How It Works | Flume AI
See the savings before you commit
Upload specs. Get a free VE report in days. Approve what works - we handle the rest. Zero risk, real savings.
From spec book to job site
No software. No onboarding. Send specs, we do the work.
Share your specifications
Send specs - PDFs, BOMs, or spreadsheets. We review within 24 hours.
Takes minutes, not days.Get a free VE report in days
Get a comprehensive report with original specs, compliant alternatives at multiple price points, savings projections, and execution timeline - all free.
Free, no commitment required.Approve what works, we handle the rest
Pick what works for your project. Flume handles samples, submittals, procurement, QC, and job site delivery.
All-in pricing, on-time delivery.
Not just a quote. A decision-making tool
Line-by-line analysis from your specs. Here's what's included:
- $1.2M Total identified savings
- 42 Line items analyzed
- 31% Average savings per item
- 87% Spec coverage rate
Executive summary
Total savings by material category on one page - the numbers you need upfront.
Line-by-line comparison
Each material analyzed with original specs, recommended alternative, spec comparison, and price difference.
Three tiers of alternatives
Exact match (better price), equivalent (meets/exceeds spec), or value option (max savings). You pick.
Execution timeline
Week-by-week roadmap from approval to delivery with built-in buffers at every stage.
Quality assurance protocol
Factory audits, pre-production sampling, QC at three checkpoints, export-grade packaging.
Example line item from a VE report
T-001 Lobby Floor Tile - 24×48 Polished Porcelain
42% savings
Original Specification
Milestone Calacatta Gold Polished
24"×48" Rectified Porcelain · 2,600 SF · Spec'd: $8.40/SF
| Attribute | Original Spec | Flume Alternative | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 24"×48" | 24"×48" | Match |
| Finish | Polished | Polished | Match |
| Water Absorption | <0.5% | 0.08% | Better |
| Breaking Strength | ≥2000N | 2,450N | Better |
| Slip Resistance | ≥0.42 DCOF | 0.45 DCOF | Match |
| Thickness | 10mm | 10mm | Match |
| Rectified Edge | Yes | Yes | Match |
| Shade Variation | V2 | V2 | Match |
Frequently asked questions
What does the VE report include?
The report covers every material in your spec book. For each line item, you get the original product details, up to three alternative options at different price points, a spec-by-spec comparison, and total savings projections. It also includes an execution timeline and quality assurance details.
How quickly can you turn around pricing?
Most VE reports are delivered within 2-4 business days. Our team uses AI to identify products quickly, then confirms pricing and availability directly to ensure accuracy.
What if the architect rejects the alternatives?
You're fully protected. Nothing goes to production until your architect approves. If they reject any alternative, you simply don't move forward on that item - no cost, no commitment. That's why we provide free physical samples and complete submittal packages upfront - so your architect can make an informed decision before anything is committed.
Are prices all-inclusive?
Yes. Every price includes materials, shipping, customs, warehousing, and delivery to your job site. One total price with no hidden fees or surprise costs at the end.
What size projects work best with Flume?
Flume works best on multifamily developments (50+ units), hospitality projects (50+ keys), mixed-use projects, and commercial builds with material budgets over $500K. The larger your project, the more you save.
Can you work with our subcontractors?
Absolutely. We work directly with you, or with your subs who procure through us. Either way, Flume handles logistics, quality control, and delivery - the sub focuses on installation.
Ready to see what better VE looks like?
Send us your specs and get a free VE report back in days. Real numbers, zero commitment.