Questions and Answers

Q: “Dynamic Hyper-Estimating”? isn’t that a bit over-the-top for a name?

A. Well, it does sound a bit “hyper”, but it’s true…

Q. Ok, what is “Dynamic” about it?

A. DHE estimates can be dynamically recalculated from performance. The time estimate will be that which is most likely to be achieved in the plant.

Q. And, what about “Hyper”-Estimating?

A. DHE goes beyond ordinary time estimating. DHE builds up the time estimate from piece part dimensions and features. DHE uses the performance history for other, different piece parts made using similar processes. DHE uses artificial intelligence to calculate the process times for a specific piece part.

Q. Can DHE do any type of estimating?

A. No. DHE is designed for piece part manufacturers, who make component parts in batches. If the component part to be estimated is made up of other components, extensions to the base DHE are available. If there are many components in a complex structure then alternatives to DHE may be recommended.

Q. What do I get out of DHE?

A. The basic output is a quote sheet showing the estimate, with various alternatives, such as a revised price for higher volume, and the quoting history for this part to this customer. You can also get a pro-forma “Quote Letter” ready to sign and fax (or email).

Q. Does DHE need a lot of input?

A. Well, you do need to provide the piece part dimensions, and feature codes that will affect the process. If you don’t provide anything more, DHE will try to work it out from known data.

Q. Do you mean you get more out of DHE than you put in?

A. Yes, definitely. For example, DHE can extract setup time estimates from factory production results, even when setup times are not reported.

Q. Can I use DHE without inputting any factory production data?

A. Yes, in that case DHE will work out times from previous estimates for similar parts, or from base feature/time rates for various machines.

Q. Can we reduce errors?

A. Of course, good estimating depends on the skill and experience of the people concerned. DHE can help people see how their work fits in…

In this scatter chart the estimator could see that the new estimate (+) is a bit “out of line” when looked at with the other estimates. There is usually a good reason, but it just might be worth “sharpening the pencil” on this one.

Q. Can DHE tell me if my estimates are any good?

A. In most businesses only a percentage of estimates result in new business. And that hard won new business may be more or less profitable. With the “DHE Success Chart” you can see how you are going.

The size of the bubble is the volume. The filled in bubbles are the winning estimates. The higher the bubble on the chart, the more mark up. From the chart you can see that estimate B is more likely to win business.

Q. What about raw material prices?

A. Prices for standard raw materials can be provided to DHE in tables, eg bars by material, alloy, section, diameter.

Q. What does DHE need to run?

A. DHE runs on any up-to-date PC that supports Windows XP or 2000. DHE interfaces with Microsoft Excel, and requires Excel for certain functions.

Q. What about existing data?

A. DHE can extract data from and/or provide data to any in-place ERP or other software system.

Q. What does it cost?

A. DHE is a modular system. You only pay for the functions you need. The basic DHE functions can be provided for a few hundred dollars. If you would like a “no-obligation” free try out, please contact us.

What else is available?

Estimate Analysis: Assured Systems consultants can audit your current estimates and advise changes if necessary. This can be done on-site or remotely via email.

The FlashBoard™ A unique visual, tactile computer-linked on-the-wall planning board.

Flair: A complete stand-alone full function finite capacity scheduling software package

DHE: Dynamic Hyper-Estimating

program by Assured Systems