bluebeam comments summary print

3 min read 11-09-2024

Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF solution, popular among architects, engineers, and construction professionals, known for its robust markup and collaboration tools. One essential feature is the ability to summarize comments for easy sharing and review. In this article, we'll explore how to print a comments summary in Bluebeam, with practical steps, analysis, and tips for optimizing your workflow.

What is a Comments Summary?

A comments summary in Bluebeam Revu compiles all the comments and markups made on a PDF document into a single, organized list. This summary can be printed or exported for sharing with team members or stakeholders, providing a quick overview of feedback or issues without needing to navigate through the entire document.

How to Print a Comments Summary in Bluebeam Revu

Step-by-Step Guide

Open Your Document: Launch Bluebeam Revu and open the PDF file with the comments you want to summarize.
Access the Markups List: Go to the Markups panel located at the bottom of the workspace. If you don't see it, you can activate it by clicking on View > Panels > Markups.
Filter Your Comments: If necessary, use the filtering options to narrow down the comments you wish to include in the summary. You can filter by status, type, author, or date to focus on specific feedback.
Select the Markups: To select all comments, click on one markup and then press Ctrl + A on your keyboard. Alternatively, hold down Shift and click to select multiple specific comments.
Export the Summary: Click on the Markup List options (three dots at the top-right of the Markups panel) and select Export. Choose Summary from the dropdown options.
Select Your Format: In the export dialog, you can choose to save the summary as a .csv or .xml file, or directly send it to print. To print, select the Print option.
Print Settings: Adjust your print settings as necessary, including paper size, orientation, and scaling.
Finalize: Click Print to generate a hard copy of your comments summary.

Example

Imagine you're working on a construction project, and you've received feedback from various stakeholders on a set of blueprints. By following the steps above, you can create a clean, printed summary of all comments, enabling you to address issues systematically before the next project phase.

Practical Analysis

Why Print a Comments Summary?

Improved Communication: A printed summary provides a straightforward way to share feedback with team members who may not have access to Bluebeam Revu.
Documenting Feedback: Keeping a hard copy helps maintain a record of comments and decisions made throughout the project.
Easier Review: Summaries streamline the review process, allowing stakeholders to focus on key issues without needing to sift through extensive PDFs.

Tips for Optimizing Your Comments Summary Workflow

Use Standard Markup Colors: Establish a color coding system for different types of comments (e.g., red for critical issues, yellow for suggestions). This visual aid enhances readability in your summaries.
Regularly Update Comments: Encourage team members to comment consistently to keep feedback organized and relevant, making summarization easier.
Utilize Custom Columns: Customize the markup list by adding columns for additional data such as priority, responsible party, or due dates, which can be printed alongside your comments.
Explore Automation: Consider using Bluebeam's scripting features for automated exports if your team frequently requires summaries, saving time and reducing manual errors.

Conclusion

Printing a comments summary in Bluebeam Revu is a straightforward process that significantly enhances project collaboration and communication. By following the steps outlined above and applying the additional tips, you can ensure your project stays organized and efficient. Remember to engage with the Bluebeam community on platforms like Stack Overflow for ongoing support and advice on maximizing the software's capabilities.

References

Bluebeam Revu Help Guide

Note: This article synthesizes information from various sources, including user discussions from platforms like Stack Overflow, to provide a comprehensive overview of printing comments summaries in Bluebeam Revu. Always refer to the software's official documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance.