Reliable estimates for better-controlled decisions
A rigorous construction economics methodology for producing reliable quantity takeoffs, consistent estimates, and usable cost studies at every stage of the project.
The benefits of our method
Recurring issues
• Inaccurate estimates and significant cost overruns during construction
• Estimation lead times that are too long
• Difficulty in justifying costs to the client
• Lack of consistency between drawings, technical specifications, and cost estimates
What our method delivers
• Estimates based on reliable quantity takeoffs and proven ratios
• A responsive digital process for quickly integrating project changes
• A structured, traceable, and defensible cost estimate at every stage
• Integrated modelling to ensure consistency across the project documents
A structured method consisting of four key steps
Analysis and structuring
Before any cost estimation is carried out, we analyse the project to understand its technical, economic, and construction-related dynamics.
• Critical review of drawings
• Identification of sensitive cost items
• Definition of reference ratios
Objective: to establish a clear, structured, and reliable analytical basis before any quantity takeoff is prepared.
Modelling and Quantity Takeoff
We produce a digital model of the project to obtain reliable, clear, and traceable quantities.
• 3D modelling of the project
• Extraction of quantities by element
• Linking technical data with cost data
Result: a comprehensive, structured, and usable quantity takeoff, with better control over omissions, duplicates, and discrepancies.
Cost Estimation and Pricing
Costs are established using a professional pricing database, enriched by recent project feedback and practical insight from the field.
• Costing based on quantity takeoffs
• Support from up-to-date pricing data
• Analysis of alternatives and optimization opportunities
Objective: to produce a consistent, well-substantiated estimate that supports decision-making, with constant attention to the cost-performance ratio.
Updates and Monitoring
Each project change is integrated to maintain consistency between quantities, costs, and design documents.
• Integration of design changes
• Updating of quantities and cost estimates
• Ongoing consistency between technical and cost documents
Objective: to have a reliable and up-to-date cost estimate at every stage, from the competition phase through to construction.
Digital Tools Serving Precision
Our method is built around a digital cost estimation platform, Attic+, which we have adapted and structured to meet our professional requirements. At CALYPSO, the tool does not replace expertise; it strengthens it by bringing greater rigour, clarity, and responsiveness to the handling of the project’s cost data.
• Integration between quantity takeoffs, specifications, and cost estimates
• Up-to-date materials library and price database
• Clear tracking of design options and project changes
In short: a digital approach supporting construction economics, designed to improve estimate reliability without adding unnecessary complexity.
Monitoring various economic indicators
Our method is built around a Power BI dashboard designed to track, structure, and interpret the key economic indicators that directly influence the construction sector. At CALYPSO, this tool strengthens our professional expertise by providing a clear, dynamic, and up-to-date view of market data for cost estimation and decision-making.
• Monitoring of the ECB’s key interest rate, BT indices, ICC, IPEA, and ICP-F, …
• A consolidated view of the economic trends affecting projects
• Continuous updating of market analysis
• Better anticipation of the impacts on costs and technical trade-offsfs
In short: a dynamic and structured economic analysis, supporting more robust estimates and better-controlled decisions.
Added value for every project stakeholder
Architects
• More reliable estimates from the earliest design phases
• Strong cost support to engage effectively with the client
• Greater responsiveness to design changes
Developers / Project Owners
• More consistent, controlled, and justifiable budgets
• A clearer understanding of the cost structure
• Reduced discrepancies between design and construction
Contractors
• Clear, consistent, and immediately usable quantity takeoffs
• Better anticipation of sensitive cost items
• Time savings when reviewing tender documents
The CALYPSO Method
Behind this method lies a constant commitment: no estimate is issued without a double cross-check.
Every ratio, every area, and every line item is subject to rigorous review to ensure the overall consistency of the cost estimate.
This discipline, shaped by hands-on experience and the operational realities of project delivery, enables us to produce robust, well-substantiated, and genuinely defensible data.