You will actually save time. Via tools is not a trial and error type of program like pronto edit. The class is actually only a few days, so you will be able to organize your project while in school and get most of it worked out ahead of time. My guess is the job will span months of time. I'm I off base here? The Plan "B" would be to hire one of the Elan guys to do the programming.
I may be schizophrenic, but at least I have each other.