Field Estimates Guide

How to create, review, and use field-service estimates in QBM.

Projects & Jobs Operational Guide End-User Guide

Overview

Field estimates help users prepare expected work, cost, or service details before actual execution begins. They are useful for planning, communication, and internal approval.

Main purposePlan expected service or job work before execution.
Important areasEstimate list, estimate details, related job or customer link, and planning values.
Business valueBetter planning, clearer communication, and improved control before field execution starts.

Where To Find It

Common Path: Field Services > Estimates

Users generally create an estimate before the work starts or before customer approval is confirmed.

Note: Estimate content can vary by business type, but the main goal stays the same: prepare the expected work clearly.

How It Works

An estimate records the expected work and its likely value or resource effect. Later, the company can compare actual work against what was originally planned.

  • Use estimates to make expectations clear before work starts.
  • Link the estimate to the correct customer or job when applicable.
  • Review estimates later against actual results where your process requires it.

Main Areas

Area What It Is Used For
Estimate List Review estimates and open or create records.
Estimate Details Store the planned service or job information.
Related Link Connect the estimate to the correct customer, case, or job.
Planning Values Used for expected quantities, amounts, or operational planning information.

Important Fields And Controls

Field Or Control What It Means When To Use It
Estimate Reference The identifier of the estimate. Use it to retrieve the correct planning record.
Customer / Job The business context of the estimate. Use it to keep the estimate tied to the right work.
Description What the estimate is for. Use a clear explanation of the expected work.
Expected Amount / Value The planned value of the work. Use it for planning and comparison.
Status The stage of the estimate in your process. Update it according to company workflow.

Recommended Workflow

  1. Create the estimate before the field work starts.
  2. Link it to the correct customer, job, or service context.
  3. Enter the planned work details and expected values.
  4. Save and use the estimate for approval, communication, or later comparison.
  5. Update or close the estimate according to the business result.

Best Practice

  • Use estimates early enough to influence planning decisions.
  • Keep the estimate description clear and practical.
  • Compare estimate and actual results where that supports better control.