Reed Construction Data

Jan

19

2007

RSMeans launches MeansCostWorks.com

RSMeans is pleased to introduce MeansCostWorks.com, an innovative, one-stop estimating tool that provides online access to the nation’s most used and quoted construction cost data, in tandem with new estimating capabilities and user-defined customization features.

MeansCostWorks.com offers the full range of RSMeans cost data – comprising 85,000 unit prices and 25,000 typical building assembly costs – for estimating new commercial and residential construction, facilities construction and repair and remodeling projects, all in one up-to-date and easy-to-use database.

RSMeans is the first in the industry to offer the following online features:

• Simultaneous, shared access to RSMeans estimating data online.
A key advantage of this subscription-based service is the efficiency of shared access. Estimates and supporting cost data can be accessed anytime in a secure web environment, where project team members can collaborate to develop estimates. The estimates can then be printed directly from the program or easily exported to Microsoft Excel and other report formats selected by the user.

• Users can create and maintain their own cost database online.
MeansCostWorks.com enables construction professionals to set-up and manage their own unique construction cost database online. When user labor costs differ from RSMeans’ current averages, users can input their own wage rates for any of 46 trades. Alternative costs for items such as building materials and equipment rental can be replaced on an unlimited basis, and user-defined costs can be applied to selected lines or universally. Any custom line may be changed at any time.

• One-stop online estimating offers current or past cost data for every construction specialty, and it adjusts costs to project location.
Users can select current or past cost data from three comprehensive databases that include specialties such as repair and remodeling, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, concrete and masonry, site work and landscaping, and heavy construction. MeansCostworks.com estimates can be automatically adjusted to union or open shop wages, and all costs can be localized to more than 900 locations in the U.S. and Canada.

• Complete flexibility for any type of estimating need.
The new RSMeans online service lets users search and organize cost data easily, generate customized cost reports, merge multiple cost lists, and quickly add or change costs. Cross-referencing and checklists are also included to streamline various estimating tasks, including change order preparation and allowing for economies in construction.

Like all of RSMeans cost products, MeansCostWorks.com data is organized according to the industry-standard Construction Specifications Institute’s (CSI) MasterFormat™ classification system.

“The MeansCostWorks.com product raises the value of RSMeans data to a new level, providing more data, flexibility, and customization,” says John Ware, Senior Vice President and General Manager of RSMeans. “This shared-access website is a valuable tool to enhance both the estimating processes and cost management.”

For more information or a demonstration of this new product, visit www.MeansCostWorks.com. Subscriptions and information can also be obtained by calling 1-800-344-3509.

About RSMeans

RSMeans, a part of Reed Construction Data, is the foremost source of construction cost information in North America, with 24 annual cost data products, and multiple CD, online and OEM software solutions that offer quarterly cost updates. RSMeans also offers over 60 construction reference publications, a nationwide seminar program, and consulting services.