AI wizard for precise material estimates with what-if simulations
Construction tech students are frustrated by inaccurate and unintuitive material estimation software that hinders beginners' learning of cost management.
CalcForge uses an intuitive step-by-step wizard powered by AI to generate accurate estimates while explaining decisions. Students run what-if scenarios on variables like material swaps or price changes to deeply understand cost dynamics. It demystifies estimation for beginners with transparent, educational AI.
Construction technology students, especially beginners learning cost management
What-if simulations with AI explanations provide deeper learning than static tools.
professional
Guided input for project specs leading to auto-estimate
Test scenarios like 'what if lumber prices rise 20%'
Natural language breakdowns of calculations and assumptions
Saved simulations for review and sharing
Visual graphs showing impact of variables
Upload simple images for auto-suggestions
Collaborate on estimates
Live regional material prices
| Column | Type | Nullable |
|---|---|---|
| id | uuid | No |
| text | No | |
| created_at | timestamp | No |
| Column | Type | Nullable |
|---|---|---|
| id | uuid | No |
| user_id | uuid | No |
| name | text | No |
| params | jsonb | No |
| base_cost | int | Yes |
Relationships:
| Column | Type | Nullable |
|---|---|---|
| id | uuid | No |
| scenario_id | uuid | No |
| variables_changed | jsonb | No |
| new_cost | int | No |
| explanation | text | Yes |
Relationships:
/api/wizard/estimateGenerate base estimate from inputs
/api/simulationsRun what-if simulation
/api/scenariosList user scenarios
/api/chartsGenerate sensitivity data
No AI explanations
| Month | Users | Conversion | MRR | ARR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month 1 | 180 | 3.5% | $160 | $1,920 |
| Month 6 | 1,100 | 9% | $2,475 | $29,700 |
CalcForge's wizard and what-if tools make estimation intuitive and educational for students.
Validate with Typeform on LinkedIn construction educator groups. Offer lifetime Pro to first 3 responders. Launch free tier in student Slack communities from top schools.
Quantity takeoff
Limited sims, no education
AI learning layer
Enterprise accuracy
Overkill for students
Affordable, sim-focused
AI fine-tuned on user simulations for better regional accuracy over time.
AI accessibility enables edtech personalization as construction enrollment surges.
AI costs/hallucinations
Hybrid rule+AI, prompt engineering
OpenAI API expenses
Usage caps in free tier
AI skepticism in trades
Transparent sourcing
Success: 60% want to pay
Success: Repeat usage
Success: 20% referral growth
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