Combined Bulk Import File

Feature Request: Combined Bulk Estimate Import File

Summary:
Provide a single combined import capability that allows estimators to upload all estimate-related data (WBS, tasks, resources, and hours/cost spreads) in one file, instead of managing multiple separate imports for each estimate component. This streamlines the estimating workflow and reduces the risk of errors and duplication.

Problem Statement:
Entering estimates is currently complicated and fragmented. Estimators must upload estimate data multiple times—separately for tasks, resource estimates, and resource IDs/data. This requires managing different files and import steps for each area, increasing manual effort and the likelihood of inconsistencies or mistakes. The lack of a unified import path makes large or complex estimates particularly time‑consuming to set up and maintain.

Proposed Solution:
Enable a single “Combined Estimate Import” that accepts one structured file containing:

• WBS and task definitions

• Resource definitions and mappings

• Resource estimates (hours and/or cost spreads across time periods)

The system should:

• Parse the combined file into the appropriate internal structures (tasks, resources, and estimate spreads) in one import operation.

• Support a defined template or schema so users know exactly how to format the combined file.

• Validate the file before import, providing clear error and warning messages (e.g., missing required fields, invalid resource references, inconsistent WBS levels).

• Where possible, reuse or match existing resources and tasks instead of creating duplicates, based on configured matching rules (e.g., IDs or unique codes).

• Provide a summary report of what was created, updated, or skipped, so estimators can quickly verify the imported estimate.

Benefits:

• Reduces the number of separate imports from multiple steps down to a single operation.

• Decreases manual handling of multiple files, lowering the risk of data mismatches and omissions.

• Speeds up the setup of new estimates, especially for large WBS structures with many tasks and resources.

• Improves data consistency by centralizing the definition of tasks, resources, and spreads in one coherent file.

• Enhances the estimator experience by simplifying a core workflow and making bulk estimate entry more predictable and scalable.