In today’s fast-evolving AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) landscape, remote collaboration is no longer optional—it’s essential. With project teams distributed across multiple locations and time zones, digital tools like Bluebeam Revu and Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) are transforming how we collaborate. One standout feature that significantly boosts remote teamwork is Bluebeam Studio Sessions.
But what exactly are Bluebeam Sessions, and how do they improve coordination with remote teams—especially when used alongside Autodesk Construction Cloud?
What Are Bluebeam Sessions?
Bluebeam Studio Sessions are a feature within Bluebeam Revu that allows multiple users to collaborate on the same set of PDF documents in real-time, no matter where they are located.
Unlike traditional file-sharing or emailing marked-up PDFs back and forth, Sessions enable:
- Simultaneous markups by multiple participants
- Live updates as comments and measurements are added
- Automatic tracking of all user actions for full accountability
Sessions are cloud-hosted and do not require access to a shared network drive, making them highly accessible and efficient for distributed teams.
How Do Bluebeam Sessions Work?
Here’s how a typical Bluebeam Session flows:
- Host Uploads PDF(s):
A project team member (Session Host) uploads PDF documents to a Bluebeam Studio Session. - Invite Participants:
Remote users are invited via email or a shared link. They can join using a free Bluebeam Studio account. - Live Collaboration:
Participants can mark up the documents in real time, adding comments, sketches, and measurements. - Track Activity:
Every action is automatically logged, showing who did what and when. - Export or Integrate:
After the session, markups can be exported or integrated back into the project documentation.
Benefits of Bluebeam Sessions for Remote Teams
- Real-Time Markups: Architects, engineers, consultants, and clients can mark up the same drawing simultaneously. Everyone sees updates as they happen—improving collaboration and clarity.
- Version Control & Audit Trails: Bluebeam automatically logs every action, ensuring clear accountability and eliminating version confusion.
- Eliminates Waiting: No need to email the latest version around. Everyone works on the same document live—saving time and reducing rework.
- No File Locking: Unlike traditional editing tools that lock files for individual use, Sessions allow simultaneous markup by all users—ideal for review meetings.
Using Bluebeam Sessions with Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC)
While Bluebeam and ACC are separate platforms, they work together effectively to streamline workflows.
Bidirectional Workflow:
- ACC manages design data, 3D models, and document versions.
- Bluebeam Sessions enable real-time PDF review and discussion before decisions are finalized or RFIs are submitted.
Example Workflow:
- Export 2D sheets or PDFs from ACC (Docs or Design Collaboration).
- Upload those PDFs to a Bluebeam Session.
- Review and annotate documents with stakeholders.
- Push reviewed documents back to ACC for archiving and further action.
- Sync discussions with ACC’s issue tracking and task management features.
Ideal Use Cases for Bluebeam Sessions in Remote Coordination
- Design Review Meetings
- RFI and Submittal Reviews
- Quality Control/Assurance (QC/QA)
- Owner/Client Feedback Integration
- Discipline Coordination (Architectural, MEP, Structural)
Tips for Better Coordination Using Bluebeam Sessions
- Assign markup colors by discipline to easily distinguish feedback.
- Use Status Tracking to assign and follow up on action items.
- Export the comment log for official records and meeting minutes.
- Combine Sessions with Zoom or Teams meetings for live discussions.
Conclusion
As remote collaboration becomes the norm, Bluebeam Studio Sessions provide a smart, efficient, and transparent solution for AEC teams. When paired with Autodesk Construction Cloud, they create a powerful ecosystem where real-time document interaction meets centralized project control.
By embracing these tools, project teams can reduce delays, enhance coordination, and achieve seamless multidisciplinary collaboration—no matter where team members are located.
To learn how ElogicTech can support your AEC workflows with integrated drafting and collaboration solutions, explore our range of AEC services.
