Syllabus: DMI's Construction Takeoff and Estimating Class Objectives: The purpose of each class is to enhance the knowledge and skill level of those interested in improving their work.  Their work will improve due to better understanding of estimating theory.  However, beyond theory, they will develop skills by using methods and systems that clarify the takeoff and estimating process.  These skills will allow them to produce more accurate bids.  The methods and systems used in the class also produce unsurpassed efficiency for accurate bidding.  Many find they actually increase both their speed and their accuracy. Focus: Each series of courses (plan reading, takeoff, estimating) focuses on the scope of work named in the course's title.  The following lists the scope of work covered under each course title: Commercial Walls & Ceilings : acoustic ceilings, drywall, metal stud framing, EIFS, light gage structural steel stud framing, and related insulation. Commercial Carpentry & Millwork : rough carpentry, casework, millwork, doors, frames, and hardware. Commercial Painting & Decorating : both exterior and interior applications for painting, staining, and wallcoverings. Residential Drywall : both large-scale multi-family and custom single-family applications for wallboard, taping, and accessories. Residential Painting : both large-scale multi-family and custom single-family applications for exterior-interior painting and staining. Custom Home Building & Remodeling : permits, selective demolition, underground utilities, well & septic, sewer & water, excavation, electric, plumbing, concrete, waterproofing, rough carpentry, roofing, overhead garage doors, exterior doors, windows, HVAC, siding, caulking, EIFS, masonry, gutters & downspouts, insulation, drywall, painting, casework, millwork, hardware, countertops, flooring, paving, and landscaping. PowerPoint Presentation: Class begins with a PowerPoint presentation showing an overview of the information to be covered throughout the course. Later, as primary elements of the course are introduced, we flash back to the corresponding PowerPoint slide.  This teaching method reinforces the learning process while lending continuity to the connections among the primary elements of the takeoff and estimating process. Plan Reading: The optional Plan Reading class precedes the Beginner Level Course.  This option is for those who need to gain proficiency in their ability to interpret plans and other bid documents.  In addition to the basics, this one-day class covers architect's methods of linking various drawings together into a coherent set of plans. Takeoff: The most important aspect of the bidding process is the takeoff. The thorough yet high-speed methods learned in class help both beginners and experienced estimators attain significantly better takeoff proficiency.  In addition to the basics, this class clarifies the most accurate and efficient methods of preparing takeoff information for the estimate. Note - Three levels of Takeoff classes are offered.  Those who take the optional Plan Reading Class are immediately ready to move ahead to Takeoff. Those who are already completely competent in plan reading may start with a Takeoff class.  Beginner Takeoff is a two-day course followed by a separate two-day Beginner Estimating course.  Intermediate Takeoff and Estimating is a faster paced, three-day course.  Advanced Takeoff and Estimating, a two-day course, has the fastest pace. Estimating: Learn expedient estimating techniques enabling fast, accurate pricing for even the most complicated conditions found on any plans.  In addition to the basics, this class covers cost-effective methods to perform comprehensive estimates combining the utility of unit prices with the component detail to facilitate project management. Note - Three levels of Estimating classes are offered.  Beginner Estimating is a two-day course preceded by a separate two-day Beginner Takeoff course.  Intermediate Takeoff and Estimating is a faster paced, three-day course.  Advanced Takeoff and Estimating, a two-day course, has the fastest pace. Materials: Those attending class will receive a booklet containing a paper copy of the PowerPoint presentation, and other related information including Mike Litz's "Guide to Successful Estimating."  Also, a certificate of completion will be mailed at a later date to each person attending class.