Bluebeam vs ConstructionOnline

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Our analysts compared Bluebeam vs ConstructionOnline based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Construction Management Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Product Basics

Bluebeam is a software platform designed to streamline construction workflows, particularly in the areas of project management, takeoff and estimating. It caters to a wide range of professionals in the construction industry, from architects and engineers to quantity surveyors and contractors. One of its core strengths lies in its ability to centralize and manage project documents efficiently. This includes features like real-time collaboration tools, markups and annotations, and integrated document control. Additionally, Bluebeam offers robust takeoff and estimating functionalities, enabling users to extract quantities, generate bids, and track project costs effectively. When compared to similar products, Bluebeam stands out for its user-friendly interface, collaborative features, and comprehensive set of construction-specific tools. User reviews often praise its intuitive design, efficient workflows, and ability to improve communication and coordination across teams. However, it's important to consider the pricing structure, which can be based on per-user licenses or tiered subscription plans, depending on the specific features and functionalities required.

Pros
  • Easy to use interface
  • Real-time collaboration
  • Accurate takeoff tools
  • Streamlined workflows
  • Improved communication
Cons
  • Subscription cost
  • Limited Mac support
  • Advanced features complexity
  • Minor interface quirks
  • Learning curve for beginners
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Developed by UDA Technologies, ConstructionOnline offers scheduling, estimating and project management solutions to medium- and large-sized construction companies. It helps users perform inspections by creating punch lists. It allows clients to quickly respond to RFIs and helps speed up business processes.

Users can assign and monitor tasks using Gantt charts. It enables team members to share critical documents through the TeamLink portal.
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$49/User, Monthly
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
$49/User, Monthly
Get a free price quote
Tailored to your specific needs
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Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Windows
Mac
Linux
Android
Chromebook
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile
Cloud
On-Premise
Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars
Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
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Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

  • Enhanced Collaboration: Real-time markups, shared workspaces, and centralized document storage streamline communication and feedback loops across project teams, saving time and reducing errors.
  • Improved Efficiency: Automated workflows, batch processing tools, and powerful search functionalities significantly reduce manual tasks and accelerate project delivery timelines.
  • Accurate Cost Estimation: Integrated takeoff and estimating capabilities with industry-standard tools and libraries ensure precise material calculations and bids, leading to better project budgeting and cost control.
  • Reduced Rework & Errors: Robust markup and annotation tools with version control and issue tracking minimize miscommunication and ensure everyone works on the latest information, minimizing costly rework.
  • Increased Transparency & Accountability: Centralized document management and audit trails provide clear visibility into project progress, changes, and responsibilities, fostering accountability and stakeholder confidence.
  • Optimized Field Management: Mobile apps and offline capabilities allow for seamless data access and markups on the go, improving field data collection, communication, and punch list management.
  • Scalability & Customization: Flexible licensing models and customizable toolsets cater to the needs of projects of all sizes and complexities, ensuring a scalable solution that grows with your business.
  • Data-Driven Insights: Reporting and analytics tools provide valuable insights into project performance, resource allocation, and collaboration trends, enabling data-driven decision making for future projects.
  • Enhanced Security & Compliance: Secure cloud storage, user access controls, and audit trails ensure data privacy and compliance with industry regulations.
  • Strong User Community & Support: Access to extensive online resources, training programs, and responsive technical support empowers users to get the most out of the software and address any challenges efficiently.
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  • Cloud-Based: Access, modify and share project documents with team members securely. Grant document access permissions to selected employees. 
  • Dynamic Takeoff: Measure quantities accurately using RedLine Takeoff software. Automatically assign labor and material costs using customizable costbooks. 
  • Streamlined Accounting: Integrate with QuickBooks to help create accurate estimates and reduce costly errors. 
  • Simplified Scheduling: Organize and monitor activities using Gantt charts. Keep track of upcoming events to avoid missing important meetings. 
  • Environment Friendly: Reduce carbon emissions by smoothly transitioning to an online business environment. 
  • Customizable Interface: Design online workspaces by choosing color themes and backgrounds specific to business needs. 
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  • Real-time Collaboration: Simultaneous markups and annotations with team members across various locations.
  • Centralized Document Management: Secure cloud storage and version control for all project documents.
  • Advanced Markup Tools: Diverse annotation tools like text boxes, stamps, shapes, and freehand drawings.
  • Integrated Takeoff & Estimating: Measure lengths, areas, and volumes directly from PDFs for accurate material calculations and bids.
  • Batch Processing: Automate repetitive tasks like scaling, stamping, and adding headers/footers to multiple documents.
  • Quantity Link with Excel: Synchronize takeoff data with spreadsheets for detailed cost analysis and reporting.
  • Studio Sessions: Real-time collaboration environment for markups and discussions on specific project documents.
  • Mobile Apps: View, annotate, and manage documents on the go with dedicated iOS and Android apps.
  • Dynamic Stamps: Create custom stamps with variable data fields that automatically update based on project information.
  • 2D Photo Markups: Embed and annotate photos directly within PDFs for clear visual communication.
  • Document Comparison & Overlay: Visually compare different versions of PDFs and identify changes efficiently.
  • Scripting & Automation: Create custom scripts to automate complex workflows and repetitive tasks.
  • Advanced Security: Secure cloud storage, user access controls, and audit trails ensure data privacy and compliance.
  • Openness & Integrations: Integrate with various construction management platforms and BIM software for seamless data exchange.
  • Extensive Training & Support: Access to online resources, training programs, and responsive technical support.
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  • Sales Management: Manage leads and monitor sales funnels to meet business goals. 
    • Lead Tracking: Filter leads by statuses, sources, sales representatives and more. Track activities such as meetings and outreach changes using a timeline viewer. Stay updated about potential revenue opportunities and sales workflows by creating lead pipelines. 
    • Call Logging: Document emails, text messages and conversations to keep track of communication activities. Filter call logs by projects, contacts and creators. Attach relevant documents and photos to call logs. 
    • ClientLink: Create client login pages to keep them in the loop about project statuses. Receive client inputs about change orders electronically. 
  • Financials: Monitor cash flows to keep projects on budget. 
    • Estimating: Track financial activities using dashboards. Integrate with Excel to accurately calculate job costs. Save and reuse estimates templates to help avoid workflow errors. 
    • Quantity Takeoff: Automatically overwrite existing costs to reduce expensive errors. Accurately measure volumes, counts and areas to help win bids. Generate estimates using existing takeoff templates to speed up estimating processes. 
    • Change Orders: Mitigate potential disputes to save projects from legal hassles. Allow clients to sign change orders electronically. Automatically send confirmation emails to subcontractors, suppliers and clients to keep them on the same page. 
    • Accounting Integration: Integrate with QuickBooks to eliminate redundant data entries. Import or export financial data with just a click. Securely store project files in AWS data centers. 
  • Communications: Share latest project updates using the Envoy Chat suite. Attach relevant documents and photos to chats to divulge critical information. Archive messages when jobs are completed. 
  • Schedule Management: Assign and monitor project activities to help complete projects on time. 
    • Calendar: View upcoming tasks, events and due dates to help plan ahead and keep projects on track. Integrate with Google and Outlook calendars to help keep team members updated about ongoing activities. 
    • Gantt Charts: Quickly modify schedules without manually adjusting each task using critical path functionality. Filter tasks by days, weeks or months. 
    • Time Tracking: View workers’ clock-in and -out time and location using geofencing technology. Analyze employee reports to help boost productivity levels. 
  • Project Tracking: Analyze project data to help make informed decisions. 
    • Daily Logs: Document work activities electronically to eliminate hassles of going through bundles of physical files. Automatically record weather conditions of job sites to understand reasons for delays. Record and attach photos to incidents using safety logs. 
    • Punch Lists: Organize lists by classifications, dates, phases and more. Perform inspections by creating punch lists to avoid missing out on important quality checks. 
    • Reporting: Share project reports with teams and clients to keep everyone on the same page. 
  • Planroom: Upload, markup and share project plans with team members. Automatically send notifications to workers about changes in plan sets. 
  • Document Management: Store project files securely for future references. 
    • RFI Tracking: Sort RFIs by due dates, statuses and recipients. Allow clients to respond to RFIs via email. 
    • Submittal Workflows: Opt for parallel or sequential workflows as per business requirements. Determine who’s responsible for advancing submittals by using a ball-in-court indicator. 
    • Transmittals: Send transmittals from the field or office using the mobile app. Create logs to automatically track sent items and quickly search for critical documents. 
  • Score Cards: Filter teams’ activities by employees or task types to view accurate breakdown of overall performances. View pending and overdue tasks to make sure projects are on track. 
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Product Ranking

#17

among all
Construction Management Software

#84

among all
Construction Management Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

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Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

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Bonus Management Budgeting And Forecasting Dashboard And Reporting Mobile Capabilities Mobile Capabilities Platform And Security Capabilities Platform Capabilities Reporting And Dashboards Rewards And Recognition Salary Management 100 79 98 100 91 88 84 79 100 0 25 50 75 100
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User Sentiment Summary

Excellent User Sentiment 2083 reviews
Great User Sentiment 366 reviews
93%
of users recommend this product

Bluebeam has a 'excellent' User Satisfaction Rating of 93% when considering 2083 user reviews from 5 recognized software review sites.

88%
of users recommend this product

ConstructionOnline has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 88% when considering 366 user reviews from 3 recognized software review sites.

4.4 (16)
4.4 (5)
4.5 (298)
4.5 (6)
4.68 (880)
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4.7 (778)
4.4 (355)
4.4 (111)
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Awards

Bluebeam stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

User Favorite Award

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated ConstructionOnline and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Bonus Management and Salary Management.

Bonus Management Award
Salary Management Award

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Functionality: The solution provides all the necessary tools and features required to perform quick and accurate takeoffs, according to 76% of users.
Ease of Use: According to 94% of users, the application’s user interface is slick and user-friendly. They found it easy to navigate and find desired features.
Support: About 94% of users who mentioned this pro praised the quick response and ability to solve issues quickly.
Sharing & Collaboration: Regarding this feature, approximately 80% of users said that the solution separates documents in order and exports them to a designated folder seamlessly.
PDF Viewing: According to 99% of users, the software offers an optimum PDF viewing experience that streamlines takeoff measurements.
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Centralized Communication: Streamlines communication among project stakeholders through features like instant messaging, email integration, and file sharing, reducing miscommunication and keeping everyone informed.
Improved Collaboration: Facilitates collaboration with tools for task management, scheduling, and document control, enabling teams to work together efficiently and avoid duplication of effort.
Enhanced Project Visibility: Provides real-time insights into project progress, budgets, and potential issues through dashboards and reporting tools, allowing for proactive decision-making and improved project outcomes.
Increased Efficiency: Automates routine tasks such as generating reports, sending notifications, and tracking time, freeing up team members to focus on more strategic activities.
Reduced Risk: Offers features for risk management, including change order tracking, issue management, and document version control, helping to mitigate potential problems and ensure project success.
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Speed & Performance: In spite of having top features, the solution is laggy and hangs from time to time, according to 62% of users.
Deployment: According to 76% of users, the software lacks dynamic integration capabilities with in-house systems.
Training: About 58% of users who mentioned this con said the application has a steep learning curve.
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Limited Customization: Users have expressed frustration with the lack of flexibility in customizing certain features, such as invoices and reports, to align with specific workflows or branding requirements.
Mobile App Functionality: The mobile app has received feedback regarding its limitations compared to the full desktop version. Some users find it challenging to access and manage information effectively while on the go.
Learning Curve: Due to its comprehensive feature set, ConstructionOnline can have a steeper learning curve for new users. Navigating the platform and understanding its full capabilities may require additional time and training.
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Bluebeam's user reviews in the past year paint a picture of a powerful and versatile construction software with some room for improvement. Users praise its intuitive interface, extensive PDF editing and markup features, and seamless integration with popular project management platforms. These strengths are particularly valuable for streamlining communication and collaboration across disciplines, as exemplified by a reviewer who noted how Bluebeam "eliminated the need for paper markups and endless email chains" on their project. However, some users find Bluebeam's takeoff functionalities less robust compared to dedicated takeoff software like OnCenter or PlanSwift. While Bluebeam offers basic auto-scaling and dimensioning tools, complex projects often require manual verification and lack features like real-time material cost integration. This can be a dealbreaker for users who prioritize advanced takeoff capabilities. Another point of contention is the subscription pricing model, which some users find expensive compared to perpetual licenses offered by competitors. However, others appreciate the continuous updates and access to cloud-based features that come with the subscription. Ultimately, the cost-effectiveness depends on individual needs and project scale. In conclusion, Bluebeam excels in collaboration, communication, and general PDF management for construction projects. It's a strong choice for teams seeking a user-friendly platform to streamline workflows and centralize information. However, users requiring advanced takeoff functionalities or those on a tight budget might find other options more suitable.

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ConstructionOnline receives praise for its comprehensive features, particularly its scheduling tools, which allow for efficient project management and collaboration. Users appreciate the ability to create detailed schedules, assign tasks, and track progress, ensuring projects stay on track and within budget. The software's document management capabilities are also highlighted as a strength, enabling users to store, organize, and share project documents securely. ConstructionOnline's financial management tools, including budgeting, invoicing, and expense tracking, are commended for their accuracy and ease of use. However, some users note that ConstructionOnline's interface can be overwhelming for new users due to its extensive features. The learning curve associated with the software is a common concern, as it may require additional time and effort to fully utilize its capabilities. Additionally, some users mention that the mobile app's functionality is limited compared to the desktop version, which can hinder accessibility and convenience for users on the go. ConstructionOnline distinguishes itself from competitors by offering a wide range of features within a single platform, eliminating the need for multiple software solutions. Its robust scheduling, document management, and financial tools provide a comprehensive solution for construction professionals. The software's focus on collaboration and communication is also a key differentiator, as it facilitates seamless interaction among team members, clients, and subcontractors. ConstructionOnline is most suitable for established construction companies and professionals who require a comprehensive project management solution with advanced features. Its extensive capabilities cater to the needs of larger projects and teams, providing the tools necessary for efficient project execution and collaboration.

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Screenshots

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