I use OST for lath and plaster takeoffs, which can be very detailed and have a lot of different components. One of the most useful features is the ability to have a quantity two and quantity three all in one condition, it is efficient and leaves my takeoff looking clean and easy for the field to understand. Using the layers feature is also helpful in isolating certain aspects of my takeoff so I can check their accuracy quickly and provide specific material layouts to the field. Overall, my takeoffs can be extremely accurate, which allows for me and my team to know our exact costs and manipulate profit margins to land jobs and stay profitable in the process. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.
There aren't many downsides to using OST, although there are some features that I think can be improved. One of the things that impacts me the most is the measurement tool's tendency to auto-snap to measurements and other linear condition takeoffs on an elevation. For example if I am trying to measure a building height in order to figure out a hidden wall's height the measurement will snap into a bunch of different sections because I also have an expansion joint takeoff where I am trying to measure. While I did reach out to OST and request a feature, no progress has been made and the only solution I was offered was to turn all my other layers off. I think another feature that could be useful in saving time is an auto-scale feature, currently we rename and rescale all our plan sets. I know the technology is out there, it just hasn't yet made it to this program, I think in that regard OST is a little behind. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.
Thank you for such a detailed review and for sharing how you use OST for lath and plaster takeoffs, especially with Quantity 2/3 and layers to keep things clean for the field and accurate for your team. It’s also great to hear that ongoing updates, quick answers through our help resources, and the in‑person training have made a real difference for you and your team.
On the measurement behavior, you’re right that auto‑snap can sometimes get in the way when you’re working on detailed elevations or trying to measure behind other linear takeoff. You can reduce some of that behavior by adjusting or disabling Snap Angle in the Options menu, but today, linears are still designed to break when drawn over other linears, and there isn’t a setting to fully turn that off yet. Our product team is actively looking at improvements to measurement tools based on feedback like yours. On auto‑scale, we agree this is an important time‑saver: Takeoff Boost already includes auto‑scale for many plan sets, so we’re working to close that gap you’ve called out. Thanks again for your review, Angelina!
