BIDI Blog
Expert insights on construction estimating, AI technology, and bid management
How to Do a Construction Takeoff: Step-by-Step Guide for Estimators
Learn how to do a construction takeoff from start to finish — quantities, materials, and labor by trade — plus how AI is changing the process.
Lien Waiver Construction Guide: 8 Steps to Get It Right
Master lien waivers with our 8-step construction guide. Learn how to protect your projects, avoid costly liens, and ensure proper payment documentation.
PlanSwift Alternatives in 2026: 7 Tools Estimators Are Switching To
Tired of PlanSwift's crashes, licensing changes, and desktop limits? Here are 7 PlanSwift alternatives estimators are switching to in 2026.
Construction RFQ Template: A Step-by-Step Guide for GCs
Streamline your bidding process with our construction RFQ template guide. Learn how GCs can standardize quotes, compare apples-to-apples, and build accurate bids faster.
How to Read Structural Drawings: A Practical Guide for Estimators
Structural drawings are where the money is. Learn how to read structural plans, footing schedules, framing, and connection details for accurate estimating.
Automated Construction Takeoff: A GC's Practical Guide
Discover how automated construction takeoff saves GCs time and protects margins. Learn practical strategies to streamline bidding and eliminate manual estimation errors.
AI Plan Reading Construction: 5 Ways It Cuts Takeoff Time
AI plan reading software is cutting takeoff time by 60-80% for GCs who adopt it. Here's how the technology actually works, what it reads accurately, and where to use it in your estimating workflow.
Construction Cost Codes List: A Field Guide for GCs
Master construction cost codes with this essential field guide for general contractors. Standardize estimates, track expenses accurately, and improve project profitability with proven coding systems.
General Contractor Profit Margin: What's Normal and How to Improve Yours
Industry benchmarks for GC profit margins by project type, plus the root causes of margin loss and how top-performing contractors protect their numbers.
WIP Schedule Construction: A GC's Guide to Job Costing
Master WIP schedule construction to track job profitability, prevent cash flow problems, and ensure accurate job costing for your construction business.
How to Read MEP Drawings: A Step-by-Step Guide for GCs
Learn how to read MEP drawings with this step-by-step guide designed for general contractors. Master symbols, specifications, and cost estimation.
Subcontractor Prequalification Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Master the subcontractor prequalification process with our step-by-step guide to prevent costly delays, defaults, and project failures.