In the past, estimating project costs came well after design was complete. Architects would submit finalized models, estimators would then spend days—sometimes weeks—performing manual takeoffs and cost breakdowns, and any cost overrun or inconsistency would trigger a painful cycle of redesign and re-approval.

Today, with tight budgets, leaner schedules, and greater emphasis on data-driven construction, this outdated workflow is no longer sustainable.

Enter: real-time cost prediction integrated into the design process—an innovation transforming how AEC teams plan, design, and execute projects.

The Problem with Traditional Estimating Workflows

Traditional workflows separate design and estimating into silos. This creates several costly inefficiencies:

• Delayed cost insights: Estimators work with static models, often out of sync with the latest design changes.

• High risk of rework: Cost overruns discovered late force revisions, approvals, and missed deadlines.

• Lack of cost-awareness: Designers make decisions without understanding material or labor implications.

• Poor communication: Project managers and clients are left in the dark until problems surface.

Ultimately, the gap between what’s designed and what’s affordable becomes a major pain point.

The Value of Predictive Cost Modeling During Design

Imagine being able to see how your design decisions impact the budget in real time.

<p style="font-family: Calibri">With predictive modeling, AEC professionals can:</p>

• Evaluate cost alternatives instantly (e.g., switch from wood to steel and see the price impact immediately).

  Run “what-if” scenarios before presenting to clients.

  Ensure budget alignment from day one, reducing cost overruns later in the process.

  Boost collaboration between teams, since everyone is working off the same live model with up-to-date financial metrics.

By embedding estimation into the design phase, you shorten the feedback loop and improve decision-making.

Bidlight: Bridging Design and Estimating with One Tool

Bidlight is purpose-built to deliver this new standard of workflow—connecting design precision with estimating power.

Here's how Bidlight enhances the preconstruction experience:

• Live Data from Your 3D BIM Models: Upload your Revit, IFC, or Archicad models and instantly generate cost estimates linked to each building element.

• Automated Quantity Takeoff: No need for manual calculations. Bidlight extracts material, labor, and equipment quantities straight from your BIM files.

• Real-Time Adjustments: Change a wall type or floor finish? Bidlight updates the estimate immediately—keeping costs accurate as the design evolves.

• Scenario Comparison: Explore multiple design options and compare their cost, sustainability impact, and constructability side-by-side.

• Collaborative Dashboard: Share your live model and cost data with clients, contractors, and consultants—no advanced software or technical knowledge required.

The result? A design process that’s faster, smarter, and financially transparent.

Why this matters for Designers, Estimators and Clients

For Designers:

You can confidently make design choices knowing their budget implications, ensuring fewer client pushbacks and greater creative freedom within constraints.

For Estimators:

You’re no longer the “last to know.” You work with live data, reducing turnaround time and increasing accuracy.

For Clients and Stakeholders:

They see real costs from day one, enabling better planning, clearer expectations, and less post-bid negotiation.