Active Takeoff Reviews

Pros

I tested several other companies, and this is the one I chose. It's very easy to use, with a simple interface but still very powerful, and there are many features I haven't explored yet. This is not software specific to any trade.

Cons

I don't have any issues. I think this product is unbeatable for the value and what it provides.

Pros

It's easy and light. It's quick for basic use but has more complex options if needed.

Cons

I miss some functions that I was used to from other software.

Pros

Importing plans from PDFs into the software is incredibly intuitive. Active Takeoff lets me quickly start the plan takeoff process. I can take a bid set from a main contractor and give a price quote in half the time it takes with some of the more elaborate and costly "industry standard" software.

Cons

I have to manually input the pricing for materials. Although there's an import function, none of my suppliers support the format Active Takeoff uses. It takes a few extra minutes to update prices or add a new device.

Pros

Taking off for the products we represent is quite simple. The software simplifies the process, making it easier to accurately measure and assess the items we work with. This ease of use enhances our efficiency and helps streamline our workflows significantly.

Cons

The final takeoff quantities could be a bit easier to read.

Pros

It is easy to use. Getting started with this software is very easy. The customer service is fantastic.

Cons

I would really benefit from having a wider variety of templates available, including specific ones like Square Yards. This would enhance the flexibility of the software and allow me to handle different types of projects more efficiently.

Pros

I called for support today and spoke to the original designer of the software from 2014. I discovered I was among the first 20 customers in the US. I couldn't be happier with the software and the customer service. It's incredible.

Cons

I haven't found any issues; it works great once you set up your formulas.

Pros

PDF plans can be uploaded and converted for measuring.

Cons

Overall, it's a great program. I had some trouble figuring out the scale. It could be more intuitive.

Pros

USING THIS SOFTWARE IS SIMPLE, IMPORTING PLANS IS EASY, EXPORTING TO EXCEL IS EASY, IT'S FUN TO USE, AND VERY ACCURATE.

Cons

NONE AS OF YET NO REAL CONS FOR NOW I FIND IT REALLY SIMPLE TO USE.

Pros

The simplicity of use and the excellent backup service are impressive.

Cons

Nothing so far.

Pros

This software is so smoothto use, and the results are precise. I actually enjoy doing take-offs now. It transformed from a tedious task into something easy and enjoyable.

Cons

Nothing. I haven't found any shortcomings.

Pros

The software's intuitiveness is incredible. I didn't need many tutorials and figured out most of what I could do by just experimenting.

Cons

One thing missing is joist estimation for construction. We managed to work around it with the available tools, but it would be great if it could handle that too.

Pros

I love how easy it is to use the software. I tried many programs before this one, but this one offered the best value, was the easiest to learn, and was most transparent when translating to clients.

Cons

My main issue is with routing the paths of the files. I've had to switch computers a few times, and transferring the license and files can be tricky without my company's tech support.

Pros

We are a QS firm based in Western Australia. We've used nearly all the takeoff tools available. Active Takeoff provides a clean measuring tool with definable markups and a legend on each page, clearly indicating each item. There are tools for adjusting measurements, and the support is excellent. Queries are answered in clear language and promptly. This is crucial for us.

Cons

Nothing specific stands out. We're still getting used to the estimating side, but nothing has come up that would make us hesitant to commit.

Pros

The professional results achievable with this program are unmatched.

Cons

I'd like to see a broader range of color options available.

Pros

It was the only software where I could immediately start estimating.

Cons

The lack of framing extensions is a downside. I have to count joists outside the program, and it's a bit limited for framing, which is what I needed.

Pros

It's very simple to use and understand without any prior knowledge of this software. The extension features speed up the takeoff process.

Cons

It's excellent for basic trades, but it doesn't yet cover more niche trades.

Pros

The ease of use and functionality make finding square footage so much simpler than traditional takeoffs.

Cons

When taking off wall types that use the same paint but have different lengths, there's no easy way to use the same colors under one name.

Pros

I watched all the tutorial videos first and read the 'help' section for relevant areas related to my type of estimating. With that preparation, I found the software easy to use and set up. Once set up, gathering information was straightforward. I mostly did house frame estimations and could complete a full frame takeoff in about an hour. Proper setup was crucial.

Cons

The report process could be improved. Printing the PDF version used a lot of paper, and there was no way to adjust line spacing or fonts. A simple house frame ended up being 15-30 pages.

Pros

The 90-degree angle feature for lineal takeoffs, the "panoramic" cursor for viewing the sheet, and the colors, symbols, and keys for marking areas are fantastic. Everything can be printed locally or emailed.

Cons

It only operates on PC (no iOS interface) and requires a 28-key code for remote access. Reports don't allow for Deductions from the total square or linear feet.

Pros

Its ease of use and the customizable scale feature are great.

Cons

The initial cost per license is high. I think after paying the large upfront amount, additional user licenses should be more affordable.