearance that validates their status (keeping a carriage, having new gowns, etc.), but they cannot work for a salary without forfeiting their gentility, and the kind of education that would be allowed to them (even if their parents had hired a governess, which they didn't) would be limited to those "accomplishments" that increased their value on the marriage market and reaffirmed their class status (when Darcy and the Bingleys discuss what makes a woman accomplished, the list largely involves proficiency in deportment and the decorative and performance arts, and only Darcy includes improvement of the mind through reading). And while the public behavior of Mrs. Bennet, Lydia, and Kitty in particular takes an embarrassing toll on the family's social standing - and Lydia's running off with Wickham is potentially catastrophic for their moral standing - for members of the landed aristocracy like Lady Catherine de Bourgh (and to a lesser extent Darcy, as he admits the connection will hurt the Bennet sisters' prospects), it's the ties that Mrs. Bennet's family, including the Gardiners, have to trade and to commercial wealth that makes their social status suspect. As Lady Catherine says to Elizabeth when confronting her about the rumored engagement to Darcy: "You are a gentleman’s daughter. But what was your mother? Who are your uncles and aunts? Do not imagine me ignorant of their condition." In many of her novels Austen explores the tensions created by shifts in the early-nineteenth-century class structure, as a more capitalistic system of wealth generation and transfer emerged. In Pride and Prejudice the Gardiners play a key role in getting Elizabeth and Darcy together not only by physically bringing them into the same space again but also by serving as a morally laudable example of the new, trade-based and professional middle class, whose behavior wins Darcy's respect and helps overcome aristocratic prejudices. Austen also satirizes (including in the opening line of P&P) the way the marriage market made spouses into an asset of capitalist exchange, and she interrogates (more or less sympathetically, in the cases of Charlotte Lucas and Caroline Bingley) what it means for women to assent to commodifying themselves as marriage products.

The income Austen gives Darcy in P&P is fairy-tale level, in a novel that would otherwise be described as realist. He could certainly support an in-law or five, but beyond that it's interesting to consider what that kind of rarefied wealth means for Austen's attempt to imagine (through Jane and Elizabeth) a path for women to achieve financial stability without losing themselves.

[asestimationsconsultants]

Is a Construction Cost Estimating Service Worth It for Small Projects?

Construction cost estimating services are typically associated with large commercial builds or complex developments—but what about smaller projects? For homeowners, renovators, and small business owners, the cost of hiring an estimator may seem unnecessary. However, professional estimating can offer substantial value, even on small-scale jobs.

Small Projects, Big Risks

Contrary to assumption, smaller projects can carry high risk in proportion to their size. A $25,000 renovation that overruns by 30% becomes a financial burden. Incomplete scopes, fluctuating material prices, and surprise labor costs can all throw budgets off track. This is where a construction cost estimating service steps in.

Key Benefits for Smaller Projects

Accurate Budget Planning Estimators help ensure every line item is accounted for, from demolition to fixtures. This helps clients prepare realistic budgets before committing to contractors or financing.

Preventing Hidden Costs Smaller jobs are often DIY-managed or handled by a single contractor, increasing the risk of omitted costs. Estimators highlight soft costs (permits, site prep, contingency) that homeowners may overlook.

Time and Resource Savings Many small projects stall due to mismanaged budgets. With a professional estimate, clients gain clarity on timelines, resource needs, and sequencing—avoiding delays caused by financial surprises.

Better Contractor Negotiations Armed with a third-party estimate, property owners are in a stronger position to review quotes, challenge excessive pricing, or compare bids.

Cost vs. Value

The fee for an estimate on a small project may range from $300 to $1,000. While this may seem high compared to total project cost, the value in reduced waste, smarter decisions, and budget control often offsets the investment many times over.

Common Use Cases

Kitchen and bathroom renovations

Deck or patio installations

Garage additions or conversions

Small office remodels

Granny flats and backyard units

In each case, a cost estimating service can help eliminate budget uncertainty from the start.

When It Might Not Be Necessary

For ultra-simple jobs with minimal material and labor variation (like painting a room or installing a new door), hiring an estimator might not be needed. In these cases, contractor quotes and DIY research may be sufficient.

Conclusion

For small construction projects, hiring a cost estimating service might feel optional—but it’s often a smart investment. The clarity, accuracy, and protection it offers can prevent costly mistakes, making the overall experience smoother and more financially secure.

[starie-leo]

𝐄𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐨𝐤 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐬

I did one for Wonbin’s birthday so I had to do one for Eunseok too.

Small Note: He was on a Japanese fortune teller show where his chart was revealed and I calculated his rising sign using that but could only estimate his birth time. This reading will use that estimate instead and be in whole sign system.

Eunseok's chart for some reason felt hard to read for me. But anyways Eunseok felt nice to read. He has such calm and attractive energy even his chart reflects that. He's someone with a lot of depth underneath his warm persona. Overall he's a very private individual, I think, to the point where even the closest person to him may never get to know him fully either.

Leo Rising:

There’s no doubt that Eunseok loves to give a good performance after all that is how he leads his life. He may not always enjoy the spotlight but he needs to be appreciated, loved, recognized and adored for everything he does no matter how small it is. Indicator of big beautiful eyes & a bright smile. He’s creative, playful & exudes a warmth and comforting aura (confirmed by his members). This placement also gives one a royal, prince-like beauty. He’s got Aquarius on his 7H meaning that he can be detached in his relationships.

Chart Ruler in 8H:

His chart ruler being in 8H could indicate that he can be mysterious and intense. He's also pretty intuitive, introverted & secretive and values his alone time a lot. His life probably went through a lot of transformations & he had to make life-changing decisions while young, but he most likely dealt with everything the same way without changing much (based on rest of his chart). This is a good placement for producers.

Pisces Sun in 8H:

He’s a pisces sun like Wonbin so Eunseok also is very creative and has a very empathetic and sensitive nature. He has sun trine saturn, meaning he’s responsible, mature & very good at using his talents to achieve success. It also indicates that his personality doesn’t change very easily (combined with leo rising) since saturn shows slowness. He also has sun sextile moon, making him charming, considerate, and able to get along & connect to others well. This aspect adds to his creativity. Eunseok can be difficult to get to know since his sun is in the 8H making his personality a bit more hidden from the rest of the world. I think Wonbin also confirmed this once that we may think we know him but really we don't. He has strong charisma and can come off as mysterious & intense. This combination also creates an extremely generous and affectionate person. He's someone who has no issues giving their all to others and can have a hard time saying no to others.

Pisces Mercury in 8H:

Introverted & introspective placement. He’s very intelligent and thoughtful but has trouble expressing that clearly with words. Empathic & a very good listener. He’s able to understand others quickly & is good at using his intellect & skills to help others. His mercury square jupiter implies that he has a broad outlook on life and can quickly understand different topics and abstract concepts but he zones out and procrastinates a lot. Excellent intuition too. He's more observant & pays great attention to detail. He could also be curious about or interested in deeper philosophical stuff and also topics related to death.

Capricorn Moon in 6H:

He's emotionally resilient, mature & very good at analyzing emotions in a logical way. Level-headed & very in control of his emotions so not as expressive & reactive as people would expect, causing him to come off as insensitive & be easily misunderstood. He also has moon trine saturn meaning that he's very reliable, patient & responsible. He may also feel like he needs to be productive & useful to others. Capricorn moons have the habit of treating everything professionally & like a task even things that seem unserious (he mentioned in an interview once that he keeps a professional mindset even when he acts cute for his fans 😭). Another indicator of his personality being the same for many years. Similar to Wonbin he also has moon in 6H so his health is also sensitive & he can feel tired easily. But unlike Wonbin, his way of dealing with daily problems is to just be calm, patient and wait it out.

Aries Venus (Rx) in 9H:

Very alluring & sexy placement actually. Usually aries venus are bold & daring when it comes to love but as Eunseok has his venus in retrograde, it adds an attractive layer of shyness to him. That doesn’t mean he can’t be affectionate, fun or direct, he's just reserved. This is an indicator of marrying earlier than peers (that Japanese astrologer had also said something similar) or that he gets into relationships very quickly. He has venus trine mars & pluto, which are really just creative aspects. Also implies he can be passionate & impulsive in love. He's probably attracted to foreign cultures & people since he has it in his 9H & has the natural ability to attract a lot of foreigners. He'd also look really good & be able to attract a lot of attention if he tries out foreign fashion or does music/collabs with foreign artists.

Sagittarius Mars in 5H:

Eunseok's quite enthusiastic & optimistic about his goals. He might enjoy playful fighting, debates & maybe even light-hearted arguing too. Indicator of having a warm, funny & easy-going nature. Reckless too. The type to fight passionately for what he believes in. He has quick thinking skills and can come up with good strategies & ideas in a second. He's very independent in his relationships but also gets competitive & impulsive when he does like someone (combined with his aries venus too). This is also a great placement for performers. He has pluto conjunct mars, so he's very persistent and a bit obsessive when he wants to achieve something but it also means he's able to consistently put in the effort for his goals. This is also an aspect that implies he can attract a lot of possessive & controlling people. Overall he has tremendous focus, willpower and drive.

Gemini Jupiter in 11H:

Another fame and attraction indicator. He's naturally very likeable & relatable and is able to become popular very quickly. He's also able to make important connections and become friends with influential people naturally. Another generous and giving placement. Eunseok is a greatly skilled and talented performer. He's also someone difficult to lie to. A cute detail is that while he may struggle to have faith in things, he finds his luck and hope through his group and friends.

Taurus Saturn in 10H:

Obviously Eunseok works in a really tough and high pressure environment as he is an idol; this is just an indicator of that. He may feel as if he must be taken seriously and be well-respected for his work and achievements at all times. This is also an indicator of having to work a lot harder and facing more delays than others to achieve success, however, combined with his mars placement and his capricorn moon, Eunseok is a hard-worker, and a very persistent and ambitious person so he's able to put in the work consistently to get what he wants. For this, having taurus saturn is also really good since it signifies that he also has good endurance level.

Uranus in 7H:

The most likely to date someone unusual (😭) or have partners that feel completely different (almost alien-like?) from him. He may be the type to suddenly get into relationships and then have sudden breakups too (especially combined with venus and mars placement). He also values his space and independence a lot (based on his chart overall), so once the relationship is over he's the least likely to get back with his ex. I think others may also view him as someone whose actions can be unpredictable.

Neptune in 7H:

This placement usually indicates a person who can have very addicting relationships. He definitely has high expectations in relationships which quickly disappoint him when he does get into a relationship. He may also have an issue of giving 'too much' to his partners but not getting enough in return. Others may have an unrealistic view of him and fantasize about him a lot. The combination of uranus & neptune here can also indicate that sometimes his relationships hold him back from being independent or become turbulent but he's unable to see that (like he has a rose-colored view on them). There are placements in his chart that indicate that he's a realist so his neptune placement may not affect him as much.

Pluto in 5H:

He has a strong desire to be creative and is very attracted to artistic stuff. Can become obsessed with expressing himself and being admired. Very powerful in terms of creativity, almost overwhelming. The art/music he'll make will be very transformative and deep.

These are just my insights on his chart so try not to take them too seriously. I was also supposed to upload this much earlier but I fell sick so I forgot. I'll update the reading if I notice any more aspects or interesting placements.

[hunieday]

9th Anniversary story - Chapter 8 : The climax begins.

Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Chapter 4 - Chapter 5 - Chapter 6 - Chapter 7 - Chapter 8 - Chapter 9

Please note that I am not a professional translator and I'm only doing this to share the side materials to those who cannot access them, if you notice any mistakes please let me know nicely. Enjoy!

Chapter 8: The Climax Begins

Izumi Iori: Sigh…

Izumi Mitsuki: Ehehe! I totally surprised you back there.

Izumi Iori: Nii-san…

Izumi Mitsuki: Don’t worry. I’ll still win fair and square even if you don’t hold back.

Izumi Iori: …Haha… Alright.

Izumi Iori: No, actually, I won’t lose today. I’ll take back victory.

Izumi Mitsuki: I won’t lose either! I’m gonna win the whole thing! See ya later!

Izumi Iori: Fufu…

Nanase Riku: What was that all about?

Izumi Iori: That awkward story we mentioned the other day.

Izumi Iori: Nine years ago, Nii-san and I received a pair of sneakers from our grandfather.

Izumi Iori: At the time, I was eight years old while Nii-san was twelve.

Izumi Iori: Back then, I was growing fast, intelligent, and athletic.

Nanase Riku: You really just said that about yourself?

Izumi Iori: It was around that time that people started comparing me and Nii-san.

Nanase Riku: …

Izumi Iori: I never really wanted to beat him. But…

Izumi Iori: Seeing him struggle to smile when people compared us bothered me to no end.

Nanase Riku: Oh wow… So even the "better" one worries about that sort of stuff huh?

Izumi Iori: Of course that’s the case.

Izumi Iori: Rankings are nothing more than a way to estimate where you stand in a given field.

Izumi Iori: This fitness test is the same. It serves to compare yourself to others, to see if you're higher or lower.

Izumi Iori: Understanding your own value helps determine how you move forward in life.

Izumi Iori: It’s so simple, that’s all there is to it, and yet it still greatly affects human relationships. I find it incredibly bothersome.

Nanase Riku: Because ranking low hurts, doesn't it? Wouldn’t it hurt you?

Izumi Iori: If you're bad at something, just give it up and find another way to win.

Nanase Riku: So what did you give up on, Iori?

Izumi Iori: Being cute, charming, or making lots of friends. Things like that.

Nanase Riku: Wow, you’re completely detached from the situation.

Izumi Iori: Nanase-san, you’ve given up on being smart in favor of focusing on being cute, haven't you?

Nanase Riku: No I did not!

Izumi Iori: You should do that then. It’s more efficient to focus on your strengths than dwell on your weaknesses.

Nanase Riku: Who cares about efficiency… So, is that how things got awkward with Mitsuki?

Izumi Iori: Nii-san and I were both fast runners.

Izumi Iori: We had just received sneakers from our grandfather, so we used to run a lot.

Izumi Iori: Because of that, Nii-san’s friends found out and asked us to race each other seriously.

Nanase Riku: …

Nanase Riku: …Did you win?

Izumi Iori: …

Nikaido Yamato: So, did Ichi win?

Izumi Mitsuki: …

Izumi Mitsuki: W…No way, of course not. I was twelve and he was eight.

Nikaido Yamato: Yeah, makes sense…

Izumi Mitsuki: But, I think he believed he could win. So, he held back a little.

Izumi Mitsuki: He slacked off at the start and I got a huge lead on him.

Izumi Mitsuki: And then I realized he wasn’t taking me seriously, so I went all out and completely crushed him.

Izumi Mitsuki: Haha… He looked so frustrated back then. Honestly, I kinda enjoyed it.

Nikaido Yamato: …You enjoyed seeing Ichi frustrated?

Izumi Mitsuki: It’s not that… It’s hard to explain, but it felt good to actually beat him for once.

Izumi Mitsuki: It wasn’t like a "Hell yeah, I won! Woohoo!" kinda thing.

Izumi Mitsuki: It’s just… a competition isn’t something you gotta hold back in.

Izumi Mitsuki: Losing sucks, obviously.

Izumi Mitsuki: But getting fired up and thinking, “I gotta do this! I won’t lose!” is the best.

Nikaido Yamato: Hmm… Yeah, maybe I kinda get it.

Izumi Mitsuki: Really?

Nikaido Yamato: Onii-san over here usually hates competing. And I’m obviously terrible at sports.

Nikaido Yamato: But I’m kinda having fun right now. Haha… Like, I actually feel like saying, "I’m not gonna lose!"

Izumi Mitsuki: That’s great. You’re finally enjoying your youth, old man.

Nikaido Yamato: Now of all times…?

Izumi Mitsuki: Everyone’s cheering for us too.

Audience: Kyaaaaaa…!

Audience: He waved at us!

Audience: Do your best!

Nikaido Yamato: This is peak youth.

Izumi Mitsuki: Right?

Nikaido Yamato: Lemme knock down the Mitsu fan that guy’s holding. Bang!

Izumi Mitsuki: Stop it! Don’t lay a hand on me!

Audience: Kyaaaaaa…!

Mido Torao: Alright, we’re one point ahead!

Yotsuba Tamaki: That plan went super well, Toracchi!

Mido Torao: Yeah! That was a solid game!

Yotsuba Tamaki: Let’s high five!

SLAP!

Yotsuba Tamaki & Mido Torao: Hell yeah!

Sougo shows up behind them…

Osaka Sougo: …

Yotsuba Tamaki: Whoa!! You scared me!!

Mido Torao: How long have you been standing there!?

Osaka Sougo: You guys sure got closer.

Yotsuba Tamaki & Mido Torao: …

Yotsuba Tamaki: Uh… yeah…

Mido Torao: Is that a problem…?

Osaka Sougo: No, it’s not. Tamaki-kun is my partner and Mido-san is an acquaintance of mine.

Osaka Sougo: Watching you two pull off such perfect teamwork to take my tail… it just felt a bit strange.

Osaka Sougo: But you did a good job.

Yotsuba Tamaki & Mido Torao: …

Osaka Sougo: That’s all I wanted to say.

Mido Torao: Oh uh, thanks…?

Osaka Sougo: Well then.

Yotsuba Tamaki & Mido Torao: …

Mido Torao: So…did he just compliment us?

Yotsuba Tamaki: Or get angry…?

Osaka Sougo: I’m not mad. You did a good job.

Yotsuba Tamaki & Mido Torao: Th-thank you very much…

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Here, sports drinks.

Yaotome Gaku: Thanks.

Kujo Tenn: Thank you.

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: The third match ended in a flash.

Yaotome Gaku: Yeah! That was insanely fun!

Yaotome Gaku: I thought I wanted to lose against you, Ryuu, but once we got going, I just couldn’t let myself lose.

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Haha! That’s how it is.

Yaotome Gaku: But it’s not like I want to see you lose either.

Kujo Tenn: The competition is complicated and interesting. I don’t like being forced to compete, but I love being able to.

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Whether we’re rivals or teammates, we’re still all friends here. Let’s give it our all in the second half!

Yaotome Gaku & Kujo Tenn: Yeah!

Reporter: Now, for the fourth round… The Three-Legged Relay!!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaa…!

Reporter: The participants are already prepared for this event!

Reporter: Each pair will tie one of their legs together and run!

Reporter: If you might trip and fall if you’re out of sync, please be careful!

Reporter: After completing a full lap around the track, you must pass the baton to the next pair. Be sure not to drop it!

Reporter: Both the red and white teams will compete with four pairs, making it a total of eight runners!

Reporter: The teams decided the pairs and running order among themselves. Will their choices lead to glory or disaster?

Yotsuba Tamaki: We gotta be in perfect sync to win this!

Natsume Minami: It’s easier to run with someone you’re familiar win than with someone from another group.

White team: Yeahhh!

Izumi Iori: The most important thing is how similar your physical build and statistics are!

Osaka Sougo: We used the results from our fitness tests to match partners, so we should be fine!

Red team: Yeahhh!

Reporter: The audience watches in suspense as the relay is about to begin!

Reporter: Speaking of teamwork, the two Nana Sports executives have also worked together for years, right?

Nana Sports President: Well yes, I suppose.

Reporter: Any advice on how to succeed in a three-legged race?

Nana Sports President: I wonder… Don’t blame your partner if they fall?

Nana Sports Vice President: And apologize when you fall down!

Reporter: I see! So falling is an inevitable part of the process!

Nana Sports President: If you assume you’ll never fall, you won’t have a plan for when you do.

Yotsuba Tamaki: Makes sense!! What do we do if we fall!?

Izumi Mitsuki: Maybe we should fall once on purpose!?

Nanase Riku: Let’s practice then!

Osaka Sougo: Wait, Riku-kun…!!

Riku falls to the ground, pulling Sougo with him.

Reporter: The participants have started tumbling before the race even started!

Iori and Haruka stand up from the ground.

Isumi Haruka: Ugh… It’s hard to get back up!

Izumi Iori: Good thing we practiced.

Audience: This is so cute for some reason…!

Audience: Come on, stand up, don’t fall!

Audience: You can do it!

Momo: All sixteen idols are just squirming around…!

Natsume Minami: It’s quite a bizarre sight.

Kujo Tenn: Haha! That’s what makes a sports festival fun, right?

Reporter: First runners, please walk to the starting line!

Yaotome Gaku: Let’s do this, Yuki-san!

Yuki: I’ll do my best.

Audience: Kyaaaaaaa…!

Osaka Sougo: Let’s go, Riku-kun!

Nanase Riku: Yes!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaa…!

Audience: Go, go, red team!

Audience: Go, go, white team!

Nana Sports President: Go, Go, Reeeed!

Nana Sports Vice President: Go, Go, Whiiiite!

Reporter: On your mark… Get set…

Reporter: Start!

Beep!

Yaotome Gaku & Yuki: …!

Nanase Riku & Osaka Sougo: ….!

Audience: Gooooo…!

Yaotome Gaku: One, two! One, two!

Yuki: Gaku-kun, Gaku-kun, you’re too fast…!

Yaotome Gaku: Huh!? Then you set the pace!

Yuki: One……two! One….… two!

Yaotome Gaku: That’s too slow! We’re gonna lose!!

Yuki: But we’ll fall if we rush it!

Nanase Riku & Osaka Sougo: One, two! One, two! One, two! One, two!

Reporter: The red team is in the lead! Their synchronization is flawless!

Kujo Tenn: Keep going, Nanase-san! Osaka-san!

Inumaru Touma: That’s it! Keep it up!

Nana Sports President: Riku-kun and Sougo-kun are in the same group and had similar fitness scores! No wonder they’re so stable!

Nana Sports Vice President: Gaku-san and Yuki-san are both leaders, so they should work well together…! Come on, white team…!

Yaotome Gaku & Yuki: One, two! One, two! One, two! One, two!

Reporter: Oh! They’re starting to sync up! The white team is gaining ground!!

Osaka Sougo: …Okay, should we go for a final sprint? Do you think you can handle it!?

Nanase Riku: I can do it! Ready… go!

Nanase Riku & Osaka Sougo: One, two! One, two! One, two! One, two!

Reporter: Whoa!! The red team is accelerating!

Nana Sports President: See that? That’s what Sou-chan and Rikkun can do.

Nana Sports Vice President: You’re getting a bit too loud, President.

Nana Sports President: IDOLiSH7 is the best! Go, red team…!!

Nana Sports Vice President: White team, stay calm and push through…!!

Isumi Haruka: Nice, nice! Keep going…!

Iori Izumi: Pass the baton to me! Don’t drop it!

Nanase Riku: …Iori, Isumi-kun! It’s up to you now…!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaa…!

Reporter: The red team has successfully passed the baton to their second runners!

Izumi Iori & Isumi Haruka: One, two! One, two! One, two! One, two!

Mido Torao: Hang! Just a little more…!

Natsume Minami: Get ready to take the baton…!

Yaotome Gaku: …I’m counting on you…!

Audience: Kyaaaaaaaa…!

Natsume Minami & Mido Torao: One, two! One, two! One, two! One, two!

Reporter: They’re super fast…! The white team is closing the gap so quickly!

Isumi Haruka: Oh gooood, they’re catching up!!

Izumi Iori: Don't look back!

Isumi Haruka: I don't wanna lose to them!!

Izumi Iori & Isumi Haruka: One, two! One, two!

Natsume Minami & Mido Torao: One, two! One, two!

Nana Sports Vice President: Catch up…!!

Nana Sports President: A tie!?

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Keep going…!

Inumaru Touma: Just a little more…!

Yotsuba Tamaki: Go, keep going!!

Nikaido Yamato: Good pace!! Don't rush! Don't trip!

Isumi Haruka: …Ugh…!

Natsume Minami: …Hah…!

Isumi Haruka: I'm counting on you…!

Inumaru Touma: Leave it to me…!!

Natsume Minami: Please…!

Nikaido Yamato: Alright…!!

Audience: Kyaaaaa…!!

Reporter: It's a tie…! Almost a complete tie…!!

Audience: Kyaaaaa…!!

Nana Sports President: This is crazy…!!

Nana Sports Vice President: This is unbelievably exciting…!!

Audience: Go! Go! Reeeed!!

Audience: Go! Go! Whiiiite!!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke & Inumaru Touma: One, two! One, two! One, two! One, two!

Nikaido Yamato & Yotsuba Tamaki: One, two! One, two! One, two! One, two!

Reporter: Both teams are neck to neck!! They’re in sync and side by side…!!

Nana Sports President: This is scary… What if they fall…!

Nana Sports Vice President: Please, don’t fall…!!

Izumi Mitsuki: Keep goiiiing!!

Momo: Watch out for the corner!!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke & Inumaru Touma: One, two! One, two!

Nikaido Yamato & Yotsuba Tamaki: One, two! One, t-!!

Nikaido Yamato & Yotsuba Tamaki: Whoa…!!

Reporter: Ahh…!! They've fallen…!!

Audience: Ahhhhhh…!!

Nana Sports Vice President: …Keep going…!

Yotsuba Tamaki: …Shit…!

Nikaido Yamato: …Guh, it's okay! We practiced getting back up, remember!?

Yotsuba Tamaki: Yeah! Ready…!!

Audience: Kyaaaaa…!!

Reporter: And they're up again…!! The White team has restarted quickly!!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke & Inumaru Touma: One, two! One, two!

Momo: Good pace! Good pace!

Kujo Tenn: Keep going…!

Reporter: The Red team is already preparing for the baton pass…!? The anchor is coming next!!

Inumaru Touma: …I'm counting on you…!

Momo: Okay!! Ah…!

Reporter: Are they having issues with the baton pass!?

Audience: Kyaaaaa…!!

Inumaru Touma: Ughhh…!! Sorry…!!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Don't worry about it!!

Momo: It's okay! I caught it…!!

Inumaru Touma: Amazing catch!! You saved us!

Kujo Tenn: Let’s get going…!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke & Inumaru Touma: Do your best…!!

Kujo Tenn: Let’s go, Momo-san!

Momo: Yeah!

Kujo Tenn & Momo: One, two! One, two! One, two! One, two!

Nana Sports President: Keep going…!

Audience: Goooo…!!

Reporter: The Red team’s anchor has started running! The White team is making an incredible comeback too! The baton pass is happening now!

Izumi Mitsuki: Keep going, keep going…!

Rokuya Nagi: Good job! Nice fight…!

Nikaido Yamato: Just a little more! Hang in there!

Yotsuba Tamaki: Uwooooohh…!!

Yotsuba Tamaki: We’re counting on you!

Izumi Mitsuki: Leave it to us…!!

Audience: Kyaaaaa…!!

Reporter: The White team’s anchor has started running!

Reporter: Will the Red team hold on to the lead!? Will the White team catch up!? This is a crazy intense battle…!!

Rokuya Nagi & Izumi Mitsuki: One, two! One, two! One, two! One, two!

Kujo Tenn & Momo: One, two! One, two…!

Rokuya Nagi & Izumi Mitsuki: One, two! One, two…!

Audience: Momo-chan, Tenn-kun, keep going…!!

Audience: Mitsuki-kun, Nagi-kun, catch up…!!

Audience: Keep going! Don’t give up…!

Audience: Go! Go! Reeeed!!

Audience: Go! Go! Whiiiiite!!

Nana Sports President: Go! Go! Reeeed!!

Nana Sports Vice President: Go! Go! Whiiiiite!!

Ryuunosuke, Touma, Riku, Sougo, Iori & Haruka: Go! Go! Reeeed!!

Gaku, Yuki, Yamato, Tamaki, Minami & Torao: Go! Go! Whiiiiite!!

Kujo Tenn & Momo: One, two! One, two…!!

Rokuya Nagi & Izumi Mitsuki: One, two! One, two…!!

Momo: Final sprint…!

Izumi Mitsuki: Catch up…!

Kujo Tenn & Momo & Rokuya Nagi & Izumi Mitsuki: …………!!

Reporter: Goaaaaal…!!

Whistle blows

Reporter: By the slightest margin…. the Red team was faster!! The Red team wins…!!

Kujo Tenn & Momo: We did iiiit…!!

Rokuya Nagi & Izumi Mitsuki: Ahhhh…!!

Nanase Riku: Yay!! Momo-san, Kujo-san, you did it!!

Inumaru Touma: That was nerve-wracking!! But we did it…!!

Tsunashi Ryuunosuke: Congratulations! Everyone did amazing!!

Osaka Sougo: We worked hard!

Isumi Haruka: Yay! We woooon!!

Nikaido Yamato: Don’t mind, don’t mind! That was amazing! Seriously awesome!

Yaotome Gaku: So close! But everyone gave it their all!

Mido Torao: Are you okay from that fall?

Yotsuba Tamaki: I'm good!

Natsume Minami: You got up so fast. That was amazing!

Reporter: Everyone in the audience!! Please give a big round of applause for these brave participants!!

The audience starts applauding.

Audience: Yaaaay…!!

Momo: Let’s shake hands!

Izumi Mitsuki: You got it!!

Kujo Tenn: Nice fight!

Rokuya Nagi: It really was!

Audience: Kyaaaaa…!!

More applause…

Reporter: The anchor runners are shaking hands firmly! What a beautiful scene!!

Nana Sports President: Congratulations to the Red team!! The White team was also fantastic!!

Nana Sports Vice President: That was an amazing match! Both teams were incredibly cool…!

Reporter: And now, we’re finally at the fifth and final round! The scores are tied 2 to 2, so this will be the final showdown!!

Reporter: The event is… a cavalry attle!!

Audience: Kyaaaaa…!!

Reporter: Players, please prepare yourselves!!

To be continued…

[rewvyu]

I’ve been reflecting on the future of Infinity Nikki again recently.

Based on estimates from various sources, Infinity Nikki’s monthly revenue appears to have been declining since launch. Although each new season brings in new players, that growth might not translate into long-term sustainability if new players don’t convert into paying customers.

Some may wonder how this could affect the game’s future. To be clear, it is in Papergames’ and Infold’s best interest to continue developing and supporting Infinity Nikki—they have already invested significant resources in its development, and it’s likely they will aim to recover those costs and earn profit over time.

Generally, when a business faces profit challenges, a few common approaches can be considered:

Reduce operating costs: This could include scaling back staff or outsourcing. While this can help short-term profitability, it may affect development speed or scope.

Improve the product: This might mean enhancing Infinity Nikki’s gameplay, adding new features, or expanding content to attract and retain players.

Increase monetisation: Companies might introduce new monetisation methods or raise prices. This can help revenue but risks backlash if players feel the value doesn’t match the cost.

These are just general possibilities—there are certainly other factors and solutions, and I don’t claim to be a professional analyst. The main point is that Papergames and Infold face a delicate balancing act.

Looking ahead to the upcoming Housing Update, many veteran players hope it will be handled well. If the same issues from version 1.5 reappear—particularly around aggressive monetisation—there’s a chance some paying players could lose trust.

For example, if furniture, upgrades, or other housing features end up being heavily monetised in the same way as the current Dye System, it could lead to more paying players leaving the game. Many players already feel the Dye System’s pricing is unreasonable, especially when they are paying for virtual clothing in the first place. I hope the developers choose a different approach for housing and also take this chance to fully rework the Dye System to make it more reasonable for all players.

[coldresolve]

How to Write a Schizoid Character

Schizoid Personality Disorder (SzPD) affects an estimated 1% of the population, similar to rates of autism, but is widely overlooked both in real life and in fiction - to the point where it is often colloquially labelled "the silent disorder". This is a somewhat comprehensive guide in how to write a character with SzPD, from someone who has it.

Quick research guide

I'm writing this guide with the underlying assumption that you've already done some cursory reading into the basics of SzPD. At this point, you need to understand two things: One is that this disorder is incredibly poorly researched, due to schizoids often not seeking treatment for the disorder itself (they sometimes seek treatment for comorbidities like depression or anxiety); and two, as a result of this, there is a lot of over-simplified misinformation out there about SzPD. This disorder often gets boiled down, even by mental health professionals, to the DSM-V or IDC-10 diagnostic criteria, which are criticised widely in the schizoid community for being incredibly superficial descriptions of overt SzPD. This is the kind of case where you need to seek out the SzPD specialists or the schizoids themselves for information about the disorder.

Akhtar's profile is a good overview. Psychologist Elinor Greenberg has a quora where she answers all sorts of questions about SzPD, and she typically hits the nail on the head. Other resources include Schizoid Angst, a youtube channel run by a man who has SzPD (this convo in particular is really good). If you're interested in a deep dive, I recommend reading The Divided Self by R.D. Laing for a deeper understanding of the inner workings of schizoids, as well as the relationship between SzPD and the rest of the schizophrenia spectrum.

Understand the "root" of SzPD

SzPD typically forms as the result abuse, neglect or abandonment in childhood. Schizoids have learned through trauma that emotional intimacy, vulnerability, and dependence on other people all have the potential to harm them badly, and as a result, they tend to avoid those things. In that sense, schizoids don't have a problem with other people, per se. Understanding this fact can help you write your schizoid character with more realism and nuance.

For example, it's a common misconception that all schizoids are averse to having sex. Many schizoids are, to be fair - but plenty of schizoids also frequently engage in hook-up culture, or form other sexual relationships. Physical intimacy can be entirely seperate from emotional intimacy, and thus pose no real risk to a person with SzPD. It's also possible for schizoids to form good relationships with other people, if those relationships are based on non-emotional grounds, such as recreational interests, work, religion, etc.

You can show this in your schizoid character by thinking about which of your other characters your schizoid might gravitate towards. In general, they will feel safest with characters who place few (or no) emotional demands on them, don't place high value on phatic gestures, don't pry into their emotional state or background, respect their need for independence and agency, and so on.

Overt or Covert?

Once you've researched the disorder a bit, you need to decide whether your schizoid character is overt or covert. The overt/covert split is about 50%/50%, so neither is more likely than the other.

Overt schizoids tend to be a lot more blunt about their indifference, visibly detached and aloof, and are typically way less likely to engage in social settings (or be in social settings at all). These are the characters who have blunt affect, ie. won't have much of an emotional reaction to their surroundings, even if it directly involves them (ex. getting praised/criticised). They may have odd speaking patterns, such as stilted or vague speech, and can sometimes come across as cold and uncaring. Overt schizoids are noticably reluctant to reveal what's going on in their internal world, so they might also come across as enigmatic, secretive, or mistrustful.

If your character is an overt schizoid, think about how their behavior and personality are percieved by other characters, what kind of reactions might arise. Think about how your schizoid character might navigate these reactions - after all, they're probably used to getting comments. How do they react if someone comments on how disinterested/moody they seem? Do they tell the person to fuck off? Do they raise an eyebrow, and that's that?

Covert schizoids, or "secret" schizoids, experience the exact same symptoms as overt SzPD, but they hide it behind what's called a false-self system. You can think of it as a form of compulsive masking. Apart from perhaps vaguely eccentric behavior, you typically won't be able to tell that a secret schizoid has SzPD unless you know what you're looking for. If your character is a secret schizoid, they will behave in a way that seems socially engaged and interested, maybe even extroverted, but they will be emotionally withdrawn and safe within an internal world.

If your character is a covert schizoid, your other characters might not notice that anything is out of the ordinary with them at all - until they learn more about your character's lifestyle. Secret schizoids are not as used to being confronted about their odd behavior as overt schizoids are, and, depending on the character overall, might respond to these confrontations with awkwardness, defensiveness or confusion. Many secret schizoids are also unaware that they have SzPD, but are instead just vaguely aware that their behavior and preferences seem strange and different to other people.

Figure out the internals

An intricate internal fantasy life makes for a well-thought-out, sharply self-aware character. Schizoids spend most of their time in their own heads, so you need to have a good understanding of your character's internal world, fantasies and reflections, and how these things affect their behavior, priorities and decisions.

For many schizoids, their fantasy life is rooted in their own lives, either their past, present, or future - what-ifs, what-if-nots and could've-beens. They'll have internal "interactions" with other people they know, play out entire conversations and scenarios, and respond and react much more vividly than they tend to in real life. For other schizoids, their fantasies exist in a world entirely seperate to our own, with its own rules and structure, which they can explore to their own liking. For others yet, they think up fictional stories, sometimes inspired by real life, sometimes not.

Themes in the internal world often reflect the schizoid's own struggle with independence and intimacy. A lot of schizoids use their fantasies as a safe and sufficient way to feel "connected" to others. Others have violent, vengeful fantasies, which often juxtapose the indifferent demeanor - these fantasies tie in to the need for independence and emotional control, sometimes referred to as schizoid omnipotence.

Beyond the intricate fantasies, consider your character's moral beliefs. Schizoids tend toward idiosyncasy - we're in the "odd and eccentric" cluster for a reason. Akhtar described this quality as "occasionally strikingly amoral, at other times altruistically self-sacrificing." Take some time to figure out how this might express itself in your character, and how it is percieved by the characters around them.

Schizoids and relationships

You know how borderlines have their favorite person, and narcissists have their chosen person? A schizoid might just stumble upon someone who will become their interest person, or IP.

An IP is someone outside their immediate close family who the schizoid feels safe enough to be vulnerable with, are genuinely interested in, and who the schizoid forms an honest-to-god emotional connection to. This relationship can be either romantic or platonic in nature. If you choose to give your schizoid character an IP, make sure to emphasize how much this relationship stands out as uniquely meaningful to the schizoid - this is the one person they are even capable of having a genuine bond with, and that bond alone can keep them grounded against feelings of cosmic isolation. Your schizoid isn't likely to take this for granted.

An interesting tidbit of information is that schizoids paradoxically tend to gravitate towards relationships with highly extroverted, emotional people, to the point where the schizoid-hysteric relationships are an entire category of psychological research. Here's a really good snippet that describes how that dynamic tends to play out.

(Also keep in mind that just because a schizoid doesn't have an IP does not necessarily mean they are miserable. A lot of schizoids are capable of finding their own peace with whatever tools they have available.)

Another notable term for schizoid relationships is the controversial stock friend. A stock friend is a person who considers themself friends with the (typically covert) schizoid, and who thinks they have an emotional connection with them, but who the schizoid feels no emotional connection to, has no real interest in, and only interacts with out of convenience or happenstance. Is this immoral? Are schizoids leading people on, or are we justified in masking to avoid a constant stream of awkward confrontations, that have the potential to hurt other people's feelings? Who knows.

Splitting

You might have heard of idealization/devaluation-splitting as it pertains to borderline PD (bad/good) or narcissistic PD (worthy/unworthy). Splitting happens in SzPD as well, along the axis of safe/unsafe.

Schizoids will occasionally cut other people out of their lives, and this usually happens when they get overwhelmed with another person's attempts at emotional intimacy, or their boundaries have been deliberately or repeatedly crossed. They will often view the person as relentlessly prying, controlling, demanding, or dangerous, and will desperately seperate themself from that person as a way to avoid being consumed, or "smothered". At this point, if the other person doesn't let the schizoid get away, the schizoid might become overtly hostile. This is a fear response.

If you want to write a schizoid splitting, be aware that a split with a schizoid usually marks the end of the relationship altogether - especially if the relationship hasn't lasted for very long, and double especially if the person isn't the schizoid's IP. Once a schizoid has lost trust in someone, that trust is very, very difficult to build back up, even if both parties agree to try. Your schizoid character is going to be incredibly wary of the other person, and the relationship is probably never going to feel like it did before.

Beware of stereotypes

Every once in a while I'll encounter a story that features a character who has very obvious schizoid traits, and almost every single time, their arc leaves me disappointed and frustrated. Here are some tropes I would personally avoid writing for a schizoid character.

"He just needed love all along." Kill this trope, no exceptions. Strong emotional intimacy can erode or overpower a schizoid's sense of self, and usually leads to feelings of smothering, being trapped/crushed by the other, and losing autonomy and independence. A schizoid is capable of love on their own specific terms, but if it's on the terms of other people, they will strongly feel like it's something being forced on them against their will. They might still outwardly "accept it" as a form submission or compliance, but it will not be out of love. This trope gives me psychic damage.

"He sacrificed his life for others, which proves that he cared all along." This trope isn't necessarily bad, it just always leaves me with this impression that neurotypicals can only interpret caring when it happens in the extremes. And while it's true that schizoids can sometimes be altruistically self-sacrificing, it's kinda depressing to see schizoid-like characters die all the time. There are other ways you could show schizoid altruism that would also leave the door open for more closure for the character themself.

"He turned evil and violent." While this trope isn't quite as common as it is with other disorders, notably those from cluster B, it does still exist. So here's your friendly reminder that mentally ill and neurodivergent people are more likely to be the victims of violence than to be perpetrators, by far. I'm not saying you should never write a schizoid bad guy, you certainly can - I'm just telling you to be very careful about how you go about it, so you don't end up sending the wrong kind of message.

Conclusion

Schizoid characters are cool, and I wish there were more well-written canonically schizoid characters out there. But I'm also clearly biased, so what do I know