Mastering Sequence Tools in Bluebeam Revu

If you’re doing takeoffs or reviews in Bluebeam Revu, you’ve probably leaned heavily on Count tools. They’re great for quantities, but when it comes to clear labeling, tracking, and referencing items, Sequence tools are where Bluebeam really shines.

Sequences are not Count tools. They’re built using standard symbols that include a text field, and they’re powered by the Define field once the symbol is saved to the Tool Chest. Once you understand that distinction, sequences become an incredibly powerful workflow tool.

What Is a Sequence Tool

A Sequence tool is a standard symbol markup (circle, square, custom symbol, etc.) that includes a text label. That text label is automatically numbered using a sequence defined in the Tool Chest.

Unlike Count tools:

• Sequences are fully customizable
• Numbers are editable text
• You can add prefixes, suffixes, and resets
• They’re ideal for tagging items, not just totaling them

Creating a Sequence Tool in Bluebeam Revu

The key thing to remember is that sequences are defined after the symbol is added to the Tool Chest.

1. Create a Standard Symbol: Draw a circle, square, or custom shape using standard markup tools (not Count tools).
2. Add a Text Label: Double‑click the markup and add a text label where the number should appear.
3. Add the Symbol to the Tool Chest: Right‑click the markup and save it to your Tool Chest.
4. Open the Tool Chest Properties: Right‑click the tool inside the Tool Chest and choose Properties.
5. Define the Sequence: In the Define field, enter your sequence logic (numbering, prefixes, resets, etc.).

Using Sequence Tools Effectively

• Clear Referencing: Each item has a unique, readable identifier.
• Better Communication: Sequences make markups easy to reference during reviews and coordination.
• Flexible Numbering: Use prefixes like A‑, L‑, or DEV‑ to match scope or system.
• QA/QC Friendly: Missing numbers instantly show skipped items.

Sequences vs Count Tools (When to Use Each)

Count tools and Sequence tools solve different problems:

• Use Count tools when you need accurate quantity totals.
• Use Sequence tools when you need clear labeling, referencing, and documentation.

Many Bluebeam workflows use both. Counts for totals, Sequences for clarity.

Once you start building well‑defined sequence tools into your Tool Chest, they quickly become second nature. They keep drawings clean, reviews efficient, and exports easier to understand. It’s a small setup step that pays off on every project.

Need Help Taking This Further?

Sequence tools are just one example of how powerful Bluebeam Revu can be when it’s configured to match your real-world workflows. If you need help customizing Bluebeam or training your team to use Bluebeam more efficiently, ZenTek Consultants can help. Our Bluebeam Certified Professionals provide Bluebeam training, workflow consulting, and customization services tailored to how your organization actually works. Contact ZenTek Consultants today to get more clarity, consistency, and value out of Bluebeam Revu.