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Quantity Takeoffs in Construction: A Comprehensive Guide
The quantity takeoff (QTO) is the estimating process, in which construction drawings and plans have been analysed. The QTO has been generated from the preconstruction planning process, in which the entire construction project has been broken down into several sections, thus making the estimation process easier. A detailed document regarding the entire construction project has been generated with the help of the QTO methods, which enables the project stakeholders to forecast the project costs.
In the case of QTO methods, the estimators reference the 3D models, blueprints and drawings of the construction projects, which helps to get accurate information regarding the project, as well as helps to achieve accurate takeoff. There are two types of QTO methods that have been used by the general contractors, including manual quantity takeoffs and digital quantity takeoffs.
Features of the QTO (Quantity Takeoff) Software in a Construction Project
Different QTO software has been used by the general contractors for the construction project, which offers several useful features. These QTO software features are as follows:
Auditable links
Each and every project team member is enabled to access the same crucial information about the construction project with the help of the information-sharing feature of the QTO software. The QTO software is able to measure the accurate quantities of the construction materials, which can be transferred with the help of the auditable links of the QTO software. This feature enables the general contractor to create an accurate bill of quantities for the pricing process.
Takeoff templates
Several QTO software offers takeoff templates, which can effectively maintain the accuracy in the estimation process. The takeoff template is also useful in the case of requiring routine updating of the information regarding the construction project. QTO software has real-time tracking features. In this context, several users use takeoff templates to track the project information in real-time. In addition, the takeoff templates can also be customised as per the requirements of the construction projects.
Quantity tracking
The material quantities can be separated into different sections by tracking material quantities. This process helps to understand the difference between the projected costs and the actual costs of the construction project. Thus, the general contractors are able to make a better plan for future tenders.
Document support
With the help of the QTO software, the general contractors are able to access the blueprints and drawings of the construction projects, and this can be done with minimal memory usage. The QTO software also has a PDF viewer feature, which enables users to facilitate accurate estimations for construction projects.
Comparison tool
Two drawings of the construction project can be compared with the help of the comparison tool of the QTO software. This comparison feature enables users to identify the changes that are required for the construction project. This comparison tool also helps to track the project information in real-time, thus enabling the generation of more accurate takeoffs.
Effectiveness of the Construction Estimating Services for General Contractors
Improved accuracy
The construction estimating services can comply with the local construction procedure-related specifications, as well as with the labour rates and material quantities, thus providing accurate cost estimates for the construction projects.
Providing quick support
The cost estimating services are available 24/7 for the users, which helps to answer any queries of the users via email or phone. Even after delivering the estimates regarding the construction projects, the estimating services also offer ongoing revisions, which enhances the satisfaction of the general contractors.
Cost-saving features
The construction estimating services help to provide accurate measurements regarding the costs of the entire construction project. In this regard, there is no need for hiring a full-time estimator, which helps to save money. By forecasting the overall cost of the construction project, the risks of budget overruns has been also reduced, as well as the chances of unexpected expenses can also be reduced.
Improved communication
The QTO software helps to provide accurate measurements regarding the project’s material cost, labour costs, and equipment costs, which helps to keep all stakeholders of the project informed about the important cost information. Thus, the transparency in the construction project has been ensured by the QTO software and minimises the project-related issues.
Differentiate Quantity Takeoff (QTO) from Material Takeoff (MTO)
- The QTO has focused on estimating all elements that are required for the construction projects. On the other hand, MTO only focuses on the materials information, including the types, specifications, qualities and quantities of the materials used in the construction project.
- High-level data has been delivered by the QTO software, which helps to understand the overall cost and project scope. On the other hand, the MTO software helps to provide granular details about the construction materials, which influences the supplier negotiation process and the inventory management procedures.
- The project components can be identified and measured rapidly with the help of the QTO software, which minimises the manual efforts and time. Whereas, MTO is capable of identifying project materials, specifications and also helps to suggest alternative materials, which reduces the materials waste and prevents cost overruns.
