Latest News

Adrian Wild, Managing Director of Integro Construction Software which developed the BuildingWorks construction software platform, took part in a ‘Special Report’ Question & Answer session with Professional Housebuilder & Property Developer. Here’s what appeared in the March 2018 issue of the publication.

1. How will the new Building Works software help house builders and developers?

BuildingWorks has been hailed a game changer for SME construction companies, developers, surveyors and architects. Users will benefit from the practical characteristics of BIM. Moreover, features manufactured into the software; are creating more disciplined way of working, and the sharing of information leading to improved productivity and profitability.

Building plan 3D model allows you to save money by building and estimating a project together within one software toolset.

• Reducing staff costs – time saved avoiding data re-entry.
• Reducing the costs of alterations and rework.
• Avoiding errors and information loss.
• Reducing actual construction costs.

2. What functionality does the software feature?

It’s the first integrated construction software platform of its kind. Seamlessly bringing together CAD, estimating, project management and more. One set of data flows through the whole project from concept to completion. Moreover, this means no more dealing with separate packages for design, costing and management. Additionally, as the building plan is either being drawn or measured, it calls on a library of over 15,000 data-rich BIM products and almost 5000 rates to generate ‘live’ costs for materials, rates and energy performance – plus a 3D model. 

3. Can I fully design a new home in Building Works?

As well as, extensions, renovations and lofts, the software can produce new builds as well. The preconfigured construction tools are easy to use and include a comprehensive architectural symbol library, sections library and automatic 2D elevations. Furthermore, in conjunction with the Estimate module, users can review the design, swapping products in and out to compare how they impact on budget or U-value.

4. Are the latest Building Regulations integrated into the software?

Yes. And the Design Professional module will include the automatic production of building regulation notes soon for placement on working drawings – watch this space.

5. Are SAP calculations included?

Every object’s energy performance is automatically provided, and you can swap them in and out to find the most appropriate U-value for the project. Furthermore,  when the Energy Performance module is released users will be able to quickly and accurately produce indicative SAP (Full SAP and RdSAP) calculations. Moreover, instant indicative SAP analysis will be available when combined with the Design module.

6. Is the level of construction detailing suitable for planning applications?

Yes. The construction detailing is excellent, as standard. Even more, the building plans produced are suitable for planning application submissions.

7. Does the software include 3D modeling?

As you draw your walls, a 3D model is automatically created live (textured, solid or wireframe). The Design Professional module produces instant, 3D photorealistic models. Similarly, if you have an existing building plan, simply scan and trace to create your 3D model.

8. Will it generate estimates?

Yes, you can estimate with or without the Design module. Users with just the Estimate module can build up an estimate of the build costs by selecting from the software’s huge library of rates of domestic building work linked to up-to-date building material prices, and also receive a full cost breakdown, Bill of Quantities (NRM), a customer quote, plus management reports and schedules. Design module users get to enjoy the estimate appearing simultaneously in real-time. This is alongside drawing and measuring the plan, whilst still getting all the details.

9. Can I import existing plans?

Yes. Simply import DWG/DXF/PDF’s or JPEG’s and measure (trace) to either go on to adapt them, create impressive 3D visualisations and elevations. Besides, when used in conjunction with the Estimate module you can take-off from your plan – which will automatically generate costings, material schedules and so on.

10. What is the cost of this software?

This is a cash flow friendly subscription platform, with a range of pricing options. For example, £48+VAT per user/per month gives you the standard Design & Estimate module and full support if you pre-pay 24 months by credit or debit card. There are month-by-month subscriptions too.

Finally, to find out more about BuildingWorks construction software give the team a call on 0117 916 7880, email hello@getbuildingworks.com or take a look round the website. Like what you see? Get instant access to a free trial here.