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.