Bluebeam vs Stratosphere

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

Stratosphere Software Tool

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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Stratosphere is a cloud-based estimation software that helps construction professionals perform calculations from anywhere in the world. From files to estimation tools, it provides contractors access to everything they need. It helps them save time on measuring and markup digital blueprints.

It also helps contractors centralize all project-related documents in one place. Furthermore, Excel add-ons provide the necessary tools to estimate materials costs and quantities. It offers a myriad of markup and measuring tools such as highlight pens, notes and embedded images that help contractors streamline access to all documents and specs. It also provides in-app support for quick issue resolution.

Pros
  • Cloud-based accessibility
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Accurate material takeoffs
  • Improved collaboration
  • Reduced rework costs
Cons
  • Limited free plan features
  • Learning curve for new users
  • Occasional bugs reported
  • Not ideal for complex projects
  • Customer support wait times
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$49/User, Monthly
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$79/User, Monthly
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Tailored to your specific needs
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Mobile
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Mobile

Product Assistance

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Live Online
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Email
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Knowledge Base
24/7 Live Support
Email
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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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  • Increased Accuracy in Material Takeoffs: Stratosphere's cloud-based platform and advanced measurement tools minimize errors and ensure precise material calculations, reducing waste and project costs.
  • Improved Collaboration and Communication: Real-time collaboration features and centralized data storage enable seamless communication and project visibility among estimators, contractors, and other stakeholders.
  • Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity: Streamlined workflows, automated calculations, and easy-to-use interface accelerate the takeoff process, saving time and resources.
  • Reduced Rework and Errors: Accurate material takeoffs and improved communication minimize rework due to miscalculations or misunderstandings, leading to cost savings and project schedule adherence.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Built-in reporting and data analysis tools provide valuable insights into material usage and project trends, enabling informed decision-making.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: Stratosphere adapts to projects of all sizes and complexities, accommodating the needs of growing businesses and diverse construction requirements.
  • Accessibility and Remote Work Capabilities: Cloud-based accessibility allows estimators and contractors to work from anywhere with an internet connection, improving flexibility and team collaboration.
  • Standardized Takeoff Process: Consistent workflows and data storage ensure accuracy and reduce errors across projects, streamlining the takeoff process for the entire team.
  • Improved Communication with Subcontractors: Accurate and detailed takeoffs facilitate clear communication with subcontractors, leading to fewer errors and smoother project execution.
  • Enhanced Integration with Other Construction Software: Stratosphere integrates with popular construction software, streamlining data flow and reducing manual data entry.
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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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  • Cloud-Based Accessibility: Access projects, data, and collaborate with your team from any device with an internet connection.
  • Digital Takeoff from Blueprints: Directly measure and estimate materials from digital blueprints, eliminating manual processes and reducing errors.
  • Powerful Measurement Tools: Utilize advanced tools for linear footage, area, volume, and complex assemblies, ensuring accurate takeoffs.
  • Customizable Objects: Create and save custom objects for frequently used materials or assemblies, streamlining future takeoffs.
  • Markup and Annotation Tools: Mark up blueprints, add notes, and collaborate with colleagues in real-time.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: Share projects, edits, and updates with team members instantly, improving communication and efficiency.
  • Centralized Data Storage: Securely store project data in the cloud, ensuring accessibility and eliminating data loss.
  • Built-in Reporting: Generate detailed reports on material usage, costs, and project trends for informed decision-making.
  • Integration with Other Software: Connect Stratosphere with popular construction software for seamless data flow and reduced manual work.
  • Mobile App for On-Site Access: Access project data, takeoffs, and markups from your mobile device while on the job site.
  • Offline Mode with Syncing: Work on projects offline and synchronize your data to the cloud when you regain internet connectivity.
  • Scalable for Different Project Sizes: Adapts to projects of all complexities, from small renovations to large-scale construction.
  • Regular Updates and Development: The Stratosphere platform is constantly updated with new features and improvements based on user feedback.
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Product Ranking

#4

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Takeoff Software

#36

among all
Takeoff Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

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87
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Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Bluebeam
Stratosphere
+ Add Product + Add Product
Measurement Management Measurement Tools Mobile Capabilities Plans Management Platform Capabilities Project Management Reports And Dashboards Trades Management 87 92 100 100 88 100 86 91 53 25 14 58 47 63 43 36 0 25 50 75 100
87%
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92%
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75%
100%
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14%
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86%
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63%
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37%
86%
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64%

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

60%
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40%
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100%

User Sentiment Summary

Excellent User Sentiment 2083 reviews
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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.

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

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated Bluebeam and concluded it deserves the award for the Best Overall Takeoff Software available today and earns best-in-class honors for Mobile Capabilities, Plans Management and Project Management. Bluebeam stands above the rest by achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating as a User Favorite.

Analysts' Pick Award
User Favorite Award
Mobile Capabilities Award
Plans Management Award
Project Management Award

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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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Cloud-based accessibility and remote work: Users appreciate the ability to access projects, collaborate with teams, and work from anywhere with an internet connection, improving flexibility and efficiency.
Accuracy and reduced errors: Many praise Stratosphere's advanced measurement tools and automated calculations for minimizing errors and ensuring precise material takeoffs, leading to cost savings and project success.
Improved collaboration and communication: Real-time collaboration features, markup tools, and centralized data storage are often highlighted for fostering seamless communication and project visibility among estimators, contractors, and other stakeholders.
Time-saving workflows and efficiency: Users value the streamlined workflows, automated calculations, and intuitive interface that accelerate the takeoff process, saving them time and resources.
Scalability and adaptability: The ability to adapt to projects of various sizes and complexities is appreciated by users, accommodating growth and diverse construction needs.
Mobile app for on-site access: Many find the mobile app for accessing project data, takeoffs, and markups from the job site valuable for improved field management and decision-making.
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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 free plan features: Some users find the free plan features restrictive for professional use, requiring upgrades for essential functionalities like offline access or multiple project collaboration.
Learning curve for new users: While generally considered user-friendly, Stratosphere might have a steeper learning curve for users unfamiliar with cloud-based takeoff software or complex project requirements.
Occasional bug reports and technical issues: Some users mention encountering bugs or technical glitches, highlighting the need for continued improvement and platform stability.
Potentially high cost for complex projects or large teams: While pricing is generally competitive, the cost for larger teams or projects with advanced needs might exceed smaller competitors' budget limitations.
Customer support wait times: Some users report experiencing wait times or limitations when seeking customer support, particularly with free plans or during peak periods.
Not ideal for highly specialized projects: While adaptable, Stratosphere might not cater perfectly to highly specialized construction niches requiring unique features or integrations not offered by the platform.
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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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Users' opinions on Stratosphere paint a picture of a cloud-based takeoff software with both significant strengths and some noteworthy drawbacks. Many praise its accuracy, streamlined workflows, and collaborative features, highlighting time-saving benefits and reduced errors compared to manual methods. The ability to access projects and work remotely is seen as a major advantage, particularly for geographically dispersed teams. Additionally, the mobile app and offline functionality are valuable assets for field work and ensuring uninterrupted progress. However, some users caution about a steeper learning curve for beginners and occasional technical glitches. The limited free plan and potentially high costs for complex projects or large teams can be deterrents for budget-conscious users or those needing very specific features. While generally considered user-friendly, Stratosphere might not be ideal for highly specialized construction niches. Customer support wait times, particularly for free plans, are also mentioned as a concern. When compared to similar products, users value Stratosphere's cloud-based accessibility, collaborative features, and mobile app as differentiating factors. However, its learning curve, cost for complex projects, and limited free plan features are areas where some competitors might have an edge. Ultimately, the decision seems to hinge on individual needs and priorities. Those seeking a user-friendly platform with strong collaboration and remote work capabilities may find Stratosphere a valuable tool, while users with very specific needs or tight budgets might want to carefully consider its limitations before subscribing.

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