little bit of both, really. When in the carpet industry, I was able to quickly learn what other peoples costs were because i knew by talking to them about which product they use, what rates they used them at.
We were a part of CCINW carpet cleaners institute of the north west. month meetings ect ect. Most of all it allowed us the chance to talk shop bounce ideas and skills, costs, and other work related things off each other.
As i have said a few times here. put 10 carpet cleaners in a room and you'll have 10 ways to clean carpet. I'm not passing judgement but simply trying to figure out where i am inline with other detailers of the same general nature and buisness practices. In a way this information helps format how i aproach this side of the buisness. It allows me to see examine this area in greater detail to see if i need to refine it more, trim it down, or fill it out more.
I have not seen this kind of info discussed here in the month or so that i have been here. And thought if i find it usefull to know maybe others would to. Starting a discussion on this may help others who struggle with cost management, product management, office management issues. I am of the opinion that in this arena knowing your costs is almost as important as knowing how to sell your services to your customers.
There is not going to be one right way to answer my questions, all i ask is you provide what detail you can, honestly appraising your costs and usage.
I hope that clarifies it for you spoiledman, sorry i did not get those numbers up earlier, the wife is out of town so i am on kid duty 24/7