Estimator exclusively allows access to the "Default View," meaning that other views are not accessible or visible within the application when viewing BIM360 models.
Our best practice includes the implementation of a new 3D view designed specifically for estimating purposes. This view, which can be set up effortlessly, serves to enhance clarity and focus during the estimating process. To maintain consistency and standardization across projects, we refer to this customized 3D representation as “Estimating-Axon.” This naming convention not only helps in identifying the view quickly but also ensures that all team members are on the same page regarding its purpose and use. The Estimating-Axon view is tailored to present a streamlined visual of the model, which is crucial for effective estimation. The accompanying image below illustrates the layout and design of the Estimating-Axon view, providing a clear example of how it should appear in practice.
We encourage the design team to enhance the Estimating-Axon view by utilizing the Visibility/Graphics Overrides, which only impact this specific view. This customization allows us to selectively manage the content that is published from the model. While this step is not mandatory, collaborating with a willing design team can significantly enhance the user experience in Estimator. This process involves a one-time setup that need only be completed once. During this step, we request that certain elements be turned off in the Estimating-Axon view. For example, we can exclude MEP-related items, as they are not relevant for our current estimation needs. This results in a much cleaner and more focused model for use in Estimator. If the design team finds this request too demanding, it is acceptable to forgo this customization.
Finally, the design team should create a new “Set” within their publish settings and include the Estimating-Axon 3D view in this set (refer to Set 2 in the image below). This set can be dedicated solely to this view for estimating purposes. Alternatively, if the team prefers, they can choose to publish this 3D view alongside their regular set. However, using a separate set for the Estimating-Axon view simplifies the process and allows them to keep their primary set (Set 1 in the example below), which is responsible for publishing the drawing package sheets and other official documents, unaffected.
