How Do You Create and Use Takeoff Pads in Accubid Anywhere?
Takeoff pads provide an organized way to present the items and assemblies an estimator uses during takeoff.
A good takeoff pad isn’t simply a collection of buttons.
It should make common estimating selections fast and predictable.
Organize Around Actual Estimating Work
The most useful takeoff structure follows the way estimators encounter systems on drawings.
That might include areas such as:
· Branch conduit and wire
· Medium Voltage Work
· Feeders
· Devices
· Lighting
· Equipment connections
· Low voltage
· Site work
· Specialty systems
The exact organization matters less than whether an estimator can quickly understand where something belongs.
Put Frequent Selections Within Easy Reach
If something is used hundreds of times during an estimate, don’t bury it.
Frequently used installations should generally require the least navigation.
Less common and specialty installations can live deeper in the structure.
This sounds minor until you multiply unnecessary clicks by thousands of takeoff selections.
Consistency Matters
Takeoff pads can also reinforce company standards.
Instead of users independently searching the database and choosing different assemblies for the same work, a thoughtfully designed takeoff structure directs them toward established selections.
That makes the database easier to train, easier to use, and easier to maintain.
Don’t Turn the Takeoff Pad Into a Junk Drawer
As databases evolve, there is a temptation to keep adding selections wherever there happens to be room.
Eventually nobody knows where anything belongs.
Periodically review the structure.
Remove obsolete selections. Consolidate duplicates. Keep naming consistent. Put new content where another estimator would logically expect to find it.
A good takeoff pad should feel obvious.
If experienced estimators constantly have to ask where things are located, the organization probably needs work.
