Faster, Smarter Estimates with ArcSite Takeoff Estimating Software

Introduction

For trade professionals—from fence installers to foundation experts—accuracy isn't just about precision in craftsmanship. It's about trust, profitability, and efficiency, beginning with the first project estimate. So why still rely on outdated methods or underpowered solutions that fall short on the job? Takeoff estimating software represents a new standard in the industry, bridging the gap between on-paper blueprints and complex project management software. 

Why Takeoff Estimating Software Matters

In the high-stakes world of trade professionals, accuracy in project estimation is essential. Miscalculations mean material waste, project delays, and, consequently, profit loss. 

Inefficiency is another one of the main culprits of the construction industry's notorious cost and schedule overruns—issues tied to its low productivity, which has risen by only 1% annually over decades. Increasing productivity through digital tools, streamlined project management, and offsite prefabrication could potentially save $1.6 trillion globally, according to McKinsey.

The same source highlights whooping 98% of megaprojects that face delays and/or cost overruns, with just a slightly shorter percentage of cost increase: 80% of the original value.

A study by PMI found that over 30% of the projects fall behind due to a piecemeal communication network; while according to Autodesk, almost 50% of construction professionals report spending too much time on non-optimal activities such as fixing errors and looking for project data.

Takeoff estimating software minimizes these risks with digital tools that handle every aspect of the process—from drawing precise plans on-site to teamwork, databases, creating assemblies, and even sending final bids.

An optimal tool goes beyond basic calculations and equips you with the confidence to bid faster, make more informed project decisions, and maintain client trust. ArcSite, a leader in this space, offers all features essential for industry alignment.

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What to Expect from Takeoff and Estimating Software

Let's look at what makes a top-tier estimating takeoff software—and why ArcSite stands out as a top choice.

[fs-toc-omit]Precision and Accuracy in Drawing and Calculations

Accurate takeoff and estimating software must allow users to create detailed plans that take real-world dimensions into account. Even minor measurement errors can snowball into significant cost and time overruns. With ArcSite, you can draw exact dimensions down to 1/64 of an inch, ensuring that the entire plan, from foundation measurements to trim details, is correct.

ArcSite also integrates with popular laser measurement devices such as the Bosch Laser Measure. That means it captures real-world measurements, in real time. Thanks to the software's Bluetooth integration with these devices, every inch and angle is precisely recorded and immediately incorporated into the floor plan. 

For professionals working on-site, this technology asset offers an unmatched level of confidence: it minimizes human error and maximizes efficiency. 

[fs-toc-omit]Assemblies: Simplifying Complicated Bids

Complex projects require multiple materials and components. That's why good takeoff estimating software should be able to streamline the bidding process by grouping items and calculating their associated costs. 

ArcSite's assemblies feature allows you to create product collections and calculate costs quickly based on the project's scope, area, or specific dimensions. We talk about saving significant time on repetitive estimating processes. Whether a complete fencing package with posts, rails, and fasteners or a comprehensive flooring project with all layers factored in, ArcSite automates the operation and ensures nothing is missed.

[fs-toc-omit]Integration with Mobile Drawing Tools

Fieldwork requires tools that travel seamlessly. ArcSite estimating takeoff software is designed specifically for mobile use and real-time drawing adjustments from any job site. Available on iPad and Android tablets, the ArcSite app lets you update floor plans, capture new measurements, and annotate directly from your mobile device.

Unlike many estimating platforms that require a stable internet connection, ArcSite's offline capabilities also let you work without Wi-Fi. This is a vital feature for those operating in remote or indoor sites with limited connectivity. 

[fs-toc-omit]Collaboration and Real-Time Updates

The construction and trades industries rely heavily on team communication. High-quality takeoff estimating software should, therefore, offer robust collaboration features. The goal is to keep all team members, from the site manager to the accounting department, informed and up-to-date.

ArcSite supports real-time teamwork where multiple users can view, edit, and share plans at the same time. Changes made in the field are directly accessible to office teams. Likewise, adjustments from the project manager at headquarters can be seen by field teams without delay.

The benefits are:

• Eliminated lag time associated with manual updates, phone calls, or physical plan revisions.
• Enhanced multiple project cohesion.
• Reduced errors from missed updates.

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[fs-toc-omit]Digital Estimates, Approvals, and Instant Client Buy-In

Creating accurate, professional estimates is fundamental, but equally important is the ability to get them approved quickly. With ArcSite, contractors can generate digital estimates directly from drawings, seamlessly transitioning from visualization to numbers. And once the calculation is ready, you can send it to clients electronically for instant approval. No need for manual paperwork and extended turnaround time.

ArcSite estimating takeoff software also supports e-signatures, allowing clients to sign off on proposals from any location. For tradespeople looking to close deals on-site, this capability means fewer back-and-forth communications and more deals signed on the spot. 

[fs-toc-omit]Materials Lists and Takeoffs: From Plan to Purchase

A standout feature of ArcSite is its ability to generate material lists based on drawn plans, a feature that saves hours of manual labor. By linking every line and measurement on a plan to the necessary materials, the application allows contractors to produce accurate takeoff lists with ease. That includes materials, quantities, and associated costs, all automatically calculated from the project's dimensions.

This automated takeoff process reduces the chance of error, ensuring that orders contain precisely what the project requires, without excess. In addition, these lists are formatted for easy reference; designed to streamline material ordering and inventory management.

Learn more about ArcSite's Takeoff features

[fs-toc-omit]Financial Management and Third-Party Integrations

Beyond estimating and drawing, ArcSite offers financial tools that make project management easier for contractors. Integration with accounting platforms like QuickBooks means seamless financial tracking, from estimate to payment. The app also supports online payments and client financing options so that you can offer flexible payment plans to clients directly from the estimate.

ArcSite's open API enables integration with other essential tools, from CRMs to scheduling software, as a holistic solution that connects every part of the project. Without redundancy and manual data entry, everyone involved can focus on what they do best.

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Real-World Benefits in Action

ArcSite has proven its value across a range of trades. Aluminum cladding installers, among others, report significant workflow improvements when using the takeoff estimating software to generate and update complex project plans on the fly.

Dan Bartlem, owner of Aluminum Cladding Installations, transformed his business by adopting ArcSite's takeoff estimating software. Before ArcSite, Dan's workflow was hampered by manual measurements, paper-based drawings, and limited communication tools.

This was his first impression after the trial period: "There are other apps I could use [to mark up PDFs], but with ArcSite, I can take precise measurements and mark up, all in one app. It's efficient." 

[fs-toc-omit]Swift Estimates with Confidence

Dan's scope of work involves a considerable degree of measuring and calculations. Typically, a client provides a PDF of the site plan, but the situation on the site itself often differs from the drawings. 

Using ArcSite's tools—which he describes as working "spot-on"—he performs the necessary estimations directly in the app, often on-site, adjusting the quote before providing it to a potential client. He also shares with them the sketches drawn with Apple Pencil straight on his iPad—a process he describes as much faster and more intuitive than his previous desktop-based tools.

[fs-toc-omit]Growing Business With New Prospects

The takeoff and estimating software's flexibility inspired Dan to expand his offerings: "ArcSite has given me the opportunity to take on more jobs. Before, I would have looked at a job site and said, 'I can't do this. I'm sorry.'"

His advanced business plan includes the integration of CNC machines. Drawing directly in ArcSite and exporting precise specifications made it possible to cut and produce custom parts tailored to specific job requirements. In fact, the measurements Dan takes are so detailed that he's left with an exact rendering of a panel. He can save the shape and export it to a CAD format compatible with a CNC machine, rather than writing the program himself.

For more on Dan's experience with the ArcSite estimating takeoff software, check out the full case study.

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Ready to Transform Your Takeoff Process?

ArcSite offers a powerful, easy-to-use solution that transforms how trade professionals bid and execute projects. For contractors looking to improve accuracy, efficiency, and client satisfaction, ArcSite provides everything needed to move from initial estimate to final payment without interruption.

See how ArcSite's takeoff estimating software can work for your jobs. Schedule a Demo today to experience faster, smarter estimating firsthand.

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