Submittal Content + IPC Software = Faster Projects

As I have mentioned in previous blog postings, seven years ago I began the process of transitioning from a full-time architectural designer to founding and running a software company. The transition was not so much an intentional career move as it was a by-product of my own frustration with antiquated, paper-based industry practices and the clear need for a better solution. In the time since then, I have continued to utilize my skills and knowledge as an architect while also learning a tremendous amount about the technology field. In addition, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and learning about many other exciting technology companies and initiatives for design and construction.

In our search for ways to continuously improve our Integration Project Collaboration (IPC) solution, one of the companies that I’ve gotten to know is BuildSite, based out of Oakland, California. BuildSite launched in 2001 and provides the design and construction industry with a practical, single-source of product and technical information about building materials that can be used for both design decisions and construction submittal content. The President and CEO of BuildSite, Ned Trainor, has a strong vision for the future of this segment of the industry, and he and his team are passionate about improving industry processes and access to information.

As I learned more about BuildSite, it became clear that we had many mutual interests. The Submittal Exchange system provides the industry-leading solution for electronic construction communications, including digital submittals. BuildSite provides a comprehensive database of possible submittal content, searchable by manufacturer, product type, or other criteria. In addition, BuildSite recently launched a new Green Data component that allows designers and builders to search for green building products using LEED® attributes such as VOC content, recycled content, or other LEED considerations. Their focus on supporting sustainability matches Submittal Exchange’s commitment to helping the industry become greener, faster, better.

BuildSite's database includes over 20,000 building products from over 350 manufacturers; now subcontractors can search this database for submittal content from within Submittal Exchange's IPC software

On June 30 we announced a partnership with BuildSite with the goal of improving submittal process efficiency. Submittal Exchange users, particularly subcontractors, can now use features within Submittal Exchange to search the BuildSite product information database and upload documents from BuildSite directly into their projects on Submittal Exchange. This is an exciting innovation that allows quick access within Submittal Exchange to information on more than 20,000 products from over 350 manufacturers.

My goal, and our mission at Submittal Exchange, is to be a driving force for continuous improvement in the commercial construction industry, delivering innovative technology products with exceptional service and care. Our team works hard every day to provide outstanding new features and ideas to help our clients, and the new BuildSite partnership and feature integration is a great example of this. We’re very pleased to announce the partnership with BuildSite. If you have questions or comments about how the integration works, please contact me.