Trimble to acquire WinEstimator

Trimble entered into a definitive agreement to acquire WinEstimator, Inc. (WinEst), a provider of construction cost estimating and cost-modeling software. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2012, subject to customary closing conditions.

WinEst will be integrated into the operations of Meridian Systems, a wholly-owned subsidiary within Trimble's Engineering and Construction segment. Financial terms were not disclosed.

WinEst features a team of 25 industry professionals dedicated to providing estimating and cost modeling solutions to builders and capital project owners. The company’s offerings include the WinEst product line that provides a suite of estimating solutions, allowing customers to respond to all phases of the estimating process, from initial project feasibility to detailed final estimate. WinEst also provides Modelogix, a solution for capital project owners and general contractors who develop accurate conceptual cost models based on cost-history data from multiple sources. Modelogix leverages the value of project cost history across the enterprise, integrating the customer’s past estimates and “actual” project costs to form an accurate conceptual budget.

The acquisition is expected to extend Meridian’s capabilities for general contractor and owner customers that want to better develop, manage and leverage their construction cost information to support their core business. In addition, WinEst solutions will support the integration of cost data into other applications, including Meridian’s Prolog and Proliance software, enabling the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) business practices. +

The project team members include owner Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, New York; design architect and interior designer of the restaurant, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, New York; executive architect, FXFOWLE, New York; and architect and interior designer of the film center, Rockwell Group, New York; structural engineer Arup (AISC Member), New York; and general contractor Turner Construction Company (AISC Member), New York.

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