Methodology, outputs and limitations

What the free check shows

Free sector checks use 3–5 structured inputs per industry. Outputs include a visible risk level (LOW / MEDIUM / HIGH), a plain-language headline and summary of cost exposure. Free checks run in your browser without an account. They do not show minimum safe price, accept/reject verdict strings or PDF export.

• —Visible risk signal only
• —Directional cost exposure summary
• —No minimum safe price floor
• —No final verdict or saved report

What the premium verdict adds

Premium analyzers use expanded input sets (typically 5–9 fields) to produce a decision verdict: minimum safe price where applicable, margin leak drivers, scenario comparison and a suggested action (accept, reprice, renegotiate or do not accept). Subscribers can save reports and export PDF copies.

• —Minimum safe price or bid floor
• —Margin leak breakdown
• —Accept / reprice / reject verdict
• —PDF-ready report and saved history (Pro)

Inputs used

Each sector pack defines validated input fields — machine time, labor, material, margin targets, delay days and similar operating variables. Labels and helper text explain what belongs in each field. Premium analyzers may require additional fields not shown on the free tier.

• —Sector-specific field sets per tool
• —Visible labels and helper text
• —No raw formula sheets exposed to users
• —Inputs are illustrative simulations — verify before quoting

Risk signals

Risk levels combine input ratios, sector thresholds and margin targets configured per industry pack. HIGH risk means the quote or change may erode margin under stated assumptions — not a guarantee of loss, but a signal to reprice or reduce scope before committing.

• —LOW / MEDIUM / HIGH visible on free tier
• —Premium adds verdict labels and leak drivers
• —Risk is text + level — not color alone
• —Signals are decision-support, not certified audit

Safe price logic

Where applicable, premium calculators compute a minimum safe price or bid floor from direct cost, target margin and sector-specific buffers (setup, scrap, tooling, delay). The exact model varies by sector — CNC machine shops, construction change orders and cleaning contracts use different drivers.

• —Target margin applied to loaded direct cost
• —Sector buffers for setup, scrap or delay
• —Scenario rows at multiple margin targets
• —Safe price withheld on free tier intentionally

Report limitations

All outputs are technical simulations and decision-support estimates. They are not financial, legal, engineering or tax advice. SectorCalc does not replace professional estimating, cost accounting or contractual review.

• —Not certified financial or engineering advice
• —Verify all numbers before commercial commitments
• —Models simplify real-world variability
• —Subscription does not guarantee business outcomes

Data privacy

Free checks run without ERP setup and without requiring an enterprise rollout. Business data is not sold. Saved reports and account data are linked to your SectorCalc login when you choose to save or subscribe.

• —Free checks run without ERP setup
• —Business data is not sold
• —Stripe handles subscription billing securely
• —See Privacy Policy for retention details

Disclaimer

This is a technical simulation and decision-support output. It is not financial, legal or engineering advice. Verify all results before making business decisions.