Corporate Training By Zack Academy - Xactimate Estimating (CES-280)

In the Xactimate Estimating (CES-280) course, you will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to quickly create accurate estimates using a variety of Xactimate tools taught by an approved Xactimate® Certified Trainer (XCT). Attendees learn to efficiently set up, dimension, scope, and deliver professional estimates through valuable *hands-on training, all while preparing attendees to challenge the Xactimate Level 1 and 2 user certification exams offered through Xactware PLUS receive a special code for $15 off Xactimate Certifications (1, 2, 3) – up to $45 value!

Xactimate is the one of the most frequently used software solutions used in estimating. Contracting and insurance companies alike use Xactimate to create accurate estimates and facilitate communication throughout all steps of a project. Proficiency in Xactimate can greatly improve productivity and profits for both contractors and adjusters.

Certification Preparation & CE: 

• Prepares for Xactimate Level 1 Certification*, Xactimate Level 2 Certification*
• Approved for 2.0 IICRC CE Credits (14.0 Hours) (Event 2638)

Course Environment

This is a three-day instructor led course administered by an Xactimate Certified Trainer.  Course includes instructional presentation followed by applied practice geared to ensure students learn best practices. Instruction method is designed to build confidence in the knowledge being shared in a patient learning environment by progressively building scope complexity.

Skills and Objectives

Students of this program will learn how to:

• Use the 4-step estimating process to quickly create a project, review your estimate, and export.
• Operate tools which minimize the time spent building your estimate.
• Use construction concepts to build interior and roof diagrams in sketch.
• Easily find line-items related to your current scope of repairs.
• Modify material pricing for custom/miscellaneous, bid-item, and material analysis line-items.
• Communicate why a Labor Minimum is NOT like a Base Service Charge.
• Verify Xactimate is auto-sizing the scope to the size of the room you are estimating.
• Increase your efficiency in sketch by learning valuable keyboard shortcuts.
• Quickly import, organize, and document images to provide additional clarity and detail.
• Deliver estimate reports in formats best suited to your internal and external clients.
• Become a pricing resource by staying up-to-date and communicating new pricelist items.
• and more!

What YOU should bring:

• Laptop with Xactimate installed and fully operational prior to arriving at class.  We recommend installing or verifying your access to Xactimate at least 5 days prior to class.  If you are accessing Xactimate online, there is no need to download/install a demo.  
• External mouse, which greatly helps with SketchWireless hotspot (if necessary to access Xactimate online or on a network)

In addition to an internet connection, accessing Xactimate via www.xactimate.com requires the installation of Microsoft Silverlight, which also requires administrator privileges. Please verify your access to Xactimate 28 prior to class, ensuring you are able to login to Xactimate via a wireless connection. Recommended browser: Internet Explorer.  

How will you access Xactimate during class?

If you're not sure, please see your I.T. admin.  Once setup, please login to Xactimate 28 no later than five days prior to class.  The most common ways to access Xactimate are listed below:  

1. Using the online version of Xactimate at www.xactimate.com. Requires Microsoft Silverlight installed to laptop.  Use Internet Explorer or Firefox browser  (not compatible with Chrome).  If using a Mac to access the online version, verify by logging in via Firefox. Safari is not a supported browser. Important: Turn off the pop-up blocker.  View full requirements.

2. Xactimate installed on laptop (requires internet access during installation only).  If you do not have Xactimate installed on your laptop, you may request a free demo (30 days) from Xactware.  Click here.

3. Logging into a company network to access Xactimate on a server (i.e. network installation). To verify, login via a public Wi-Fi network outside of your firewall.  Note:  See your I.T. dept. if you require a VPN or remote desktop connection.

View Xactimate Minimum System Requirements

What skills you should have: 

Students should meet the following prerequisites before attending class:

Basic Computer skills

• Basic typing skills
• Opening software applications
• Basic internet navigation skills
• Understand Property Damage and Restoration Industry terms  

Free Xactimate 28 Demo Download: Learn More