vault backup: 2025-12-17 17:03:56

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"lilypond",
"novel-word-count",
"easy-copy",
"anchor-display-text"
"anchor-display-text",
"calendar"
]
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{
"shouldConfirmBeforeCreate": true,
"weekStart": "locale",
"wordsPerDot": 250,
"showWeeklyNote": true,
"weeklyNoteFormat": "",
"weeklyNoteTemplate": "",
"weeklyNoteFolder": "",
"localeOverride": "system-default"
}
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{
"id": "calendar",
"name": "Calendar",
"description": "Calendar view of your daily notes",
"version": "1.5.10",
"author": "Liam Cain",
"authorUrl": "https://github.com/liamcain/",
"isDesktopOnly": false,
"minAppVersion": "0.9.11"
}
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@@ -31,16 +31,16 @@ Let $A$ and $B$ be sets
sharing some but not all elements.
* $A \cap B \neq \varnothing$:
The intersection of $A$ and $B$ is nonempty
"The intersection of $A$ and $B$ is nonempty"
(They share at least one element).
* $A \not\subseteq B$:
$A$ is not a subset of $B$
"$A$ is not a subset of $B$"
($A$ has at least one element not in $B$).
Equivalent to $A \setminus B \neq \varnothing$.
* $B \not\subseteq A$:
$B$ is not a subset of $A$
"$B$ is not a subset of $A$"
($B$ has at least one element not in $A$).
Equivalent to $B \setminus A \neq \varnothing$.
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@@ -12,12 +12,4 @@ title: 2025-12-08
## 2025-12-08 11:03
#topic/ambiguity
I hate to come off as pedantic,
but I care a lot about standardized terminology
because spending a few minutes to be more thoughtful in specification
can save hundreds of people cumulative hours of confusion.
And the problem with standardization, of course,
is that sometimes it works,
and undoing years of poor conditioning is... not easy.
[[ambiguity-in-construction-estimating]]
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@@ -12,33 +12,7 @@ tags:
## 2025-12-09 10:43
### Overgeneralization via Hyperspecification
#topic/ambiguity
Or "inappropriate synecdoche[^1]"
[^1]: **synecdoche:** Using the name of a part to refer to the whole, or vice versa.
Much of my issue with terminology
can be blamed on **overgeneralization via hyperspecification**,
[Proprietary eponyms](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/proprietary_eponym)
(synonym: [genericized trademark](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/genericized_trademark))
are usually[^2] an example of such,
and are prominent in electrical construction.[^3]
[^2]: I'm not a complete pedant, Cadweld is a perfectly unambiguous substitution.
"Caddy", "Hilti", and "Vitalink" are my real complaints,
where the word only gets me marginally closer
to creating a concrete image in my head.
The general acceptance of "band-aid"
compared to the rejection of "coke"
may be related.
[^3]: See [Database of American Proprietary Eponyms](https://www.searstower.org/rkrause/brands.html)
for examples.
[[ambiguity]]
## 2025-12-09 10:52
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@@ -41,45 +41,51 @@ to the conceivably far more broad [spatial statistics](https://en.wikipedia.org/
> such as in computer-aided design (CAD),
> see [geometric modeling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geometric_modeling "Geometric modeling").
### Common Fallacies
### Ambiguity
* [Reification](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reification_(fallacy))
New Note: [[ambiguity]]
> [!quote]
> **Reification** ... is a fallacy of ambiguity,
> ...it is the error of treating something that is not concrete...
> as a concrete thing.
## 2025-12-17 12:32
See ["the map is not the territory"](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Map-territory_relation "Map-territory relation").
#topic/ambiguity
> [!aside]
> This one is very common among my peers in estimating.
> The problem with fallacies, of course,
> is that you can't simply say "Reification fallacy, booyah".
> If some one is overgeneralizing,
> they likely just have a different understanding of the term.
> Certainty of definition only occurs with some quorum,
> and I'd argue most of [[construction-estimating|ours]] don't meet it,
> and that the choice of any term over another ought to be based on utility.
>
> > Note also that a term's definition can be certain ~~on some axis~~,
> > but ambiguous ~~on another~~.
> > See ["I know it when I see it"](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_know_it_when_I_see_it)
> > which, as far as I'm concerned, is a perfectly legitimate definition.
A while ago I heard a minor coding influencer lament
that frameworks, packages, and tools
often have ridiculous sounding names
* [Equivocation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equivocation "Equivocation")
> `bubble-tea` and `ratatui`,
> libraries for creating CLI's, come to my mind
The misleading use of a word with more than one meaning
when, he suggests, they ought to just be called what they do.
* [Composition](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallacy_of_composition "Fallacy of composition")
Unfortunately some people and organizations agree,
giving us terms which mean both something very general
and something very specific.
Assuming a whole has a property because its parts have that property
> [[project-management-tm|"Project Management"]]
> was my go to example, but weak
> because it's difficult for me to articulate
> the difference from construction project management
> especially to someone un familiar with the specifics of either.
* [Division](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallacy_of_division "Fallacy of division")
For lack of a better term I've been thinking of this as an SEO problem,
but the bigger problem is that it invites [[ambiguity#Category Mistake|Category Mistake]],
whereby the ignorant listener associates traits unique to the example
to all things that the name could describe.
Assuming parts have a property because the whole has that property
I thought to finally write about this problem
while researching [[lighting-controls#Protocols|lighting control protocols]].
The two most dominant examples:
> [!quote] [Category mistake](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category_mistake)
> An example is a person learning that the game of cricket involves team spirit,
> and after being given a demonstration of each player's role,
> asking which player performs the "team spirit".
* [[lighting-controls#^dali|"Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI)"]]
* [[lighting-controls#^dmx|"Digital Multiplex (DMX)"]]
while notably different in topology,
are could both be described accurately with the other's name.
> It is possible to avoid this problem
> without the effort necessary to come up with a clever name.
> Just stick an arbitrary, but reasonably unique word
> in front of the generic description.
> A person's name ("John's Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (JDALI)")
> or your favorite animal ("Heron Digital Multiplex (HDMX)") are good options.
@@ -8,17 +8,17 @@ tags:
- status/incomplete
- topic/estimating
- topic/risk
- type/idea
- type/cross-topic
---
# Actuarial Science for Construction Estimating
Cross-topic of [[actuarial-science]] and [[construction-estimating]].
For a contractor, construction projects are like _investments_
in that they have a cost and return.
However, for construction projects,
**return** is known but **cost** must be estimated.
In this way, projects are better compared to _insurance accounts_.
- cost of individual service is uncertain
- cost to customer must be minimized
[[actuarial-science]]
* cost of individual service is uncertain
* cost to customer must be minimized
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@@ -5,6 +5,7 @@ title: Actuarial Science
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/risk
- type/encyclopedia
---
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@@ -0,0 +1,37 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Ambiguity in Construction Estimating
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/ambiguity
- topic/construction
- topic/estimating
- type/cross-topic
---
# Ambiguity in Construction Estimating
Cross-topic of [[ambiguity]] and [[construction-estimating]].
I hate to come off as pedantic,
but I care a lot about standardized terminology
because spending a few minutes to be more thoughtful in specification
can save hundreds of people cumulative hours of confusion.
And the problem with standardization, of course,
is that sometimes it works,
and undoing years of poor conditioning is... not easy.
## Naming Conventions (Use Case vs. Description)
Related: [[realism-vs-instrumentalism]]
Naming by use case is intuitive for those without estimating or field experience,
but has the side effect that those accustomed to the names
will inevitably _treat them as descriptive_.
| Use Case | Description |
| ------------------- | ------------- |
| Hi-Hat | Daisy-Chain |
| Furnished By Others | Rough-In Only |
+91
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@@ -0,0 +1,91 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Ambiguity
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/ambiguity
- type/encyclopedia-entry
---
# Ambiguity
Not to be confused with [[uncertainty]].
## Common Fallacies
### Reification Fallacy
> [!quote] [Reification](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reification_(fallacy))
> **Reification** ... is a fallacy of ambiguity,
> ...it is the error of treating something that is not concrete...
> as a concrete thing.
See ["the map is not the territory"](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Map-territory_relation "Map-territory relation").
> [!aside]
> This one is very common among my peers in estimating.
> The problem with fallacies, of course,
> is that you can't simply say "Reification fallacy, booyah".
> If some one is overgeneralizing,
> they likely just have a different understanding of the term.
> Certainty of definition only occurs with some quorum,
> and I'd argue most of [[construction-estimating|ours]] don't meet it,
> and that the choice of any term over another ought to be based on utility.
>
> > Note also that a term's definition can be certain ~~on some axis~~,
> > but ambiguous ~~on another~~.
> > See ["I know it when I see it"](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_know_it_when_I_see_it)
> > which, as far as I'm concerned, is a perfectly legitimate definition.
### Equivocation Fallacy
[Equivocation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equivocation "Equivocation")
The misleading use of a word with more than one meaning
### Composition Fallacy
[Composition](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallacy_of_composition "Fallacy of composition")
Assuming a whole has a property because its parts have that property
### Division Fallacy
[Division](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fallacy_of_division "Fallacy of division")
Assuming parts have a property because the whole has that property
### Category Mistake
> [!quote] [Category mistake](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category_mistake)
> An example is a person learning that the game of cricket involves team spirit,
> and after being given a demonstration of each player's role,
> asking which player performs the "team spirit".
#### Overgeneralization via Hyperspecification
Or "inappropriate synecdoche[^1]"
[^1]: **synecdoche:** Using the name of a part to refer to the whole, or vice versa.
Much of my issue with terminology
can be blamed on **overgeneralization via hyperspecification**,
[Proprietary eponyms](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/proprietary_eponym)
(synonym: [genericized trademark](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/genericized_trademark))
are usually[^2] an example of such,
and are prominent in electrical construction.[^3]
[^2]: I'm not a complete pedant, Cadweld is a perfectly unambiguous substitution.
"Caddy", "Hilti", and "Vitalink" are my real complaints,
where the word only gets me marginally closer
to creating a concrete image in my head.
The general acceptance of "band-aid"
compared to the rejection of "coke"
may be related.
[^3]: See [Database of American Proprietary Eponyms](https://www.searstower.org/rkrause/brands.html)
for examples.
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@@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ id:
aliases: []
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/fleeting
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/automation
- topic/estimating
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@@ -5,7 +5,9 @@ title: Auction Theory
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/strategy
- type/encyclopedia-entry
---
# Auction Theory
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@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ aliases: []
title: Bid Process Strategy
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- destiny/fleeting
- status/incomplete
- topic/estimating
- topic/risk
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@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ aliases: []
title: Breakdown Objects
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/fleeting
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/automation
- topic/estimating
+1
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@@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ tags:
- authorship/other
- destiny/permanent
- exclude-from-word-count
- status/complete
- topic/hobbies/poetry
- type/media/poetry
author: Karel Čapek
+49 -20
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@@ -1,42 +1,71 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Consolidate Estimating Thoughts
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/fleeting
- status/incomplete
- topic/estimating
- topic/meta
- type/task
- authorship/original
title: Consolidate Estimating Thoughts
---
# Consolidate Estimating Thoughts
My notes on construction estimating
are currently disparate, disjointed, and redundant
My notes on [[construction-estimating]]
are currently disparate, disjointed, and redundant.
## TODO
### Legitimate Subtopics
* [[estimating-methodologies]]
* [[construction-estimating-software]]
* [[history-of-construction-estimating]]
* [[labor-factoring]]
### New Cross-Topics
Remove estimating-specific content from irrelevant notes.
Create and use cross-topic notes for complex thoughts:
* [[actuarial-science-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[risk-oriented-estimating]]
* [[risk-management-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[risk-oriented-estimating]]: resource allocation
* [[auction-theory-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[bid-process-strategy]]
* [[game-theory-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[estimating-culture]]: estimator incentives
* [[project-management-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[separating-estimating-concerns]]
* [[ambiguity-in-construction-estimating]]
* [[nontraditional-computing-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[optimal-estimating-patterns]]
* [[object-oriented-programing-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[assembly-philosophy]] - pare down
* [[software-based-estimating]]
* [[optimal-estimating-patterns]]
* [[statistical-modeling-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[transparency-in-construction-estimating]]
* [[estimating-ethics]]
### Orphaned Notes
* [[estimating-philosophy]]
* [[purpose-of-construction-estimating]]
* [[traditional-estimating-methods]]
## Relevant Notes
![[estimating-thoughts.base]]
## Orphaned Topics
### Naming Conventions (Use Case vs. Description)
Related: [[realism-vs-instrumentalism]]
Naming by use case is intuitive for those without estimating or field experience,
but has the side effect that those accustomed to the names
will inevitably _treat them as descriptive_.
| Use Case | Description |
| ------------------- | ------------- |
| Hi-Hat | Daisy-Chain |
| Furnished By Others | Rough-In Only |
![[estimating-thoughts.base#fleeting]]
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@@ -2,16 +2,28 @@
id:
aliases: []
tags:
- destiny/uncertain
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/estimating
- topic/software
- type/philosophy
- type/encyclopedia-entry
- authorship/original
title: Construction Estimating Software
---
# Construction Estimating Software
%%
## TALK
This note is for describing _existing_, _conventional_
construction estimating software and patterns.
## TODO
Remove philosophy.
%%
## Why Not Excel?
### "Spreadsheet Syndrome"
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@@ -24,6 +24,26 @@ For philosophy see [[bid-process-strategy]]
[[estimating-ethics]]
## Topics
### Subtopics
* [[history-of-construction-estimating]]
* [[estimating-methodologies]]
* [[construction-estimating-software]]
* [[labor-factoring]]
### Cross-Topics
* [[actuarial-science-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[risk-management-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[auction-theory-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[game-theory-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[project-management-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[ambiguity-in-construction-estimating]]
* [[nontraditional-computing-for-construction-estimating]]
* [[object-oriented-programing-for-construction-estimating]]
## Misconceptions
### Standard Practices
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@@ -26,10 +26,6 @@ use ENT and PVC as permitted.
In precast slab garages, use EMT.
## Lighting Control
See [[lighting-controls-takeoff]].
## Receptacles
## Floor Boxes
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@@ -2,7 +2,7 @@
id:
aliases: []
tags:
- destiny/uncertain
- destiny/fleeting
- status/draft
- topic/estimating
- topic/organization
@@ -54,7 +54,7 @@ Such incentives therefore create a [[game-theory|competitive game]]
between the estimator and the employer
where the employer is hopelessly outmatched,
and the estimator's [[strategy#Strictly Dominant Strategy|strictly dominant strategy]]---
resisted only by their moral conviction---
resisted only by their [[personal-values]]---
is to abuse the system: to bid fast, lie often, take the bag, and leave.
## Collaboration
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@@ -1,62 +0,0 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
tags:
- destiny/uncertain
- status/incomplete
- topic/estimating
- type/philosophy
- authorship/original
title: Estimating Detail
---
# Estimating Detail
The acceptable level of detail of an estimate
in [[construction-estimating]] is a contentious subject.
What's worse, estimators often disagree
on what makes an estimate more detailed than another.
The commonly repeated answer is this:
> As detailed as possible,
> given required turnaround and available estimating resources.
This analysis is flawed
because it implies more time always ought to be preferred,
when the reality is that when considering larger organizational factors,
ideal estimate certainty is likely far lower than most expect.
The correct answer involves optimizing for these factors:
* value of increased bid certainty
* value of increased estimate volume
An estimate's detail is irrelevant to its quality.
A less detailed estimate is a more [[risk|risky]] bid,
but it is not the role of the estimator to determine acceptable risk.
## Experiment
Perform a system takeoff (lighting for example) in exacting detail,
the maximum amount you would ever consider using,
and measure the time required to do so,
as well as the cost of the scope.
Have another estimator takeoff the same scope
using the proposed time saving strategy.
Repeat the test on additional projects.
Treat the detailed takeoff as the true value
and find the error of the time saving strategy.
$\frac{d\sigma}{dt}$
### Expectation
Time-saving strategies will overestimate or underestimate detailed takeoff
depending on the assumptions used in their creation.
## Human Error
It is commonly understood that a "detailed takeoff"
is more "accurate" than a square foot estimate.
+10 -6
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@@ -1,3 +1,6 @@
filters:
and:
- file.hasTag("topic/estimating")
formulas:
destiny: file.tags.filter(value.contains("destiny"))
status: file.tags.filter(value.contains("status"))
@@ -5,21 +8,22 @@ formulas:
linkText: (["[[",file.name,"]]"]).join("")
views:
- type: table
name: Table
name: fleeting
filters:
and:
- file.hasTag("topic/estimating")
- file.hasTag("authorship/original")
- '!file.hasTag("type/media-commentary")'
- '!file.hasTag("type/anecdote")'
- file.hasTag("destiny/fleeting")
order:
- file.name
- title
- file.size
- formula.destiny
- formula.status
- formula.type
- formula.linkText
sort:
- property: formula.destiny
direction: DESC
- property: formula.status
direction: ASC
- property: formula.type
@@ -28,5 +32,5 @@ views:
direction: DESC
columnSize:
note.title: 290
- type: table
name: View
- type: list
name: all
+7 -6
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@@ -39,12 +39,13 @@ tags:
4. [[units-takeoff]]
5. [[fixtures-takeoff]]
6. [[electrical-takeoff]]
7. [[telecom-takeoff]]
8. [[low-voltage-takeoff]]
9. [[fire-alarm-takeoff]]
10. [[standalone-systems-takeoff]]
11. [[misc-budgets-takeoff]]
6. [[lighting-controls-takeoff]]
7. [[electrical-takeoff]]
8. [[telecom-takeoff]]
9. [[low-voltage-takeoff]]
10. [[fire-alarm-takeoff]]
11. [[standalone-systems-takeoff]]
12. [[misc-budgets-takeoff]]
[[general-takeoff]]
+3 -3
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@@ -1,15 +1,15 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Gold Plating
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/fleeting
- destiny/permanent
- status/complete
- topic/construction
- topic/construction/electrical
- topic/risk
- type/encyclopedia
title: Gold Plating
- type/encyclopedia-entry
---
# Gold Plating
+14 -16
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@@ -1,13 +1,13 @@
---
id: grounding
aliases: []
title: Grounding Takeoff
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- occupational/takeoff/feeders
- status/draft
- type/guide
title: Grounding Takeoff
---
# Grounding Takeoff
@@ -19,28 +19,26 @@ not especially consistent with the actual install.
### System Grounding
> `Area` = "01 - Feeders/Risers Building"
* `Area` = "01 - Feeders/Risers Building"
`COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`GROUNDING`/`GND = #3/0 & 1" CONDUIT - EMT`
1. `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`GROUNDING`/`GND = #3/0 & 1" CONDUIT - EMT`
* **Length:** Perimeter of the main electrical rooms plus length to each riser.
* **Count:** Total number of electrical rooms
* Length: Perimeter of the main electrical rooms plus length to each riser.
* Count: Total number of electrical rooms
`COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`GROUNDING`/`(3) ... x 10' CU CLAD GRD ROD & 4"X12" GND BAR`
* Count: 1
2. `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`GROUNDING`/`(3) ... x 10' CU CLAD GRD ROD & 4"X12" GND BAR`
* **Count:** 1
### Riser
> `Area` = "Typical - Building All Electrical Riser Rooms"
1. * `Area` = "Typical - Building All Electrical Riser Rooms"
`COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`GROUNDING`/`GND = #3/0 & 1" CONDUIT - EMT`
* Length: 15
* Count: 1
`COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`GROUNDING`/`GND = #3/0 & 1" CONDUIT - EMT`
* **Length:** 15
* **Count:** 1
### Telecom Ground Bridge
Use only where shown.
1. * `Area` = "01 - Feeders/Risers Building"
`COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`GROUNDING`/`TELE/DATA GND BRIDGE, ..., W/ COVER & (60') #6 THHN GREEN`
`COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`GROUNDING`/`TELE/DATA GND BRIDGE, ..., W/ COVER & (60') #6 THHN GREEN`
* **Count:** Only as shown
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@@ -0,0 +1,13 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: History of Construction Estimating
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/not-started
- topic/construction
- topic/estimating
- type/encyclopedia-entry
---
# History of Construction Estimating
+2 -1
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@@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/individualism
- topic/organization
- type/philosophy
---
@@ -47,4 +48,4 @@ familiarity requires maintenance.
Expertise as heuristics and biases
[Daniel Kahneman](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Kahneman)
%%
%%
@@ -2,16 +2,55 @@
id:
aliases: []
tags:
- destiny/fleeting
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/automation
- topic/estimating
- topic/software
- type/idea
- authorship/original
title: Functional Labor Factoring
title: Labor Factoring
---
# Functional Labor Factoring
# Labor Factoring
%%
## TODO
Discuss purpose and practice of labor factoring,
briefly mention impracticality.
%%
## Resources
```bibtex
@article{Hanna2018FactorsAL,
author = {Hanna, Awad S.},
title = {Factors Affecting Labor Productivity For Electrical Contractors},
subtitle = {A Factor Approach To Productivity Impact},
publisher = {Electrii International},
month = {September},
year = {2018},
pages = {83}
}
@article{Hanna2002BenchmarkingPI,
author = {Hanna, Awad S. and Peterson, Pehr and Lee, Min-Jae},
journal = {Journal of Construction Engineering and Management},
month = {7},
number = {4},
pages = {331--337},
title = {Benchmarking productivity Indicators for Electrical/Mechanical Projects},
volume = {128},
year = {2002},
doi = {10.1061/(asce)0733-9364(2002)128:4(331},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)0733-9364(2002)128:4(331)},
}
```
## Software Integration
%% TODO: move to more appropriate article. %%
calculate labor hours utilizing a comprehensive set of factors
not practical with traditional methods.
@@ -45,29 +84,3 @@ most sensitive to weight.
Greater understanding of this relationship would make practical
the prediction of labor of unstudied items.
## Resources
```bibtex
@article{Hanna2018FactorsAL,
author = {Hanna, Awad S.},
title = {Factors Affecting Labor Productivity For Electrical Contractors},
subtitle = {A Factor Approach To Productivity Impact},
publisher = {Electrii International},
month = {September},
year = {2018},
pages = {83}
}
@article{Hanna2002BenchmarkingPI,
author = {Hanna, Awad S. and Peterson, Pehr and Lee, Min-Jae},
journal = {Journal of Construction Engineering and Management},
month = {7},
number = {4},
pages = {331--337},
title = {Benchmarking productivity Indicators for Electrical/Mechanical Projects},
volume = {128},
year = {2002},
doi = {10.1061/(asce)0733-9364(2002)128:4(331},
url = {https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)0733-9364(2002)128:4(331)},
}
```
+55 -75
View File
@@ -24,111 +24,91 @@ title: Lighting Controls Takeoff
Determine which Systems and Codes are required:
* _IBC/IECC 2021 or later:_ all fixtures 0-10V dimmable.
## PDI Lighting Control Configurations
* `System` = "LV - Lighting Control System"
> [!important]
> This section is currently not practical
## Wall Switches
### Stand Alone
> [!tip]
> For switch combinations not in `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`,
> create [[heating-designations]] based on the most similar.
0-10V dim --- "LV cable" is 2 conductor
## Analog Controls
Takeoff rough-in for switches and occupancy sensors
* **Branch Length** = length of room
24V sensors. Typical of BOH spaces too large for wall sensors.
Takeoff the lighting control relay (DLM)
1. `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`SWITCHES`/`CEILING OCC SENSOR ...`
**Count:** as shown.
Takeoff an additional controller if receptacles are controlled
2. `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`SWITCHES`/`POWER PACK FOR OCC SENSOR ...`
**Count:** each circuit controlled by analog sensors. Minimum 1 per sensor.
Takeoff homeruns to the DLM (one per controlled circuit)
* Note: Not necessarily per room, several rooms may share a lighting circuit.
## Digital Controls
### Networked
Applicable to all digital control systems
(i.e. "Standalone" and "Centralized", wired and wireless)
"LV Cable" is [[twisted-pair-cable]]
#### Room Controllers
No room controllers are necessary,
lighting zones are switched from a central lighting control panel (LCP)
#### Switches and Sensors
Takeoff rough-in for switches and occupancy sensors
??
(only if time based; length based on proximity to switch or occupancy sensor)
??
#### Homeruns
Takeoff 1 circuit homerun per lighting zone.
### Wattstopper
PDI default configuration
#### Room Controllers
For all rooms with dimmable fixtures
and/or automatically controlled receptacles,
take off (1) of either or both as appropriate.
`SWITCHES`/`LOW VOLTAGE SWITCHES & OCC SENSORS - ROUGH IN`/`DLM LTG RM CONTROLLER - ...`
`SWITCHES`/`LOW VOLTAGE SWITCHES & OCC SENSORS - ROUGH IN`/`REC PLUG CONTROLLER - ...`
### General
Takeoff normal power to the controlled load
* Add LV cable to fixture branch
* Use \#12/3 for controlled receptacles
* Use switched assemblies (\#12/3) for controlled receptacles
Takeoff rough-in for both the occ sensors and the LV switch
#### Digital Sensors
`SWITCHES`/`LOW VOLTAGE SWITCHES & OCC SENSORS - ROUGH IN`/`... LV SW - WALL ROUGH IN ...`
1. `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`SWITCHES`/`LOW VOLTAGE SWITCHES & OCC SENSORS - ROUGH IN`/...
* `... LV SW - WALL ROUGH IN ...`
* `... SENSOR LOW VOLTAGE - ROUGH IN ...`
`SWITCHES`/`LOW VOLTAGE SWITCHES & OCC SENSORS - ROUGH IN`/`... SENSOR LOW VOLTAGE - ROUGH IN ...`
### "Standalone" Systems
* Free air if possible
* **Length** = length of room
Room controllers distributed throughout controlled areas.
Cat cabling from the controllers on is likely provided by systems
* Confirm with chief or quote language
> [!important] "Room controllers"
> As I have always understood it, and other manufacturers tend to agree,
> a room controller _necessarily_ controls multiple zones
> (otherwise "zone controller" would be better),
> however PDI terminology is based on Wattstopper's.
#### Corridor Occupancy Sensors
`COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`SWITCHES`/`LOW VOLTAGE SWITCHES & OCC SENSORS - ROUGH IN`/...
If occupancy sensors are shown in the corridors:
1. .../`DLM LTG RM CONTROLLER - ...`
**Count:** each lighting control zone.
Takeoff homerun back to the electric room
2. .../`REC PLUG CONTROLLER - ...`
**Count:** each receptacle control zone.
Takeoff (1) DLM controller for each electric room
3. `HEATING`/`Network Bridge - Blank 4SQ`
**Count:** each controller.
`SWITCHES`/`LOW VOLTAGE SWITCHES & OCC SENSORS - ROUGH IN`/`DLM LTG RM CONTROLLER - ...`
Coordinate with PDS to determine if necessary.
??
Run free-air down corridor
??
4. `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`PDI BRANCH CKT HOME RUNS`/... (_without_ dimming cable)
**Count:** each _circuit_.
* **Length** = Length of corridor
### "Centralized" Systems
Takeoff rough-in for each occupancy sensor shown.
Zones switched and dimmed from central lighting control panel (LCP).
#### Network Bridge
1. `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`DISTRIBUTION`/`LIGHTING CONTROL PANEL INSTALLATION`/...
Check systems quote to determine if network bridges are needed.
2. `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`PDI BRANCH CKT HOME RUNS`/... (_with_ dimming cable)
**Count:** each _lighting control zone_.
Takeoff (1) back box for every ==group of rooms you want together==
%%
??
If not showing, put one in every room with a controller
??
### Somewhere In Between
#### Homeruns
The dichotomy of [[#"Standalone" Systems]] vs. [[#"Centralized" Systems]]
assumes zones will be controlled either
(1) right next to the fixture or (2) in the nearest electrical room.
Need a HR into the room for the controllers
* Can link multiple controllers (aka rooms) together if you have the same circuit
* Go back to closest electric room
I think just as common is 3--5 circuit controllers above the ceiling.
## Custom Switch Boxes
1. `HEATING`/`Lighting Control Room Controller - n Circuit`
**Count:** each controller.
For switch combinations not in `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`,
create [[heating-designations]] based on the most similar.
2. `COMMON ASSEMBLIES`/`PDI BRANCH CKT HOME RUNS`/... (_without_ dimming cable)
**Length:** route to room.
**Count:** each circuit.
%%
+52 -1
View File
@@ -11,6 +11,9 @@ title: Lighting Controls
---
# Lighting Controls
## Protocols
## Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor Technologies
* Passive Infrared (PIR)
@@ -33,7 +36,53 @@ title: Lighting Controls
### Digital
Digital Light Management (DLM)
#### Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI) ^dali
[Digital Addressable Lighting Interface](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Addressable_Lighting_Interface)
Open protocol defined by [IEC 62386](https://www.dali-alliance.org/standards/IEC62386.html).
Includes wired (via [[twisted-pair-cable]] and 8P8C "RJ-45" connectors)
and wireless topologies.
##### Proprietary DALI Clones
There exist several proprietary control ecosystems
with feature sets and topologies identical to DALI.
> I suspect these exist to skirt the cost of DALI's testing requirements.
%%
I'm less sure this is an apt description.
The examples below are typical of some generic system,
but it doesn't seem to be DALI.
%%
Examples include:
* [Legrand Wattstopper Digital Light Management (DLM)](https://www.legrand.us/solutions/digital-lighting-management)
* [Acuity nLight®](https://nlight.acuitybrands.com/overview)
* [Lutron Quantum](https://www.lutron.com/us/en/controls/systems/quantum)[^1]
* [Lutron Athena][^2]
* [Cooper Greengate](https://www.cooperlighting.com/global/brands/greengate)
[^1]: Maybe not. Sensors show 24V wiring.
[^2]: Can not verify. Website is down at time of writing.
#### Digital Multiplex (DMX) ^dmx
[DMX512](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DMX512)
DMX512-A defined in ANSI E1.11-2008
Shielded [[twisted-pair-cable]] with XLR or 8P8C ("RJ-45") connectors
#### See Also
> [!quote] [BACnet](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BACnet)
> **BACnet** is a communication protocol
> for building automation and control (BAC) networks.
> It is defined by **ANSI/ASHRAE 135** and **ISO 16484-5**.
[[twisted-pair-cable]]
@@ -48,6 +97,8 @@ All these control methods are likely to appear in drawings.
### 0-10V Dimming
[0-10 V lighting control](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/0-10_V_lighting_control)
In conduit:
```
+2 -2
View File
@@ -5,9 +5,9 @@ aliases:
title: "Article 338 Service-Entrance Cable: Types SE and USE"
tags:
- authorship/other
- destiny/fleeting
- destiny/permanent
- exclude-from-word-count
- status/incomplete
- status/draft
- topic/construction/electrical
- type/media/reference
---
+1 -1
View File
@@ -5,7 +5,7 @@ aliases:
title: "Article 352 Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride Conduit: Type PVC"
tags:
- authorship/other
- destiny/fleeting
- destiny/permanent
- exclude-from-word-count
- status/incomplete
- topic/construction/electrical
@@ -0,0 +1,92 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Nontraditional Computing for Construction Estimating
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/construction
- topic/estimating
- type/cross-topic
---
# Nontraditional Computing for Construction Estimating
Cross-topic of [[nontraditional-computing]] and [[construction-estimating]].
### Sketch-Based Lookup
%% TODO:
This section is a transcription of a dictation.
To be condensed.
%%
A better use for computer vision in estimating
is sketch based assembly lookup.
Probably the the biggest hang-up in the workflow
is searching through available assemblies and items based on text,
which has a number of problems,
mostly that names, in electrical material for certain, are practically meaningless.
Trade names are incorrect, and there are often many different names for the same item.
Basically, there's just so many problems with text-based lookup as a rule.
That sketching and handwriting recognition would be more idiomatic.
Drawing lines for raceways, angles representing bends,
squiggly lines representing flexible conduit, etc.
All things that are common sketching conventions
that estimators are probably drawing in their workflow anyway.
Many parts of the estimating workflow would be greatly benefited
by the sort of non-traditional interface that Ink & Switch promotes.
Traditionally estimating software is all tables and forms.
Suppose you were to sketch a takeoff indicating a run
1. from a panel
2. up to the ceiling
3. across the building
4. down to a disconnect
5. out through a flex connection
6. to a piece of equipment
that's a very complex assembly,
and despite how common it is,
it can be very difficult to to get exactly that from databases.
Suppose instead you draw that that sketch
and the application creates a graph
of all the primitive parts of that assembly.
It may include the panel and the equipment by default
but with the same stylus you used to draw the sketch,
you just cross out the panel, the equipment,
the parts that that you didn't intend to include.
1. Draw a line from start to end.
* A canvas appears on top of the plans.
2. Sketch the desired assembly with predetermined conventions.
3. Draw a checkmark to confirm
* A render of the interpreted assembly appears
4. Draw a second checkmark to select.
A Non-Traditional Computing approach
(journal-type, heavy-stylus-use),
would would be great here, too.
Keyboards as a takeoff input device are an anti-pattern.
Every time you're entering data is an interruption.
But perfect for that would be drawing takeoffs on the on the prints
then using stylus based interaction patterns to edit them.
Lasso selecting groups of takeoffs to change aspects of them.
There is so little typing necessary.
Everything that you're typing is just short descriptors
that, in a lot of cases, don't even need to exist.
the language exists purely to roughly communicate ideas
that are intuitive in even a crude sketch.
Estimating is a perfect use case
for a purely stylus and handwriting recognition based workflow,
probably more perfect than whatever Ink & Switch is using.
+11
View File
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Nontraditional Computing
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/not-started
- type/encyclopedia-entry
---
# Nontraditional Computing
@@ -0,0 +1,38 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Object Oriented Programming for Construction Estimating
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/construction
- topic/estimating
- type/cross-topic
---
# Object Oriented Programming for Construction Estimating
Cross-topic of [[object-oriented-programing]] and [[construction-estimating]].
### Estimating As Code
#### Compared to Existing Frameworks
Traditional methods interact with an existing database.
EaC builds a static database at runtime,
allowing flexibility of input.
* define variables
* search and replace
* undo
#### Project Structure
Organizational info (items, assemblies) as submodules.
Solves database conflicts by pinning estimates to a commit.
#### Related Notes
* [[breakdown-objects]]
* [[assembly-objects]]
* [[labor-factoring]]
+12
View File
@@ -0,0 +1,12 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Object Oriented Programming
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/not-started
- topic/software
- type/encyclopedia-entry
---
# Object Oriented Programming
-117
View File
@@ -35,120 +35,3 @@ Optimizing the takeoff process means:
* _Maximizing_ organizational consistency
%%
## More "Innovative" Patterns
These ideas are farther out there
in terms of what existing estimators may be willing to accept
### Estimating As Code
#### Compared to Existing Frameworks
Traditional methods interact with an existing database.
EaC builds a static database at runtime,
allowing flexibility of input.
* define variables
* search and replace
* undo
#### Project Structure
Organizational info (items, assemblies) as submodules.
Solves database conflicts by pinning estimates to a commit.
#### Related Notes
* [[breakdown-objects]]
* [[assembly-objects]]
* [[functional-labor-factoring]]
### Bayesian Takeoff
#### User Story
Frank is estimating a 20-story high rise
and notices that their are roughly, but not exactly,
the same number of receptacles in the corridors of levels 2 to 19.
Frank starts a new takeoff for duplex receptacles,
typical of levels 2 to 19.
He counts and inputs quantities for 3 levels,
each adjusts the prior to calculate the expected quantity for all 18 levels.
### Sketch-Based Lookup
%% TODO:
This section is a transcription of a dictation.
To be condensed.
%%
A better use for computer vision in estimating
is sketch based assembly lookup.
Probably the the biggest hang-up in the workflow
is searching through available assemblies and items based on text,
which has a number of problems,
mostly that names, in electrical material for certain, are practically meaningless.
Trade names are incorrect, and there are often many different names for the same item.
Basically, there's just so many problems with text-based lookup as a rule.
That sketching and handwriting recognition would be more idiomatic.
Drawing lines for raceways, angles representing bends,
squiggly lines representing flexible conduit, etc.
All things that are common sketching conventions
that estimators are probably drawing in their workflow anyway.
Many parts of the estimating workflow would be greatly benefited
by the sort of non-traditional interface that Ink & Switch promotes.
Traditionally estimating software is all tables and forms.
Suppose you were to sketch a takeoff indicating a run
1. from a panel
2. up to the ceiling
3. across the building
4. down to a disconnect
5. out through a flex connection
6. to a piece of equipment
that's a very complex assembly,
and despite how common it is,
it can be very difficult to to get exactly that from databases.
Suppose instead you draw that that sketch
and the application creates a graph
of all the primitive parts of that assembly.
It may include the panel and the equipment by default
but with the same stylus you used to draw the sketch,
you just cross out the panel, the equipment,
the parts that that you didn't intend to include.
1. Draw a line from start to end.
* A canvas appears on top of the plans.
2. Sketch the desired assembly with predetermined conventions.
3. Draw a checkmark to confirm
* A render of the interpreted assembly appears
4. Draw a second checkmark to select.
A Non-Traditional Computing approach
(journal-type, heavy-stylus-use),
would would be great here, too.
Keyboards as a takeoff input device are an anti-pattern.
Every time you're entering data is an interruption.
But perfect for that would be drawing takeoffs on the on the prints
then using stylus based interaction patterns to edit them.
Lasso selecting groups of takeoffs to change aspects of them.
There is so little typing necessary.
Everything that you're typing is just short descriptors
that, in a lot of cases, don't even need to exist.
the language exists purely to roughly communicate ideas
that are intuitive in even a crude sketch.
Estimating is a perfect use case
for a purely stylus and handwriting recognition based workflow,
probably more perfect than whatever Ink & Switch is using.
+6 -1
View File
@@ -2,7 +2,12 @@
id:
aliases: []
title: Personal Values
tags: []
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/individualism
- type/encyclopedia-entry
---
# Personal Values
+1
View File
@@ -7,6 +7,7 @@ tags:
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/organization
- topic/individualism
- type/philosophy
---
# Professionalism
@@ -0,0 +1,98 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Risk Management for Construction Estimating
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/construction
- topic/estimating
- topic/risk
- type/cross-topic
---
# Risk Management for Construction Estimating
Cross-topic of [[risk-management]] and [[construction-estimating]].
## Prioritizing Tasks
ROE prioritizes estimating tasks by their contribution to _cost certainty_.
### Estimating as Risk Mitigation
* reduce risk of wasted estimation effort due to bid loss
(prefer lower bid)
* reduce risk of project overrun
(prefer higher bid)
Estimating resources are allocated by Return on Mitigation (RoM)
### Determining Necessary Detail
ROE determines the appropriate level of [[estimating-detail]]
given an organization's [[risk#Risk Tolerance]].
#### EVI Takeoff
Expected value of information (EVI)
#### Takeoff Optimization
For systems where EVI analysis determines manual takeoff is still necessary,
optimizations can be made to decrease the required effort of takeoff,
and thus the opportunity cost of takeoff.
See [[optimal-estimating-patterns]] for more.
# Estimating Detail
The acceptable level of detail of an estimate
in [[construction-estimating]] is a contentious subject.
What's worse, estimators often disagree
on what makes an estimate more detailed than another.
The commonly repeated answer is this:
> As detailed as possible,
> given required turnaround and available estimating resources.
This analysis is flawed
because it implies more time always ought to be preferred,
when the reality is that when considering larger organizational factors,
ideal estimate certainty is likely far lower than most expect.
The correct answer involves optimizing for these factors:
* value of increased bid certainty
* value of increased estimate volume
An estimate's detail is irrelevant to its quality.
A less detailed estimate is a more [[risk|risky]] bid,
but it is not the role of the estimator to determine acceptable risk.
## Experiment
Perform a system takeoff (lighting for example) in exacting detail,
the maximum amount you would ever consider using,
and measure the time required to do so,
as well as the cost of the scope.
Have another estimator takeoff the same scope
using the proposed time saving strategy.
Repeat the test on additional projects.
Treat the detailed takeoff as the true value
and find the error of the time saving strategy.
$\frac{d\sigma}{dt}$
### Expectation
Time-saving strategies will overestimate or underestimate detailed takeoff
depending on the assumptions used in their creation.
## Human Error
It is commonly understood that a "detailed takeoff"
is more "accurate" than a square foot estimate.
+1 -31
View File
@@ -2,7 +2,7 @@
id: risk-oriented-estimating
aliases: []
tags:
- destiny/permanent/entry-point
- destiny/fleeting
- status/incomplete
- topic/estimating
- topic/risk
@@ -37,36 +37,6 @@ of critiquing common practice.
%%
## Prioritizing Tasks
ROE prioritizes estimating tasks by their contribution to _cost certainty_.
### Estimating as Risk Mitigation
* reduce risk of wasted estimation effort due to bid loss
(prefer lower bid)
* reduce risk of project overrun
(prefer higher bid)
Estimating resources are allocated by Return on Mitigation (RoM)
## Determining Necessary Detail
ROE determines the appropriate level of [[estimating-detail]]
given an organization's [[risk#Risk Tolerance]].
### EVI Takeoff
Expected value of information (EVI)
### Takeoff Optimization
For systems where EVI analysis determines manual takeoff is still necessary,
optimizations can be made to decrease the required effort of takeoff,
and thus the opportunity cost of takeoff.
See [[optimal-estimating-patterns]] for more.
## Potential Objections
Objections to the use of historical data in new estimates are not unfounded.
@@ -1,16 +1,33 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Statistical Modeling for Construction Estimating
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/fleeting
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/construction/electrical
- topic/construction
- topic/estimating
- type/idea
title: Stochastic Branch Takeoff
- topic/math/statistics
- type/cross-topic
---
# Stochastic Branch Takeoff
# Statistical Modeling for Construction Estimating
Cross-topic of [[statistical-modeling]] and [[construction-estimating]].
## Bayesian Takeoff
#### User Story
Frank is estimating a 20-story high rise
and notices that their are roughly, but not exactly,
the same number of receptacles in the corridors of levels 2 to 19.
Frank starts a new takeoff for duplex receptacles,
typical of levels 2 to 19.
He counts and inputs quantities for 3 levels,
each adjusts the prior to calculate the expected quantity for all 18 levels.
## Stochastic Branch Takeoff
generate a BOM from point loads distributed in a space.
+22
View File
@@ -0,0 +1,22 @@
---
id:
aliases: []
title: Statistical Modeling
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/incomplete
- topic/math/statistics
- type/encyclopedia-entry
---
# Statistical Modeling
Bayesian inference is a method of statistical inference,
the practice of analyzing and describing
stochasticity is the property of an outcome
that can be described with a probability distribution
## Credibility
* [[statistical-significance]]
+2 -1
View File
@@ -6,6 +6,7 @@ tags:
- authorship/other
- destiny/permanent
- exclude-from-word-count
- status/incomplete
- topic/math/statistics
- topic/risk
- type/media/book
@@ -25,4 +26,4 @@ This note, with the exception of comments like this one
consists only of content from the text.
For commentary see the companion
[[fooled-by-randomness]].
%%
%%
+2 -2
View File
@@ -3,12 +3,12 @@ filters:
- file.hasTag("type/task")
- file.name != "tags"
views:
- type: table
- type: list
name: all
sort:
- property: file.name
direction: ASC
- type: table
- type: list
name: meta
filters:
and:
+7 -2
View File
@@ -2,10 +2,15 @@
id:
aliases: []
title: Utility
tags: []
tags:
- authorship/original
- destiny/permanent
- status/not-started
- topic/risk
- type/encyclopedia-entry
---
# Utility
[Utility](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utility)
is a measure of a party's satisfaction
with a certain state of the world.
with a certain state of the world.