Missing Toolkit: Estimates logo Missing Toolkit: Estimates

Quick Start Guide

This guide walks you through creating your first estimate in Missing Toolkit: Estimates.

Creating an Estimate

  1. From your dashboard or the estimates list, click the Create estimate dropdown
  2. Choose Manual input to build an estimate from scratch, or Import from file (CSV, Excel) to import from a spreadsheet
  3. Give your estimate a name (e.g., "Kitchen Renovation - Smith Residence")
  4. Optionally select a template to start with a pre-built row and column structure
  5. Click Save to create the estimate

You'll be taken directly to the version editor where you can start building out your estimate.

Understanding Rows, Columns, and Cells

Missing Toolkit: Estimates uses a flexible grid structure for estimates:

  • Rows represent line items or categories of work (e.g., "Framing", "Electrical", "Materials"). Rows can be nested to create a hierarchy.
  • Columns represent the data fields you want to track (e.g., quantity, amount, dates). Each column has a type that determines what kind of data it holds.
  • Cells are where rows and columns intersect — this is where you enter your actual data.

Working with Versions

Every estimate starts with an Initial Version. Versions let you explore different approaches or pricing options for the same project.

  • Click the + button to create a new version
  • Optionally copy from an existing version to use it as a starting point
  • Each version has its own cell data, so changes to one version don't affect the others
  • Compare versions side by side using the version manager

Importing from a File

If you have estimate data in a spreadsheet:

  1. Click Create estimate and choose Import from file (CSV, Excel)
  2. Upload your .xlsx, .xls, or .csv file
  3. Configure how columns should be mapped — set display names, types, and other options
  4. Click Create Estimate to import

What's Next?

  • Learn more about Estimates and all their capabilities
  • Explore Versions for managing multiple pricing options
  • Learn about Templates for reusing estimate structures
  • Set up QuickBooks Online to push estimates to your accounting system