Landscape Architecture Resource

by Cheri Stringer

Bluebeam PDF Revu is used to view, edit and markup PDF files.

In addition, both the Standard Edition and CAD Edition allow the user to accurately measure distance, area, perimeter and volumes in the PDF file.

The program also supports batch conversion of Microsoft Office or CAD files for sharing with coworkers, outsourcing agents, contractors, subs and clients.

In my business I use Bluebeam PDF Revu to:

• Communicate drafting changes to my outsourcing agent, contractors, etc


• Illustrate construction phases


• Accurately measure design elements for concise estimating

Why is this a valuable tool for landscape architects?

First, Bluebeam PDF Revu provides an array of powerful tools

for professional landscape designers and architects to spiff up their files with color and make certain elements stand out.

The custom markup tools allow for the addition of text, highlighting, lines and multipoint shapes with a range of line weights, colors and shading.

This is especially useful in the installation phase of the design where clear communication of landscape plan elements is essential to a successful project. Bluebeam PDF revu makes this easy by allowing the markups to be placed on the finished plan as an overlay. The overlay can then be changed at any time without affecting the underlying drawing, and the additions can also be integrated with the file for printing and sharing.

Second, if you don't use Cad, Bluebeam PDF Revu can speed up the estimation process with its built in measurement tools. The measurement tools allow you to quickly calibrate a hand drawing that has been scanned and converted to a PDF. Once the plan is calibrated you can calculate length, perimeter, area and volume accurately for budget studies.

Are there any drawbacks?

This program doesn't come without a few drawbacks. First, it only runs in the Windows operating system, so if you have a Mac you would need to use "Bootcamp" or "Parallels" to run Bluebeam PDF Revu.

Second, if you draw your plans by hand, you need to have your plans scanned and converted into PDF format before the programs benefits can be used.

There are also some minor printing issues I have discovered. You can't create any delicate distinctions of line width in the program. For instance, lines created within Bluebeam PDF Revu, especially the smaller line widths, are wider when printed. Also, dashed lines do not line up on the printed plan like they do on screen.

Last, the files can be a bit large sometimes once coloring is added. Fortunately there is a work around for this that reduces the file size while preserving the scale, dimensions and file attributes.

How does Bluebeam PDF Revu compare to other similar products?

Compared to its closest rival, "Adobe Pro Extended", Bluebeam PDF revu provides a staggering array of features missing from Adobe such as measuring tools, color shading, line width control and multipoint shape controls to name a few.

Adobe Extended Pro is really meant for a general audience that is not working with technically demanding layouts and details present on most landscape designs.

At $699 Adobe Pro Extended is also considerably more expensive and lacks the integration into CAD programs.

What's the cost? Is it worth it?

Bluebeam Revu Standard Edition is $149 and the Bluebeam Revu CAD Edition is $199. They also give volume discounts if you buy more than 5 seats.

Both editions allow you to measure distance, area, perimeters, volumes and comes with a built in calibration tool that is really easy to use.

The standard version allows conversion of a wide range of file types to PDF and integrates with Microsoft office programs providing one button controls within each program for PDF conversion.

The CAD version adds on integration with Solid works, AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT providing a tool bar inside AutoCAD for stamping, batch conversion and other useful tools.

Bluebeam PDF Revu has paid for itself many times over in my landscaping business by increasing productivity and enhancing my communication with clients, contractors, coworkers and subs.

In summary, Bluebeam PDF Revu has powerful tools that enhance the presentation and communication of landscape plans. The program has a powerful array of tools that are particularly useful for design professionals in the landscape industry.

For more information and to purchase the product, visit the Bluebeam website at www.bluebeam.com.

This article was written by Cheri Stringer, owner of TLCgardens LLC of Colorado, and originally published by LandscapeLeadership.com.