BidLight 3.0 tracks cost variations across all project stages—from schematic design to closeout—by capturing, comparing, and visualizing changes in real time as the model evolves. Here’s how BidLight handles cost tracking and variation management: 1. Milestone-Based Estimate Snapshots BidLight allows you to save estimate snapshots at key stages—e.g., Concept Design, DD, CD, Pre-Bid, and Final Construction. These snapshots serve as baseline benchmarks that can be compared side by side with updated estimates or actuals later in the project lifecycle. 2. Real-Time Repricing as Models Change As the BIM model evolves (e.g., structural system changes, scope additions, or material swaps), BidLight automatically: Recalculates quantities using the updated geometry Re-maps elements to cost items Flags affected assemblies for review This enables users to see cost impacts immediately—without manual recalculation. 3. Change Tracking and Delta Analysis BidLight highlights deviations from prior estimates, including: Line-by-line cost differences Percentage increases/decreases Specific changes in labor, materials, or equipment costs Users can drill down to see what changed, why, and by how much—helping teams manage scope creep, VE decisions, and budget control. 4. Timeline View & Version Control Every change is time-stamped and versioned. You can scroll back to previous versions of estimates, compare them against the current one, and track cost drift over time. This supports historical analysis, audit trails, and lessons learned for future projects. 5. Integration with External Cost Tracking Final as-built costs or field-verified procurement data can be imported or referenced manually, allowing teams to compare BidLight's progressive estimates against actuals at closeout for variance reporting. Summary: BidLight gives contractors, estimators, and owners full visibility into cost changes across the project lifecycle, helping them stay on budget, justify changes, and make faster, data-backed decisions.