ASG UNVEILS REVOLUTIONARY CAD-COST ESTIMATING LINK

ASG Estimator integrates the CAD drawing process with Timberline Precision
estimating technology and R.S. Means pricing.

SAUSALITO, CA.--April 6, 1993. ASG, the leading developer of integrated
software applications for architects, engineers, contractors, and facility
managers who use AutoCAD, has introduced ASG Estimator, a new
CAD-estimating system designed for A/E professionals. This product--using
R.S. Means pricing and Timberline Software CAD integration technology--is
about to ship and will be featured at A/E/C Systems '93 in ASG booth
#795.

ASG Estimator was developed by Timberline and licensed to ASG especially
for distribution to the AEC market. It is a complete, flexible, and
easy-to-use estimating software package featuring programs and data that
automatically calculate construction estimates based upon drawings created
with AutoCAD and ASG application software. The key components in this
CAD-to-estimate integration are ASG's Data Link program, found in ASG
Core, version 6.0; Timberline's Precision CAD Integrator; and a 2,700-item
conceptual database featuring RS. Means Assemblies pricing. Working
together in ASG Estimator, these products allow architects and engineers
to make "quick" estimates. They can design and make changes in ASG CAD
software and quickly see the cost effect on project estimates.

This automated CAD-estimating technology gives users greater ability to
evaluate design/cost alternatives. It also produces integration of the
design/build cycle, easier customization of plans, and more realistic
budgets.

The Importance of the R.S. Means Connection

ASG and Timberline's March, 1993 agreement with R.S. Means greatly
strengthened the significance of ASG Estimator's new technology to the
design and construction industry. R.S. Means is the nation's leading
construction cost authority, serving over 250,000 customers each year. The
company publishes scores of cost data references, construction information
books, and electronic databases. Means representatives also conduct
seminars year-round on construction and cost estimating, remodeling, ADA
compliance, project management, and other topics.

The companies' agreement also allows ASG to market as an upgrade the entire
17,000-item R.S. Means Assemblies Cost Database. The yearly upgrades to
this package will be available from R.S. Means.

Said ASG president, Dennis Neeley, "Our direct relationship with Timberline
already ensured that ASG Estimator's power would be unmatched in the
marketplace. When our first choice for the cost data component of this
estimating system, RS. Means, agreed to come on board, the product was
strengthened even further. What we have here is new cost estimating
technology, unprecedented in the advances it brings to the design and
construction industry." 

Data Link Adds Intelligence to the CAD-Estimating Link

The key to ASG Estimator's link with the CAD drawing is the dynamic nature
of its drawing interface, Data Link. Using Data Link within the drawing
session, the user assigns intelligent "work packages" to objects in the
drawing. Then, as changes are made in the design, the estimate is
automatically updated to reflect the modifications. For example, if a wall
is stretched, ASG Estimator will recalculate the quantity and dimensions
of the wall, as well as regenerate the appropriate length of floor joist
for the room. All labor and material necessary to make the modification
will also be recalculated.

About the Companies

ASG is an original Autodesk Strategic Developer. The product line features
14 fully integrated architectural, structural, electrical, HVAC, plumbing,
piping, P&ID, and civil engineering software applications for the personal
computer. ASG's Vertex Division is the leading developer of electronic
information and software for building product manufacturers.

Founded in 1971, Timberline Software Corporation is a leading international
supplier of estimating software for the construction industry.

R.S. Means Company has collected and distributed construction cost data for
over fifty years.

ASG, 4000 Bridgeway, Suite 309, Sausalito, CA 94965-1451
415-332-2123;  fax: 415-332-2146

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