Understanding Line Item Symbols in Bolster

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Overview

Every line item in your Bolster estimate displays a small symbol that tells you what type of item it is. This article explains what each symbol means so you can quickly identify items in your estimate.

Before You Begin

• Open an estimate that contains a variety of line items so you can see the different symbols as you read through this article.

1. Look for a single cube symbol. This indicates a line item with a cost associated to it, such as flooring, backsplash, or baseboard.
2. Look for a symbol showing three cubes (a trifecta of cubes). This indicates a group of items, which Bolster calls an assembly. An assembly can contain multiple line items within it (for example, nine line items grouped together).
3. Look for a percentage symbol. This indicates a fee-based item, typically used to calculate a fee based on the overall cost of a project, such as a permit, overhead, or a variable cost.
4. Look for a layered picture symbol. This indicates a photo gallery item, which lets you attach photos without any cost associated to it.
5. Look for a symbol showing lines (like text lines). This indicates a text block item, which has no fees associated to it. Use this to add a block of text to a project, such as a scope of work.
6. Look for a square with a check mark. This indicates a task item. You can name the task whatever you want and assign it to whomever you wish.
7. Look for a layered cards symbol. This indicates the simple list, also called the upgrade tool.
8. Look for a symbol showing nine dots. This indicates the variation options item, also called the selector tool, built into that line item.

Tips & Best Practices

• Scan Symbols First: Before editing an estimate, glance at the symbols to quickly understand what type of items you're working with.
• Use the Right Item Type: Choosing the correct item type (cost item, assembly, fee, photo gallery, text block, task, upgrade tool, or selector tool) keeps your estimate organized and accurate.

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Why This Matters

• Recognizing line item symbols at a glance helps you quickly understand the structure of an estimate without opening each item individually.

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Summary

Each line item symbol in Bolster identifies its type: a single cube for a cost item, three cubes for an assembly, a percentage sign for a fee-based item, a layered picture for a photo gallery item, lines for a text block item, a checked square for a task item, layered cards for the simple list (upgrade tool), and nine dots for the variation options (selector tool).