Applications for model takeoff
Although designed with conceptual (parametric) estimating
in mind, model takeoff works equally well for other purposes. It is particularly
useful for the following ways of estimating:
- Conceptual
(Parametric) estimating. You may need to develop a cost estimate
early in a project before the full scope of the design is determined.
Though you may already know such basics as area and building type, you
must make many assumptions about such details as material specifications
and design loads to make the estimate as accurate as possible. As the
design evolves, however, more and more of the assumptions can be converted
to match the actual specifications.
- Form-based
estimating. You may want to create models that provide a sequence
and method of obtaining data for an estimate. Or perhaps you need a way
to include only certain features from an option package. Such models prompt
for values that vary while hiding values that remain fixed. For example,
in point-of-sale applications, models would help salespeople acquire the
necessary information while isolating them from the complexity of full-blown
spreadsheet takeoff.
- Specification-driven
estimating. You may want to generate spec-based estimates for
mechanical, electrical, or other specialty contractors. The job specifications
determine what kind of material, material strength, and type of connection
should be used. In a piping job, for example, the model could include
the defaults for a certain pipe specification. Furthermore, those defaults
could be hidden during the takeoff process. Then the model would request
only the length, pipe diameter, and number of fittings without prompting
for other values.
The power of model takeoff lies in its flexibility. It offers
a single solution for a range of estimating needs. Models simplify the
takeoff process and give you complete estimates based on detailed costs.