BigBeam wins out over the competition in many ways. Here are some comparisons that reveal the BigBeam edge.

BigBeam® vs. Solid Sawn/Conventional Framing: Available in more consistent sizes. Dry, dimensionally stable and available in long lengths. Beam depths match wood I-Joists. More environmentally friendly - made from smaller trees. More cost effective overall in terms of installation time and minimal call backs. Lends to more sophisticated building practices, including long spans and heavy loads. Greater design values.
BigBeam® vs. PSL: Easier to work with - BigBeam is lighter and cuts and nails like real wood. Weathers moisture better - individually wrapped with protective sealer. Less glue makes BigBeam more environmentally friendly. Similar design values allow passive substitution.
BigBeam® vs. LVL: Easier to work with. Single piece installation means easier installation - no nailing or bolting patterns or schedules. Similar design values.
BigBeam® vs. Steel Beams: Easier to work with - BigBeam is lighter and cuts and nails like real wood. Requires less labor to install because it's lighter and is a single piece installation. More environmentally friendly because less energy is used in the production. More cost effective when all the installation costs are considered. Beam depths match wood I-Joists. Accommodates complex building designs. Easy to modify on the jobsite.