Definition

construction takeoff software

Part of the Business software glossary:

Construction takeoff software (sometimes spelled take-off or take off) is a collection of programs, processes and information used to perform a part of the cost estimating process in the construction industry. Estimators use construction blueprints, either manual or electronic, and start "taking off" quantities of items they will need from those blueprints in order to prepare part of the estimate. Examples of possible takeoffs include the number of light fixtures needed in a building or the amount of wiring needed for electrical work.

Next Steps

Takeoff can happen several ways. Some estimators perform manual takeoffs from field sketches, some conduct on-screen take offs using construction estimating software programs, and some use digitizers, which are electronic measuring devices that work on hard copy plans. Once takeoffs are on screen, measurements and calculations can be done automatically, increasing accuracy, efficiency and speed.

Takeoff software typically allows downloading of many different file types, including TIFF, PDF, DWF Adobe, JPEG and most CAD (computer-aided design) documents.

 

LEARN MORE ABOUT IT

Part of ConstructionSoftwareReview.com's estimating software buying guide focuses on takeoff software

This was last updated in February 2012
Posted by: Margaret Rouse

Related Terms

Definitions

  • commercial construction software

    - Commercial construction software is a collection of programs and processes that provides contractors with the information necessary to successfully bid on and complete commercial construction proje... (WhatIs.com)

  • construction estimating software

    - Construction estimating software is a collection of programs, processes and information used to calculate the total cost of a construction project. (WhatIs.com)

  • industrial software

    - Industrial software is a collection of programs, processes and information for construction contractors in sectors such as mining, chemical, power, oil, gas and manufacturing. (WhatIs.com)

Glossaries

  • Business software

    - Terms related to business software, including definitions about billing and words and phrases about supply chain, CRM, POS, ERP, accounting, payroll and inventory.

  • Software applications

    - Terms related to software applications, including definitions about software programs for vertical industries and words and phrases about software development, use and management.

  • Internet applications

    - This WhatIs.com glossary contains terms related to Internet applications, including definitions about Software as a Service (SaaS) delivery models and words and phrases about web sites, e-commerce ...

Dig Deeper

People Who Read This Also Read...

Ask a Question. Find an Answer.Powered by ITKnowledgeExchange.com

Ask An IT Question

Get answers from your peers on your most technical challenges

Ask Question

Tech TalkComment

Share
Comments

    Results

    Contribute to the conversation

    All fields are required. Comments will appear at the bottom of the article.
    Back to top