PlusSpec Review

Communication Tool

PlusSpec is not just a simple drafting board but it is also a  communication tool which allows users to convey their designs in a way that clients, contractors, and consultants can easily understand them. Thus, it lets designers and construction professionals provide customers and stakeholders with an immersive 3D experience, wherein they no longer need to waste time deciphering 2D drawings that are difficult to understand. Because of this, the communication gap between teams and stakeholders are eliminated.

Plugin For SketchUp

To create 3D models, PlusSpec utilizes the 3D sketching tools in SketchUp – a 3D modeling software used for generating architectural, engineering, and interior designs. SketchUp is actually one of the most popular and easy-to-use 3D software in the world. As a plugin for SketchUp, PlusSpec helps users focus more on design and communication rather than modeling.

Although PlusSpec gives users the opportunity to take advantage of the 3D modeling capabilities offered by SketchUp, it still allows them to create professional 2D drawings; especially for client presentations, council/permits approval, and CDs.

Intelligent 3D Parametric Tools

PlusSpec comes with intelligent 3D parametric tools which make the designing of walls, roofs, floors, slabs, joists, and decks a breeze. For instance, it has a virtual building tool called Push/Push that enables users to move walls quickly. When they move a wall, the other connected walls automatically adjusts with it.

Estimates Connected To 3D Models Or Plans

In PlusSpec, cost estimates are connected to 3D models or plans. Thus, as users draw and make changes in their drawings, cost estimates are generated and automatically updated accordingly. As a result, they will be able to easily handle client budgets and project costs throughout the stages of the projects. Likewise, they can have clients visually understand what they’re getting for their money.

Flexible Takeoff And Reporting

The 3D BIM software also allows the segregation of takeoffs and breaking them down into categories, enabling users to assign costs. For instance, they can assign a price per unit for material or a price per unit for labour. In addition, they can export quantities to their financial software as Excel or CSV files.

Find Errors And Plan The Site

To find errors in engineering plans, the software lets users import plans. This cost-saving feature helps them easily and quickly identify plan errors before they even occur on site. They can use their 3D models on-site to explain project details, make RFIs (request for information), and give suggestions for better construction results.

Product Specification

PlusSpec offers features for building product specification. It has a library of 3D virtual building products called BIMbits 3D Library. From this 3D content library, users can download building products from the brands they love, allowing them to use actual products as they design and generate estimates. Additionally, it also provides users with the ability to create their own custom building products. Once they make their own products, they will be included in PlusSpec’s materials library.

Summing it up, suppliers and vendors can add their building products to PlusSpec’s BIMbits 3D Library. This way, they can get an edge over their competitors and ensure that their products are used properly.