Category: Company Blog

Construction estimators play a pivotal role in the success of your company, don’t they? Drawing from their skills and experience, they can provide accurate project costs in the minimal amount of time possible, thus optimizing the chances of you being awarded the project. An efficient cost estimator at the “helm” improves the chances of your success.

Qualities Construction Estimators Should Essentially Possess

Let’s have a look at characteristics of competent construction estimators:

• “Inside- out” knowledge of digital takeoff and estimating
• A Grasp on construction materials and methods
• A systematic and organized approach towards work
• Grasp of architectural and engineering drawings
• A Knowledge of creating accurate estimates
• Insight into various task processes of their own company regarding execution of construction projects
• Good judgment ability
• Ethics to ensure that the estimating serves the business efficiently
• Fair treatment of subcontractors
• An ability to structure an estimate in a way that assists with cost optimization
• Knowledge of using and utilizing different construction methods and materials
• Proficiency in evaluating bids from subcontractors
• Research skills

Construction estimators need to continuously improve upon their techniques and processes to achieve better results. They need to be able, and capable, to do deep research into various aspects of construction estimation such as the success rate of the construction bids submitted, the number and background of a contractor providing estimates for given projects, bid details of the lowest bidder, and more.

Since the computer has almost replaced all manual work, construction estimators need to have the drive and dedication to hone their software skills and find better ways to improve the presentation of estimates.

Construction estimators’ are expected to take key calls when preparing bid documents and this is where their experience and judgment counts. They should know which construction materials to use for various clients. They should know how to frame the document so that it has the absolute maximum chance of winning a bid.

What To Look Out For: 

Here’re potential pitfalls estimators will do well to avoid:

• Failure to take into account relevant project documents
• Skipping job site visits.
• Not double checking the final results

No matter how sophisticated the construction estimating software is, the accuracy of the estimate depends to a large extent, on the expertise and experience of the construction estimator. Software is like a car. Cars can get you where you need to go…. unless you drive it carelessly.

Arbitrary cost adjustments are another major mistake of construction estimators. Adjustments happen, but they must be driven by sound business decisions.

A construction estimator is a key position within your company and you need to select and hire  someone with experience and preferably formal training. Choose a professional or a team of professionals that have experience in construction. Recruit people well-versed in construction materials, costs, and various relevant procedures.

Almost all construction processes involve six phases. You need to plan for all these phases well in advance and analyze various ways to use your resources with utmost efficiency. Do prep work to set up things before you press the ‘Go’ button. Even the smallest of issues may slow you down, so you need to do all the due diligence; ponder over all the aspects of the construction. Be prepared to deal with the unexpected.

Here’re six phases of a construction project:

Feasibility Study

Before embarking on a project, you need to establish its viability. This is done by identify the various aspects regarding the construction project and preparing the project documentation such as the business case and project execution plan. It’s important to consider all feasible alternatives and pick a line that meets the economic, financial and environmental criteria.  The feasibility study may include issues such as

• Site appraisals including geotechnical studies, the availability of services, uses of adjoining land an assessment of any contamination, easements and restrictive covenants, and other such issues.
• Environmental impact assessment
• Legal/statutory approvals
• Planning permission
• Budget analysis
• Procurement options

Design Phase

Once the decision to proceed with a project has been made, you need to come up with a ration design that integrates functional and performance requirements. You need to take into account construction goals and equipment and working methods. A detailed design must entail all  the projects whether it is for capital, maintenance or if it is remedial. It should lay down a complete set of specifications regarding the project.

The Bid

The bid is your chance to demonstrate what you can bring to a project. You should submit a bid that illustrates and highlights your expertise and resources. A sophisticated cloud-based takeoff software like Square Takeoff can be immensely helpful in determining a cost and bid management.

Pre-construction

A necessary evil, a pre-construction meeting will help make a project successful. Sit with the client to review all the documentation together and arrive on a start date for the project. Apart from the core areas, you may need/want to discuss peripheral topics like the parking for the construction crews, job signs, permit box locations, location of the debris/material staging area/portable toilet, and more.

Construction

This phase begins when you or any of your subcontractors take control of the construction site. It’s a good idea to split the work into smaller “packages”, rather than complicating the project by incorporating too many components at a single go. Clarity regarding schedules, roles and quality expectations will help keep the project on track.

Moreover, it will help to work out with the clients how they can provide some kind of guidance on the site. Even the best of contractors require some kind of active support on the job site and it is the difference between mediocre and excellent work.

Project Closeout

A successful closeout is key for getting final payments. Often, projects running perfectly go wrong at the end, tuning a perfect project into a nightmare. As statistics suggest, 77% of projects have some sort of schedule overrun.

You cannot hope to have a simple wrap up of things in construction projects. At the end of the project, problems tend to pop up, out of nowhere. By that time, you’re likely to be short on resources making it hard for the correction of errors. Devise a solid plan for handing the project ownership to client.

As a framing subcontractor, you’re responsible for erecting the skeleton of the  structure; creating its core support and shape.

To keep your framing business moving, you need to make and keep your takeoff and bidding process faster and more accurate.

Sophisticated software such as Square Takeoff, enables framing contractors to upload digital blueprints and complete online takeoff three times faster than doing it manually therefore saving a substantial amount of time and money.

When it comes to framing projects, the square foot is the preferred unit of bidding. The bid may go up/down, depending on the complexity of the project (vaulted ceilings, cut up roofs, steep roofs). Any structure that drifts away from standard rectangles will carry more costs.

Your bid for a framing contract may depend on the type of job. Generally, framing subcontractors work for a general contractor on specific projects. Their services may be limited to labor, with the general contractor/owner-builder arranging for the materials separately. A contract may include just basic framing, while another may include installation of doors, windows, roof shingles and house wrap.

The way framers quote when bidding also changes depending on the company and types of cases. Some subcontractors quote for each square foot under a roof, while others may charge only for the actual living spaces. Subcontractors may have different rates for living spaces compared to something like a garage or maybe a covered porch.

As for the labor costs, it may be $2-$12 or a more a square foot, or $3,500-$36,000 for a 1,600- to 3,000-square-foot home. Of course, the quote is proportional to the project location and what is included in the contract. Across the US, an average house framing labor rate is about $6-$8 a square foot, or $10,000-$25,000 for 1,600-3,000 square feet.  Some contractors may opt for steel framing, while others may prefer wood framing. Cost of framing materials is generally more than labor. Materials may cost $3-$12 or more a square foot, depending on the current price of lumber (or steel) as well as the size and design of the structure.

Square Takeoff is cloud-based software that enables you calculate all this framing in half the time. Rather than printing on a blueprint on paper from the initial to start to every time there is a change , you can simply upload it and go forth bidding. There are enough tools available thru Square that enable you to do the bidding with clinical efficiency and within the least amount of time possible. The figures are  accurate, bringing in better profits.

This online software may just be the difference between big success and an average performance.

As a plumbing subcontractor, you are constantly on the lookout for ways to bring down your response time and while securing accurate takeoffs.

Square Takeoff is a cloud-based software that enables you to upload digital blueprints and complete an online takeoff considerably faster.

Square Takeoff offers full technical support and training and can help save on resources.

Here’s how Square Takeoff helps you:

Custom Assemblies

Square’s Takeoff Assemblies will allow you to complete a takeoff measurement and estimate your material and labor costs in one step. The software enables you to combine multiple items pre-built into an assembly. Moreover, you can easily create assemblies on the fly during takeoff which aids in keeping count of every bolt and screw.

Professional Proposal

The software will create an accurate bid that is organized and professional.

Takeoff

You can use the takeoff, regardless of the construction trade you are in, to do the heavy lifting. Begin the takeoff straight from your digital blueprint! The software takes out the requirement of creating a printout of the blueprint every time you want  and need to do a takeoff.

Bid Analysis

Built-in reporting enables you review and modify the contract, keeping it in line with your specific requirements. You can analyze productive and non-productive labor,  job expense, view profit, and compare overhead categories totals. The software has an array of reporting tools that you can use to construct your bid efficiently.

Integration of Google Maps

Square Takeoff facilitates the integration of Google Maps, removing the need to upload blueprints. When Google Map is displayed on the screen, you may either zoom in or simply enter an address. You can now locate the area and use the export button to save it.

Quick Navigational Filters

Filters used on the calendar drop-downs, enables you to focus on relevant bids. For instance, if you are working on a range of bids in tandem, but you want to just see bid ABC at any given time, you just need to select the specific company on the drop-down and make all irrelevant bids disappear.

Similarly, the user drop-down menu comes in handy if you have several estimators on your staff. All you have to do is select a user name on the drop-down and view all the bids related to that particular estimator.

Flexibility

The software allows you to view data in list form, see the projects shared by others, feed in data regarding bid management and/or make other necessary changes. From a single screen you are able to manage data and bidding at the same time.

Summing Up

State-of-the-art software like Square Takeoff, makes takeoff for plumbing subcontractors really simple. It not only helps you save valuable time but can also boost your success rate.

Did you know that by simply sharing Square Takeoff with your friends and fellow colleagues, you could earn a 20% commission when they subscribe?

Here at Square Takeoff we understand that nobody can share the value of our product better than our customers can. We understand the importance of the referrals our customers send us and because of that, we would like to provide you with a thank you for sharing our product.

For every client that is referred to us and decides to subscribe to our program we will pay a 20% commission on that lead for every month they are subscribed to our service for up to one full year from the date of the referral.

Here are just a few benefits you receive as a Referral Partner:

• 20% commission on all software sales generated from your leads.
• We provide you with a custom referral code and portal that allows you to track your leads and commissions.
• We will handle all sales and support
• Monthly payout
• Free banner ads, e-mail templates, hyperlinks, etc.

How it works in 3 easy steps:

Simply visit https://squaretakeoff.comreferral-program/ and fill out the online form.

1: After completing the Referral Partner Application, one of our program associates will contact you to setup a Partner On-boarding meeting and help you get started on your road to your first commission check.

2: From there it is as easy as handing out marketing material, sending emails or just simply talking with your friends or colleagues about the benefits of using Square Takeoff. Then have them sign up using your referral link.

3: You then earn 20% of the total value of their subscription for up to 1 year as long as they are subscribed to Square Takeoff.

So why not team up with Square Takeoff and make some extra cash today?

Never took Square Takeoff for a spin? Then today is the day. Visit https://squaretakeoff.comsignup/ to start you free 14-day trial.

How a Checklist Can Help You Achieve Accuracy in Estimate

Accurate and timely bids are closely linked to your company’s top and bottom lines, so you simply cannot leave it unchecked. Developing an extensive checklist and setting up a process for check listing will help you maintain foolproof accuracy.

Who should check the estimate

The person who has worked on the estimate shouldn’t ideally be the one checking it, as this person would tend to oversee the possible issues and mistakes. Have a secondary team member review the work. However, if there is no one else available, they should take at least half an hour break after finishing the estimate. This gap will help you clear your head and examine the estimate with fresh mind.

Preparing the checklist

Any checklist should essentially include some items. You need to ensure that the estimate…

• covers the scope of work
• includes the drawing scale on each page
• presents the complete and latest set of drawings and addendum’s

Making a list of possible errors

In coordination with various team members within of your company,  create an extensive list of possible errors. Don’t just think about the possible mistakes done by seasoned estimators. Consider the possible mistakes of new trainee estimators. This list will serve as your checklist.

You can make the tasks scheduled on your list very specific. For instance, you can mention if the height of the wall has been correctly applied to the application for calculating wall area.

Setting up a process

It will help to develop two documents, instead of one, when it comes to creating and refining the checklist. One of these documents will be brief as it will just list the actual tasks. The other document will elaborate on the individual tasks on the checklist. These twin sheets will be particularly helpful when training new estimators. They’ll be able to further understand the specific nuances of estimating.

Revisiting of checklist

No checklist is final. Keep revisiting the checklist to ensure it meets the changing circumstances of the industry, specific project requirements, and the needs of your company.

Summing Up

Preparing a checklist boosts your efficiency and accuracy in estimating and project bidding. That bit of extra time that you spend utilizing a estimating checklist, will help you make many more accurate bids. Accurate bids leads to landing more projects.

In construction, some of the most difficult estimates can be the calculation of floor joists and roof rafters. For many construction professionals this takes them the longest when trying to quote the framing material for a job and can result in some of the largest errors or miscalculations. Thanks to technology like Square Takeoff, this process is 10x easier and faster. With the release of tools such as the joist and rafter tool, doing a full takeoff and estimate of even the most complex floors or roofs, is a snap. Never again do you have to second-guess your estimate. With every use of the tool, a layout is produced showing you the proper length and location of the material. With this layout a framer will be able to make sure every piece of lumber is used correctly, therefore helping to eliminate waste and installation errors.

Since the release of these estimating tools, so many of our current clients are seeing a positive increase in speed and a massive decrease in estimate errors since first using the software. If you estimate these products and are looking for a quicker and easier way to do your next floor or roof rafter estimate, then sign-up for a free trial today and one of our reps will be happy to show you how the joist and rafter tool can positively impact your next estimate.

Roof Rafter Layout Example:

When a client asks for an estimate, just dropping in some numbers that barely connect to reality  and then just rounding out a project is completely unrealistic and has potential for a serious disaster.

Here’re six time-tested ways to determine the right estimate:

1: Understand how various tasks in a project are interdependent

Each task in the process of estimating is connected in some way to the other; nothing “stands alone.” For instance, the installation of doors is inextricably linked to creation of walls.  So, if the estimated numbers for the install of the house’s doors are off, then the estimated numbers for wall creation will follow suit and be off.

2: Gather input from various teams

An estimator should know how various teams in the company work. While you may not be an expert in their task, you need to have a basic understanding of their work process, including where they start and how they prepare for an upcoming  project. Maybe research common challenges they face and the factors that contribute to a finalized project.

When you begin estimating the project, discuss with all respective teams about their prospective role in project and get their input. This will help you immensely in arriving at an accurate estimate.

3: Study historical data

Having a database that houses and stores the projects that the company has worked on and completed is a good idea for estimating. The system would store all the numbers used and submitted on a project .  Being able to delve into a database like this provides contractors and their companies an opportunity to review mistakes . Where were we short? Where were we over?  This could also provide a baseline (starting point) on any new similar project.

4: Ask the right questions

Every project is different.  The complete understanding of a project will help you forecast the time and resources required to complete it.

Have a solid set of questions to ask and the replies might require further questioning. If needed, send in a list of secondary questions to get more details.  

5: Develop an standardized estimating process

An efficient estimating process enables you to stay within your proposed budget. A structured, repeatable process enables you attain equal results faster. Administrative processes often take up more time than one usually plans for. A better process will help you streamline it and move ahead in a faster manner.

6: Provide for cost contingency

You cannot predict everything prior to kicking off a project. It’s a smart move to include a cost contingency to provide a cover for unexpected uncertainties. There is no hard and fast rule regarding the amount you should add or subject. You may add a certain percentage, or use a complicated model that factors in risk levels.

Summing Up

Using the 6 points listed above, will make the estimating process as accurate as possible and will provide a “flow” to each and every project.  Proper bids eans prober jobs. More jobs is more money.

As a flooring subcontractor, it is important for you to submit your bids faster, while ensuring your labor and material quantities are accurate. You need to calculate precisely how many square feet of hardwood, carpet or tile you need for the project. Speed and accuracy are the keys to your success. 

Cloud-based software such as Square Takeoff can turn the whole scenario in your favor. The software allows you to upload digital blueprints and complete an online takeoff™ and estimate at a much faster rate compared to manually do it by hand. Let’s look at some of those benefits and features. 

Custom Flooring Templates 

The software allows you to customize the tools to fit your business model. You can create customized templates for each trade you estimate. Each template can contain job specific assemblies that assist in the calculation of labor, equipment and project material. If you can estimate it by hand, you can definitely do it with Square Takeoff.

Working with Digital Blueprints Has Never Been So Easy

You can upload digital blueprints and begin working right away. The software works with many different formats such as PDF, JPEG, PNG and so much more. Being able to work directly with your digital files, helps eliminate any need of printing the plans, which will save you money on your projects. You can zoom and pan the image, electronically measure total lengths and identify areas, and do counts of needed items. Depending on your preference, you may choose unit of measurement (imperial/metric). Navigation is easy and you can get up and going in just minutes. Once again saving you valuable time and money.

Cross-Platform and Mobile Friendly

An Internet-enabled device is all you need to access the online platform. It does not really matter whether it is a desktop, laptop, tablet, or a smartphone. Open your browser, log in and begin working. It is so simple! 

Summing It Up 

Square Takeoff brings in an array of attributes that make it tailor-made for a flooring subcontractor. Features like custom formulas, trade specific templates, easy-to-use tools, bid management, and more make it a welcome solution for you.

If you have not taken Square Takeoff for a spin, then today is the day to sign-up for a full-unrestricted 14-day trial. Don’t forget to schedule your free demo to see how Square Takeoff can impact your business today.

As a framing subcontractor, it is important for you to submit your bids faster, while ensuring your labor and material quantities are accurate. You need to calculate precisely how many square feet of subfloor, total count of studs and plates and/or labor you need for the project. Speed and accuracy are the keys to your success.

Cloud-based software such as Square Takeoff can turn the whole scenario in your favor. The software allows you to upload digital blueprints and complete an online takeoff™ and estimate at a much faster rate compared to manually do it by hand. Let’s look at some of those benefits and features.

Custom Framing Templates and Tools

The software allows you to customize the tools to fit your business model. You can create customized templates for each trade you estimate. Each template can contain job specific assemblies that assist in the calculation of labor, equipment and project material. Tools like the Joist and Rafter Tool, allow you to layout and calculate the number of floor joists or roof rafters you need to frame out your project. Making what could be a complex action by hand, faster and easier. Just remember that if you can estimate it by hand, you can definitely do it with Square Takeoff.

Working with Digital Blueprints Has Never Been So Easy

You can upload digital blueprints and begin working right away. The software works with many different formats such as PDF, JPEG, PNG and so much more. Being able to work directly with your digital files, helps eliminate any need of printing the plans, which will save you money on your projects. You can zoom and pan the image, electronically measure total lengths and identify areas, and do counts of needed items. Navigation is easy and you can get up and going in just minutes. Once again saving you valuable time and money.

Cross-Platform and Mobile Friendly

An Internet-enabled device is all you need to access the online platform. It does not really matter whether it is a desktop, laptop, tablet, or a smartphone. Open your browser, log in and begin working. It is so simple!

Summing It Up

Square Takeoff brings in an array of attributes that make it tailor-made for a framing subcontractor. Features like custom formulas, trade specific templates, easy-to-use tools, bid management, and more make it a welcome solution for you.

If you have not taken Square Takeoff for a spin, then today is the day to sign-up for a full-unrestricted 14-day trial. Don’t forget to schedule your free demo to see how Square Takeoff can impact your business today.

Everyday construction estimators around the globe face a common dilemma, can they achieve a high level of accuracy while trying to hit a tight deadline?

In the world of estimating deadlines often approach rather quickly. Couple that with the everyday delays, such as waiting on that final set of approved blue prints, construction estimators can feel quite rushed. Whatever the obstacles maybe, an estimator is required to complete their estimate on time and to make sure they have all the required info that was asked for in the specifications guide.  With that being said, let us take a step back and look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of the methods of today’s estimators.

As estimators we have many tools available to us to help assist in our day to day jobs; anything from an architect’s scale to today’s leading technology.  No matter what we choose, we need to have a full understanding of how to use those tools.  Estimating, as we all know, has been part of the construction industry since the first buildings were ever built. For thousands of years estimating was done by what we call in the industry as “estimating by hand.”  This method involves hand calculating everything; from the construction materials, to measurements, and even equipment and labor needed for the project.  This has been a tried and true process for a long time, but thanks to technology, this process continues to improve.  Though a by- hand estimate is accurate, human error in the different aspects of the process, can cause a miss calculation at any point.  Just a simple mistake on the amount of material or even forgetting to measure a section, can result in the loss of the project.  In the past, some estimators may have provided a 10 plus day lead-time on their estimate, just trying to ensure they have enough time to make sure everything is correct!  Thanks to advancements in technology, the tools of the construction industry are changing and over the last few years, those “safety” lead-times have been, at a minimum, cut in half.  Even though an estimator may be very detailed with their by hand process to maintain accuracy, technology takes it many steps further by ensuring their measurements are always accounted for and that their calculations are always right.

So let us look at the question again, can we have speed while doing a construction estimate but also maintain the required accuracy?  In today’s market, technology provides us with an edge, by allowing us to find the perfect balance between the two, ensuring that every estimate is right and never late.

It is amazing how much information is transacted during a typical day on a construction site. Whether it is info being passed from site to home office, from site to site, site to owner, it is an enormous amount of data interchange. Blue pint updates. Invoices. Sub-contractor delays. Time changes to material deliveries. Payroll. And then multiply that by the number of active construction projects.
All this information has to be stored and transmitted somehow and somewhere. Flash drives? Personal servers and backup services?

What about the Cloud?

The cloud is software and services that run on the Internet and not on a local computer. It’s not running up in the blue sky just beneath anything mystical, it has a home here on earth with a network of servers stored in multiple locations each having different functions. This network finds what you need and delivers it or stores it.

Remember how quickly something changes on the job site? The property owner called in with a last minute change to a floor plan. A bunk of lumber is now going to deliver Friday instead of Monday. Not sure which elevation was the final pick for the customer? The Cloud provides simple access and flexibility to a fast information exchange getting the whole team on the same page. Answers get found quickly; no need for a secondary set of files. It can provide collaboration between well, pretty much anything. Invoicing and payroll have be documented for each job site and then it has to be sent to home office. The Cloud removes the re-keying of things. HR can access that data right off the cloud. No need to submit those types documents every Friday afternoon.

So why not dig in and look at what solutions are out there that could help your business improve collaboration on your next project. From cloud based bid management and estimating solutions like Square Takeoff that helps ensure everyone from the office to the field knows what was estimated and what documents they need to view for the project, there are solutions for every task you need.

What about the Cloud?

The cloud is software and services that run on the Internet and not on a local computer. It’s not running up in the blue sky just beneath anything mystical, it has a home here on earth with a network of servers stored in multiple locations each having different functions. This network finds what you need and delivers it or stores it.

Remember how quickly something changes on the job site? The property owner called in with a last minute change to a floor plan. A bunk of lumber is now going to deliver Friday instead of Monday. Not sure which elevation was the final pick for the customer? The Cloud provides simple access and flexibility to a fast information exchange getting the whole team on the same page. Answers get found quickly; no need for a secondary set of files. It can provide collaboration between well, pretty much anything. Invoicing and payroll have be documented for each job site and then it has to be sent to home office. The Cloud removes the re-keying of things. HR can access that data right off the cloud. No need to submit those types documents every Friday afternoon.

So why not dig in and look at what solutions are out there that could help your business improve collaboration on your next project. From cloud based bid management and estimating solutions like Square Takeoff that helps ensure everyone from the office to the field knows what was estimated and what documents they need to view for the project, there are solutions for every task you need.

Great News for the Waterford Lakes Florida Area with the announcement of the ground breaking of a new freestanding emergency room.

On Sept. 13 there was a ceremony held by the nonprofit health care provider to announce the $15.6 million AdventHealth Waterford Lakes ER.

The ER will have 24 patient rooms, including two pediatric-friendly rooms; imaging technology such as CT, X-ray and ultrasound; as well as a laboratory. Orlando-based HuntonBrady Architects PA is the project architect and West Point, Ga.-based Batson-Cook Co. is the general contractor.

Location of the Waterford Lakes Freestanding ER.

The new facility is part of a growing trend in the area to build more freestanding emergency centers. The state had only 26 freestanding ERs in 2016 and that number has grown to 41, according to the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. The total count will rise to 50-plus with the Central Florida projects in the works and may go even higher, since they fulfill a strategy for hospital systems to grow revenue by bringing emergency care closer to outlying, typically affluent suburbs, where people are more likely to be able to afford health care.

The approximately 19,000-square-foot facility is expected to open second-quarter 2019 and have 300 temporary construction jobs and 100 permanent medical jobs at full buildout.

Proposed Rendering of the ER Construction Project

As of 2018 in the United States, commercial drone use has increased across many industries. In the last two years, some one million new pilots have registered with the Federal Aviation Administration, and by 2020, experts expect seven million or more drones flying the skies.

In recent reports, it was found that construction is in the top three uses for commercial drone-based services, behind aerial photography, surveying and mapping, and geographic information systems (GIS). The number of construction companies using drones will continue to increase; as new technology emerges that offers further business, value and competitive advantage over the competition.

Jobsite applications

Here are a few other use cases for drones on the construction site and for ongoing inspections:

Time lapse: Use drones to take weekly images of the structure and stitch them together into a time-lapse video.

Forward looking infrared (FLIR): Drones equipped with FLIR sensors can be used to detect energy loss or consumption or insulation defects as part of installing and inspecting HVAC.

Thermal imaging: Drones with thermal sensors can accomplish a lot on a construction site — detecting thermal hotspots, delamination, spalling and moisture intrusion are all possibilities.

Roof Estimating: With being able to capture aerial images of a roof, construction companies have found this to be extremely useful when using those images within an estimating software such as Square Takeoff. The ability to assess damage or simply to provide an accurate construction estimate of roof material for an established home provides a competitive advantage over others.

Project Marketing: With a drone, companies can achieve and capture the aerial perspective, and get results that would otherwise be impractical or impossible. This creates a competitive advantage when it comes to promoting a firm’s projects and services.

Drones only provide a value when they are in the air, so once a company makes the initial investment, it is worth it to explore as many options and drone applications as possible to maximize that investment.

The skilled labor shortage is a well-documented epidemic. As baby boomers continue to reach retirement age and the younger generations enter the workforce in stronger numbers, companies must take steps to understand how best to recruit and retain these workers — and technology can help with that.

The proliferation of construction technology not only will increase productivity, but also will positively affect the labor market when it is used effectively as a recruitment tool.

Adopting technologies to increase productivity can go hand-in-hand with helping to alleviate the effects of the labor shortage. Some construction management and general construction firm, use technology to streamline their processes by starting with tools, like cloud solutions, early in the process. That process helps team members maintain transparency in their communications throughout the project.

Technology’s ability to help close the performance gap by building smarter. Extracting data through venues like LiDAR, photogrammetry, online takeoff™ software and data sensing and visualization can help with quality control, safety tracking, site analysis, labor and material estimating and more.

Machines also are starting to do what was once uniquely human work, freeing up available people to work on other tasks. Recently Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania company recently developed a robot that can tie rebar on their many bridges, thereby cutting labor hours in half and reducing worker safety risk. Another company recently started testing an autonomous track loader that can excavate holes for building foundations 24 hours per day.

Technology, when properly implemented, can provide massive positive advancements in today’s construction industry as we can see. However, it is just a matter of how a company decides to use it.

The California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) is set to pump in $2.6B in Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) grants for transformative transit and rail projects. The body has announced 28 recipients for the funds.

The agency has allocated additional funding for seven projects via multi-year funding agreements, taking up the funding amount to excess of $4.3B. The funding will be provided from the proceeds of the Cap and Trade program through Senate Bill 1 (SB 1).

Projects funded by TIRCP will facilitate faster, more frequent, and more reliable through expanded transit and rail offerings, thus benefitting Californians. Investment is centered on key projects to augment the region in preparation for the 2028 Olympic Games. Six LA Metro expansion projects will benefit from funding, including light rail extensions to Torrance and Montclair and additional rapid transit service along corridors with more passengers.

Additional funding will be flushed in for beefing up regional commuter and intercity rail. Major investments are set to allocated for track improvements at Los Angeles Union Station.

Projects will facilitate better connections for the Bay Area. Plans are to establish the San Jose Diridon station as a Bay Area regional hub, create new Samtrans express bus routes along the congested US-101 corridor, begin new rail service to Salinas and Monterey, and arrange for Caltrain electrification.

The takeoff world has been undergoing a steady change, thanks to evolving technology. Components like cloud-prompted connectivity, digital blueprints and social media apps have made businesses more digitally driven. The cloud in particular has changed the way construction companies have worked forever.

Cloud-based takeoff is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) involving a remotely located server that you access online. You may be able to use the software on your smartphone, laptop or desktop, but the operational capability is on the remote system. As in SaaS, you pay for what you use.

Let’s see the 5 biggest advantages of using cloud-based takeoff software for construction companies:

Instant Access to Facts & Figures

Cloud software is generally platform agnostic, meaning that you can use it on virtually any computer or mobile device from any number of locations. All-pervasive connectivity has eliminated restrictions regarding access to data. This feature of software is quite helpful when you’re on a job site and want to take another look at the building plans or check the numbers from your bid. For instance, rather than calling in or driving to your office for checking the information, you can just take out your smartphone and check the difference between the previous structure(s) versus current, and make changes while in the field.

Slashing of IT Budget

Opting for cloud-based takeoff software can bring your IT budget seriously down. You no longer have to sink all of your money into high-end laptops fit to survive a job site. Instead, you can buy the same number of tablets and arrange that they work just a few minutes out of their case. Any time, SaaS service costs less than the permanent software installed right there in local machine. As SaaS providers automatically update the software for all users across the board, you don’t have to take any extra steps to be sure you’re working with the most up to date version.

Going Green

In a cloud set-up, real usage of power happens at the data center where the server and software are stored. This means lesser machines at your site (printers and other peripheral device included). Moreover, you can work out most issues without having to travel away from your office, home, or job site. Whether it’s about specs on the construction, or any specifics regarding the takeoff, you just have to pull out your smartphone or tablet and get going.

Propels Fast Growth

If your company is growing rapidly, conventional software can cause some serious troubles. For instance, if you expect your company to grow from 20 to 200, you may have to purchase as many new laptops, have the software installed and make sure it’s secured.

When using cloud-based takeoff software, you don’t have to purchase any machine most of the times as people may already have some device of their own. You just have to impart them some kind of training regarding the cloud takeoff software you’re using. Later, if you recruit more people, you just have to upgrade your software plan.

Streamlined Collaboration

Cloud-based takeoff software gives you more options when it comes to assigning tasks and deadlines to team members. You can communicate real-time with team members present at different physical locations. If you’ve queries about a particular part of a plan, simply highlight that section and leave a note rather than calling half a dozen people and zooming off to a string of job sites.

Summing Up

Any software based on cloud technology has numerous advantages. If you’re still unsure, just sign up for free trail of Square Takeoff and find out how it can make life easier for you.

NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars has joined hands with the Cordish Cos. to co-develop a $2.5 billion mixed-use district along with Iguana Investments at a site near Jacksonville NFL stadium. This development, along with the Oakland Raiders $1.8 billion stadium coming up in Las Vegas, underlines the scale of investments in sports venues across the United States.

Developed in partnership with globally renowned architecture firm Beyer Blinder Belle, the master development plan could eventually span 4.25 million square feet of top-notch dining, entertainment, retail, office, hotels and luxury living experience.

The Cordish Cos. has earned a name in sports-anchored, mixed-use developments, partnering with several professional sports franchises and media companies, of the likes of the Comcast-Spectacor, NBC Sports, Professional Bull Riders, St. Louis Cardinals, FOX Sports, Philadelphia Flyers, and Sporting KC.

No timeline has been announced for the project, but the full buildout may take decades. The site, previously used by shipyards and oil tank farms, will require cleanup of petroleum-contaminated soil along with approval from environmental regulators.

Construction estimating has come a long way since the days of onsite estimating and desktop takeoff. The new tech is now facilitating the growth of construction companies, accelerating estimation, streamlining bid management, and enabling you to bid more projects, while saving precious time and money.

In the prevailing age of cloud-based digital takeoff, your willingness to adopt new technology and getting adept to it is the key for reaching the next level as a construction business. Rather than the number of heads in your staff, it is your choice of software and the ability to use the tools to your advantage that matters.

Let’s see how cloud-based software helps you complete takeoffs in the most economic manner and with better time efficiency:

Eliminate the cost/time of printing the blueprint and subsequent calculations – Conventional takeoff requires you to use a paper blueprint. Going digital eliminates the cost associated with printing and handling of paper. You can do complex calculations such as roof/wall area in seconds. Calculation of square footage, linear footage, and item counts just needs a point-and-click with your mouse, finger or stylus.

Support to a host of digital formats – Cutting edge software enables you to work with an array of digital formats, including the most popular ones like PDF, JPEG, TIFF and BMP.

Easy uploading of files – To upload your digital files, you just have to browse to your files or drag and drop these items onto the page.

Simple scaling – Once you load your digital blueprint into the cloud and it appears on the screen, you need to set the scale of the plan. Select a dimension line or determine measurement and feed it into the software. You’re now scaled and ready for the takeoff.

Cloud-generated advantage – The cloud has taken collaboration to a completely different level. You can easily calculate basic area, linear and counts for any type of project and share it with other members/professionals in your company. Any of your professionals can drive to any site with a mobile device, make adjustments of any kind and share the changes instantly with other people involved. Team members located in different parts of the world can work in tandem with ease, bringing down the takeoff time considerably.

Support to multiple platforms – Modern technology allows you to work from Windows, Apple iOS, Android or any platform.

Identify takeoffs with ease – You can identify takeoffs easily using notes and colors.

Maintain clinical accuracy – Scale tool helps maintain clinical accuracy without requiring old-fashioned rulers.

Google Maps advantage – Google Maps integration enables you to enter any address and make the Maps display the physical location. Otherwise, you can zoom in to display the location you want and select it. You can then scale the location and takeoff.

Handle all sorts of construction trades – Such a platform is a one-stop place to handle all sorts of construction trades including general contracting, framing, roofing, concrete, asphalt, masonry, drywall, insulation, electrical, plumbing, siding, door/window, painting, flooring, and more.

It’s time you take a big step forward into a new, technology-driven future. Realize the potential of cloud-based takeoff software such as Square Takeoff.