Course Code: CENG-05
Goal: Learn how to integrate CUBE with Bluebeam, using standardized takeoff workflows to streamline estimate creation from project drawings.

Session Overview

Duration: 1 Hour
Format: Instructor-led (via Microsoft Teams or in-person)
Level: Intermediate
Resources Provided:

• How to Work with Bluebeam.
• Bluebeam Tool Chest Setup Guide.
• Sample Marked-Up Plan.
• CUBE Takeoff Import Walkthrough.
• Takeoff to Estimate Mapping Sheet (Template)
  

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand how Bluebeam complements CUBE in the estimating workflow.
• Set up the Bluebeam Tool Chest for consistent, accurate takeoffs.
• Export structured data from Bluebeam to prepare for import into CUBE.
• Create a new estimate based on Bluebeam markup data.
• Align estimating practices between engineering, sales, and operations teams
  

Session Agenda

5.1 Understanding the Relationship Between Bluebeam and CUBE

This section introduces the overall workflow integration between Bluebeam and CUBE. Participants will learn how the visual takeoff process in Bluebeam directly supports structured estimate creation in CUBE.

Topics Covered:

• Role of Bluebeam in performing accurate, annotated quantity takeoffs.
• How exported data is translated into CUBE systems and quantities.
• Benefits of integration:
  
• Eliminates double entry.
• Enhances estimation accuracy with drawing-linked data.
• Accelerates estimate creation with data-driven inputs.
• Improves traceability between plans and proposals
  

5.2 Setting Up the Bluebeam Tool Chest

Tool Chest setup is essential for consistent symbol usage across projects. This segment focuses on creating and maintaining a company-standard toolset in Bluebeam.

Topics Covered:

• Introduction to the Bluebeam Tool Chest and its purpose.
• Creating custom symbols for typical estimate items 
• Assigning custom properties (labels, quantities, categories) to each symbol.
• Organizing the Tool Chest for quick use by estimators and engineers.
• Best practices for sharing Tool Chests across teams and projects.
• Maintaining version control and updates to Tool Chest libraries.

5.3 Exporting a Takeoff from Bluebeam

This portion demonstrates how to extract actionable data from a marked-up PDF plan using Bluebeam Revu.

Topics Covered:

• Performing a basic takeoff using the Tool Chest on a floor plan.
• Reviewing the markup list and filtering by item type or category.
• Exporting the markup list to a compatible format (CSV, XML, or PDF summary)
• Naming conventions for exported files to ensure traceability.
• Preparing the exported file for CUBE import—cleaning, categorizing, and validating quantities
  

5.4 Creating a New Estimate Using Bluebeam Takeoff

Participants will walk through creating a new estimate in CUBE using the exported Bluebeam takeoff data.

Topics Covered:

• Importing the takeoff file into CUBE (manual entry or import-assisted).
• Mapping symbols to systems or components within the CUBE Library.
• Reviewing imported systems for accuracy in part quantities and labor.
• Renaming and adjusting system data for clarity and job specificity.
• Saving, documenting, and preparing the estimate for client review.
• Integrating this workflow into the standard estimating process
  

Hands-On Exercises

Participants will:

• Use a provided sample floor plan with Bluebeam markup.
• Export a takeoff using the markup list.
• Clean and organize the exported data for estimate import.
• Create a new estimate in CUBE using the Bluebeam takeoff data
• Customize system details, apply application notes, and review labor alignment.
  

Post-Session Action Items

To reinforce the training, participants are encouraged to:

• Build or refine their personal and team Tool Chests for repeatable takeoff workflows.
• Coordinate with engineering or sales teams to align on Bluebeam symbol use.
• Practice full cycle: markup → export → import → estimate → quote.
• Collaborate on developing a standardized CUBE-to-Bluebeam mapping table.
• Document internal best practices for takeoff integration and estimate setup

Note: When scheduling, make sure to include this session code: CENG-05.

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