Estimating Desktop. (EDT)
Here in the Netherlands we are using an Hungarian programm: Estimating Desktop.
This programm links ACA objects with (central or local stored) "Recipies"
The Recipies can contain several Activities, the quantities of ACA object including propertyset-properties can be used filling the right activity amount.
An activity can contain several Means (Labour, Material, Equipment, Subcontractors) with norms, prices and codes.
As user i'm quit enthousiast about this programm, also due the fact that there is a bi-directional link.
It's possible to use the Estimating Desktop also for filling in ACA (user) properties for example with Phase values.
Also costitems to be shown can be done directly within the EDT and/or ACA.
Another advandce that i see, is the "learning" princip; once attached recepies can built up recognisiong properties, so that new ACA object can be scaned, if they have the right property a right cost recipie will be attached.
After attaching al cost recipies, reporting is possible on element, classification, specification, activity and Means.
If you have specific questions you can contact me:
www.deBIMspecialist.nl