Automated Software vs. Manual Takeoffs: Which Is Better?

In the ever-evolving construction industry, efficiency and accuracy are critical in managing costs and deadlines. One vital aspect of the pre-construction phase is the takeoff process, which involves quantifying materials and labor to estimate project costs. Let’s explore the best way to complete takeoffs: Automated software or manual production.

How Did We Get Here? The Evolution of Construction Takeoffs

The general idea of construction takeoff dates back centuries, with its earliest evidence in ancient Egypt. According to scholars, uncovered artifacts prove these individuals used detailed plans and models to prepare for building new structures. Once approved, they used these plans to “organize a constant and sufficient supply of stone from the quarries.” 

While their process also included “foundation ceremonies” and making offerings to their gods, the core elements of construction planning are not too different from what we have today.

Since its introduction, the takeoff process has evolved countless times, constantly improving with innovations — from new measuring tools to blueprints and the invention of the calculator. However, perhaps the greatest leap in takeoff history came with the emergence of dedicated software systems. 

Until somewhat recently, all modern takeoffs were completed manually — a labor-intensive and time-consuming endeavor. Professionals had to tediously measure and calculate every project element to determine the required materials. Manual takeoffs could take several days to complete and (thanks to their meticulous nature) were vulnerable to errors. 

Construction takeoff software has emerged as a powerful tool to streamline the process. Experts can now complete a simple takeoff in as little as ten minutes. While this might sound ideal, an over-reliance on software can lose the benefits of professional expertise, creating an uptick in oversights. 

The downfalls of both manual and automated construction takeoffs led to the emergence of a hybrid solution found in third-party takeoff providers (like Takeoff Monkey). This approach combines cutting-edge technology with human expertise. 

Let’s take a closer look at these three solutions to construction takeoffs. 

The Case for Automated Construction Takeoff Software

Automated takeoff software has transformed how estimators and construction professionals approach project planning. It is clear why the software approach has gained popularity:

• Speed and Efficiency: Automated tools can process complex blueprints and drawings faster than manual methods. What used to take hours or days can now be accomplished in minutes, allowing professionals to focus on other tasks.
• Cost-Effectiveness: By reducing the time spent on manual takeoffs, software systems can lead to lower labor costs, faster project turnaround times, and a fuller pipeline than the manual alternative. 
• Integration with Other Tools: Many software solutions integrate seamlessly with project management and estimating systems, creating a streamlined workflow that saves time and minimizes errors.

While automated software greatly boosts productivity, it still has its shortcomings. 

The Risks of Relying Solely on Takeoff Software

Despite its benefits, automated software is not infallible. Here are some of the challenges users often face when relying too heavily on takeoff software:

• Risk of Oversights: Automated tools rely on the quality of the input data. Misinterpreted drawings, missing details, or ambiguous project specifications can lead to inaccurate estimates, potentially causing costly bidding mistakes.
• Limited Adaptability: Software solutions are not always capable of handling unique or complex projects. Manual estimators often rely on their intuition and experience to make decisions, something that even advanced software systems struggle to replicate.
• Learning Curve: Implementing new software requires training and onboarding, which can disrupt workflows and lead to additional costs. Some teams may find it challenging to fully embrace the technology.

Because of these limitations, relying solely on automated takeoff software can be risky. This is where the value of human expertise becomes apparent.

Why Manual Takeoffs Still Matter

Manual takeoffs, performed by skilled estimators, offer advantages that even the most advanced takeoff software cannot reproduce, including:

• Attention to Detail: Human estimators can cross-check drawings, identify discrepancies, and apply their judgment to ensure nothing is overlooked.
• Flexibility: Experienced estimators can adapt to the unique requirements of each project, providing tailored and accurate results.
• The Value of Experience: While software can run numbers, it lacks the real-life experience essential to understanding a takeoff’s context and using it to produce the best possible outcomes. 

However, manual methods can be time-consuming and prone to errors, making them less efficient and inaccessible for large-scale projects. A balanced approach often proves to be the most effective solution.

The Best of Both Worlds: Third-Party Takeoff Providers

Instead of choosing between manual and automated methods, many construction professionals turn to third-party takeoff providers like Takeoff Monkey. Our providers use advanced technology for speed and efficiency, but also employ expert estimators to verify accuracy and address potential oversights. This hybrid method offers the best of both worlds, including:

• Quick Turnaround: By utilizing the latest automated tools, third-party providers can deliver takeoffs rapidly, ensuring projects stay on schedule. Our solutions also integrate with your other tools to create a streamlined workflow. 
• Enhanced Accuracy: Two experienced professionals oversee, review, and refine every takeoff, providing an additional layer of precision that software alone cannot achieve.
• Hands-Off Approach: Even with in-house software, your business needs employees to run through the motions, follow prompts, and manage takeoff production. With a third-party solution, you simply send in your documents, and we do the rest. This hands-off approach gives your team more time, capacity, and headspace to focus on matters important to your business.
• Cost Savings: Outsourcing takeoffs eliminates the need for costly software licenses or in-house training, making it a cost-effective option for businesses of all sizes.

Choose Takeoff Monkey Services

Takeoff Monkey brings you the best of both worlds. We combine the efficiency of cutting-edge technology with the expertise of real estimators, ensuring quick, accurate, and reliable takeoffs that set your projects up for success.

You can get started by uploading a project, reading our FAQs, or seeing if you qualify for a free trial run today!