In the construction industry, being able to manage project documents efficiently has a significant impact on productivity and project success. Construction document control software helps streamline this process, ensuring that every stakeholder, from architects to general contractors, can access the latest version of blueprints, RFIs, submittals, and other essential project files.
By centralizing document management, these tools reduce the risks of miscommunication and errors, which are common in projects involving numerous team members and complex workflows.
Criteria for Selecting Construction Document Control Software
When choosing the right construction document management software for your team, it’s important to focus on features that meet your project’s specific needs. Effective software should enhance your workflows, increase your ability to share documents and manage revisions and permissions seamlessly across all project stages. Here are five key components to consider when choosing a document management program.
A Common Data Environment
A unified platform where all project information is stored not only helps maintain a single source of truth but also simplifies access to the latest data for all stakeholders, thereby minimizing errors and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Integration Capabilities
The best document management solutions offer robust integrations with other systems, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and various cloud storage options, facilitating a smoother project lifecycle.
User Interface and Mobile Accessibility
An intuitive user interface reduces the learning curve and enhances user adoption. Accessibility across devices ensures that project team members can view and update data from the office or construction site.
Automation and AI Integration
Automating routine tasks such as data entry, document sorting, and version control can save time and reduce human error. AI enhancements can further analyze data to predict project challenges and offer insights, which can be crucial for project management.
Autodesk Docs is part of the Autodesk Construction Cloud, seamlessly integrating with BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools and other Autodesk products. This software supports a comprehensive array of file types and offers extensive markup tools, making it a versatile choice for construction document management. Its integration capabilities guarantee that all stakeholders are working from a consistent data set, enhancing coordination and reducing errors.
Pricing: One-year subscriptions offered by Microsol Resources start at $500.
Pros:
A robust version control system tracks all revisions meticulously.
The intuitive interface simplifies the use of complex features.
Cons:
Pricing may be prohibitive for smaller firms.
A steep learning curve requires significant training for new users.
ProjectReady offers centralized project information management and integrates well with popular platforms like SharePoint, Salesforce, and other CRM software. This software centralizes project documentation, streamlining access and control over project documents across multiple platforms without the need for duplicate data entry.
Pricing: Customizable pricing is available to meet the needs of your firm. Contact ProjectReady for more information.
Pros:
Streamlines document control workflows, enhancing team collaboration.
Seamless integration with existing CRM and project management systems.
Cons:
Limited customization options in some software modules.
PandaDoc excels in document automation, particularly in the quick creation of contracts and proposals with integrated e-sign capabilities. This makes it an ideal tool for obtaining permits and approvals.
Pricing: PandaDoc offers essentials their essentials plan at $19 per month, or their business plan for $50 per month, the ideal plan for documents in bulk.
Pros:
User-friendly platform with efficient automation tools.
Reduces manual work and potential human errors.
Cons:
It is more tailored to document creation and management than detailed construction document control.
Civils.ai leverages artificial intelligence to provide insights that aid decision-making and project management for civil engineering projects. It supports real-time collaboration, allowing team members to work simultaneously on projects with immediate updates.
Pricing: Individual licenses can be purchased from Civils.ai for $250 per year. Customizable rates are also available for larger firms.
Pros:
Innovative AI usage provides predictive insights for project management.
Ideal for large-scale and complex civil engineering projects.
Cons:
Newer software versions may face integration challenges with established systems.
Cloudsfer is designed for seamless cloud data migration and management between different cloud storage services. This flexibility is particularly useful for construction professionals in the field, where data is often dispersed across various systems.
Pricing: Cloudsfer offers plans based on storage space, starting at $25 per month for 25 GB and ranging up to $250 per month for a 250 GB plan, with an added charge of $0.75 per additional GB.
Pros:
Quick setup and user-friendly interface streamline the migration process.
Cons:
Primarily focuses on data migration rather than ongoing document management.
It may not integrate as deeply with construction-specific tools like BIM software.
Primarily focused on jobsite management, FieldWire includes task scheduling, blueprint viewing, and progress tracking. It’s designed to facilitate day-to-day operations on construction sites, supporting real-time updates and communications.
Pricing: With available annual or monthly payment options, FieldWire is incredibly flexible. Basic plans are free and designed “For small teams wanting to try out Fieldwire’s core features.” Pro plans are $54 per month, business plans cost $74, and business plus accounts are available at $94 monthly.
Pros:
Mobile-first design enhances usability in field settings.
Great for real-time management and communication on Jobsites.
Cons:
Focuses less on document control and more on task and site management.
Take Control of Your Construction Documents
Selecting the right construction document control software can transform how your project operates, offering you a competitive edge over your competition. By centralizing document management, automating essential tasks, and ensuring easy access to project documents and blueprints, these tools empower construction teams to focus on the actual building aspects of a project with greater efficiency and less overhead.
When Autodesk acquired PlanGrid in 2018, it was incorporated into Autodesk Build, which brought together Autodesk’s cloud-based construction software offerings. Autodesk and PlanGrid have developed complementary construction software.
Autodesk Buildwas launched, bringing together the best of PlanGrid and Build into a single product. Easy to deploy, adopt and use, Autodesk Build unifies best-in-class features from BIM 360 and PlanGrid and adds powerful new capabilities to make information immediately available across the entire construction team.
When your renewal date approaches for your PlanGrid subscription, you now have the choice to renew your subscription with us on the Autodesk Build platform.
We can assist you and your team to transition on the Autodesk Build and the Autodesk Construction Cloud unified platform hub, add and assign users, create a sample project. You can request assistance by contacting us.
Here are some common answers to frequent questions about PlanGrid and Autodesk Build today.
What is PlanGrid?
PlanGrid lets General Contractors, Subcontractors, and owners benefit from real-time access to project plans, issues, photos, forms, and more. Autodesk Build is the next evolution of PlanGrid that lets construction professionals have all critical project information such as plans, files, issues, photos, forms, assets, RFIs, submittals, meeting minutes, schedules, and much more. Users have mobile access to Autodesk Build through the PlanGrid Build mobile application.
What is the difference between PlanGrid and Autodesk Build?
While PlanGrid users can use the side menu to link to photos, sheets, and videos, Build users can link to all of these as well as PCOs, RFIs, assets, forms, submittals, and files. Importing photos in Build also uses AI-assisted automatic tagging for easier file management.
Why should you transition from PlanGrid to Autodesk Build?
You can access project data from anytime, anywhere, all in one place. With a common data environment, you’ll work with confidence, knowing you’re looking at the most up-to-date information.
You can connect design to construction, from the office to the field. Ensure projects stay on track and improve collaboration all with a mobile-first tool that works wherever you are.
Built on the Autodesk Construction Cloudplatform, unified project, and field collaboration software connects data, workflows, and teams to maximize collaboration and drive better business outcomes. As part of Autodesk Construction Cloud, a subscription to Autodesk Build includes and is reinforced by:
Autodesk Docs – A centralized document management solution that underpins Autodesk Build’s CDE, providing users with seamless navigation and integrated workflows to create a single source of truth across the project lifecycle.
Insights – Analytics capabilities that support the ability to collect, interpret, and export project data; encompasses Construction IQ artificial intelligence to identify and mitigate risk.
Administration – Project setup tools including centralized user management and permissioning capabilities, templates, and single-sign-on.
Is PlanGrid and Autodesk Build cloud-based?
Yes, PlanGrid and Autodesk Build are both cloud-based construction management software. With all project information – sheets, files, issues, photos, forms, and much more – in the cloud, project teams have access to all critical information wherever they are.
After creating an account, you can log in to the web anytime.
To log in on mobile, download the iOS or Android open the app.
Tap Sign In on iOS and Log In on Android, and enter the same email and password that you used on the web.
How do I log in to the PlanGrid Admin Console?
The PlanGrid Admin Console is for organizational admins. If your username is designated as an Admin Console Admin, you can log in using enterprise.plangrid.com. PlanGrid’s Admin Console lets you manage your organization’s users and licenses from one convenient location. Upgrade and manage user accounts, transfer licenses as needed, and view your available licenses from your organization’s Console.
What file formats does PlanGrid support?
PlanGrid supports all PDF files. It does not currently support CAD files, but it’s pretty easy to generate PDFs from any file format.
Is PlanGrid available on iOS and Android?
Yes, PlanGrid is available on iOS, and Android. You can access it via the PlanGrid Build mobile application. You can download the app from the iOS and Google Play stores. The app is now named PlanGrid Build.
The PlanGrid desktop app helps get everyone on the same page, across any device—including Windows laptops, desktop computers, and tablets (including Surface). To get started, download the Windows App. Note the app requires Windows 10 or higher.
Where can I get support for PlanGrid?
For help with PlanGrid and to contact our support team, please visit our support site.
We can assist you and your team to transition on the Autodesk Account and the Unified Platform hub, add and assign users, and create a sample project.
How much do PlanGrid and Autodesk Build cost?
PlanGrid access is now available through Autodesk Build. Subscription and pricing information can be found below. You can also request a quote by contacting us at info@microsolresources.com.
Want to learn more about PlanGrid & Autodesk Build?
Get in touch with our team to learn more about the benefits of switching from Plangrid to Autodesk Build.
As architects, engineers, and construction pros, finding ways to enhance productivity and gain a competitive edge is essential. Autodesk Revit is an incredibly powerful BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, but its true potential shines when augmented with the right plugins.
These Revit add-ons can significantly streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks, and offer new functionalities to improve your project outcomes.
How to Install Plugins on Revit?
Before we examine the best plugins, it’s essential to know how to install them on Revit. Here’s a detailed guide divided into two categories: add-ins found in the Autodesk App Store and third-party plugins available on the Internet.
Installing Add-Ins from the Autodesk App Store
The Autodesk App Store is a convenient source for a variety of plugins specifically designed for Autodesk Revit. Here’s how to install these add-ins:
Visit the Autodesk App Store:
Open your web browser and navigate to the Autodesk App Store.
Select Revit from the list of products to filter plugins compatible with Revit.
Search for Your Desired Plugin:
Use the search bar to enter keywords related to the functionality you need.
Browse through the results and read the descriptions, reviews, and ratings to ensure the plugin meets your requirements.
Download and Install:
Click on the desired plugin to open its detail page.
Select the “Download” button and follow the on-screen instructions to download the installer.
Run the installer and follow the prompts to complete the installation. To avoid installation issues, ensure you have administrative rights on your computer.
Restart Revit:
Some plugins require you to restart Revit before the changes take effect. Close and reopen Revit to ensure the plugin is integrated correctly.
Installing Third-Party Plugins Sourced from the Internet
There are numerous third-party plugins available online that can enhance Revit’s functionality. Here’s how to install these plugins:
Identify Reputable Sources:
To avoid security risks, download plugins from reputable sources. Some trusted websites include the developer’s official site or well-known software repositories like GitHub.
Download the Plugin:
Visit the website where the plugin is hosted.
Locate the download section and select the version that is compatible with your Revit version.
Download the installer file to your computer.
Install the Plugin:
Run the downloaded installer file.
Follow the installation prompts, ensuring you read any specific instructions or requirements. You might need to specify the path to your Revit installation or agree to license terms.
Some plugins might require you to manually copy files into Revit’s add-ins directory. In such cases, refer to the plugin’s documentation for detailed steps.
Restart Revit:
After installation, restart Revit to ensure the new plugin is properly loaded and available for use.
Enscape is a real-time rendering and virtual reality plugin that integrates seamlessly with Revit. It allows you to visualize your projects instantly, offering an immersive experience that can help you catch design issues early and make informed decisions. Enscape’s real-time rendering capability means you can make changes in Revit and see them reflected instantly in your 3D views.
Dynamo is an open-source visual programming platform that allows Revit users to easily automate tasks, manipulate data, and create complex geometry. It extends Revit’s functionality, enabling users to create custom workflows and automate repetitive tasks. With Dynamo, you can enhance your Revit model by generating intricate forms, optimizing structural elements, and managing data more efficiently.
V-Ray for Revit is a high-quality rendering plugin known for its photorealistic outputs. It provides powerful tools to create stunning visuals directly from your Revit model. V-Ray’s robust features include advanced lighting, materials, and textures, making it a favorite among architects and designers looking to produce top-notch visualizations.
pyRevit is a free and open-source plugin that significantly boosts productivity by providing a set of tools to automate various Revit tasks. It includes features for batch processing, data management, and enhancing Revit’s user interface. pyRevit’s flexibility and the ability to create custom scripts make it a powerful tool for any Revit user looking to streamline their workflow.
Ideate Software offers multiple Revit add-ons, ready to save you hours. BIMLink facilitates bidirectional data exchange between Revit and Excel, enabling you to manage your Revit data using spreadsheets and edit it in bulk. If you ever wanted to automate monotonous tasks like generating workflows or exporting PDF, Ideate Automation might be the solution you’re looking for. You can even audit your models with Ideate Explorer, ensuring they are error-free and in compliance with standards.
How to Delete Revit Add-Ons?
Sometimes, you might need to remove a plugin that’s no longer useful. You can delete Revit add-ons by following the following four steps:
Launch Revit
Click on the ‘Add-Ins’ tab in Revit’s ribbon.
Select the ‘Manage Add-Ins’ option.
Locate the add-in, right-click, and choose “Uninstall.” Follow the prompts to remove it from Revit.
Boost Accuracy and Productivity with Revit Plugins
Integrating the right plugins into your Revit workflow can significantly improve productivity and project quality. Enscape, Dynamo, V-Ray, pyRevit, and Ideate Software each offer unique functionalities that can help you visualize, automate, and manage your BIM projects more effectively.
Whether you’re looking to create photorealistic renderings or enhance data management, these plugins are invaluable tools for any Revit user. Check out these options to streamline your workflows and take your Revit projects to the next level.
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