Bluebeam Revu can be used throughout the process of producing a bid under the CSI division for landscaping
Estimating a Landscaping Project and Using Bluebeam Revu
Landscaping projects can vary greatly in scope and complexity, from small residential jobs to large commercial developments. Regardless of the size of the project, accurate estimating is critical to ensuring that the bid is competitive and profitable. Here is a step-by-step guide to estimating a landscaping project and using Bluebeam Revu to help streamline the process.
Step 1: Determine the Scope of Work
The first step in estimating any landscaping project is to determine the scope of work. This includes reviewing the plans and specifications provided by the owner or designer, conducting site visits, and gathering information on any special requirements or materials.
Bluebeam Revu can be used to mark up and measure the plans, add notes and comments, and collaborate with the rest of the estimating team. The measurement tools can be used to quickly and accurately calculate areas, lengths, and volumes, while the mark-up tools can be used to highlight key features or annotate special requirements.
Step 2: Divide the Work into CSI Divisions
Once the scope of work has been established, the next step is to divide the work into CSI divisions. This is a standard system used in the construction industry to classify and organize building materials and construction activities.
For landscaping projects, the relevant CSI divisions include:
Division 2: Site Construction
Division 3: Concrete
Division 4: Masonry
Division 6: Wood, Plastics, and Composites
Division 9: Finishes
Division 32: Exterior Improvements
Bluebeam Revu can be used to create bookmarks or hyperlinks to quickly navigate between different divisions, and the mark-up tools can be used to highlight or color-code items according to their CSI division.
Step 3: Create a Takeoff Spreadsheet
Once the work has been divided into CSI divisions, the next step is to create a takeoff spreadsheet. This is a detailed list of all the materials and labor required for each item in the project, organized by CSI division and sub-division.
Bluebeam Revu can be used to export the measurements to a spreadsheet format, which can then be customized and formatted according to the estimator’s preferences. The data can also be imported into other estimating software or programs to further streamline the process.
Step 4: Calculate the Quantities and Costs
With the takeoff spreadsheet complete, the next step is to calculate the quantities and costs for each item. This involves multiplying the unit prices by the quantities, taking into account any special requirements or conditions.
Bluebeam Revu can be used to apply formulas and calculations directly within the PDF, making it easy to update and modify the estimates as needed. The mark-up tools can also be used to highlight or flag any items that require additional review or consideration.
Step 5: Add Overhead and Profit
Once the quantities and costs have been calculated, the next step is to add overhead and profit to the estimate. This includes indirect costs such as labor burden, equipment rental, and general overhead, as well as a profit margin to ensure the bid is competitive and profitable.
Bluebeam Revu can be used to track and manage these costs, and to generate reports and summaries that can be used to evaluate the overall profitability of the bid.
Step 6: Review and Finalize the Estimate
Finally, the estimate should be reviewed and finalized before submitting the bid. This includes checking for accuracy and completeness, evaluating the competitiveness of the bid, and addressing any issues or concerns that may arise.
Bluebeam Revu can be used to collaborate with the rest of the estimating team, track changes andBluebeam Revu can be used throughout the process of producing a bid under the CSI division for landscaping:
Collaboration: Bluebeam Revu allows multiple team members to collaborate in real-time on the same document, which can help to streamline communication and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
Markup and measurement tools: Bluebeam Revu includes a variety of markup and measurement tools that can be used to annotate drawings, calculate areas and volumes, and track changes throughout the design process.
Quantity takeoff: Bluebeam Revu’s quantity takeoff tools can be used to quickly and accurately estimate the quantities of materials needed for a landscaping project, based on the project plans and specifications.
Cost estimation: Once the quantities have been determined, Bluebeam Revu can be used to apply unit costs to each item, and calculate the total estimated cost for the project.
Document management: Bluebeam Revu’s document management features can help to organize and track all of the project documents and revisions, ensuring that the team has access to the most up-to-date information at all times.
Overall, Bluebeam Revu can help to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the bidding process for landscaping projects under the CSI division, while also enabling better collaboration and communication among team members
