In short:
The preconstruction process is key to success in construction. But it also involves repetitive tasks that take up time. ConstructConnect® is fixing that with Takeoff Boost™. This AI-powered tool helps teams work faster and smarter.
But we didn’t do it alone. To make sure we’re solving real-world problems, we created the Takeoff Champions Program. This initiative invites customers to actively shape the development of Takeoff Boost.
Today, we highlight ConstructConnect customer Raal Alkass, a proud Takeoff Champion and preconstruction leader at Central Ceilings. Below, he shares how AI and Takeoff Boost are transforming his work.
Takeoff Boost is an AI-powered feature integrated in On-Screen Takeoff®. It helps save time on takeoff tasks such as measuring, counting, and creating conditions. That means estimators who use it can focus on bidding and winning jobs instead of spending hours on repetitive work.
Join the program today to shape AI tools, access early updates, and get personalized training and support. Takeoff Boost acts as a catalyst for smarter preconstruction,” says Raal. “By automating repetitive tasks, it allows our team to shift focus from production-mode estimating to higher-value activities—like engaging with clients early, understanding their goals, and shaping meaningful solutions during the design phase. It’s about moving away from being a bid factory and toward being a true project partner from the outset.”
To build a takeoff tool that truly meets customer needs, our team wanted to involve the people using them every day. That’s why the Takeoff Champions Program was launched in March 2024. This program gives construction professionals, like Raal, the opportunity to collaborate directly with our product managers, engineers, and designers to improve Takeoff Boost.
Takeoff Champions take part in one-on-one feedback sessions where they share their feedback, highlight issues, and test updates. They also get access to early designs, beta features, roadmap reviews, and hands-on training from our team.
Why did we do this? Because hearing from customers like Raal helps us see their daily challenges. This makes it possible to create solutions that truly make a difference.
“When the team first approached me about joining Takeoff Champions, I was excited to get involved,” said Raal. “Leading preconstruction at Central , I’m always looking for ways to think outside the box—and the use of AI in takeoffs really caught my interest. Why spend time on tedious estimating tasks when we have technology that can do it for us?”
He added, “AI isn’t here to replace jobs—it’s here to make us better at them. With Takeoff Boost, estimators can handle more bids, serve more clients, and win more work by improving the tools they already use every day. Everyone should see AI as a tool to help them evolve, not as a threat. At Central, ‘Evolve’ is one of our core values. Embracing change, improving processes, and staying ahead of the curve is part of who we are. If you lean into that mindset, AI can elevate your work and give you a serious edge."
Raal also shared how Takeoff Boost is helping bridge the gap between older and younger generations in construction. With Millennials and Gen Z entering the workforce, preconstruction leaders need to use technology that matches the expectations of these newer generations.
“When bringing on a new estimator, I want them using the latest and greatest software,” Raal explained. “At Central, we’re heavily invested in adopting cutting-edge technology, and tools like Takeoff Boost are a big part of that. I don’t have to rely on extensive training. AI handles a lot of the detailed work where junior estimators might otherwise struggle. That means less time spent checking, shadowing, and second-guessing. It gives you the confidence to trust new estimators with bigger and more complex jobs, sooner.”
Takeoff Champions have already made a difference. For example, their feedback led to smarter net area takeoffs and better wall accuracy, saving users time and fixing errors.
Raal encourages others to embrace AI tools, "So much has changed with AI in just the last three years. While there’s value in experience and proven methods, we’ve found that blending them with new tools keeps us competitive and future-ready.”
He adds, “We’ve seen real impact. Our team bids faster, makes fewer mistakes, and has more time to think strategically. AI didn’t take over our jobs; it took over the grunt work.”
His words highlight why construction professionals must keep up with innovations. Tools like Takeoff Boost allow teams to work faster and with better accuracy.
The old saying, “time is money,” is especially true in preconstruction. Takeoff Boost can cut your estimating time by up to 40%. This gives teams more time to focus on building strong client relationships and creating successful bid strategies.
“Takeoff Boost really adds value, especially on projects where you need a quick, high-level snapshot of the budget,” Raal said. “It helps clients make faster decisions and brings us to the table early in the process. That early clarity aligns perfectly with how we approach projects at Central—through leveraging AI technology along with VDC and prefab planning that saves time and drives smarter outcomes. It also allows for stronger collaboration with clients and design teams right from the start.”
The benefits aren’t just limited to speed. Better efficiency leads to higher profits and improved project results. This makes Takeoff Boost a valuable tool for companies of all sizes.
The Takeoff Champions Program isn’t just about evaluating a product. It’s about shaping the future of preconstruction and the tools estimators use every day to meet their needs.
By joining the program, you’ll:
Join the Takeoff Champions Program today and help us build the future of preconstruction. Email us at takeoffchampions@constructconnect.com to get started!
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