AU2014201625A1 - Quote management system - Google Patents

Abstract

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -43 A method for managing quotes, wherein the method includes, in a processing system, allowing a user to select a job from a plurality of predefined jobs, receiving job data for the selected job from the user, calculating an estimated cost for the job based on the received job data and predetermined costing data, preparing a quote including the estimated cost and delivering the quote to a customer. Fig. 1 Allow user to select a job from a plurality of10 predefined jobs Receive job data for the selected 110 job from the user Calculate an estimated cost for the job based on the job data and 120 predetermined costing data Are there other jobs to be included 1 30 Yes 'ine quote? No Prepare a quote including the 1 40 estimated cost(s) Deliver the quote 150 to a customer Fig. 1

Description

Australian Patents Act 1990 - Regulation 3.2 ORIGINAL COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT Invention Title "Quote management system" The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me/us: P/00/011 H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107129_1.doc - 18/3/14 H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108 1. doc- 18/03/2014 QUOTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Background of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for managing quotes, such as quotes prepared for trade services in the building and construction industries. Description of the Prior Art [0002] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates. [0003] A quote is fundamentally a collection of job estimations prepared by a service provider, such as a builder or tradesperson, and provided to a prospective customer to indicate the estimated cost of work that cannot be offered at a fixed upfront price. [0004] The preparation of quotes in the building and construction industries usually involves having a builder or tradesperson attend the proposed worksite and assess the scope of required work, to allow an accurate estimate to be prepared. Typically, relevant dimensions of the worksite will be measured, and other aspects of the worksite having a bearing on the type of work to be performed will be recorded, as necessary to allow appropriate cost estimates to be determined, such as for the cost of materials to be supplied and the cost of labour required for installation. The person preparing the quote will also usually confirm the customer's preference regarding options as to how the work is to be carried out, such as the selection of colour or type of materials to be used. [0005] Having gathered the relevant information, the builder or tradesperson can then start to prepare the quote. However, for all but the most straightforward of jobs, the process of preparing the quote will require access to costing information with regard to different materials and labour. Given the range of different jobs that may be performed, this costing data can often be of a scope that is difficult for the person preparing the quote to retain in memory or otherwise carry with them to the worksite. Furthermore, the estimate will usually H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -2 require calculations to be performed, using the gathered information and costing data, which can be difficult to perform manually at the worksite. [0006] In view of the above, it is common for a tradesperson to only gather the relevant information at the worksite and then return to an office or other offsite location where the costing data, such as materials costs from supplier catalogues, and information regarding labour costs for different types of work, can be conveniently accessed and the necessary calculations can be performed. The tradesperson may use computer software, such as spreadsheet software, for performing the estimate calculations based on the gathered information. Other computer software, such as word processing software, may then be used to collate the estimates into a quote for presentation to the potential customer. [0007] In the above quoting process, however, there is often a substantial delay between the gathering of information at the worksite and the actual preparation and delivery of the quote to the potential customer. Unduly long delays can be considered unprofessional, and can impact the tradesperson's ability to win work, particularly when customers seek competitive quotes from a number of tradespersons in the interest of getting the best price for the work. Accordingly there is a need to streamline the quoting process to reduce the delays between initial information gathering and the actual calculation of estimates and delivery of the quote. [0008] Another problem with conventional quoting processes is that the step of gathering information at the worksite usually requires that the person gathering the information is the person whom will be performing or supervising the work, or at least someone with a similar skill level as that person, such that the correct information can be gathered for allowing an accurate estimate. Since quotes are often prepared for potential customers free of charge, this can cause skilled builders and tradespersons to spend large amounts of time on non chargeable quote related activities, rather than performing profitable work. [0009] Although it can be possible to proceduralise the quoting process for relatively simple work, to allow a non-skilled person to gather the required information for the estimate, this is generally not feasible for more complicated work, particularly where unusual jobs may be required that cannot be accounted for in standard procedures or training. Accordingly there is also a need to simplify the quoting process for more complicated work such that personnel other than the skilled tradesperson whom will be performing the work can prepare quotes.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\61071081. doc- 18/03/2014 -3 Summary of the Present Invention [0010] In a first broad form the present invention seeks to provide a method for managing quotes, wherein the method includes, in a processing system: a) allowing a user to select a job from a plurality of predefined jobs; b) receiving job data for the selected job from the user; c) calculating an estimated cost for the job based on the received job data and predetermined costing data; d) preparing a quote including the estimated cost; and, e) delivering the quote to a customer. [0011] Typically the method includes displaying a list of job categories, and allowing the user to select a job category from the list of job categories. [0012] Typically the method includes displaying a list of jobs within the selected job category, and allowing the user to select the job from the list of jobs. [0013] Typically the method includes prompting the user to input job data based on predetermined job data requirements for the selected job. [0014] Typically the job data includes dimension data and the method includes allowing the user to define the dimension data by at least one of: a) directly inputting dimensions; and, b) defining dimensions using a graphical representation of a job site. [0015] Typically the job data includes dimension data and the method includes allowing the user to define the dimension data using a measurement device connected to the processing system. [0016] Typically the method includes allowing the user to define at least some of the job data by selecting from a predetermined list of options for the selected job. [0017] Typically the predetermined costing data includes at least one of labour cost rates and material cost rates. [0018] Typically the method includes associating location data with the quote.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -4 [0019] Typically the method includes indicating respective location data associated with a plurality of stored quotes on a graphical map interface. [0020] Typically the method includes allowing the user to select a stored quote using the graphical map interface. [0021] Typically the method further includes preparing and storing a document associated with the quote, the document being at least one of: a) a quote document; b) a bill of quantities document; c) a costing sheet document; and, d) a time frame document. [0022] Typically the method further includes delivering the document to at least one of: a) a customer; b) a supervisor; c) a supplier; and, d) a subcontractor. [0023] Typically the method includes allowing the user to associate an image with at least one of: a) the quote; and, b) at least one job. [0024] Typically the method includes allowing the user to capture the image using a camera connected to the processing system. [0025] Typically the quote delivered to the customer includes at least one image. [0026] Typically the method includes displaying images associated with a plurality of stored quotes and allowing the user to select a stored quote by selecting an image. [0027] Typically at least some of the predetermined costing data is updated automatically based on remotely stored costing data, via a communications network.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -5 [0028] Typically the at least some of the remotely stored costing data is provided by a supplier. [0029] Typically the at least some of the remotely stored costing data is provided by a plurality of suppliers. [0030] In a second broad form the present invention seeks to provide apparatus for managing quotes, wherein the apparatus includes a processing system adapted to: a) allow a user to select a job from a plurality of predefined jobs; b) receive job data for the selected job from the user; c) calculate an estimated cost for the job based on the received job data and predetermined costing data; d) prepare a quote including the estimated cost; and, e) deliver the quote to a customer. [0031] Typically the processing system includes at least one of: a) a display for displaying information to the user; b) an input device for receiving user input; c) a camera for capturing images for association with one of a quote and a job; and, d) a location sensor for sensing the location of the processing system. [0032] Typically the apparatus includes a first processing system for allowing the user to select jobs and input job data, and a second processing system for providing at least some of the predetermined costing data to the first processing system via a communications network. [0033] Typically the first processing system is a mobile device and the communications network is a wireless communications network. [0034] Typically the first processing system is adapted to synchronise at least some of the predetermined costing data with the second processing system when wireless communications are available. [0035] Typically the second processing system is adapted to receive updates of at least some of the predetermined costing data from one or more suppliers.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\61071081. doc- 18/03/2014 -6 Brief Description of the Drawings [0036] An example of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [0037] Figure 1 is a flow chart of an example of a method for preparing a quote; [0038] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an example of a distributed computer architecture; [0039] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an example of a processing system; [0040] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an example of an end station; [0041] Figures 5A to 5G are flow charts of another example of a process for preparing a quote; [0042] Figure 6A is a representation of a graphical user interface of an example implementation of a quote management system using a smart phone, showing an example of an image selection interface; [0043] Figure 6B is a representation of the graphical user interface of Figure 6A, showing an example of a job selection interface; [0044] Figure 6C is a representation of the graphical user interface of Figure 6A, showing an example of a drawing interface; [0045] Figure 6D is a representation of the graphical user interface of Figure 6A, showing an example of a job creation interface; and, [0046] Figure 6E is a representation of the graphical user interface of Figure 6A, showing an example of a basic setup screen; [0047] Figure 6F is a representation of the graphical user interface of Figure 6A, showing an example of a user settings screen; [0048] Figure 6G is a representation of the graphical user interface of Figure 6A, showing an example of a quote selection interface; [0049] Figure 6H is a representation of the graphical user interface of Figure 6A, showing an example of a map interface; [0050] Figure 7 is a flow chart showing examples of the delivery of documents generated by the quote management system. Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments [0051] In broad terms, the present invention provides a quote management system for allowing a user to generate new quotes and manage previously generated quotes. The quote H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -7 management system includes features for improving the user friendliness and efficiency of such actions. [0052] The quote management system is implemented using a processing system which is configured to receive input commands and data from a user, and to display information to the user. Examples of suitable processing system architectures will be expanded upon below, but in one example, the processing system is provided in a mobile computing device such as a smart phone, tablet computer, or the like, and the functionalities of the system are provided by executing application software on the processing system. [0053] An example method for generating a new quote using the quote management system will now be described with reference to the flowchart of Figure 1. [0054] The method is typically initiated by the user causing the application software to be executed, and the user selecting an option in the application software for generating a new quote. The application software may initially prompt the user for customer details or any other details allowing the quote to be identified at a later time, or may simply assign a unique identifier and allow identification details to be associated with the quote at a later time. In any event, the fundamental steps of a quote generation process will now be outlined. [0055] At step 100, the method allows the user to select a job from a plurality of predefined jobs. This may involve, for example, presenting the user with a list of jobs and allowing the user to select a desired job from the list. [0056] It will be appreciated that many different selection techniques can be used to improve user friendliness of the system. For instance, the plurality of predefined jobs may be organised hierarchically and the user may select a job by navigating the hierarchy of predefined jobs. For example, the user may first be presented with a relatively small list of job categories, and user selection of a desired category will cause a list of jobs within that category to be presented to the user for selection. In some examples, the hierarchy of predefined jobs may consist of several levels of categories and sub-categories which can be navigated before a specific job can be located. Other selection techniques may involve the use of a drop-down list interface, keyword searching, or the like.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 [0057] In any case, once a job has been selected, the method progresses to step 110 which involves receiving job data for the selected job from the user. Since the job was selected from the plurality of predefined jobs, job data requirements for the particular selected job will be known, and can be predefined. Accordingly, the job data to be received from the user will typically depend on the type of job selected. [0058] For example, job data required for a tiling job may include the dimensions of the area to be tiled, and details of the tiles to be used. Thus, when a user selects a tiling job from the plurality of predefined jobs, the user may then be prompted to input dimension data and to select the desired tiles. Further details of suitable techniques for allowing the input or selection of job data will be described in due course. In any event, the method will receive the job data needed to allow an estimate to be determined. [0059] Accordingly, in step 120, the method involves calculating an estimated cost for the job based on the job data and predetermined costing data. The particular estimate calculations will depend on the type of job, but will generally involve calculations based on known relationships between the job data and costs of materials and labour. [0060] Continuing with the above example of a tiling job, the relevant predetermined costing data may involve materials costs for tiles, tiling adhesive, grout and the like, along with labour costs for actually laying the tiles, each based on a standard unit of area. The predetermined costing data may account for variations in materials costs and labour costs depending on the type of tiles selected. For example, the use of a relatively small tile may increase the relevant labour costs. [0061] In any case, the predetermined costing data will be associated with the selected job, along with the method for performing the required estimation calculation. The calculation is carried out by the processing system and an estimated cost for the selected job is determined. Typically, the calculation will include other factors such as for adding a profit margin to the estimated cost, or allowing for other contingencies. [0062] In some situations, the quote may be for a single job only, and the estimated cost for the selected job can then be used to prepare the quote. More commonly, however, the quote will require estimated costs to be calculated for a number of different jobs. At step 130, it H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -9 will be determined whether there are any other jobs to be included in the quote, and if this is the case, steps 100 to 120 may be repeated for as many jobs as may be required for the quote, until estimated costs have been calculated for each job. [0063] Alternatively, the determination of whether any other jobs are to be included in the step may be performed following step 110, and only steps 100 to 110 might be repeated for a number of jobs, and the estimated costs may be calculated as a batch operation for all of the jobs once job data has been received for all of the jobs. [0064] In either case, once all of the estimated costs have been calculated, the method can proceed to step 140 in which the quote is prepared and stored. Typically, the quote is prepared in the form of a document which sets out the relevant details of the jobs to be performed and at least a total estimated cost for the jobs. The quote may also include sub totals for particular jobs or for job categories, depending on the requirements of the potential customer. In this method, the quote is prepared automatically based on the selected jobs, received job data, and the calculated cost estimates. [0065] Once the quote is prepared it is typically stored for later access. In one example, the quote is stored on local storage memory of the processing system, but in another example, the quote may additionally/alternatively be stored on a second, remotely located processing system. [0066] The stored quote may then be made available for editing at a later time, and methods for managing such stored quotes will be outlined in due course. [0067] When the user is satisfied that the quote is complete, the quote can then be delivered to the potential customer at step 150. The quote can be delivered in a number of ways. For example, the quote can be printed on paper and provided to the potential customer as a physical document. [0068] However, in particularly advantageous forms, the quote can be delivered electronically, to allow the quote to be provided to the potential customer very rapidly. For example, the quote may be emailed to the potential customer to allow near instantaneous access to the quote.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 10 [0069] It will be appreciated that this can allow a quote to be provided to the potential customer very shortly after the jobs are selected and the necessary job data is provided, and in some cases, the quote can be provided before the user leaves the job site. The ability to rapidly provide a quote to the potential customer in this way can greatly streamline the quoting procedure, and also give the ability for a customer to review the quote and request variations whilst the user is still present at the job site. [0070] It will also be appreciated that, since the user can be substantially guided through the quoting process, with jobs only being selected from predetermined jobs and the required data being determined based on the selected jobs, this allows the user of the quote management system to be a person other than the person(s) that will actually carry out the work. Accordingly, unskilled personnel may carry out the quoting process, leaving the skilled personnel available to carry out income earning work appropriate to their skill levels. The knowledge and experience of skilled personnel need only be captured in the form of the job data requirements associated with each job, the predetermined costing data, and the methods used to calculate the cost estimates. Furthermore, by basing the cost estimates on predetermined costing data, this removes the need for the user to have knowledge of, or access to, the costing information necessary to provide the quote. [0071] In one example, the process is performed at least in part using a processing system, such as a suitably programmed computer system. Whilst this can be performed on a stand alone machine, in one example, this may be performed by one or more processing systems operating as part of a distributed architecture. An example of a distributed architecture will now be described with reference to Figure 2. [0072] In this example, a base station 201 is coupled via a communications network, such as the Internet 202, and/or a number of local area networks (LANs) 204, to a number of end stations 203. [0073] In use, the base station 201 includes one or more processing systems 210 that can be used in storing quotes and/or storing relevant data for subsequent retrieval. Additionally and/or alternatively, the end stations 203 can be used either in preparing quotes using data retrieved from the base station 201, or to view and/or edit quotes retrieved from the base H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 11 station 201. Furthermore, suitable portable end stations 203 can be utilised to facilitate the entry of new data for storage by the base station 201. [0074] Thus, in one example, the process is implemented at least in part using suitable applications software, which can be loaded on each end station 203 and/or hosted by the processing system 210. The base station 201 is also typically used to store any required data, such as labour rates, material costs, or the like. Each end station 203 is typically adapted to communicate with the processing systems 210, allowing quotes to be prepared or retrieved, and/or to allow data to be accessed. However, this is not essential and any suitable arrangement may be used. [0075] An example of a suitable processing system 210 is shown in Figure 3. In this example, the processing system 210 includes at least one processor 300, a memory 301, an input/output device 302, such as a keyboard and/or display, and an external interface 303, interconnected via a bus 304 as shown. In this example the external interface 303 can be utilised for connecting the processing system 210 to peripheral devices, such as the communications networks 202, 204, databases 211, other storage devices, or the like. Although a single external interface 303 is shown, this is for the purpose of example only, and in practice, multiple interfaces using various methods (e.g. Ethernet, serial, USB, wireless or the like) may be provided. [0076] In use, the processor 300 executes instructions in the form of applications software stored in the memory 301 to allow the process to be performed, or to provide access to any data required by the end stations 203. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the processing system 300 may be formed from any suitable processing system, such as a suitably programmed computer system, PC, web server, network server, or the like. [0077] As shown in Figure 4, in one example, the end station 203 includes at least one processor 400, a memory 401, an input/output device 402, such as a keyboard and/or display, and an external interface 403, interconnected via a bus 404 as shown. In this example the external interface 403 can be utilised for connecting the end station 203 to peripheral devices, such as the communications networks 202, 204, databases 211, other storage devices, or the like. Although a single external interface 403 is shown, this is for the purpose of example H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 12 only, and in practice multiple interfaces using various methods (e.g. Ethernet, serial, USB, wireless or the like) may be provided. [0078] In use, the processor 400 executes instructions in the form of applications software stored in the memory 401 to allow communication with the base station 201, to perform aspects of the quote preparation or management processes, to allow an operator to interact with applications software hosted by the base station 201 and/or to view or modify data, as will be described in more detail below. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the end stations 203 may be formed from any suitable processing system, such as a suitably programmed PC, Internet terminal, lap-top, hand-held PC, mobile phone, or other communications device, which is typically operating applications software. [0079] It will be appreciated that one example of a particularly well suited processing system configuration will involve the use of hand-held mobile devices as end stations 203 in wireless communication with a base station 201. This configuration allows users to conveniently access process functionalities remotely at the end stations 203 whilst performing their duties, but with storage and heavy processing tasks such as database queries being performed centrally at the base station 201. [0080] In one example, the base station 201 is a server including the processing system 210 and database 211, and end stations 203 are hand-held wireless devices that can display information to, and receive input from, a user via a touch screen GUI, such as smart phones or tablet computers. In particular, the end stations 203 execute local application software to perform user interface functionalities such as presenting options to a user for selection by the user, receiving data input by the user and providing indications to the user. Furthermore, the end stations 203 communicate wirelessly with the base station 201 to provide or receive instructions, requests, or data to the base station 201. [0081] In one example, end stations 203 may be provided as computer terminals to allow the use of other user interfaces, such as a keyboard and mouse, and the display of increased volumes of information to the user on a screen having a larger size than the hand-held devices, via a web interface, or the like. In one example, such a computer terminal allows direct queries of the database 211 by the user. A combination of hand-held devices and H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 13 computer terminals may be used to allow the respective benefits for each type of end station 203 to be realised. [0082] It will be appreciated that any appropriately configured end stations 203 may be used to deliver similar functionality, and these may be provided as as-the-shelf devices such as mobile phones, PDAs, laptops, tablet computers or the like, or as custom-designed devices. [0083] It will also be appreciated that the partitioning of functionality between the end stations 203 and base station 201 may vary, depending on the particular implementation. In this regard, the end stations 203 may be simplified to provide a user interface only, and in this case the base station 201 may handle the majority of processing tasks. On the other hand, the end stations 203 may be equipped with substantial processing power, such that the base station 201 merely acts as a database server for providing required information to the end stations 203 for remote processing. [0084] In one example, the end stations 203 are capable of providing all required processing functionalities without requiring ongoing communication with the base station 201, with transfer of data to/from the base station 201 only occurring as part of a periodic or manually initiated synchronisation process. This allows the end station 203 to remain useful even in the event of a loss of communication with the base station 201. [0085] In any event, the general process described above is not particularly limited by the hardware implementation, and the skilled person will understand that variations in the processing system configuration will be possible. [0086] In the following specific example processes, it will be assumed that the processes are performed using an end station 203 in the form of a mobile device having a touch screen GUI, such as a smart phone or tablet computer. The end station 203 is assumed to have the capability to communicate with a centralised base station 201 as required, but the end station 203 will be able to perform functionalities in the absence of communications with the base station 201, unless otherwise specified.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 14 [0087] However, it will be appreciated that the above described configuration assumed for the purpose of the following examples is not essential, and numerous other configurations may be used. [0088] In order to illustrate further preferred features of the quote management system, a further detailed example method for generating a quote using the quote management system will now be described with reference to Figures 5A to 5G. These examples assume that the quote management system is implemented using application software that is executed on the processing system of a mobile device, such as a smart phone or tablet computer, and that the quote management system is currently running on the processing system, ready to receive user commands. [0089] At step 500, the quote management system receives a command from the user to generate a new quote. In the present example the command is received by the user touching a "New Quote" option on a touch screen display of the processing system, although it will be appreciated that any suitable type of user interface may be used. [0090] The quote generation interface is preferably configured in such a way as to simplify the quoting process form the user's perspective. Accordingly, in one embodiment the quote generation interface will follow a "wizard" style interface functionality, wherein the user interacts with the quote management system by responding to a series of questions and requests for information which vary depending on the user's particular selections. Similar functionality may also be provided in the quote editing interface, which will be described in further detail in due course. [0091] When generating a new quote, the user will typically wish to initiate the process by collecting relevant contact details for the potential customer. Accordingly, at step 501 the user is initially presented with a prompt to enter customer details. In one example, this may involve displaying a customer details interface for capturing important information such as the customer's name, phone number, email address and physical address (i.e. location). The user can then proceed to enter the customer details using the customer details interface, and the customer details are thus received from the user at step 502.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 15 [0092] The user will also be prompted to enter quote location details at step 503. It should be noted that these details may be different to the customer address details, as in the case of a new building project, or may be the same as the customer address details, as in the case of a renovation project. In any case, the user is able to enter the location details at step 504. In preferred embodiments the user will be given the option to confirm that the customer address details and quote location details are the same, to avoid the need to re-enter the same information. [0093] The customer details interface may also provide a visual confirmation of the quote location by displaying a map with drop pin functionality. In one embodiment, in which the quote management system is implemented on a mobile device having a locating sensing functionality, such as a GPS antenna, the pin location displayed on the map may default to the current location of the mobile device. However, the pin may be moveable to a different location on the map in the event that the current location does not correspond to the work site location. [0094] It can be convenient to have an image associated with a particular quote. For example, this can allow easy identification of the quote within the quote selection interface at a later stage. Accordingly, after defining the initial information for the quote, at step 505 the user may be prompted to choose an image for association with the quote. This may involve the user selecting an image from available images stored on the processing device, or otherwise capturing a new image using a built-in camera on the processing device, at step 506. An example of a suitable image selection interface is shown in the GUI representation of Figure 6A, corresponding to information that may be displayed on a touch screen display of a smart phone 600. In this image selection interface, an array of available images 601 stored in the memory of the processing system is presented to the user for selection, along with an option to capture a new image. For example, the new image option may be a camera icon 602 for intuitive recognition by the user. [0095] In any event, once sufficient initial information has been collected for the quote, the quote generation interface will typically transition to a job creation screen at step 507, in which the user is allowed to define the jobs to be included in the quote, by selecting jobs and defining job data as required to allow estimates to be calculated as described above.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 16 [0096] Typically the job creation process is initiated by the receipt of a command from the user to create a new job at step 508. The quote management system may then optionally proceed to prompt the user for answers to a series of initial questions which can be used to tailor the requests for further information from the user or to otherwise tailor the quote generation process through which the user will be guided by the system. For example, the user may be prompted to indicate whether a set of plans is available for the work, or whether the work relates to a residential, commercial, or industrial application. The user's selections in these regards and others would be reflected in the progression of the quote generation process to follow. [0097] In one example, the job selection and definition process is managed on 2 main interface levels. On the first level, the user may be presented with an overall list of selected jobs (such as wall, floor etc.) and can add new jobs, or edit or delete them. The second level is the actual creation and editing of each job. [0098] In the case where no jobs have been selected for the quote, the job creation screen may initially be essentially blank apart from a user option for creating a new job. For example, the job creation screen may include a "+" button which may be intuitively recognised by the user as allowing a new job to be created. Upon selecting the new job option, the user will then be guided through subsequent screens to select the job and input the required job data for the selected job. [0099] In this example, jobs are categorised in a hierarchy to aid in their selection. Accordingly, upon issuing the command to create a new job, the user is prompted to select from a number of job categories at 509, and the job category selection is received from the user at step 510. Having selected a job category, the user is then prompted to select a job at step 511 and the selection is received at step 512. It will be appreciated, however, that numerous different job selection mechanisms may be used. [0100] Under the wizard interface paradigm mentioned above, the selection of the job may involve the user being asked a series of questions which can be used to reduce the number of jobs presented to the user for selection. Questions may require simple Yes/No answers from the user, or may require selections from a small number of options. In some examples the user may be presented with lists of options in the form of drop-down lists or the like. The H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 17 options for selection by the user may be accompanied by visual cues such as images reflecting each particular option to allow the user to easily identify which option may be most appropriate to the present circumstances. For example, options regarding the type of job, such as flooring, may be paired with an image representing the type of job, such as an image showing floorboards. [0101] As an example, the user may initially be asked whether the work for quoting is NEW or a RENOVATION. The user's answer may then be used to alter the subsequent options presented to the user moving forwards, to help to tailor the quote generation process to the particular job types that may be considered by the user in that particular scenario. [0102] The user may then be presented with high level job categories to select from, particularly in the event that the predetermined list of jobs is organised hierarchically as discussed above. For example, the user may first be prompted to select between INTERNAL or EXTERNAL jobs, and then may be prompted to select whether the job relates to ROOF, WALL, FLOOR, or FOUNDATION jobs. [0103] Figure 6B shows an example prompt for selection of job categories at per step 509 discussed above. In this example, each job category is displayed in a touch-selectable area 611, which includes a written description 612 and an associated image 613 to allow easy selection. [0104] The selection of a job may involve a number of sub-selections in which the user can specify a particular type of item for the job category (e.g. internal 90mm stud wall). The selections presented to the user at each stage will typically depend on the user's previous selections, such that the user is guided through a process that is tailored to the user's circumstances. This process will continue until a particular job has been selected from the predetermined list of jobs, including sufficient specifications to allow the types of material and labour required for the job to be determined by the quote management system. [0105] It should also be noted that jobs may be defined hierarchically. This may be particularly useful in the case where a number of different jobs are interrelated and thus grouped together in some fashion. For instance, a quote for renovations to a house may include work for renovating a number of different rooms, such as a kitchen and bathroom.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 18 Accordingly, the quote may include high level jobs such as "kitchen renovation" and "bathroom renovation", and each of these high level jobs may include their own sub-jobs such as tiling, cabinets, or the like. [0106] It can also be convenient to have an image associated with each particular job within the quote. This can allow easy identification of jobs within the quote and may also allow other features of the job to be identified from the image. Accordingly, in one example, after selection of a job, the user may be prompted, at step 513, to choose an image for association with the job, or to capture a new image. The image selection or new captured image is received at step 514 and is associated with the selected job for future use. The example image selection interface of Figure 6A may also be used for these steps. [0107] In any event, once the job has been selected, the user will then be given the opportunity to define the parameters of the job necessary to allow estimates to be calculated. Preferably, the entry of job data will be allowed as part of the wizard style interface, so that the user's experience is streamlined and guided to ensure the correct data is captured. [0108] For most jobs, it will be necessary for the user to enter relevant dimensions defining the job. Accordingly, at step 515, the user is prompted to define dimension data for the job. The method of receiving the dimension data from the user may depend on whether the job has an irregular geometry as shown at step 516. [0109] In some cases, the dimension requirements for characterising the job may be simplified to basic length, width, and/or height dimensions, and in these cases where the job has a regular geometry the user may simply be prompted to input these dimensions by entering numbers into appropriate data entry fields, such that the process proceeds directly to receiving dimension data from the user at step 518. The data entry fields presented to the user will be tailored depending on the particular type of job. The entry of dimensions may be performed in any method available, usually depending on the input methods available for the processing system being used. When a touch screen device such as a smart phone or tablet computer is used, the user may be presenting with a numerical keypad, for example. [0110] In many cases, however, the job may involve irregular, and potentially relatively complex geometries which are not well suited to direct entry of simple length, width and/or H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 19 height dimensions. For instance, a flooring job may require a flooring area to be calculated, but the floor area may be defined by walls having a non-rectangular layout. Conventionally, such geometries would require measurements of relevant dimensions and the manual determination of an area. [0111] In order to reduce the need for manual determinations of these types, embodiments of the quote management system may include further functionalities for allowing complex job geometries to be defined and for relevant quantities, such as area or volume, to be calculated for allowing estimation. For example, this may be implemented by providing a drawing interface for allowing the user to define a graphical representation of the job geometry and enter dimensions in an intuitive manner. Accordingly, in the event that the job does have an irregular geometry, the user is allowed to define the job geometry using a drawing interface of the quote management system, at step 517. [0112] An example drawing interface is shown in Figure 6C. In one embodiment, the drawing interface may allow the user to touch the screen to define nodes 631 and then define lines 632 between the nodes 631 to represent edges of a job geometry 633. The drawing interface will preferably have the capability to automatically adjust the node placements to allow right-angled edge intersections, if desired by the user. Once the layout of the geometry has been defined, the user can then specify dimensions along the edges. For instance, the user may touch a line 632 for a predetermined period of time to activate a dimension entry field for that line 632, and the user may then input a corresponding measured dimension. The example drawing interface of Figure 6C also includes a "Calculate" option 634 and a results field 635 for outputting the calculation result to the user. [0113] In another example embodiment, the drawing interface may allow the user to draw an outline of the geometry by dragging their finger across the touchscreen, or by using a stylus, for example. In such an example, the drawing interface will preferably have the capability to process a roughly drawn geometry and convert this to a regular geometry having right-angled intersections, curves, and angled sections depending on predefined drawing interpretation rules. This provides a particularly convenient method for allowing the user to rapidly define job geometries for estimating an area or any other derived quantity. As discussed above, the H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 20 user may specify further dimensions of the drawing, for instance by touching an edge to define a length dimension. [0114] In any event, the drawing interface allows the user to enter complex geometries for specifying dimensions which, in turn, will allow the application to calculate a desired quantity. Therefore the required dimension data is still ultimately received from the user at step 518, but through the use of the drawing interface. [0115] In one embodiment, the quote management system may also be configured to receive input directly from an electronic measurement device connected to the processing system. For example, a laser measuring device may be connected to the processing system and used to determine dimensions which are directly input into the application software. The measurement device may be integrated in such a way that the user is prompted to perform particular measurements with the measuring device, which may be automatically associated with relevant dimensions of the job. Alternatively, the measuring device may simply provide another different means of user input into dimension fields. [0116] Preferably, the quote management system will include settings to allow the user to opt between metric and imperial dimension units, such as by providing a suitable selection switch. The user may also select, for example, whether to show distance measurements in millimetres or metres when using metric units, for example. [0117] Irrespective of the method used to receive the dimension data from the user, at step 519 the quote management system will typically determine derived quantities using the dimension data, such as lengths, areas or volumes as appropriate to the type of job, for calculating the cost estimates. For example, a total length of fencing materials may be derived from a complex fencing geometry defined in the drawing interface, or a total area of floor space in a regular rectangular room may be derived from length and width dimensions. [0118] The user may then be prompted at step 520 to enter other relevant job information, and this is optionally received from the user at step 521. [0119] Along with dimensional information, other information characterising the job will often be required to allow estimates to be calculated. For example, the user may be required H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 21 to specify a material grade, colour/finish options, a particular product brand, or the like, in order to fully define the job characteristics. In example embodiments, the user may be prompted to enter relevant information of these types through further wizard style questions, or through the display of tailored lists of options relevant to the selected job, to allow selection of desired details by the user. [0120] The user may also wish to input other details or comments which may be useful for later reference. For instance, the potential customer may make a special request for how a job is to be performed, which may not necessarily have a bearing on the estimate and thus may not be entered in the standard definition of job data for the particular job type, but would need to be captured to allow the work to be performed correctly in any event. These details/comments might otherwise be used to define an additional custom feature of the job which might need to be considered in the estimate but might not be accounted for in the usual job data collection process for the type of job. [0121] Ultimately, the job data captured for each job should be sufficient to determine the material quantities and labour requirements for the job. Typically, the cost estimates will be calculated automatically based upon the particular selected task along with appropriate linear, square or cubic dimensions and predefined material and labour rates based on those dimensions. Any deficiencies in the job data should be flagged to the user before the job data definition process is completed, to ensure that the estimates can be calculated in full. [0122] When the job data has been fully defined, the user will typically be required to confirm that the job data is complete for the selected job at step 522, before the estimates are calculated. [0123] As discussed above, the estimates for a quote may be calculated as a single activity when all of the jobs have been defined, or may otherwise be calculated progressively for each job as they are defined throughout the quote generation process. In either case, the calculations of estimates will generally be performed using the same principles, namely by using predetermined calculation methods associated with the selected job to determine estimates based on the job data (including dimensions and other job parameters) and predefined rates (for material costs, labour costs and the like).

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 22 [0124] The predetermined calculation methods will preferably be provided with the quote management system software, although the user may also be given the capability to define new types of tasks and associated calculation methods, or change the predetermined calculation methods to suit their particular requirements. [0125] In one example, the basic estimate calculation principle is to determine base rates for materials, labour and the like, based on the selected job type, and then apply other weightings to the estimate as required, before applying profit margins and any other mark ups which may be required, such as to account for expected wastage of materials. For example, a weighting may be associated by the location of the job, and may be determined by association with a postal code for the job location, such that jobs tend to be more expensive as the job location becomes further away from major population zones. [0126] Typically, the base rates used in the calculations are based on certain standard values, such as cost per length and cost per area values for the respective trades and materials. Base rates may be initially supplied with the quote management system software and stored in the memory of the processing system along with standard percentage weightings for postal codes. For example, predetermined base rates and standard percentage weightings associated with particular jobs or job types may be provided in look up tables or provided in a database. However, these rates and weightings may be modified by the user depending on their particular pricing practices. [0127] In the present example quote generation process, the cost estimation portion of the process involves the following steps. [0128] Material costing data is retrieved for the selected job at step 523, and the calculation of material cost estimates is performed based on the job data at 524. Typically, this calculation will involve multiplication of derived length/area/volume unit information relevant to the job with one or more materials costs per unit. A wastage markup may then be applied to the material cost estimates at step 525. This will usually be a factor greater than one by which the material cost estimates are multiplied to account for typical wastage for the type of job. For instance, a tiling job may be known to have a typical 10% loss due to trimming and cutting, and hence a wastage markup factor of 1.1 may be applied.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 23 [0129] Labour costing data is then retrieved for the selected job at step 526, and labour cost estimates are calculated at step 527, based on the job data. Again, these calculations may be performed by multiplying unit information with a labour cost per unit. Other costing strategies may also be used, depending on the type of job. For instance, some types of jobs may involve a fixed component for performing an instance of the job, along with an additional variable component to account for the size of the job. Any type of costing strategy may be accommodated by the quote management tool, through appropriate definition of the predetermined calculation methods and base rates. [0130] In this example, at step 529 profit margins are applied to the cost estimates after these have been calculated. However, in other examples, profit margins might already be included in the costing data used to calculate the cost estimates, and thus a separate profit margin step may not be required, or the profit margin may only be applicable to certain components of the cost estimate. [0131] As discussed above, the user may also customise the values of base rates, weightings, profit margins, mark ups etc. This may be done via the settings interface described above, and the customisations may be made to apply to selected quotes only without necessarily applying to all other quotes. This allows the user to fine tune their quotes where they have specific requirements that may be more or less expensive than the standard calculations are able to accommodate. [0132] In some embodiments, time estimates may also be calculated at the same time as the cost estimates. For instance, time rates may be predefined for a job, such that a time estimate may be prepared by multiplying the time rates with the relevant dimension units of the job. It will be appreciated that such time estimates can be calculated using similar principles as cost estimates and thus this will not be covered in extensive detail. [0133] Once details of some jobs have been entered and the cost estimates have been calculated for materials, labour etc. and the appropriate weightings, mark ups and margins have been applied, a total cost estimate for the job can be determined at step 530. A summary of the cost estimates for the selected job, and the total cost estimate, may be displayed at step 531. This provides the user with an opportunity to review the cost estimates and, if the user is H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 24 satisfied with these, the user may then confirm that the job creation is complete for the selected job at step 532. [0134] The quote management system will then revert to once again displaying the job creation screen at step 533. In the event the above steps were used to define a first job for the quote, then the job creation screen will now no longer be blank but will be populated with a single job as defined by the user. The quote management system may also display the estimated costs on the job creation screen alongside the jobs making up the quote. This allows the user to conveniently review the different elements of the quote before it is finalised for delivery. [0135] An example job creation screen showing several calculated cost estimates is shown in Figure 6D. It will be appreciated that this provides a convenient overview of the jobs making up the quote. In this example, each job is listed with a description 641 and associated estimated cost 642. A total estimated cost 643 for all of the jobs in the quote will typically also be provided. In this example, the user will also be allowed to select one or more jobs for editing or deletion, by using selection checkboxes 644 associated with each job. The user can thus modify details of jobs making up the quote and receive rapid feedback on how the modification impact on the estimated costs. Although not shown in Figure 6D, the job creation screen may also include images associated with each job. [0136] Whilst presented with the job creation screen, the user will then typically consider whether the quote requires additional jobs to be defined at step 534. In the event additional jobs are required, the quote generation process steps 508 to 532 will be repeated as necessary. When the user is satisfied that no further jobs need to be defined, the user will usually then review the defined jobs and consider whether any changes to the job details are required at step 535. The quote management system provides the user with the ability to edit job details at step 536. Any suitable editing interface may be used to allow the user to re-define the job, revise job data, associate new images with the job etc. An example editing interface will be described in more detail in due course. [0137] A main purpose of the quote management system is the generation of quotes to allow these to be delivered to customers. Accordingly, once all of the jobs have been defined for a H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -25 quote, and the estimates have been calculated, a quote document can be prepared for delivery. [0138] The user will typically confirm that the jobs for quoting have been fully defined to the satisfaction of the user, in order to initiate the generation of the quote document. In this example, this confirmation is considered to be provided when the quote management system receives a command from the user to generate a quote document based on the jobs forming the quote, at step 537. [0139] The quote document is then generated at step 538, and the document will usually include the estimated costs for the jobs making up the quote. In general, the quote document will be formatted to appeal to the customer and present all relevant details in a manner allowing the customer to understand the work being quoted. The quote document will typically also display the details of the company for whom the user is preparing the quote, along with a company logo, for instance, and customer details. [0140] Each quote will typically provide of a listing of the selected jobs. In one example, each job listing may include a thumbnail-sized image of the job site (using an image associated with the job at step 514) and a short description of the relevant job details in easy to understand terms, which may be automatically built from pre-determined phrases describing the job. Each job line will also display the overall cost for the particular job, and may optionally include an estimated time to complete. The cost and time will be typically be those that were automatically calculated in the estimation calculations discussed above. [0141] Standard quote templates may be provided with the quote management system, although these may be tailored by the user to suit their particular quote document presentation requirements and preferences regarding the level of detail provided to the customer. [0142] Once the quote document has been prepared, this will typically be displayed to the user for review at step 539. The user is then prompted to confirm whether the quote document is acceptable at 540. In the event the user does not believe the quote document to be acceptable at step 541, the quote management system may return the user to the job creation screen at step 533, in order to allow the user to either define new jobs or edit the H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 26 defined jobs, and repeat the quote generation process until an acceptable quote document can be generated. [0143] When the quote document is considered acceptable, the quote management system will typically require the user to confirm this in some way before the quote document can be delivered. In this example, the quote management system needs to receive a command from the user to deliver the quote document at step 542, before the quote document is finally delivered to the customer at step 543. This represents the culmination of the quote generation process. [0144] However, aside from the generation of quote documents, the quote management system can also be used to generate a number of other types of related documents which can help to streamline the subsequent process of actually carrying out the quoted work. [0145] For example, the quote management system may be used to also generate a bill of quantities (or bill of materials, material take off list, etc.). The bill of quantities is essentially a listing of the types and quantities of materials required to perform the quoted jobs, and will typically be provided in a standardised format to allow a supplier or purchaser to easily identify the required materials. In one example, the bill of quantities may be provided in a suitable form to allow a supplier to import the bill of quantities into their own ordering system. [0146] The materials required are automatically calculated based upon job details and measurements using standard material lengths, as part of the estimating process. [0147] In many cases, a quote will require materials to be sourced from a number of different suppliers, and therefore in one example, the quote management system may generate a corresponding number of bill of quantities documents, one for each supplier and containing only the materials provided by the respective supplier. To allow this, the quote management system may include a materials database defining relationships between each material and suitable suppliers. In another example, a single bill of quantities document may be generated, and the materials may be sorted into logical groups so that particular suppliers only need to action a particular group.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 27 [0148] In any event, the bill of quantities would also typically include other information such as the user's company details, logo and delivery address. [0149] Another useful optional output of the quote management system is a costing sheet, which includes a detailed list of all materials and labour required with the associated costs and margins. Such a costing sheet document will allow the user, or others performing the work, to assess the accuracy of the quote and monitor costs as the work is performed, for example. Generally, this document will be for internal use only, as it will usually contain confidential information regarding profit margins and the like which will not usually be made available to customers or suppliers. [0150] Accordingly, distribution of the costing sheet should be restricted to only allow it to be sent via email to user's email address, or to other authorised persons. In preferred embodiments, the quote management system will ensure safeguards to prevent the costing document from being accidentally emailed to persons that are not already defined as authorised persons in the settings for the quote management system. Other security precautions may be taken to help to prevent the authorised persons definitions from being changed, such as by requiring entry of a password, biometric identification or the like. [0151] As discussed above, the quote management system may also be used to calculate estimated time frames for completing each job, based on the job data and predetermined time frame information relevant to the job. This can be used to provide time frames on the quote document, as mentioned above, but may be also be used to generate a time frame document including more comprehensive duration estimates, for delivery to the user or supervisor of the quoted work. Such time frame documents can allow monitoring of progress on the jobs against the estimates. Furthermore, the estimated time frames may be exported into other scheduling or project management software, which may be beneficial for the planning and management of complex work. [0152] Figure 7 represents the above discussed documents, namely the quote document 701, bill of quantities document 702, time frame document 703, and costing sheet 704, along with an example of typical recipients of those documents. Specifically, in this example, the quote document 701 is delivered to the client 705, the bill of quantities document 702 is delivered to the supplier 706 and the supervisor 707 of the work, the time frame document 703 is H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -28 provided to the supervisor 707 and, in this case, a subcontractor 708 responsible for performing a portion of the quoted work, whilst the internal costing sheet 704 is only delivered to the user 709. In one embodiment, these documents are each automatically generated and delivered to the appropriate recipients by email when the quote has been finalised. [0153] As will be appreciated, the above discussed generation and delivery of documents to stakeholders in the quoted work can allow the overall management of the quoting process and actual carrying out of the work to be streamlined. This streamlining can further be improved if the outputs of the quote management system are provided in a form that is easily integrated into the management systems of the recipients. [0154] In the event a supervisor, subcontractor or any other user (other than the user generating the original quote) also uses the quote management system, then it may be possible to allow quote information to be delivered to those users in a native format, rather than generating a stand alone document. Accordingly, in one example, an entire quote, or relevant portions of a quote, may be transferred to another user, to allow it to be accessed on that user's processing system using their own application software. [0155] In one embodiment, a subcontractor user may be allowed to review and modify job details within a quote prepared by another user, to ensure that the quote accurately reflects the estimated costs of the persons whom will actually be performing the work. [0156] Other optional functionalities of the quote management system will now be described through a number of further usage examples. These examples also assume that the quote management system is implemented using application software that is executed on the processing system of a mobile device. [0157] A typical scenario for starting the quote management system will be described with reference to the example GUI screenshots shown in Figures 6E and 6F. [0158] Execution of the quote management system application software can be initiated by the user in any conventional manner, depending on the particular software platform of the processing system. In the present example, the processing system is provided by a mobile H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 29 device and the application software can be executed by having the user touch an icon in a GUI presented on the touch screen display. Alternatively, the quote management system can be selected from an application list, or the like. [0159] In any event, when the user starts the application, it may first display a static splash screen to the user whilst the application software is being loaded by the processing system. The splash screen may include, for example, a logo and title identifying the application to the user. Once loading is complete, or after a predetermined delay, the splash screen then typically vanishes and the user is then able to interact with the main application. [0160] If the application is being used for the first time, the user may be presented with an introduction screen, which prompts the user for basic setup information before use of the main application functionalities. For example, the user may be prompted to enter a name to appear on quotations, as shown in Figure 6E. In general, the user will respond to a prompt 651 by entering the requested information into input fields 652 and/or selecting option buttons 653. Further on screen instructions or explanations may also be provided as required. The user may also be presented with an option to skip these setup steps and proceed to the main application as suggested at 654 on Figure 6E. There may also be options for a new user to run through an illustrative tutorial of the application functionalities, for example. [0161] As shown in Figure 6F, the user may then be prompted to enter further detailed settings, including company details, such as the business name 661, registered business number 662, address 663 and phone number 664. This information will only need to be entered upon first use and can be stored for use on each quote. Visual cues such as checkmarks 665 may provide rapid feedback on the completeness of the basic setup information. [0162] The application will typically feature a main screen which provides a convenient means of accessing the application functionalities. Options for accessing the main functionalities will usually be prominently presented on the main screen, whilst other options may be accessed through settings interfaces, menus, or based on context. The skilled person will be familiar with user interface design techniques for allowing the user to easily access application functionalities.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -30 [0163] Given that the focus of the application is the generation and management of quotes, the main screen will typically provide options for creating or managing quotes foremost in the GUI, and allow other secondary options to be accessed through other means. [0164] Accordingly, in one example, the user is prominently presented with three main options on the main screen, namely creating a new blank quote, editing an existing quote, and duplicating an existing quote (to create a new quote). Other options can be accessed through other menu or settings interfaces as required and depending on the software platform. [0165] User selection of the option for creating a new blank quote may involve the user touching a "+" button on the GUI or any other indication that the button will start the creation of a new quote. In any event, this will typically cause the initiation of a quote generation process as described above. [0166] However, in the event that the user selects an option to edit or duplicate an existing quote, the user may be presented with a further quote management interface. The quote management interface preferably provides a view of all current existing quotes, along with sufficient identification information to allow a user to select a desired quote. Although numerous selection interfaces will be apparent to the skilled person, for instance based on selection interfaces already used in existing software applications, some selection interfaces are particularly suitable for the selection of quotes, as will be outlined below. [0167] In one example, the selection interface may simply present a list of quotes, which may be sorted based on a customer name, for instance, and the user selects a quote from the list. If implemented on a touch screen interface, as commonly seen in smart phone devices, the user may swipe through the list of quotes and touch the desired quote to make the selection. [0168] In the event the user is selecting a quote for editing, after selecting the quote the user will typically be presented with an editing view of the quote, which may, for example, list the jobs included in the quote. The user may then select a job and change the job type or edit the job data, or may otherwise add or subtract jobs from the quote. [0169] The quote management interface will usually also include options for performing other actions on existing quotes. For example, the selection interface may provide a delete H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 -31 button for use in deleting a quote to be selected, or this may be handled through contextual options provided when an existing quote is selected. Other options for viewing, printing or emailing quotes in the format for delivery to the potential customer may also be provided. This can also be through discrete option buttons or using a contextual option interface. Such options may also be provided on a separate screen after user selection of an appropriate option. [0170] In one example, the selection interface provides an icon/name style view, as shown in Figure 6G, which shows a map location (with pin) for the location of the quoted work as the icon 671 for each stored quote, along with an address 672. Additionally or alternatively, other information such as the date of the quote and status of the quote may also be provided in the quote management interface. The icons 671 are typically presented in columns and rows and the user will typically have the option to scroll or swipe through the icons to locate a desired quote for selection. [0171] Each quote may have a number of different status levels. For example, a quote may have a status of one of Pending, Accepted, Rejected, In Progress and Completed. Each status may be associated with a colour and logo or a particular icon, which can be used to visually indicate the status of the quote to the user through the quote management interface, allowing improved efficiency of user selection. [0172] In preferable embodiments, the quote selection interface may have features for allowing filtering and sorting of the quotes displayed to the user, based on user preferences. Simple filtering of quotes may be allowed through the use of filtering controls which may be provided in the form of toggle options. For example, toggle options may allow the selective display of quotes based on status. For instance, the user may opt to only display quotes that have a Pending status, or the like. [0173] Other more advanced options may also be provided to allow the selective display of quotes based on other quote properties. For example, options may be provided to allow quotes to be sorted based on the date of creation of the quote, the client's name, or the location of the work site. The quote selection interface may also provide a search functionality, which may, for example, enable the user to type a name or address and show all matching quotes.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 32 [0174] The quote management system may allow the user to select quotes from interfaces other than traditional list or icon style selection interfaces. For example, the quote management system may be configured to display quotes using a map interface as shown in Figure 6H, whereby the quotes are indicated on a map 681 by pins 682 corresponding to the location of the work site for the quote. In one example, the user may enter the map interface by selecting a map option on the standard selection interface. [0175] The map interface may be provided by interfacing with third party mapping software and may require an internet connection to operate, or alternatively may be provided by accessing locally stored map information. In any event, the map interface should allow a user to navigate the map and zoom in to locations of interest to allow quotes corresponding to particular locations to be selected. [0176] Filtering, sorting and searching functionalities are also preferably provided within the map interface in a similar manner as described above for the selection interface. [0177] In any event, each quote may be represented on the map 681 as a pin 682 at the work site location, and the pins 682 may further be marked or tagged to indicate the status of the quote. For example, the status may be indicated through colour coding of the pin 682. [0178] In preferred embodiments, user selection of a pin 682, for instance by tapping a pin 682 on a touch screen device, will cause an annotation bubble to be displayed. The annotation bubble may include the client name and other information such as the date and status of the quote. Furthermore, the annotation bubble may provide an option for the user to edit the quote, which when selected, may cause other quote details to be displayed for editing. [0179] Example implementations of the quote management system on a device including a touch screen interface may allow particularly intuitive user interactions with quotes. For instance, a user may simply tap a quote icon or the like to open details of the quote for viewing, but the user may be required to touch the quote icon for a predetermined period of time to allow the details of the quote to be edited.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 33 [0180] Alternatively, an "Edit" button may be provided, and upon selection of that button the user will be allowed to select one or more quotes for editing by tapping the desired quotes. Visual cues may be presented to the user to ensure the user is made aware that the system is in an "edit mode". For instance, buttons and/or quote icons may "jiggle", or the screen colour may change. In one example, when in edit mode, the user can select multiple quotes by tapping the corresponding icons, and a second tap will deselect a particular quote. [0181] Whilst in edit mode, the user may be presented with other options to allow particular actions to be performed on selected quotes. For example, options may be displayed for allowing quotes to be duplicated or deleted, or to have their status changed. Options may also be provided to allow access to other functionalities, such as sharing functionalities for sending quotes to potential customers, preparing or sending a bill of quantities corresponding to a quote to a supplier, or the like. The user will typically also be presented with a prominent option for allowing edit mode to be exited. [0182] Some functions in edit mode will only be accessible in certain circumstances, and therefore some options may be enabled or disabled depending on the current selection of quotes, or on other factors. Some functions may have the ability to be actioned on multiple items. For example, multiple quotes might simultaneously have their status changed to completed, or be deleted. Accordingly, when the user selects multiple items, the user may not be presented with such options to delete or change the status of the items, but other options not applicable to the selection may be hidden from the user or otherwise made unselectable. [0183] As mentioned above, the user may access sharing options in relation to selected quotes, and in one example, sharing options may be conveniently accessed by touching a "Sharing" button on the GUI. This would then result in a selection of sharing options to the user. These sharing options may allow other documents to be prepared and delivered to other stakeholders in the quoted work. For instance, the sharing options may include an option for a "Bill of Quantities" document to be prepared based on the estimates of material requirements determined in the quote, and this document may then be delivered to a supplier to allow the required materials to be ordered. [0184] In one example, changes to the status of a quote may be initiated by the user selecting a "Filing" button in edit mode, which causes the display of a list of available statuses for the H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 34 user to select from. In the event multiple quotes are selected, user selection of a particular status would apply that status to all selected quotes. Preferably, the change in status would be immediately reflected in the quote icon. [0185] It may also be convenient to provide access to other options for changing interface settings or the like. In one example, a "Settings" button may be provided within the edit mode to provide access to such settings, in a manner that is less likely to allow settings to be changed unintentionally through normal use of the quote management system. [0186] In one particular example, the user may be presented with a job editing interface which may be used instead of, or in conjunction with, the wizard style interface for creating the jobs in the job generation process described above. Once a new job is created, or upon selecting a job for editing, the user enters the editing interface that may be presented as a tabbed interface with 3 sections, for example. [0187] In the first tab of the editing interface, the user can take one or more photos to record the site for the work, and associate the corresponding image with the job. In the second tab, the user can access the drawing interface discussed above and conveniently define the job geometry. The third tab provides the user with the capability to select and deselect certain items or define other job options and parameters. For example, in defining a wall job the user can select or deselect a "stud wall" component to add or remove the cost of a corresponding portion of the job, depending on the particularly requirements of the customer. This may allow the user to click on and further specify sub-items for the job. For example, the user may be able to select from a range of fittings of different qualities and having correspondingly different associated costs. The user may also have the opportunity to manually enter cost information for a job (i.e. to manually override predefined costing data for the job). [0188] In one example, cost estimates may be calculated as the jobs are defined, so that the user can be presented with a running cost estimate of the work presently defined. The third tab may display such a running cost estimate to allow the user to receive near-instantaneous feedback on the cost implications of particular job parameters, and this can be used to agree upon options with the potential customer as the job is being defined for the quote.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 35 [0189] It may also be preferable to provide features for ensuring that the most up-to-date costing data is used when a quote is being generated. It will be appreciated that there is a risk that stored costing data will become outdated due to fluctuations in the costs of materials, component pricings, and the like. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the quote management system includes a capability for updating costing data based on a centrally updated costing data repository. This repository may be stored in a base station 210 as discussed above with reference to Figure 2, and may be accessed by a plurality of end stations 203, via connection to the internet 202. [0190] A periodic synchronisation process may be used to regularly update the costing data on an end station 203. Alternatively, the user may be given the option to manually update the costing data, or the quote management system may be configured to check for updates to the costing data before calculating estimates for a quote. [0191] As the quote management system is preferably implemented on a mobile device, there may be situations where internet communications between the mobile device and the costing data repository are not possible. In these cases, the cost information stored on the mobile device may become outdated. [0192] The quote management system may account for outdated cost information in several ways. In one example, the quote document may be withheld until cost communications have been restored and costing data can be updated. In another example, the quote management system may generate and deliver a preliminary quote document based on cached cost information available at the time, and after communications have been restored and subsequent updating of the costing data, the quote may be automatically finalised by having the cost estimates recalculated to reflect the most up-to-date cost information, and a final quote document can then be delivered to the customer. [0193] The costing data may be updated through direct integration with the catalogues of large suppliers, and when costing data is changed by a supplier, this will be propagated to the respective instances of the quote management system. It will be appreciated that a plurality of different suppliers may each provide costing data for use by the quote management system.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 36 [0194] This integration with a plurality of different suppliers may be achieved by having an end station 203 for each supplier, connected to the quote management as shown in Figure 2. However, it should be understood that each end station 203 does not necessarily need to be running the quote management system application software to be integrated. Instead, the supplier end stations 203 may be configured to communicate with the quote management system application software using a standardised data transfer format, for example. [0195] Although preferred embodiments of the quote management system provide all of the functionality necessary to prepare a quote in stand-alone application software executed on an end station 203, in alternative examples it may be desirable to have elements of the quote generation process performed at a central base station 210. For instance, the calculation of estimates may be performed in the base station 210 in order to reduce the processing workload of the end station 203. [0196] It may also be desirable to have quotes stored or backed up remotely from the end station 203, which can provide some redundancy against loss of information due to failure of the end station 203. This can also facilitate access to the same quote by a plurality of authorised users. [0197] It will be appreciated that the quote management system may include a single application executed on the end station 203 which incorporates some or all of the functionalities described above. In some alternative examples the quote management system may include a plurality of applications which may be separately executed as required to provide their respective functionalities. The separate applications may be configured to interface with other applications to allow outputs from one application to be provided to another application. Accordingly, the quote management system may include a suite of software applications which may be separately executed yet cooperate to provide a greater overall functionality. [0198] In one example, the suite may include the following four software applications, including a quote application, a gallery application, a time recording application, and a drawing application. Typically, the quote management system will use at least the quote application to allow quotes to be prepared and managed, with optional functionalities being provided by the other applications as required. However, the functionalities of the other H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 37 applications may also be usefully accessed outside of the quote management process, thereby enhancing the overall utility of the suite of software applications. Thus the suite of software applications may be configured to provide further functionalities that a user may take advantage in other aspects of their work. [0199] The quote application may incorporate a range of the above described features of the quote management system for facilitating the management of quotes. At a minimum, the quote application will generally include at least core functionality for allowing a user to select a job from a plurality of predefined jobs, receiving job data for the selected job from the user, calculating an estimated cost for the job based on the received job data and predetermined costing data, preparing a quote including the estimated cost, and delivering the quote to a customer, as discussed above. [0200] Optional features of the quote management system may be embodied in the quote application, or may alternatively be assigned to other applications and called upon by the quote application as required, as will explained further below. [0201] The gallery application may be configured to provide a convenient interface for the user to access visual information such as photographs and videos as may be required in the process of managing quotes, or in a range of other situations. For example, the gallery application may be used to access photographs of previously completed jobs of a similar type during a quote, or to allow the photographs to be presented to the client. This may allow the client to provide input into a decision regarding an option for the quote, such as a material type, colour or the like. [0202] Typically, the gallery application organises information in a structured arrangement to allow these to be selectively accessed as required. The gallery application may use a suitable folder structure to organise the information, but in more preferable examples, the gallery application uses a database or the like to allow the information to be selected or filtered queries. For instance, each photograph may be stored in a database along with associated details of the particular job, the job type, date of the job, materials used, and the like, to allow filtering or selection based on those details.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 38 [0203] It will be understood that the gallery application may interface with the quote application, for example by allowing photographs captured during a quote to be uploaded to the gallery, or alternatively, to allow queries to be generated in the quote application so that selected information can be supplied from the gallery application into the quote application environment. [0204] Whilst the above discussed functionalities of the gallery application may be included in the quote application in some implementations, it will be appreciated that it may be desirable to separate these functionalities from the core quoting functionalities to thereby allow stored information to be easily accessed outside of a quoting process. For instance, the gallery application may also be used to provide a portfolio of previous work of a related nature during a presentation to a prospective client, or to provide a reference image of the expected finished state of a job as the work is being performed. [0205] Turning to the time recording application, this application may include additional functionality for allowing a user to record time spent on a job, or a part of a job, as work is performed. Accordingly, this complements the estimation features of the quote application and allows a means of capturing time for the purpose of reconciling actually time spent against the estimated time in the quote. [0206] The time recording application may include a stopwatch functionality along with the ability for a user to assign recorded time to a particular job and identify other details of the job type along with comments as to why the job may have differed in duration compared to the estimate. The time recording application may allow the user to access estimates for quoted portions of the job so that the user is aware of the estimated time and can control the amount of time spent on the job accordingly. This also allows comparison to gauge performance against the estimate. [0207] In some examples, the time recording application may allow time records to be stored in a structured manner, such as by using a suitably configured database, to allow interrogation and analysis of the time records at a later date. This may be particularly useful in allowing estimated time frames for particular types of jobs to be refined at a later date based on actual time records recorded for similar jobs.

H:\szp\Interwoven\NRPortbl\DCC\SZP\6107108_1.doc-18/03/2014 - 39 [0208] The drawing application may provide an interface for allowing the user to generate drawings of a job site. It will be appreciated that this may incorporate similar functionalities as described above for the drawing interface of the quote management system, although the drawing application may further include additional features beyond those which may be required for the sole purpose of determining information required for a quote. [0209] In one example, when a user is preparing a quote using the quote application and desires to prepare drawings based on measurements of a job site, the quote application may cause the drawing application to execute and thus allow the user to generate the drawing. Once the drawing is completed, the user may select an option in the drawing application to calculate dimension data required for determining an estimate for the associated job, such as a floor area or the like, and to return this to the quote application for use in the estimate. The user would then be returned to the quote application environment to continue the quote. [0210] It will thus be appreciated that the quote management system may be provided in many forms and in some embodiments may be provided as a suite of inter-related software applications which can each be operated independently or in cooperation as required. [0211] It should be noted that the GUI elements discussed above are for the purpose of illustrating a preferred example of the quote management system only. The skilled person will appreciate that other known GUI techniques may be used to provide a user friendly means of allowing a user to interact with quotes in the quote management system. [0212] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous variations and modifications will become apparent. All such variations and modifications which become apparent to persons skilled in the art, should be considered to fall within the spirit and scope that the invention broadly appearing before described.