BIM takeoff software is a digital solution for measuring and extracting quantities from a BIM model. A BIM model is a 3D representation of a building project that includes visual representations and key data about every aspect of the project, allowing for agile and accurate decision-making.

What makes these solutions so valuable today is that they significantly enhance quantity takeoff and estimating through automation, saving time on manual calculations and reducing the risk of errors that can affect the entire project later on. A professional BIM takeoff platform, like RIB CostX, also enhances communication between different stakeholders. With BIM, project data is visualized and managed in a common environment, making it easy to collaborate. BIM also boosts productivity and efficiency as all teams work based on the same information, preventing reworks caused by disconnection.

There are two main differences between 2D and BIM takeoff: the data source and the method. 2D takeoff is the traditional method, where the estimator or quantity surveyor manually extracts information directly from 2D drawings and blueprints in a paper or digital format. While many software solutions have digitized 2D takeoff, the process still heavily relies on time-consuming manual tasks that can be subject to errors.

On the other hand, BIM takeoff extracts data from a 3D model containing detailed information about every aspect of the building. This allows users to automatically extract quantities with a high degree of accuracy, saving hours of time and helping prevent the risk of manual errors. Plus, a 3D BIM model can provide additional precise information about the properties of certain components for quality assurance purposes, making the entire project more accurate and profitable.

That said, 2D takeoff is not going anywhere, and software providers must offer capabilities to integrate 2D and BIM takeoff into a single solution. RIB CostX does just that, and offers advanced 2D takeoff features and support for multiple file formats (including 2D sketches, PDF files, 2D CAD, and more), helping to boost efficiency.

With BIM technology, the estimating process is more automated, making it up to five times faster than before. While the time-saving benefits are greatly appreciated, the most significant benefit of BIM takeoff tools for estimating is improved accuracy. Construction cost estimation has been done manually with a scale ruler and calculator for decades, and no matter how experienced the QS or estimator is, manual errors or inconsistencies can happen. The most concerning thing is that these errors can go unnoticed and cause rework, leading to delays and budget overruns, which can affect the project’s profitability.

This issue is eliminated using professional BIM cost estimating software, which allows you to automatically extract the necessary information directly from the model, significantly enhancing the accuracy of estimates. Paired to that, the information provided by the model is quite detailed which allows for better cost control and overall resource management.

With so many solutions in the market, choosing the right quantity takeoff software for your specific needs is not easy. The first thing you should do before investing in any software is to think about your goals and objectives, as these might influence your end decision. That being said, there are some key features that industry-leading solutions should offer. These are:

• Integration of 2D and 3D takeoff: A centralized platform to simultaneously work with 2D and 3D files. This prevents errors, saves a lot of time, and ensures you always have the capacity to take on any projects.
• BIM Support: Support of BIM files to take advantage of faster, smarter & more accurate quantity takeoff and overall efficiency for the entire project lifecycle.
• Revisions Tracking: This feature maintains an audit trail of any design changes or revisions to ensure transparency and analyze the effects of each change.
• Collaboration features: Professional quantity takeoff software should allow users to work simultaneously on drawings, takeoff, and estimating. This solves the ever-pressing issue of communication in construction projects while boosting productivity.
• Live-Linked Spreadsheets: This feature links spreadsheet-based workbooks to drawings and their cost database, consolidating all necessary information for estimates in one place. This feature also allows teams to understand the impact of design changes on project costs.
• Cloud-based environment: Cloud-based construction software allows you to access your project data from any device and location; you only need an internet connection. This level of accessibility is highly appreciated in the building industry, as stakeholders often work from multiple locations.