Top Challenges in Quantity Takeoff for Surveying & How BidScreen XL Addresses Them

Tracking measurements across different tools shouldn’t slow you down. Yet, many estimators struggle with scattered data, mismatched values, and toggling between software. The take off in quantity surveying process becomes less about accuracy and more about managing the chaos. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Let’s break down the real challenges faced by professionals and how BidScreen XL makes the process easier, faster, and more reliable all without switching between tools or screens.

Repetitive Work Between Tools Wastes Time

• Multiple Programs: Switching between drawing tools, spreadsheets, and estimation software can be time-consuming.
• Double Entry: Manually transferring data between different software increases the chances of mistakes and errors.
• Inefficiency: Constantly jumping between tools distracts professionals, slowing down their workflow.

How BidScreen XL Helps:

• Seamless Integration with Excel: All your measuring and calculating happens directly in your Excel workbook.
• No Import or Exporting: You work with digital plans and takeoff measurements all within one place, reducing errors and duplication.
• Time-Saving Efficiency: You can focus on your takeoff and estimation without shifting between tools or files.

File Conversions Create Delays

• Tool Compatibility Issues: Different software often requires you to convert file types, which adds unnecessary steps.
• Lost Time in Conversion: Converting files can slow down your project, delaying critical decision-making.
• Risk of Error: File conversions introduce the risk of errors or data corruption, causing discrepancies in your measurements.

How BidScreen XL Helps:

• Works with Original Files: No file conversions are needed. BidScreen XL allows you to work directly with the digital drawings.
• Supports Multiple File Formats: You can open and work with various types of files without worrying about compatibility.
• No Data Loss: Since everything stays within Excel, you avoid issues with missing or corrupted data.

Managing Multiple Files and Drawings is Confusing

• Too Many Windows: Managing multiple software applications or files at once leads to confusion and disorganization.
• Hard to Keep Track of Changes: When working with several drawings or plans, keeping track of edits becomes more difficult.
• Difficulty Accessing Relevant Information: You might struggle to find the latest version of a drawing or measurement in the midst of many files.

How BidScreen XL Helps:

• All-in-One Excel Workbook: You can keep everything in a single Excel workbook, including digital plans, measurements, and calculations.
• Organized Drawing Manager: BidScreen XL offers a built-in Drawing Manager to easily organize, annotate, and describe your drawings.
• Cloud Storage: Save your work to any cloud drive for easy access and collaboration from anywhere.

Complex Software and Long Learning Curves

• Software Overload: New, complicated platforms require extensive training to understand, which delays productivity.
• Time Consuming Onboarding: New users often struggle to get up to speed with complex systems.
• Inefficient Software Setup: Complicated setups can lead to misconfigured tools and wasted time.

How BidScreen XL Helps:

• Excel-Based Tool: BidScreen XL is an Excel add-in, so if you’re already familiar with Excel, you can get started quickly.
• User-Friendly: The tool is designed to be easy to learn, with a simple layout and intuitive features.
• Fast Adaptation: Even complex tasks like adjusting cross-sections, rounding measurements, or drawing curves can be done quickly and easily with built-in shortcuts.

Lack of Accuracy and Real-Time Tracking

• Errors in Measurement: Manual entry or switching between tools can lead to inaccurate calculations or overlooked details.
• Disorganized Tracking: Without proper documentation, it’s hard to verify where a measurement came from or how accurate it is.
• Longer Review Processes: When takeoffs are disorganized, the review and correction process can be lengthy.

How BidScreen XL Helps:

• Real-Time Updates: As you work, measurements and color-coded takeoff data are saved directly in the Excel workbook.
• Instant Visual Feedback: Apply colors, count symbols, line styles, and area fill patterns to drawings for clear, visual takeoffs.
• Audit Trail: An outstanding audit trail tracks every change, making it easy to verify measurements and edits.

Final Thoughts:

Vertigraph, Inc. understands how essential it is to have reliable, efficient tools in quantity surveying. BidScreen XL was designed to streamline your workflow, so you can focus on what matters getting your work done faster and more accurately. If you’re performing area measurements, counting items, or working with complex drawings, BidScreen XL simplifies the takeoff process and reduces errors. The construction takeoff definition is all about accurately measuring materials from your plans, and with BidScreen XL, you can do that in the Excel environment you already know. You’ll save time, reduce errors, and avoid the hassle of managing multiple tools.