Exploring the benefits of takeoff estimating software

Still using the traditional way of estimating? Pen, a piece of paper and excel spreadsheets are still used by majority of the construction companies today. But why contactors and estimators are still behind such outdated applications to manage accounting when a tool like takeoff estimating software is available in the market. The answers can be many such as “I am comfortable doing estimating by hand” or “ I am the only one who supposed to know the material prices and labor costs” or “I find it difficult to learn a new computer program” and many more. But the truth is that contractors that use this software are making good business by preparing bids at a quicker rate and more precisely as compared to those who still using the old-fashioned way.

The case of online takeoff software

Moving on to estimating software, it has proven to be beneficial for construction business than manual methods.

Standardization of processes: Since the tool contains an inherent structure, it is instrumental in enhancing the effectiveness and also cuts down user mistakes. Hence it leads to what we call as standardization of estimating process.

Multiple user support: A local area network supports a number of users which makes it easy for contractors to share the digital estimates with others easily in the office. This is not possible with paper based estimate plans.

Integration of applications: As majority of the estimating applications are built around the idea of standard-based database, it becomes very simple to integrate the data of takeoff software with other application like accounting and job costing. 

Enhanced data analysis: Takeoff software is better suited to support data analysis. That is why they have the ability to build some outstanding reports that not only guarantee accuracy but a much faster analysis.

Pre-built assemblies: These tools are often fabricated with particular things in mind, supplying formulas for calculating accounting, material estimated costs, marketing costs and much more.