BIDI Blog
Expert insights on construction estimating, AI technology, and bid management
Automated Quantity Takeoff from PDF: A GC's 2026 Guide
Learn how automated quantity takeoff from PDF works in 2026 — AI tools, accuracy benchmarks, workflow steps, and how GCs cut takeoff time by 60–80%.
On Center Software Review: Is It Still Worth It in 2026?
An honest On Center Software review for 2026: pricing breakdown, workflow limitations, and how it stacks up against STACK, PlanSwift, and Autodesk Takeoff.
Construction Drawing Abbreviations Every GC Must Know
Construction drawing abbreviations by discipline — architectural, structural, MEP, and civil — with the ones that cause the most expensive mistakes highlighted
Construction Cost Codes: What They Are and How to Use Them for Better Estimating
Construction cost codes organize every dollar on a job. Here's how to set up a cost code system that actually helps you estimate and track profitability.
Labor Unit Costs Construction: A Field Guide for GCs
Control labor costs and win more bids by mastering labor unit costs construction for your specific crew, market, and project conditions.
Construction Company Overhead Percentage: What's Normal?
Know if your construction company overhead percentage is competitive or costing you money—learn what's normal and how to calculate yours accurately.
Subcontractor Payment Schedule Construction: A GC's Guide
Avoid payment disputes and cash flow chaos with a proven subcontractor payment schedule system. Learn how GCs manage draws, lien waivers, and scope.
Bid Hit Ratio Construction: What Your Numbers Should Be
Discover what your bid hit ratio construction should be and why tracking wins matters more than counting submissions for contractor profitability.
Free Subcontractor Prequalification Form: What to Include
Vet subcontractors properly before hiring with our free subcontractor prequalification form. Avoid delays and project failures with key screening criteria.
Construction Bid Leveling Spreadsheet: A Step-by-Step Guide
Stop losing margin to hidden scope gaps. Learn how a construction bid leveling spreadsheet catches exclusions before you award the lowest bid.
Construction KPIs Every GC Should Track (With Benchmarks)
The construction KPIs that actually predict profitability — bid/win ratio, cost variance, schedule performance, and 7 others every GC should be tracking.
STACK Construction Software Pricing: Is It Worth the Cost?
Compare STACK construction software pricing against its actual value. Learn if the platform's cost justifies features for your estimating workflow and budget.