Wendes Mechanical,Plumbing and Duct Takeoff With AI

Wendes Systems has been analyzing opportunities for AI technology to improve the speed, efficiency and accuracy for Mechanical, Piping, Plumbing and Ductwork estimating. Based on what we have seen the greatest opportunity for improvement is in facilitating takeoff speed and accuracy. Takeoff and many other functions in the estimating process require the skill and analysis by a trained estimator with industry experience to evaluate these important details:

Understand and review background bid instructions 

Analyze detailed bid documents

Define Scope of work exclusions and specifications

Evaluate design vs. construction detail

Understand the details of trade specific requirements

There are additional details for consideration but these are a few of the many areas that require evaluation during the estimating process. AI technology does offer the ability to scan images on a drawing and compile a list of items very quickly however, the techniques used are sometimes limited to image scans which can be unreliable. Image data scans which are drawn form a library of digital images are much more reliable. Both techniques offer promise. However, after scans have been completed the AI takeoff still requires review by an experienced estimator to determine that the takeoff data is complete and accurate.