#Project cost estimation software

[costmastersindia]

Best Estimating and Costing Software - Cost Masters

Find reliable project cost estimation and optimization with Cost Masters – a trusted provider of estimating and costing software. Streamline your budgeting process with our precise and efficient tools. Eliminate errors and simplify cost management. Learn more about Cost Masters today.

[quantifynorthamericainfo]

Transforming Project Management with Painting Estimating Software

I recall the mayhem of my first major painting job. Too many calls, scribbled notes, and a completely out-of-whack cost estimate. It was stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. That all changed when I began using painting estimating software. From the very first week, I knew how much easier everything went—costs were in order, estimates were crisp, and clients stopped questioning everything.

In a 2023 report, Statista found that 42% of contractors attribute project delays to incorrect estimates. That's a lot. And it's one of the reasons I think painting estimating software is a game-changer for anyone running jobs—big or small.

Accuracy That Actually Works

The program doesn't merely generate arbitrary numbers. You input wall measurements, types of paint, and surface factors. It then works out the entire calculation—from material needs to man-hours. Such specificity avoids overbuying or running short.

I once saved more than ₹25,000 on a commercial office respray. How? The estimate broke down coverage by the gallon in exact details and included two coats. I never would have known to do that by hand.

Smarter Workflows, Less Errors

One of the biggest problems with any paint job is getting the entire crew on the same page. Painting software for estimating simplifies all that. You can revise quotes, book jobs, and issue invoices—all in one dashboard.

I've had instances where customers changed their minds midway through a project. Rather than redoing everything by hand, the software allowed me to modify numbers in real time. That took hours off and kept the crew going.

Establishing Trust Through Transparency

Customers like things clear. One homeowner said to me, "I loved knowing exactly what I was paying for." That stuck. With the software, I was able to break it down line by line. No surprise fees. No ballpark estimates.

That creates confidence. And in this market, that is more critical than ever. To the point that, 67% of customers report they'd pay more for transparent, predictable prices (Forbes, 2023).

Stay Ahead of the Competition

I've had leads arrive simply because I used technology. One property manager informed me, "I only hire painters that use professional equipment. It tells me that they approach the job seriously." That made an impression on me as well.

Employing paint estimating software isn't merely efficient—it's impressive. It conveys professionalism, reliability, and being prepared.

Real Results from Real Projects

I have a friend who utilized estimating software on a 20,000 sq. ft. warehouse project. He completed a week ahead of schedule and under budget. He attributes the software to avoiding waste and delays.

Another contractor colleague does school repainting projects. The software allows him to simply revise costs based on changing product prices—something he had difficulty doing in the past.

The Future is Mobile and Predictive

Looking to the future, the software is just getting smarter. Apps these days often have AI-powered recommendations, which assist you in scheduling around the weather or supply chain delay. Mobile access is a big plus too. You can even update a quote while on-site.

Final Thoughts

Using painting estimating software isn’t just about convenience. It’s about control. About knowing your numbers. About gaining the trust of clients who expect accuracy and clarity. If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the time. It’s made my life easier—and my business stronger.

[planyard]

Efficient Construction Budgeting Software for Your Project Success

Empower your construction projects with our efficient budgeting software. Stay on track and ensure success with streamlined cost management tools tailored to your project needs. Take control of your budgeting process and achieve project success effortlessly.

[nnctales]

Exploring the Diverse Landscape of BIM Software in Construction: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction: In the ever-evolving field of construction, Building Information Modeling (BIM) has emerged as a transformative technology that revolutionizes the way buildings are designed, constructed, and managed. BIM software plays a pivotal role in enhancing collaboration, improving efficiency, and minimizing errors throughout the construction process. This article delves into the various…

[mccormicksystems]

How Takeoff Software Enhances Productivity in Construction Estimating

Construction estimating plays a pivotal role in the success of any construction project. Accurate cost estimation not only ensures profitability but also contributes to timely project completion. Traditionally, construction estimating was a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. However, with the advent of advanced technology, takeoff software for construction estimating has revolutionized the industry.

See More: https://uwatchfreenews.com/how-takeoff-software-enhances-productivity-in-construction-estimating/

[draconym]

nightshade is basically useless https://www.tumblr.com/billclintonsbeefarm/740236576484999168/even-if-you-dont-like-generative-models-this

I'm not a developer, but the creators of Nightshade do address some of this post's concerns in their FAQ. Obviously it's not a magic bullet to prevent AI image scraping, and obviously there's an arms race between AI developers and artists attempting to disrupt their data pools. But personally, I think it's an interesting project and is accessible to most people to try. Giving up on it at this stage seems really premature.

But if it's caption data that's truly valuable, Tumblr is an ... interesting ... place to be scraping it from. For one thing, users tend to get pretty creative with both image descriptions and tags. For another, I hope whichever bot scrapes my blog enjoys the many bird photos I have described as "Cheese." Genuinely curious if Tumblr data is actually valuable or if it's garbage.

That said, I find it pretty ironic that the OP of the post you linked seems to think nightshade and glaze specifically are an unreasonable waste of electricity. Both are software. Your personal computer's graphics card is doing the work, not an entire data center, so if your computer was going to be on anyway, the cost is a drop in the bucket compared to what AI generators are consuming.

Training a large language model like GPT-3, for example, is estimated to use just under 1,300 megawatt hours (MWh) of electricity; about as much power as consumed annually by 130 US homes. To put that in context, streaming an hour of Netflix requires around 0.8 kWh (0.0008 MWh) of electricity. That means you’d have to watch 1,625,000 hours to consume the same amount of power it takes to train GPT-3. (source)

So, no, I don't think Nightshade or Glaze are useless just because they aren't going to immediately topple every AI image generator. There's not really much downside for the artists interested in using them so I hope they continue development.

[atiny-for-life]

Mini Lore Nugget #8:

Mini Lore Nuggets - Masterlist

In the Fever Part.2 Diary Entries, we learned that Z-World's government really started shooting up on the waking-nightmare-scale after they began running AI simulations to come up with the "best" policies to implement for maximum control and efficiency.

What resulted from these simulations was that the AI determined all crimes and terrorism were strictly the result of human emotions. Therefore, the best way to rid the world of such suffering must be to eradicate emotions and all which might evoke it.

Z's government developed technology to essentially numb the population - the chips we later learned about in the World Ep.1 Diary Entries. In the Fever Part.3 Diary Entries, we then got some additional info on the AI software used by the government: it was an AI system which utilized deep learning technology and ran uncontrolled for a while as the government awaited its results.

During this time, the system began treating human emotion as a bug - perhaps because it couldn't understand it - and it also started estimating humans' individual energy, thereby reducing it to a product. And since it found it to be a product, it also began treating it as a tradeable commodity.

Instead of questioning these results, the government was more likely delighted, because they immediately took over this new energy trading platform, banned all arts and emotions, and wilfully stripped the population of its humanity by treating them as nothing more than components needed to maintain the governments' idea of a utopia.

Out here in the real world, we've also begun to see the crazy amount of negative consequences since AI technology has become widely implemented in pretty much all areas of life:

#1 - Use of AI in Healthcare

In the US, the healthcare system has been relying on AI powered algorithms to guide health care decisions, but due to the data sampled by the AI, extreme racial bias has crept in and is actively putting black lives at risk. To quote Science Journal:

At a given risk score, Black patients are considerably sicker than White patients, as evidenced by signs of uncontrolled illnesses. Remedying this disparity would increase the percentage of Black patients receiving additional help from 17.7 to 46.5%.

Furthermore, the data sourced by AI for global use (such as in risk-prediction) is often extremely biased in other ways as well: radiology manuscripts are over represented, the majority of documents sourced are authored by men, and data-poor regions are grossly underrepresented, meaning the majority of information sourced comes from the US and China. [Source]

#2 - YouTube's Algorithm Is Messed Up

According to the Tech Transparency Project which has gathered data from another study:

YouTube recommended hundreds of videos about guns and gun violence to accounts for boys interested in video games. Some of the recommended videos gave instructions on how to convert guns into automatic weapons or depicted school shootings. Many of the videos violated YouTube’s own policies on firearms, violence, and child safety, and YouTube took no apparent steps to age-restrict them. YouTube also recommended a movie about serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer to minor accounts.

Further watching on dumb stuff YouTube AI features have done to fuck people over:

#3 - Ethics Has Left the Chat

#4 - The Physical Cost of Generative AI

Where Meta has recently constructed a 2 million square foot data facility in Georgia, a nearby living couple have documented the devastating consequences to the environment and their lives.

Facilities like these are used to power stuff like Chat GPT, Gemini, etc.:

In order for them to function as needed, they put a huge toll on the power grid and require the construction of an entirely new infrastructure atop the usual servers, storage systems and networking equipment.

For one, AI data centres require high-performance graphics processing units (GPUs) which come with their own required infrastructure needs (advanced storage, networking, energy and cooling capabilities). The sheer number of GPUs necessary for AI use alone then already add a ton more square footage to the size of the data centre.

On top of that, living in a county with a data centre like this in the US drives up the cost of electricity for everyone in the county.

And what does all this mean for the environment? Deforestation. Light pollution. Air pollution. Here is a still frame from a video shot by a woman living over 366 meters away from an AI centre's construction site:

All this pollution then started seeping into the ground water, resulting in this:

And what does that mean for someone living nearby? Dishwashers breaking. Washing machines breaking. Water pressure dropping to the point where you can't even flush a toilet anymore because all the pipes are clogged with sediment.

On a global scale, it should also be noted that:

According to the Washington Post in collaboration with the University of California, Riverside, writing a single 100-word email in Open AI's ChatGPT is the equivalent of consuming just over one bottle of water.

Shaolei Ren, an associate professor of engineering at UC Riverside, says that while "We haven’t come to the point yet where AI has tangibly taken away our most essential natural water resources," the use of AI in places with frequent droughts has caused rising tension between communities who need the water and data centers. Not to mention, hardware production pollutes water, per a study initially published in January 2015 in the Journal of Cleaner Production, due to the extraction of precious minerals like boron, silicon, and phosphorous.

[Source]

UPDATE:

A new video has been released which takes a look at Memphis where Elon Musk had the data center built that allows for Twitter's Chat-Bot Gronk to exist, and here is what was discovered:

No regulatory body has been informed of what is operating within that facility.

Large turbines are causing noise pollution (far more turbines than is reasonable).

The building emits a disturbing smell.

Aerial and thermal footage obtained of the site has revealed that:

The air quality in the entire area has been severely degraded to the point of causing health issues for people living in the area:

Continuing, Alexis shared her grandfather's story of how he developed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) despite being a non-smoker-

- and continuous by saying her, her mother, and grandmother all three also developed respiratory illnesses (asthma and bronchitis in Alexis's case and just bronchitis in her mother and grandmother's case):

Another local is dealing with much the same issue:

If you're still not convinced of how truly horrific the situation is:

And if you're now wondering how all this could happen, I've got one word for you: DOGE. Together with the Trump administration, funds for the EPA have been slashed to the point where they're basically non-functional:

Presently, should everything continue on this set path, then...

These videos provided the screenshots used above:

#5 - Use of AI in Warfare

Israel has been using untested and undisclosed AI-powered databases in order to identify targets and plan bombing campaigns throughout Gaza, which has reportedly led to the loss of thousands of civilian lives.

And who provided this technology? Google. For fear of losing business to Amazon. And not just them. Microsoft too has been collaborating with the Israeli military, as has Amazon who collaborated with Google in 2021 to establish "Project Nimbus" which continues on to this day with zero transparency or accountability.

Sources: x | x

Beyond that, even after the bombs were dropped, drones would come in to specifically target surviving children and it is known that Israel utilized AI-powered drones for carrying out precise assassinations and various combat missions.

The video below is timestamped to when this surgeon retells the horrors of what happened to the children while he was working in the Gaza strip:

Outside of Israel, Ukraine has also been using AI-technology in its warfare:

Further reading on the topic:

#6 - AI-Generated Art

With AI-generated art flooding social media and streaming platforms on the daily, it's getting harder and harder for new artists to enter the scene. On top of that, all the recommendations you're getting online - be that on an image search, streaming platform or elsewhere - are also all the result of AI-powered algorithms.

And as we all know, generative AI is trained on data banks filled to the brim with stolen art from non-consenting artists across the globe - be that musicians, painters, photographers, voice actors, chefs, or writers.

All of this ultimately shapes the world we live in. Those in the know are now full of mistrust of corporations, new information, articles, and media. Anything and anyone is being accused of using AI when they post something online by skeptics, and those who don't know any better are living in blissful ignorance while they're being spoon-fed misinformation left, right, and center.

Further watching on generative AI as a whole:

Further reading:

Final Note:

Not all AI is bad, of course. There have been major breakthroughs in all fields of science thanks to AI which will bring about positive change for (hopefully) all of humanity.

But the problem is that the technology is developing far too quickly for lawmakers to keep up with (as planned, most likely, by all the billionaire tech bros on this planet) and generative AI in particular should have never been made publicly accessible. It should have remained in the hands of trained professionals who know how to use it responsibly.

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

January 1, 2025

Heather Cox Richardson

Jan 01, 2025

Twenty-five years ago today, Americans—along with the rest of the world—woke up to a new century date…and to the discovery that the years of work computer programmers had put in to stop what was known as the Y2K bug from crashing airplanes, shutting down hospitals, and making payments systems inoperable had worked.

When programmers began their work with the first wave of commercial computers in the 1960s, computer memory was expensive, so they used a two-digit format for dates, using just the years in the century, rather than using the four digits that would be necessary otherwise—78, for example, rather than 1978. This worked fine until the century changed.

As the turn of the twenty-first century approached, computer engineers realized that computers might interpret 00 as 1900 rather than 2000 or fail to recognize it at all, causing programs that, by then, handled routine maintenance, safety checks, transportation, finance, and so on, to fail. According to scholar Olivia Bosch, governments recognized that government services, as well as security and the law, could be disrupted by the glitch. They knew that the public must have confidence that world systems would survive, and the United States and the United Kingdom, where at the time computers were more widespread than they were elsewhere, emphasized transparency about how governments, companies, and programmers were handling the problem. They backed the World Bank and the United Nations in their work to help developing countries fix their own Y2K issues.

Meanwhile, people who were already worried about the coming of a new century began to fear that the end of the world was coming. In late 1996, evangelical Christian believers saw the Virgin Mary in the windows of an office building near Clearwater, Florida, and some thought the image was a sign of the end times. Leaders fed that fear, some appearing to hope that the secular government they hated would fall, some appreciating the profit to be made from their warnings. Popular televangelist Pat Robertson ran headlines like “The Year 2000—A Date with Disaster.”

Fears reached far beyond the evangelical community. Newspaper tabloids ran headlines that convinced some worried people to start stockpiling food and preparing for societal collapse: “JANUARY 1, 2000: THE DAY THE EARTH WILL STAND STILL!” one tabloid read. “ALL BANKS WILL FAIL. FOOD SUPPLIES WILL BE DEPLETED! ELECTRICITY WILL BE CUT OFF! THE STOCK MARKET WILL CRASH! VEHICLES USING COMPUTER CHIPS WILL STOP DEAD! TELEPHONES WILL CEASE TO FUNCTION! DOMINO EFFECT WILL CAUSE A WORLDWIDE DEPRESSION!”

In fact, the fix turned out to be simple—programmers developed updated systems that recognized a four-digit date—but implementing it meant that hardware and software had to be adjusted to become Y2K compliant, and they had to be ready by midnight on December 31, 1999. Technology teams worked for years, racing to meet the deadline at a cost that researchers estimate to have been $300–$600 billion. The head of the Federal Aviation Administration at the time, Jane Garvey, told NPR in 1998 that the air traffic control system had twenty-three million lines of code that had to be fixed.

President Bill Clinton’s 1999 budget had described fixing the Y2K bug as “the single largest technology management challenge in history,” but on December 14 of that year, President Bill Clinton announced that according to the Office of Management and Budget, 99.9% of the government's mission-critical computer systems were ready for 2000. In May 1997, only 21% had been ready. “[W]e have done our job, we have met the deadline, and we have done it well below cost projections,” Clinton said.

Indeed, the fix worked. Despite the dark warnings, the programmers had done their job, and the clocks changed with little disruption. “2000,” the Wilmington, Delaware, News Journal’s headline read. “World rejoices; Y2K bug is quiet.”

Crises get a lot of attention, but the quiet work of fixing them gets less. And if that work ends the crisis that got all the attention, the success itself makes people think there was never a crisis to begin with. In the aftermath of the Y2K problem, people began to treat it as a joke, but as technology forecaster Paul Saffo emphasized, “The Y2K crisis didn’t happen precisely because people started preparing for it over a decade in advance. And the general public who was busy stocking up on supplies and stuff just didn’t have a sense that the programmers were on the job.”

As of midnight last night, a five-year contract ended that had allowed Russia to export natural gas to Europe by way of a pipeline running through Ukraine. Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky warned that he would not renew the contract, which permitted more than $6 billion a year to flow to cash-strapped Russia. European governments said they had plenty of time to prepare and that they have found alternative sources to meet the needs of their people.

Today, President Joe Biden issued a statement marking the day that the new, lower cap on seniors’ out-of-pocket spending on prescription drugs goes into effect. The Inflation Reduction Act, negotiated over two years and passed with Democratic votes alone, enabled the government to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies over drug prices and phased in out-of-pocket spending caps for seniors. In 2024 the cap was $3,400; it’s now $2,000.

As we launch ourselves into 2025, one of the key issues of the new year will be whether Americans care that the U.S. government does the hard, slow work of governing and, if it does, who benefits.

Happy New Year, everyone.

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

[nandinish27]

Best Courses to Study in Australia for Indian Students with High ROI.

Why Australia is a Top Study Abroad Destination in 2025

Australia continues to rank among the top destinations for Indian students seeking world-class education, global career opportunities, and a multicultural lifestyle. With over 100,000 Indian students currently studying in Australia, the trend is fueled by high employability, quality institutions, and welcoming immigration policies. This blog provides a complete study guide in Australia for Indian students, focusing on the top courses offering the highest return on investment (ROI) in 2025.

Top Reasons to Study in Australia for Indian Students

Globally ranked universities like the University of Melbourne, ANU, and UNSW

Post-study work visas for up to 4 years

Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR)

Industry-relevant, skill-based courses

High graduate employability

Scholarships and financial support for Indian students

High ROI Courses for Indian Students in Australia

1. Information Technology and Computer Science

Why It’s Worth It:

Booming tech industry in cities like Sydney and Melbourne

Strong demand for software developers, AI specialists, and cybersecurity analysts

Excellent PR pathways via the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)

Career Opportunities:

Software Developer

Cloud Engineer

Cybersecurity Analyst

Average Salary: AUD 70,000 – 120,000

2. Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Mining)

Why It’s Worth It:

High demand for engineers in infrastructure, renewable energy, and mining

PR-friendly occupations

Hands-on, accredited programs (Engineers Australia recognition)

Career Paths:

Civil Engineer

Structural Engineer

Renewable Energy Consultant

Average Salary: AUD 75,000 – 130,000

3. Health Sciences & Nursing

Why It’s Worth It:

Acute shortage of skilled healthcare workers

Strong employment growth projected until 2030

Offers direct PR routes for nursing graduates

Career Opportunities:

Registered Nurse

Public Health Officer

Physiotherapist

Average Salary: AUD 65,000 – 110,000

4. Business Analytics and Data Science

Why It’s Worth It:

High demand across sectors (banking, retail, healthcare)

Versatile career paths with global appeal

STEM classification supports extended post-study work visa

Career Options:

Data Analyst

Business Intelligence Consultant

Data Scientist

Average Salary: AUD 85,000 – 130,000

5. Accounting and Finance

Why It’s Worth It:

Consistent job demand across Australia

Accredited courses (CPA Australia, CA ANZ)

Opens doors to roles in multinational firms

Career Opportunities:

Chartered Accountant

Financial Analyst

Auditor

Average Salary: AUD 70,000 – 115,000

6. Education and Teaching

Why It’s Worth It:

Australia’s school system seeks qualified teachers, especially in regional areas

Included in the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

Roles After Graduation:

Primary School Teacher

Early Childhood Educator

Secondary School Teacher

Average Salary: AUD 65,000 – 100,000

7. Architecture and Construction Management

Why It’s Worth It:

Australia’s urban expansion and infrastructure projects

Recognized qualifications with global applicability

Popular Careers:

Architect

Project Manager

Construction Estimator

Average Salary: AUD 70,000 – 120,000

Cost of Education in Australia (2025)

Course Type

Average Annual Tuition (AUD)

UG Courses

20,000 – 45,000

PG Courses

22,000 – 50,000

MBA

40,000 – 80,000

Scholarships Available for Indian Students

Australia Awards Scholarships – Fully funded by the Australian government

Destination Australia Scholarships – Regional study scholarships worth AUD 15,000

University-Specific Grants – E.g., Monash International Merit Scholarship, University of Sydney International Scholarships

Post-Study Work Rights and PR Pathways

Australia allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. Graduates can apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), offering work rights for 2–4 years depending on qualification and location.

PR Pathways via:

General Skilled Migration (GSM)

Employer-Sponsored Visas

Regional Migration Programs

How Eduvisor Can Help You Study in Australia

Navigating the Australian education system, choosing the right course, and applying for visas can be overwhelming. That’s where Eduvisor, a trusted study abroad consultant in India, steps in. Eduvisor offers personalized counseling, university shortlisting, scholarship assistance, SOP writing, and complete visa support — tailored for Indian students planning to study in Australia.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a high-ROI course in Australia is more than just picking a subject — it’s about aligning your passion with global trends. With the right guidance and planning, Australia can be your gateway to a successful international career. Use this study guide in Australia for Indian students as your blueprint for 2025 and beyond.

Ready to begin your journey? Let Eduvisor turn your study abroad dream into reality.

FAQs

Q1. What are the most affordable courses to study in Australia? A: Vocational Education & Training (VET) courses, TAFE programs, and regional university degrees are often more budget-friendly.

Q2. Is PR easy after studying in Australia? A: Courses on the SOL and MLTSSL lists (like IT, Nursing, Engineering) make it easier to qualify for PR.

Q3. How do I find scholarships to study in Australia? A: Government sites, university portals, and expert consultants like Eduvisor can help you explore scholarships based on merit, need, and region.

[ahiswg]

Please help

**To Whom It May Concern,** My country, Syria, has endured more than a decade of challenges and conflicts that have left deep marks on everyone. During this time, many opportunities were lost, and the pursuit of rebuilding our lives and achieving stability now requires support and assistance. I am one of those striving to rebuild their lives from scratch. Like many young people, I have big aspirations to achieve financial and professional independence and to contribute to rebuilding my local community. However, I face financial challenges that hinder my ability to start this journey. ### **A Brief About My Current Situation** - I live in a region heavily affected by the events, which has made finding stable employment extremely difficult. - I have extensive experience in **mobile phones, programming, and application development**. Over the past years, I have acquired various technical skills that enable me to work on mobile phone repairs, software development, and creating innovative digital solutions. - I am seeking to invest in a small project idea that combines my technical expertise in mobile phones and programming with the needs of the local market, which can make a significant difference for me and the surrounding community. ### **The Business Plan and Required Amount** I plan to establish a **specialized tech services center** that includes: 1. **Maintenance and repair of mobile phones** with high efficiency and affordable prices. 2. Development of customized applications and software to meet the needs of individuals and small businesses in the area. 3. Providing **training courses for young people** interested in entering this field, helping them acquire essential technological skills. **Estimated project cost: [$4,000-$5,000].** The funds will be allocated to: - Purchasing the tools and equipment needed for mobile phone repairs. - Equipping the workspace with computers and essential software for development. - Marketing the project's services to attract customers. ### **Why Do I Need Your Support?** I believe that support at this stage can be a turning point in my life, enabling me to stand on my own feet and become self-reliant. This support will not only help me but will also have a positive impact on the community by: - Providing high-quality local tech services. - Training young people in modern technological skills. - Boosting the local economy by offering tech solutions to small businesses. ### **In Conclusion** I sincerely thank everyone who reads this message and considers providing support. Any help, no matter how small, will be a big step toward building a better future. You can contact me at

androo.kien@gmail.com

t.me/Goko1200

**With great appreciation and gratitude,** [Abdul Rahman]

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this Op-Ed from the New York Times:

To keep the lights on, many utility companies are proposing to build dozens of new power plants that burn natural gas. North Carolina-based Duke Energy alone wants to add 8.9 gigawatts of new gas-fired capacity — more than the entire country added in 2023. Using their own projections of soaring energy demands as justification, these companies are also pushing back on the climate targets set by their states and the Biden administration.

If state regulators sign off on these plans, they will be gambling with our country’s future. We need to electrify everything from cars to appliances to slow climate change, but we won’t be able to reach our climate goals if we power all of those machines with dirty energy.

There is a better way. But to get there, legislators will need to overhaul the incentives driving utilities to double down on natural gas, so that they can turn a profit without cooking the planet.

Companies like Duke, Dominion Energy and Georgia Power argue that they need more gas-fired plants to reliably provide power during times of peak demand — for instance, on a hot summer weekday afternoon when home cooling systems and data servers are all humming at maximum output, and the grid strains to keep up. But those peaks tend to materialize only for a few dozen hours per year, and there are ways to deal with them that don’t require a massive amount of new methane-burning infrastructure.

The real reason the utilities want to build these plants is quite simple: The more stuff they build, the more money they make. Regulators let utilities charge their customers enough money to cover what they spend on assets like combustion turbines and wires, plus a generous rate of return (up to 10 percent) for their investors. This longstanding arrangement incentivizes power providers to build expensive things whether society needs them or not, in lieu of lower-cost, cleaner options, and to invoke their duty to keep the lights on as a post hoc rationalization.

Fortunately, utilities have plenty of ways to meet this new need.

They include “virtual power plants” — when technologies such as home batteries, rooftop solar systems, smart water heaters and thermostats are linked together and managed via software to provide the same services as a conventional power plant. Utilities in Vermont, Colorado and Massachusetts are already using them, to quickly respond to rising demand at a much lower cost than operating natural gas combustion turbines. According to one estimate, virtual power plants could lower U.S. utilities’ costs by as much as $35 billion over the next decade.

Utilities could also accelerate efforts to replace outdated transmission lines with newer ones that can carry double the electric current and to bring more battery storage online. They can compensate customers for using less energy during times when demand is high and invest far more in energy efficiency, helping customers to adopt devices that use less electricity.

All of these solutions would save customers money and reduce carbon emissions. They could, according to a Department of Energy analysis, meet the entire projected growth in U.S. peak electricity demand over the next decade.

[civilguidelines]

When you begin the planning of a construction project, you are faced with the inevitable question: how much will it cost? The answer to that can be found in a Bill of Quantities, or BoQ in short. Today, we will talk about how to prepare a bill of quantities, in 6 easy steps.

A Bill of Quantities (BoQ) lists the total materials required to complete the architect's design for a construction project, such as a house or other structure. BoQs are typically prepared by a quantity surveyor or civil engineer who has expertise at estimating the materials required for a project.

The bill of quantity enables you to get quotes for the project that are as accurate as possible. Even if you don't prepare the BoQ yourself, it's still worth knowing how a bill of quantity should be prepared, so you can evaluate the quality of the finished product.

The following are the steps you can follow to properly set up a bill of quantity.

Set up the spreadsheet

Open a new file in your favourite spreadsheet program, online or offline. (We recommend using LibreOffice, one of the best free office software ever.) Now set up the column as follows:

Item numbers

Description

Unit of measurement

Quantity

Rate for the item

Labor cost

Total cost

As expected, your item numbers should start from 1, and reiterate as you change through the categories or sections of the build. The data for the rates and labor costs should be filled in by respective contractors, or, as per the quotes you got from them.

Read more

[constructioncostco]

Planning and estimating construction projects are crucial to their success. There are many complex processes involved. As part of this process, construction takeoffs are essential. Construction takeoffs are itemized and quantified lists of the materials, labor, and other resources required for construction projects.

Construction takeoffs are essential to project estimation, planning, and success in general. They give a thorough analysis of the necessary labor, materials, and resources, allowing for precise cost estimation and efficient project management. With enhanced accuracy and time savings, the process has been further streamlined with the introduction of digital takeoff tools and BIM-based solutions.

Importance of Construction Takeoffs

Accurate project estimation

Accurate project estimation is built on the foundation of construction takeoffs. Takeoffs give project stakeholders a thorough grasp of the project scope and associated costs by estimating the materials, equipment, and labor required. Realistic timetables and budgets can be created with the use of this information.

Enhanced project planning

A crucial aspect of project planning is takeoffs. Construction teams may create accurate project timetables, manage resources wisely, and spot potential bottlenecks or areas that need extra care with a full assessment of the available resources. This degree of planning ensures that the construction process runs more smoothly and helps to avoid delays and expensive change orders.

Improved communication and collaboration

Communication among project stakeholders is standardized by construction takeoffs. Takeoffs allow for simple and clear communication between architects, contractors, suppliers, and other team members by quantifying and clarifying requirements. This promotes teamwork and increases overall project efficiency by cutting down on ambiguity and errors.

Methods for Construction Takeoffs

Manual takeoffs

Traditional manual takeoffs entail looking at blueprints, plans, and specifications to manually calculate the amount of resources and materials needed. Even though it takes a lot of time and is prone to mistakes, this method is still employed occasionally, especially for smaller projects or when digital versions of certain details are not available.

Digital takeoff software

The building sector has undergone a change since the introduction of digital takeoff software. By eliminating laborious computations and lowering human error, these software solutions allow users to electronically measure quantities directly from digital designs. Software for digital takeoffs streamlines the process by providing features like annotation tools, automatic measurements, and simple cooperation.

3D modeling and BIM

The building sector has undergone a change since the introduction of digital takeoff software. By eliminating laborious computations and lowering human error, these software solutions allow users to electronically measure quantities directly from digital designs. Software for digital takeoffs streamlines the process by providing features like annotation tools, automatic measurements, and simple cooperation.

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Revit Architecture Online Training - cubikcadd

Revit Architecture Online Training - cubikcadd

In today’s fast-paced design and architecture world, staying ahead of the curve requires mastering the right tools. One of the most powerful and widely used software platforms for architects, engineers, and construction professionals is Autodesk Revit. If you’re serious about elevating your skills and advancing your career, enrolling in a Revit course can be a game-changer. This blog will explore the benefits of taking a Revit course, what you can expect to learn, and why it's essential for anyone in the design industry.

What Is Revit?

Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software developed by Autodesk that allows architects, engineers, and construction professionals to design, visualize, and manage building projects in a 3D environment. Unlike traditional CAD software, Revit is more than just a drawing tool. It enables users to create intelligent models with real-world information about materials, structures, and systems, providing a holistic approach to design and construction.

Why Take a Revit Course?

A Revit course is crucial for professionals who want to maximize their productivity and accuracy in design. Here are a few key reasons why learning Revit is a smart investment in your future:

1. Industry Standard

Revit is an industry-standard BIM software widely used in architectural firms, engineering companies, and construction projects worldwide. Employers often seek professionals proficient in Revit, making it a valuable skill on your resume.

2. Improve Design Efficiency

Revit allows you to work smarter, not harder. By learning how to use the software’s advanced features, such as parametric modeling and automatic updates across the project, you can significantly reduce the time spent on revisions and manual updates.

3. Enhance Collaboration

Revit supports team collaboration with ease. A Revit course will teach you how to work with cloud-based models, enabling multiple users to access, modify, and update a single project file in real-time. This is especially important in large projects where coordination between different disciplines (architecture, structural engineering, MEP) is crucial.

4. Create Detailed 3D Visualizations

One of the standout features of Revit is its ability to generate highly detailed 3D models and visualizations. By enrolling in a Revit course, you’ll learn how to create photorealistic renders, walkthroughs, and simulations, helping you and your clients better understand the design before construction even begins.

5. Better Project Management

Revit’s intelligent data system ensures that every part of your model is interconnected. This allows for accurate cost estimates, material takeoffs, and construction timelines. A Revit course will show you how to use these tools to improve project management, ensuring projects stay on time and within budget.

What Will You Learn in a Revit Course?

From basic to advanced, a well-designed Revit course usually covers a wide range of topics. The following summarises what you can anticipate learning:

1. Introduction to BIM and Revit Interface

You’ll start by getting familiar with BIM concepts and the Revit interface. This includes learning about tools, menus, and how to navigate the software efficiently.

2. Modeling Techniques

The course will teach you how to create accurate architectural models, including walls, floors, roofs, doors, and windows. You’ll also learn how to model structural components and MEP systems, depending on the course's focus.

3. Documentation and Annotations

Learn how to generate construction documentation, such as floor plans, sections, elevations, and details. You’ll also cover how to annotate your drawings with dimensions, text, and other symbols necessary for clear communication with contractors and clients.

4. Advanced Modeling and Customization

Once you master the basics, you’ll dive into more advanced topics such as custom family creation, curtain wall systems, complex roofs, and parametric design, which allows you to create flexible models.

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