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Bluebeam Reports AI Adoption in Construction Estimating

by | Nov 12, 2026

Towne Millwork and E.M. Duggan use Revu Max tools to manage revisions, review estimates and reduce manual checks.

PASADENA, CA, Nov 12, 2026 – Bluebeam has reported how two construction companies, Towne Millwork and E.M. Duggan, are using AI features in Bluebeam Revu to improve estimating and preconstruction workflows. Available through the Bluebeam Max subscription, the AI tools support project document reviews, revisions and estimating tasks.

Bluebeam’s industry research found that only 28% of architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) firms have moved AI into production, despite reporting business benefits. The company also reported that 93% of firms prioritize digital expertise, although many remain in the AI pilot phase.

“Contractors don’t need entirely new processes to realize value from AI,” said Usman Shuja, CEO of Bluebeam & executive board member, Nemetschek Group. “The most successful applications of AI enhance the workflows teams already trust. By embedding AI directly into the trusted tools teams rely on every day, we’re empowering contractors to pair their uniquely deep, hands-on knowledge with the digital fluency critical to the future of the industry. This approach amplifies AEC professionals’ expertise, making institutional knowledge instantly accessible, cutting down on document complexity and helping teams build a smarter future from the ground up.”

Towne Millwork Uses AI for Estimating Revisions

Towne Millwork, an architectural millwork company, uses Bluebeam Max to manage revisions during estimating. Changes to materials and finishes often require estimators to update markups and quantity takeoffs. The tools have helped Towne Millwork simplify these revisions, improve consistency and reduce the time required to locate and validate project information.

“When the beta ended, we really missed the “Convert To” function, so as soon as we could, I insisted my team upgrade our Bluebeam subscription to Max,” said Doug McLean, senior estimator at Towne Millwork. “Estimating architectural millwork involves endless revisions that can easily derail a schedule. When other estimators ask me whether it’s worth it, I tell them Bluebeam Max pays for itself every day.”

E.M. Duggan Expands AI Use in Preconstruction

E.M. Duggan has integrated Bluebeam Max into its estimating and preconstruction operations. Because the company already used Bluebeam, it introduced the AI features within its existing workflows.

Estimators use the AI assistant to check baseline estimates, identify potential errors and reduce manual counting and double-checking. The company has also expanded use among project managers and estimators to support project planning and make project expertise accessible across teams.

“Everybody in this industry already uses Bluebeam. What’s different with Max is that it gives us an AI assistant directly in the estimating workflow instead of requiring a separate tool or additional workflow,” said Jeff Elwell, CTO of E.M. Duggan. “Our estimators use it to check their baseline numbers and catch things that used to slip through the cracks. It cuts out a lot of manual counting and double-checking, and we’re getting to a solid estimate we can trust a lot faster.”

Source: Bluebeam

About Bluebeam

Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Pasadena, CA, Bluebeam develops software for digital collaboration, markup, and document management in the AEC industries. Its tools enable users to create, edit, and measure PDFs; manage RFIs and submittals; and streamline design reviews, takeoffs, and project handovers. Bluebeam’s cloud and mobile platforms connect teams in the office and in the field, improving efficiency and accuracy across projects. The company serves general contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, and public infrastructure agencies. Acquired by the Nemetschek Group in 2014, Bluebeam has continued to expand its role as a digital collaboration leader in construction technology.

About Towne Millwork

Towne Millwork Ltd. is a Canadian architectural woodwork manufacturer founded in 1987 by Greg Hesketh. Headquartered in British Columbia, the company serves construction projects across North America. It manufactures custom millwork, wall panels, wood doors, cabinets, countertops and interior fixtures. Its products also include acoustic ceilings, raised access flooring and custom metal components. Towne Millwork serves commercial offices, hotels, hospitals, schools, retail facilities and residential developments. It also supplies architectural woodwork for sports venues, museums, casinos and public buildings. Its services include design assistance, estimating, technical drawings, 3D modeling, project management and installation. The company uses computer numerical control equipment to manufacture and finish wood components. It works with contractors, architects, and developers in Canada and the United States. Towne Millwork reports approximately 200 employees and operates more than 200,000 square feet of manufacturing space.

About E.M. Duggan

E.M. Duggan Inc. is a U.S. mechanical and electrical contractor founded in 1891. Headquartered in Canton, MA, the company operates primarily across New England. It designs, installs and maintains heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical and fire protection systems. Its services include construction planning, estimating, engineering coordination, prefabrication, installation and maintenance. E.M. Duggan serves commercial, industrial, institutional and residential construction projects. Its customers include general contractors, property developers, building owners and facility managers. The company works on hospitals, schools, offices, hotels and residential buildings. It manufactures prefabricated piping, ductwork and fire protection assemblies. Its Boston division handles renovations, building upgrades and smaller construction projects. The company also provides emergency repairs, inspections and maintenance for building systems. E.M. Duggan reports more than 500 employees.