Expanding horizons for IPC software during design and construction

Submittal Exchange’s Integrated Project Collaboration (IPC) software was created in 2003 and publicly launched in 2005 with an initial focus on the shop drawing and submittal process. It was focused on this particular piece of the construction communications process because in my work as an architect, I had found the traditional paper-based submittal process to be the most frustrating, cumbersome, and inefficient portion of my work. It was clear that this frustration was shared by many others in the industry, architects and contractors alike, and use of the solution grew quickly as a result.

As use of Submittal Exchange increased, we also began to receive suggestions and ideas for additional features and processes. This feedback from industry professionals quickly led us to expand Submittal Exchange to also encompass RFIs, ASIs, and many other document types. Today our solution’s flexible, powerful workflow processes can accommodate a wide variety of construction communication needs.

One of the great things about this industry is that there is never a shortage of ideas. It did not take long for people who loved using Submittal Exchange during the construction process to come back to us and ask to use the software earlier in the process, during the design phase on their projects as well. In response to these requests, we introduced a beta version of the website for use during a project design phase in early 2009. We have continued to gather feedback on how to improve it. After listening carefully to additional suggestions, we are pleased to release an expanded offering of features for use with collaboration and information sharing during design, which we’re calling Submittal Exchange for Design™.

Specific new features offered with Submittal Exchange for Design include:

- Comprehensive design document sharing (drawings, specs, models, etc.)
- Collaborative online whiteboard space
- Automatic synchronization of large files
- Automatic notifications
- Version tracking and detailed upload & download histories
- Project milestones and schedule reminders
- Online photo viewing and commenting
- Seamless transition into construction phase features when design is complete

These expanded features make Submittal Exchange a robust solution suitable for use from start-to-finish on projects. As an Integrated Project Collaboration (IPC) solution, Submittal Exchange provides a virtual table for all project team members to sit around and share critical project information. This information starts with the earliest drawings, models, and other information during design, and then proceeds to submittals, RFIs, and all other documents needed during construction. For more information about Submittal Exchange for Design, please visit our website or view the official press release.