Just go download it! or you can read the rest to find out my take on PlanGrid
- Basically you upload PDF drawings to thier website. Much like the web version of dropbox.
- You access the file from the Ipad app, which will be downloaded to your Ipad, so it is hosted locally, eliminating the need for wifi or cell
- MUCH FASTER!! Yes Im screaming because its that much faster.
- "Tapping" the section cut head will take you to the corresponding detail sheet....Automatically!
Boom! Free Money
A couple of other things it does:
- A measurement tool that can be calibrated to the PDF
- Take pictures in the app and tag them to locations on the plans
- A full complement of markup tools, similar to other apps Ive used, maybe a little better
- Online Collaboration for project Management.
I like to use my stylus (JoliPen...THE best stylus I've found for the Ipad) and this app seems to do pretty well with the accuracy. It's not instant, but it does smooth your handwriting some. It certainly seems useable.
I have only begun using online and shared file collaboration and to some degree doesn't apply to my workflow, so I can't really judge how the collaboration and shared markups works.
The only negative thing I can see at this point is the lack of ability to open drawings directly from your ipad. The files must first be uploaded to PlanGrid, then published to the web to be viewed on the ipad. If you forget to upload your files before leaving for the site, you appear to be cooked with this app. However, after you have downloaded it once, it will be hosted locally and you should be able to access the files using another pdf viewer such as Bluebeam, but it would be nice to keep everything in the same app.
So there you go, its not often you find a New App that has a meaningful positive effect on your workflow, I think this one will.
