Likelihood to Recommend I think most of the reasoning was just provided on the previous pros and cons questions. On-Screen Takeoff (OST) is well suited for doing either quick takeoffs or getting into an elaborate, detailed takeoff. All though the viewing tools are quick and easy, I would still very much prefer using BlueBeam for looking through an overall set of drawings. With all of the hyperlink and bookmark functions of BlueBeam, OST doesn't compare and I rarely use OST unless I'm actually doing a takeoff.
Read full review For drawing plumbing where you are usually not needing any kind of taps it does really well. Once you become familiar with it, you can draw underground really quickly. Their water closet carrier families are great! Being able to draw a restroom skid with such a high level of detail is a definite plus. Also, being able to create point files easily since their hangers, floor drains, and cleanouts have the points embedded in them. For a small BIM department I think Trimble SysQue is a good option. They manage the database and you can send a request in for more content if it is needed. For larger BIM departments or people that are doing cloud spooling with Stratus or MSuite it becomes more problematic especially on the mechanical side with needing to use taps and the functionality of them being less than stellar. Larger BIM departments are usually able to have a person manage their database internally and that helps keep the content parameters consistent. Most MEP Fabrication content that I have used does very well with taps and the piping is able to be run quickly and does not need to be processed.
Read full review Pros The biggest thing for me is that it is so easy to use, which allows it to be used widely throughout our organization without a lot of intense training. Another great thing is that it does not matter how big or little the scope of the take off may be, it works just as well for a whole 12 story building take off as it does for a stretch of sidewalk. Read full review It allows Contractors to use Revit with Spooling functions. The database of millions of native Revit Families. Excellent support from Trimble. Read full review Cons It would be nice if you could select an object that occurs on multiple sheets, copy, and paste it into change orders or alternates. If you could search for where a certain condition is being used (which sheet) and go directly to that page or pages, that would be cool. Read full review The ability to erase points that have been written to a TFL file would be a great addition. Fitting to fitting placement can act up from time to time. I think that the spooling can continue to improve. Read full review Likelihood to Renew It provides invaluable communication, organization, and flexibility to generate a project overview both visually and by the numbers. In addition to the overview it makes getting into the project details easy and quick, so our takeoff is accurate and correct every time
Read full review Usability On Screen Takeoff is a valuable tool for what it does. Across the board it can keep track of the critical data and corresponding values without extra legwork. While powerful, it is prone to user error, and the problem can compound quickly if not realized up front. Overall a great project tool, but not without limitations
Read full review Support Rating I have had very few issues with the software which is probably the first sign that there is a good customer support team, since I am sure they are working and fixing problems for everyone when they get a report from somewhere. The few times I have had to reach out to support they have been knowledgeable and on top of helping me quickly get my issues resolved.
Read full review Implementation Rating Implementation was as simple as setting up the program and creating databases. Everything else was already in use and this was a supplement to the final organization of the system
Read full review Alternatives Considered Being able to train individuals in a single afternoon on the program and trusting them to get you something usable as soon as possible is quite invaluable. It is also something that I feel is unique to this program. It is just easier.
Read full review Benchmark Fabrication MEP
Read full review Return on Investment The software has more than paid for itself because the company has been able to save lots of money when awarding to subs since it is easy to verify quantities to qualify their bids. Less of a chance of under-ordering products since the visible audit trail improves accuracy. Also you spend less since you aren't ordering more than you should be. Read full review It has allowed us to produce high level detailed models It gives us the ability to produce point files that aid in a speedier layout process for the field. Read full review ScreenShots