Updating WBS Codes Automatically

I use Estimating to import takeoffs from a 3rd party program (On Screen Takeoff) and assign them to assemblies. The assemblies have a list of items which are associated with an RS Means cost database. This process generates the estimate. However, the reports I use are sorted by WBS codes, so each item needs to have those assigned manually which takes a lot of time.

My problem is that I cannot pre-assign WBS codes in the database assemblies. The only way I know to pre-assign WBS codes is to do it in the database items, but this is not sufficient since many database items require different codes based on the assembly they are in. For instance, I have an assembly for a chilled water pipe installed by the mechanical contractor and another assembly for a domestic hot water pipe installed by the plumber. Both of these assemblies use black steel pipe, but the WBS codes need to be different for the different trades, components, etc.

Is there any way to pre-assign WBS codes for each item in a Database Assembly that allows unique WBS codes for each assembly? If not, is there any way I can automate the process of filling in the WBS codes for each assembly, by using a macro for instance, external spreadsheet, or some other method?

I am running Estimating - Extended Edition 9.8 (9.8.0 Rev 3 CD)

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    Thanks for you post Chaz-O.  The option really would be to setup the items to have the WBS code on the database items since there is not a way to assign a WBS code to an Assembly setup.  Macros and using ODBC would not be a good option either in your case.   With your given example could you setup your items based on your WBS code?

    For example:

    Black steel Pipe #1 (wbs code = chilled)

    Black steel Pipe #2 (wbs code = hot)

    Be sure to link the prices between these items so that the price updates all the related items.  It will take some time to setup, but would allow you to have the same item with the same price, but with different characteristics such as WBS codes.  This way when you select the database items for your assemblies the WBS code will already be linked properly.

    Hope this helps!

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  • 0

    Thanks for you post Chaz-O.  The option really would be to setup the items to have the WBS code on the database items since there is not a way to assign a WBS code to an Assembly setup.  Macros and using ODBC would not be a good option either in your case.   With your given example could you setup your items based on your WBS code?

    For example:

    Black steel Pipe #1 (wbs code = chilled)

    Black steel Pipe #2 (wbs code = hot)

    Be sure to link the prices between these items so that the price updates all the related items.  It will take some time to setup, but would allow you to have the same item with the same price, but with different characteristics such as WBS codes.  This way when you select the database items for your assemblies the WBS code will already be linked properly.

    Hope this helps!

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