I've started using a Pocket PC (HP iPAQ) with an excel spreadsheet when I do takeoffs. It's my illegitimate version of some of the "high end" estimator software tha's out there. Took a few days to get all the parts & cost data in, but it's a lot easier than the old paper method.
Of course, I modifeid the arrangement of items, so my most used are at the top of the sheet... it sounds like that might be your problem. If you have to dig for something you use all the time, it's not very efficient. See if you can re-engineer the forms to fit your method.
(Example for your boss - would you store your Kliens under your 4" hydraulic conduit punch box? How about keeping your sawzall behind the rolls of 2" Flex? Keep the things you use handy - saves time, keeps everybody happy)
Of course you boss still reserves the right to tell you to grab a buss, but at least you tried.
