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    • Author: David Medeiros

    The Modular Construction Paradox: Lessons from the UK and Canada

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    At the recent Building Transformations conference, a guest speaker from the UK shed light on the stark realities of the modular construction industry, comparing its trajectory in the UK with the situation in Canada. Modular construction has long promised to deliver projects on time, on budget, and with greater sustainability. However, the current landscape tells a different story, particularly in Canada, where many modular manufacturers and constructors are struggling to stay afloat.

    Challenges in Modular Construction

    The promise of modular construction has been hindered by several factors:

    • Skilled Labour: A significant shortage of skilled labour has caused delays, making it challenging to meet tight project deadlines. As a solution, retraining initiatives are being implemented to upskill existing workers, helping to mitigate these delays and improve project timelines.
    • Material Costs: Rising material costs have made it difficult for manufacturers to choose sustainable options, leading to budget overruns.
    • Financial Struggles: Many modular manufacturers are facing financial difficulties, with some even closing their doors.

    A Parallel with the Electric Car Industry

    A solution to these challenges can be found by drawing a parallel with the electric car industry. The modular industry, much like the fully electric car market, may have gone too far, too fast. While fully electric vehicles represent the future, the transition has been slow due to infrastructure challenges, a lack of trained workforce, and consumer hesitation. Similarly, modular construction has jumped straight to complex solutions, such as producing entire pods or suites, without a transitional phase that would allow for quality improvements and industry adaptation.

    The better approach may be a “hybrid” method—focusing on building kits of parts (e.g., floors and exterior walls) rather than entire modules. This approach could help ease the transition and provide more sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

    What Lies Ahead for the Future of Modular Construction?

    While modular construction holds promise, the industry must take a step back and reassess its approach. By adopting a hybrid model, similar to the automotive industry’s embrace of hybrid vehicles, the modular construction industry can better navigate its challenges and fulfill its potential.

    Sources:

    Enhancing Revit Workflows with CTC Tools: A Deep Dive into Spreadsheets

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    In the modern world of Building Information Modeling (BIM), Excel remains a cornerstone of data management and analysis. Whether it’s for budgeting, scheduling, or data tracking, most professionals are familiar with and rely on Excel’s powerful capabilities. However, when it comes to integrating Excel with complex BIM tools like Autodesk Revit, the process can often be cumbersome and inefficient. This is where CTC’s Spreadsheet Link and Schedule XL come into play. These innovative tools bridge the gap between Excel and Revit, allowing users to harness the best of both worlds. In this post, we’ll delve into how Spreadsheet Link and Schedule XL streamline workflows, enhance data accuracy, and ultimately help you manage your Revit projects with greater efficiency and ease.

    1. Understanding Spreadsheet Link

    What is Spreadsheet Link?

    Spreadsheet Link is a tool developed by CTC that connects Revit with Excel, allowing for seamless data integration between the two platforms. This integration is especially valuable for teams where not everyone uses Revit, as it enables efficient data management and collaboration.

    Key Features

    • Bidirectional Data Sync: Synchronize data between Revit and Excel effortlessly. Updates made in Excel can be reflected in Revit and vice versa.
    • Customizable Templates: Create and use custom Excel templates tailored to your project’s specific needs, ensuring consistency and accuracy.
    • Data Manipulation: Leverage Excel’s advanced data manipulation and analysis capabilities before syncing the updated data back to Revit.

    Benefits

    • Enhanced Collaboration: Easily share an Excel file with team members or stakeholders who do not use Revit. They can update the file with necessary information, which can then be synchronized back into Revit, ensuring everyone stays on the same page.
    • Improved Efficiency: Save time by allowing non-Revit users to handle data updates and modifications in Excel, reducing the need for manual data entry in Revit.
    • Reduced Errors: Utilize Excel’s data validation and formatting tools to minimize errors before syncing data to Revit.

    2. Exploring Schedule XL

    What is Schedule XL?

    Schedule XL is a tool developed by CTC that enhances Revit’s scheduling capabilities by enabling users to import Excel files directly into Revit. This functionality is particularly useful for teams who use Excel for data management and want to integrate that data seamlessly into their Revit projects.

    Key Features

    • Import Excel Files into Revit: Schedule XL allows you to import Excel spreadsheets directly into Revit. This means you can leverage Excel’s powerful data manipulation and formatting features while ensuring your data is accurately reflected in your Revit schedules.
    • Customizable Data Mapping: The tool provides flexible options for mapping data from your Excel file to Revit’s schedule parameters. This customization helps in aligning your Excel data with Revit’s requirements, making the import process smooth and accurate.

    Benefits

    • Enhanced Efficiency: Importing Excel files into Revit with Schedule XL saves time and effort by eliminating the need to manually re-enter data. You can prepare and format your data in Excel and then import it directly into Revit, streamlining your workflow.
    • Improved Accuracy: Excel’s data validation and formatting tools help ensure that your data is correct before it’s imported into Revit. This reduces the risk of errors and discrepancies in your schedules.
    • Simplified Collaboration: Schedule XL facilitates better collaboration by allowing team members who are more comfortable working in Excel to manage and update schedule data. You can easily share Excel files with collaborators and import their updates into Revit without hassle.
    • Flexible Data Management: Leveraging Excel’s features for data manipulation, analysis, and formatting provides greater flexibility in managing complex schedule data. You can perform detailed analyses and apply sophisticated formatting in Excel before bringing the data into Revit.

    3. Integrating Both Tools for Maximum Efficiency

    Combined Benefits

    Using Spreadsheet Link and Schedule XL together can create a powerful workflow where data management and schedule editing are streamlined and more efficient.

    For instance, you can use Spreadsheet Link to manage and update room data in Excel, you can then generate custom Schedules in Excel and then use Schedule XL to handle the corresponding schedules, ensuring consistency and accuracy across your project.

    Workflow Tips

    • Consistent Data Management: Maintain consistency by using Excel for data updates and Revit for design changes.
    • Regular Syncing: Ensure regular syncing between Revit and Excel to keep data current and accurate.

    CTC’s Spreadsheet Link and Schedule XL are indispensable tools for Revit users looking to enhance their workflow, improve data management, and boost overall efficiency. By integrating these tools into your BIM process, you can unlock new levels of productivity and accuracy, ultimately leading to more successful project outcomes.

    For any inquiries, reach out to your sales representative or contact us at info@solidcad.ca. Together, let’s transform how you manage contract administration in Revit and elevate your projects to new heights of success.

    Building Castles in the Air: Can Top-Down Construction Go Mainstream?

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    This story was originally published by Stacey Freed on the Bluebeam Blog.

    One construction firm thinks so—and has a proof-of-concept project to prove it

    The way we construct buildings in the United States hasn’t changed much in decades. But with the confluence of high materials prices, a skilled labor shortage, high mortgage rates and sustainability challenges, the construction industry has a need for change.

    In short, there’s “an importance of trying to figure out new ways of doing things,” said Joe Benvenuto, chief operating officer for contractor LIFTbuild. The Southfield, Michigan-based company is finding success with an unconventional construction process: building from the top down, with a patented method that LIFTbuild refers to as “vertical manufacturing.”

    Elevated idea

    To be sure, top-down construction—where the top floor is built first and the process works its way down—isn’t totally new. Architect David Termohlen is credited with having invented the concept and further developing it in the 1970s with Charles H. Thornton, founder of Thornton Tomasetti structural engineering firm. A few buildings such as the Russian Diplomatic Compound in Riverdale, New York City, were built in the early 1970s. But then the idea—and the patent—languished, with some exceptions.

    In 2017, Detroit-based Barton Malow, a now-100-year-old construction company, made an investment in the top-down approach to construction, “which fueled the effort to innovate the concept of building a building starting at the top and working downward,” Benvenuto said.

    The company established LIFTbuild to meet its goal of doubling construction efficiency, and it spent about three years in research and development to improve the concept, the way the building is designed and constructed, the way the floor plates are connected and the way they’re lifted.

    “In some cases, we sent the engineering methods through destructive testing to validate the process. What LIFTbuild is trying to do elevates the process to create a safer and less expensive way to build commercial buildings,” Benvenuto said. “These R&D efforts have resulted in more than 15 US patents, which protect LIFTbuild’s unique technological and delivery means and methods.”

    Benvenuto added, “by 2020, LIFTbuild had significantly improved system safety with innovative means, methods and technologies centered on the superstructure, façade, assembly pad and lifting. Improved safety, increased efficiency and higher quality all lead to a better and more sustainable product for our end user.”

    The Exchange

    Built on a small, tight, triangular site surrounded by streets, businesses and the elevated light rail system known as People Mover, the 16-story high-rise called the Exchange in Detroit is LIFTbuild’s first proof of concept. It comprises 153 residential rental units, 12 condominiums, ground-level office space and approximately 6,000 square feet of commercial space.

    The structural steel and concrete building took extensive planning, with much of the engineering done in a 3D model and a virtual environment. LIFTbuild then created a kind of manufacturing environment on the site. “Picture more of an assembly line in which a vehicle gets created. It’s very rapid. All the critical parts and pieces come into the process at just the right time,” Benvenuto said.

    The build works this way:

    Builders start on site by completing the foundation and underground work consistent with a conventional building. They then begin erecting concrete and steel “spines.” The spines are structural elements and could include stairwells, bathrooms, kitchens—anything, really, depending on the design, according to Benvenuto.

    Next, they begin placing the concrete assembly pad, what LIFTbuild refers to as the factory floor. The assembly pad is located exactly where the building footprint is. A building’s design and geometry determine the number of spines needed. The Exchange has two, each of which encase elevators, stairs, storage and mechanical rooms.

    Strand jacks, linear winches that pull heavy loads from above, are staged at the top of the spines. The floor plates are then built around the spines, about three feet off the ground with metal decking and concrete. The jacks lift the floor plates just above the builders’ heads to install the underdeck mechanicals—no need for scaffolding or ladders.

    The façade and rough mechanical, electrical and plumbing go in before the floor plate is lifted. After the floor is locked into place, interior fit out begins, which includes interior walls and ceilings. Once the façade and fire protection are installed, the floor plate is lifted by the strand jack into place. Each floor in the Exchange weighs about 1 million pounds, and during placement rose about 30 feet an hour. The highest lift on the Exchange was about 200 feet.

    “Placement is a cantilevered approach where we structurally connect that floor plate to the spine,” Benvenuto said. “From there the floor plate is able to provide structural stability out all the way to the exterior of the building without columns.” Every floor plate is individually supported.

    Lift and learn

    The foremost reason to use this method is safety, Benvenuto said. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022 the construction industry accounted for 1,092 deaths by falling, slipping or tripping—47.4% of all workplace fatal falls, slips and trips. “We eliminate the hazards when we install the façade at ground level. Fall protection is naturally built into it,” Benvenuto said.

    Benvenuto cites increased productivity as the next major benefit, pointing to the difficulty of finding available, qualified tradespeople, rising construction costs and material pricing. “Projects have a hard time meeting financial feasibility at times,” he said. With LIFTbuild, because assemblies are done on site, often using prefabricated products and with little need for large cranes, there are fewer people needed for a build.

    The method also saves time. Although builders could customize individual floors, each floor is basically a repeat of the one above. There’s more of a manufacturing process—which also can instill better quality, said Mark Tamaro, managing director of Thornton Tomasetti, who consulted on the Exchange.

    Tamaro also points out that these projects can be more sustainable. Because the floor system uses steel frames, it requires less material than concrete construction. “There’s a significantly lower amount of embodied carbon than in a typical concrete product,” he said. Additionally, Tamaro said that as they learn more, there may be ways to incorporate mass timber or other materials.

    Ultimately, LIFTbuild can be less expensive when compared to conventional building. Benvenuto said that using LIFTbuild, the company aims to provide savings of 10% to 20% on cost and 20% to 30% in schedule savings.

    Nothing is without its challenges, however. There’s a certain level of education—for municipalities, lenders, insurance companies, builders and tradespeople—that must happen. Benvenuto said the company went through some “pretty intensive education sessions to make sure they truly understand what’s happening and address any concerns or what they would perceive as a risk.”

    Tradespeople and others working onsite had safety training and “education around optimizing their time on site to make sure they were the most productive,” Benvenuto said. “But realistically, the work conditions are better and easier than you would see on a conventional project,” he added.

    The education piece helped with permit applications and inspections. “Some of the preliminary inspections can happen at grade level, so it’s advantageous for them,” Benvenuto said.

    LIFTbuild also collaborated closely with MIOSHA to adhere to all safety standards. The strand jack system is safe, able to take four to five times the amount of capacity needed to lift the floor plates.

    Not just a novelty

    Top-down construction can work beyond commercial building. There’s need for more housing, and the LIFTbuild method is “well-suited for residential construction,” Tamaro said. The method could be a game changer for the industry.

    “This is something that can truly transform the way we build buildings,” Benvenuto said. “About 10 years ago, Barton Malow set the goal of doubling our efficiency by our 100th anniversary [in 2024]. The investment into LIFTbuild is a significant effort to accomplish that.”

    While the Exchange is LIFTbuild’s first completed building, Benvenuto said they have a handful of opportunities coming. “With the Exchange, we’ve been able to validate the technology. Now our focus is to commercialize LIFTbuild on a broader scale throughout North America.”

    Top-down in action: A different take

    In 2014, Thornton Tomasetti used the “traditional” top-down build method to build the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C., said Tamaro, who was the project’s engineer of record. “We constructed the building both upward from the ground level and downward simultaneously.”

    Builders drill into the site and install shafts, called piers or plunge columns, Tamaro said. In the case of the Marriott these were dug down about 130 feet to get below the lowest basement level. The piers stop at the floor level of the first floor. The build continues upward in the traditional way with concrete columns.

    At the same time workers are building up, others are excavating below, around the piers. “If you do it right, you can top out the building before you get to the bottom of the basement,” Tamaro said.

    Why do it this way? “In the case of the Marriott job, there were two fundamental reasons,” Tamaro said. “One is speed of construction.” In a conventional build you’d dig all the way to the bottom and then come back out. With this top-down method, you effectively start in the middle and work down and up at the same time. There’s no wait time.

    The other reason to choose this method is that this particular site was constrained with both a high water table and the need to go extremely deep as there were multiple basement levels. “This method of construction allowed us to build deeper and avoid having to address the groundwater,” Tamaro said. “Doing things this way made an otherwise very challenging project feasible.”

    A How-to guide on leveraging Your Digital Practice Assessment Results

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    Introduction

    Completing your Digital Practice Assessment (DPA) is a significant milestone, so congratulations! The insights gained have the potential to transform your operations and drive your business forward. However, turning these insights into effective action often requires specialized expertise. This is where choosing the right consultant becomes crucial. My job, is to help guide you on how to leverage your assessment results effectively, develop an action plan, and select the perfect consultant to ensure successful implementation.

    Understanding Your Assessment Results

    Before diving into implementation, thoroughly understand the detailed findings of your DPA. Here’s how you can effectively process the assessment results:

    • Categorize Findings: Organize the assessment outcomes into immediate, medium-term, and long-term actions.
    • Identify Quick Wins: Pinpoint recommendations that can be quickly implemented to gain early momentum and visible improvements.
    • Focus on High Impact Changes: Prioritize initiatives that offer the most significant benefits in efficiency, cost reduction, or other key metrics.

    Developing a Strategic Action Plan

    With a clear grasp of the findings, your next step is to create a strategic action plan. This plan should be detailed, with clear objectives, resource allocation, responsibilities, and timelines. Consider these steps:

    • Define Objectives: Clearly outline what each initiative aims to achieve, based on the DPA findings.
    • Allocate Resources: Assess the resources needed for each initiative, including budget, personnel, and time.
    • Plan Implementation Phases: Establish a phased approach to tackle recommendations, setting realistic timelines for each phase.

    Choosing the Right Consultant for Implementation

    The success of implementing your DPA largely depends on the expertise and approach of the consultant you choose. Here’s how to select a consultant who can turn your plans into action:

    • Expertise and Experience: Look for consultants with a proven track record in your industry and expertise in the specific areas highlighted by your DPA.
    • Alignment with Business Culture: Choose a consultant whose approach and values align with your business culture. This alignment will facilitate smoother communication and collaboration.
    • Implementation Methodology: Assess their methodology to ensure it complements your business’s operational dynamics and goals.
    • References and Case Studies: Ask for references and review case studies that demonstrate their ability to deliver tangible results.

    Implementing Recommendations

    With the right consultant onboard, you can confidently implement the changes. Ensure a smooth transition by:

    • Engaging Your Team: Clearly communicate the changes, the reasons behind them, and the expected benefits to your team. Involve them in the process to enhance buy-in.
    • Monitoring Progress: Set up regular checkpoints to review the progress of the implementation against the goals.
    • Leveraging Tools: Utilize appropriate project management tools to track responsibilities, progress, and deadlines effectively.

    Evaluating Impact and Adjusting Strategies

    Once your initiatives are underway, it’s crucial to measure their impact:

    • Assess Outcomes: Compare the results with the expectations set out in your action plan. Use both qualitative and quantitative data to assess success.
    • Iterate and Improve: Utilize the feedback and data gathered to refine your strategies. Continuous improvement will help your business adapt and thrive in a competitive landscape.

    Conclusion

    Your Digital Practice Assessment is the first step in a journey of continuous improvement. By understanding your results, crafting a strategic action plan, and partnering with the right consultant, you can transform insights into impactful business improvements. Remember, the right consultant doesn’t just guide you through the process—they empower your team to sustain these changes long-term, paving the way for ongoing success and innovation.

    Mastering the Game of Growth: The AECO Desired Outcomes Chessboard

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    Introduction

    In the world of architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO), strategic planning is not just a part of the game—it is the game. Like chess, each move must be calculated, with an eye toward future impacts and benefits. This is where the concept of the “AECO Desired Outcomes Chessboard” comes into play, a strategic tool designed to help firms navigate the complexities of business growth and technological integration.

    What is the AECO Desired Outcomes Chessboard?

    The AECO Desired Outcomes Chessboard can be described as a visual and strategic guide that helps firms identify and prioritize key outcomes essential for their growth and success. It breaks down complex objectives into manageable, strategic areas such as business growth, risk management, operation efficiency, and sustainability. This tool is designed to provide a clear path for firms to enhance their operational effectiveness and align their goals with actionable steps toward innovation and development.

    Strategic Prioritization of Business Goals

    Each square on the chessboard represents a specific business outcome that AECO firms aim to achieve. Here are some critical areas where strategic moves can make a significant impact:

    • Attract and Retain Top Talent: With competition for skilled professionals at an all-time high, strategies for talent acquisition and retention are crucial.
    • Improve Design Quality and Satisfaction: High-quality design leads to client satisfaction and repeat business, forming the backbone of a firm’s reputation.
    • Enhance Collaboration and Data Exchange: In the digital age, improving internal and external communication through technology can streamline operations and reduce errors.
    • Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating risks early in the project lifecycle ensures business continuity and reduces the likelihood of costly setbacks.

    Using the Chessboard to Drive Decision Making

    The Chessboard not only helps in setting priorities but also serves as a benchmarking tool to measure progress against these goals. By regularly reviewing each ‘piece’ or outcome on the chessboard, firms can adjust their strategies in response to changing market conditions and internal company dynamics. This dynamic tool encourages continuous improvement and agility, essential qualities in the fast-paced AECO sector.

    Case Study Example

    Consider the example of a mid-sized engineering firm that used the AECO Desired Outcomes Chessboard to prioritize their goals. By focusing on ‘Reduce Overall Design Time’ and ‘Improve Collaboration’, they were able to implement targeted technological solutions that streamlined their workflows and enhanced team coordination. The result was a noticeable improvement in project delivery times and a reduction in overhead costs, illustrating the practical benefits of using the Chessboard in real-world scenarios.

    So what now?

    The AECO Desired Outcomes Chessboard is a planning tool and a strategic move that helps firms visualize their future and plot a course to success. Like a grandmaster in chess, AECO leaders can use this tool to anticipate challenges, devise winning strategies, and achieve sustainable growth. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing such innovative tools will be key to staying competitive and thriving in the marketplace.

    If you are interested in getting access to the chessboard, Complete the form to download your copy here.

    Elevating Business Strategies with the Digital Practice Assessment (DPA)

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    Introduction

    How do leaders  maintain their edge in a rapidly evolving market? The secret isn’t just in the tools they use, but how they integrate these tools strategically within their business frameworks. Introducing the concept of Digital Practice Assessments (DPA)—a approach that transcends traditional technology usage to streamline operations and maximize efficiency across industries, and particularly within architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO).

    What is a Digital Practice Assessment?

    A Digital Practice Assessment dives deep into a company’s existing workflows, practices, and tools to pinpoint opportunities for improvement and innovative integration. It’s more than an evaluation—but it’s a strategic roadmap tailored to align technological capabilities with overarching business goals, ensuring that technology investments are precise, impactful, and directly tied to business outcomes.

    What is the difference between your traditional Business Process Assessment (BPA) and Digital Practice Assessment (DPA)?

    In the digital age, mastering your operational and technological strategies is more crucial than ever. While a Business Process Assessment (BPA) meticulously streamlines your company’s workflows—identifying bottlenecks and optimizing operations for peak productivity—it’s the Digital Practice Assessment (DPA) that really resonates with today’s tech-focused world.

    DPA dives into the heart of your technology stack, evaluating how your digital tools integrate and enhance your business processes. This isn’t just about using technology; it’s about transforming your operations to be digitally forward. As businesses prioritize digital transformation to stay competitive, DPA provides the insights needed to ensure your investments are driving genuine innovation. For firms looking to thrive in a digitally driven marketplace, understanding and implementing a robust DPA plan can be the game changer you’re looking for.

    Why Invest in Digital Practice Assessments?

    Imagine having a strategic tool that not only identifies potential pitfalls but also provides customized, actionable solutions. Here’s how a DPA can benefit your business:

    Enhanced Efficiency: It helps pinpoint and eliminate process inefficiencies, streamlining operations to boost productivity.

    Cost Reduction: By identifying areas where technology can minimize rework and errors, a DPA helps reduce overhead costs significantly.

    Competitive Advantage: Keep your business at the front of technological advancements, ensuring you lead rather than follow.

    Empowerment of Staff: By equipping teams with optimal tools and streamlined processes, a DPA enhances job satisfaction and attracts top talent.

    The Genesis of Digital Practice Assessments

    The development of DPAs was driven by the need for a structured, outcome-oriented approach to technology integration in various sectors. This need became especially apparent through discussions with stakeholders across multiple industries with our clients who expressed concerns over the overwhelming array of digital tools and the unclear ROI they presented. The DPA was crafted to demystify these technologies, offering a clear path to tangible business benefits, and track success.

    Looking Forward

    As businesses in sectors that focus on designing and making continue to evolve, integrating technological strategies becomes imperative. A DPA offers more than insights—it provides a pathway to a smarter, more efficient, and competitive future. In our next piece, we’ll explore the specific business outcomes achievable through DPAs through the Desired Outcomes Chessboard.

    Working with the Bluebeam Tool Chest: A Guide for Electricians

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    This story was originally published by FRANK KALMAN on the Bluebeam Blog.

    Discover how the Bluebeam Tool Chest can revolutionize your workflow as an electrician by providing a streamlined, efficient way to manage and reuse your most frequently used markups, ensuring precision and productivity in all your projects.

    As an electrician, your work demands precision and efficiency, especially when marking up electrical plans and blueprints. The Tool Chest in Bluebeam Revu can be your best ally, helping you streamline your markup process. This guide will show you how to leverage this powerful tool to enhance your productivity and accuracy.

    Understanding the Tool Chest

    The Tool Chest is designed to store and organize your frequently used markups, making them easily accessible whenever you need them. It automatically remembers your recent markups and can reapply them with their original properties or scale them to fit different drawings. This feature is especially useful for electricians, as it ensures that your tools are always at the right scale, saving you from the hassle of recreating them for each new project. And with the latest release of Revu 21.2, Tool Chest is even better, as users can now use search to quickly find and use markups based on Subject, Comment and Label search parameters (See more of what’s new in the latest release here).​

    Saving Markups to the Tool Chest

    Saving a markup from a PDF to the Tool Chest is straightforward. Right-click the markup, go to “Add to Tool Chest,” and select the desired tool set. This way, your electrical symbols and notes are always ready for reuse.

    Placing Markups on a PDF

    When you need to place a markup on a PDF, select the tool from the Tool Chest and click on the document. This quick and easy access ensures that you can efficiently mark up your electrical plans.

    Managing Tools within Tool Sets

    Organizing your tools is crucial for maintaining efficiency. To copy a tool from one set to another, simply drag its icon. You can also reorder tools by dragging them to your desired location. Deleting a saved tool is easy:

    – Click the tool and hit the delete icon on the toolbar.

    – Select the tool and press the DELETE key.

    – Right-click the tool icon and choose “Delete.”

    If you need a duplicate tool or want to change its color, right-click the tool icon and select “Duplicate” or “Change Colors” to customize your toolkit.

    Reusing Recent Tools

    The Recent Tools set automatically records markups as they are added to your PDF. To reuse a tool, click its icon and place the markup on your document. This feature is particularly handy for repetitive tasks, such as marking circuit paths or labeling outlets.

    When the number of saved tools exceeds the display capacity, an arrow appears on the right. Clicking this arrow reveals all your recent tools. You can configure the maximum number of tools stored in Recent Tools by clicking the properties gear and adjusting the “Maximum Recents” setting.

    If you need to clear your recent tools before closing Bluebeam Revu, click the properties gear and select “Clear Recents.”

    Permanently Saving a Tool to be Reused

    To ensure a tool remains available after Revu is closed, you have a couple of options:

    – Drag the tool’s icon from Recent Tools into another tool set.

    – Right-click the tool icon in Recent Tools and select “Add Item to My Tools,” which saves it to the My Tools tool set. Use the drag-and-drop method to save it to a different set if needed.

    To save a markup on the document as a reusable tool, right-click the markup, go to “Add to Tool Chest,” and select the desired tool set.

    Special Properties of the My Tools Tool Set

    The My Tools tool set is a customizable collection of frequently used tools, offering easy access and special properties. Tools in this set are assigned numeric hot keys for quick access, shown in the upper right corner of the icon. Changing a tool’s position in the set automatically updates its hot key.

    The My Tools set is a permanent feature in Revu, available in all profiles by default. While it can be hidden, it cannot be completely removed. Tools in this set can toggle between Properties Mode and Drawing Mode for versatile use.

    Properties Mode vs. Drawing Mode

    Tools in My Tools, Recent Tools, and custom tool sets can operate in two modes: Drawing Mode and Properties Mode.

    – Properties Mode: Adds a new markup with the same appearance properties as the saved markup, retaining properties like color and border, but not exact dimensions or text.

    – Drawing Mode: Adds an exact duplicate of the saved markup, perfect for repetitive tasks where precision is key.

    Switching modes is easy—double-click the tool or use the Toggle Mode icon on the Tool Chest toolbar. This flexibility allows you to choose the best mode for your needs.

    Pinning, Scaling Tool Sets

    For quick access, you can pin a tool set to any toolbar. Click the properties gear next to the section name, go to “Pin,” and select the specific toolbar.

    Tool sets can also scale automatically when placed in a calibrated drawing, thanks to Revu’s Dynamic Tool Set Scaler. This feature is particularly useful for electricians, as it ensures your markups, like conduit paths or switch locations, are accurately scaled.

    Generating a Markups Legend

    Creating a Markups Legend based on a tool set is a powerful feature, enabling you to keep track of all your tools and their uses. Refer to the Markups Legend section in Revu for detailed instructions.

    The Tool Chest in Bluebeam Revu is a game-changer for electricians and other construction workers looking to enhance their productivity. By efficiently organizing, saving and scaling your tools, workers can focus more on the critical aspects of their job and less on repetitive tasks. Explore these features to make the most of the document markup experience, ensuring electrical plans are always clear, precise and professional.

    How to Manage Survey Standards with CTC’s Survey Tools

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    A guide for civil engineers and surveyors who want to streamline their survey workflows with Civil 3D and other software

    Surveying is a crucial part of any civil engineering project, but it can also be a time-consuming and error-prone process. That’s why many civil firms use CTC’s Survey Tools, part of the CIM Manager & CIM Project suites of add-ons for Civil 3D that help manage survey standards, and convert point file data. In this post, we will show you how to use CTC’s Survey Tools to improve your survey workflow with Civil 3D.

    What are Survey Standards and Why are They Important?

    Survey standards are the rules and conventions that define how survey data is collected, processed, and displayed in different software. With respect to Civil 3D Survey standards include things like survey codes, point formats, figure styles, and linework settings. Survey standards are important because they ensure that the survey data is consistent and compatible across different projects and software.

    By using quality survey standards, you can save time and avoid errors when working with survey data. These survey standards should be applied across the entire organization to ensure an output that is consistent in quality and display for every project, because building a company brand for high quality output takes consistency.

    How to Manage Survey Standards with CTC’s Survey Tools?

    CTC’s CIM Manager Suite is a suite of add-ons for Civil 3D that help you manage survey standards and overall CAD Standards in a convenient and efficient way. The CIM Manager Suite include 4 main components that can help you with different aspects of survey standards management.

    These are:

    • Linetype Manager: This tool is a free tool in theis CIM suite that offers a much more dynamic way to create and edit .lin files then the conventional ways in AutoCAD. Providing a dynamic preview window to show changes as they are being made to a linetype.

    • Survey Template Manager: a tool that allows you to manage survey templates in Excel, instead of using the clunky interfaces of Civil 3D. You can create and edit description keys, figure prefix databases, and linework code sets in a familiar spreadsheet environment, and then import them into Civil 3D with a few clicks.
    • Layer Boss: Speeds up Civil 3D layer management and creation by syncing with an Excel spreadsheet. All layer properties can be managed from an external spreadsheet, allowing faster template management. All Civil 3D object layer settings can be synced in the same way. Initial spreadsheet creation occurs through a simple export option from any drawing or template file.
    • Point File Converter: Although this tool is in the CIM Project Suite, this is a tool that allows you to convert point files between different formats, such as CSV, FBK, LandXML, and more. You can also manage multiple survey coding standards and translate them to different software, such as MicroStation, Trimble, and others.

    To demonstrate how to use CTC’s Survey Tools, we will follow the typical survey workflow and show you how each tool can help you with each step. We will use Civil 3D and TBC as examples of software, but you can use other software as well, depending on your needs and preferences.

    Configure Survey Codes

    The first step of any survey workflow setup is to configure the survey codes that will be used to define the survey information. Survey codes are essential for creating accurate and consistent survey data, as they control how the points and survey figures are named, described, and displayed in the software. Civil 3D uses three means of managing survey codes: description keys, figure prefix databases, and linework code sets. These can be created and edited in Civil 3D, but the interfaces are not very user-friendly and can be very time-consuming. That’s why CTC’s Survey Template Manager is a better option, as it allows you to export and manage survey codes in Excel, which is a more familiar and flexible environment. To use Template Manager, you need to follow these steps:

    • Open the Survey Template Manager tool from the CTC Survey ribbon in Civil 3D.
    • Select the type of survey code you want to create or edit: description keys or figure prefix databases.
    • Click on the Excel icon to open the survey template in Excel.
    • Fill in the survey template with the survey standards information you want to use.
    • Save and close the Excel file.
    • Click on the Import icon in the CIM Managers Suite ribbon in Civil 3D to import the survey template from excel.
    • Verify that the survey codes are imported correctly in Civil 3D and click Apply.

    By using the Survey Template Manager tools, you can save time and avoid errors when creating and editing survey codes. You can also easily document these standards for use in formal onboarding documentation and CAD Standards.

    Perform the Survey

    The next step of the survey workflow is obviously to perform the survey in the field. The survey data is stored in the data collector, and can be exported to different formats, such as CSV, FBK, LandXML, and more. Most of which can be handled by Civil 3D.

    Import Survey Content to Civil 3D

    The next step of the survey workflow is to verify and import the survey content, which means checking that the survey points and figures are correct and consistent with the survey standards followed by importing into Civil 3D.

    Checking the survey data files is a crucial step in the process that will help confirm the point code and line work standards that have been used, as well as identify initial errors in the field data. Taking time for this step can pay dividends in later processing steps with data in Civil 3D. This step is generally easiest when working with a .CSV file in ASCII format. (ASCII format is the widely used format for point files these days, offering a typical five pieces of information. Point number, northing, easting, elevation, description or PNEZD)

    During import, Civil 3D uses a survey database to store and manage survey data, which can be imported from different formats, such as CSV, FBK, and more. During this import process line work is automatically created based off the figure prefix database file and the linework code sets, and survey points are stylized by the description key set.

    Once this survey data is imported into Civil 3D it can then be assessed again to ensure that it represents the existing conditions in the field. Looking for 0 elevations, and other oddities that can occur from incorrect inputs into the data collector or improper rod heights while surveying.

    Now the data is imported into Civil 3D, the rest of the design can continue with surfaces, corridors, pipe networks, and other design aspects.

    Compatibility Issues with Survey Standards & Data Files

    Often times organisations subcontract surveys. This can be an issue if these subcontractors don’t adhere to the survey standards the organization sets out. If the subcontracted surveyor does not adhere to the CAD standards of the organization, survey files cannot be read correctly. This leads to incorrect line work, poor stylization, and misinterpreted data.

    Point File Converter is a tool in the CTC CIM Project Suite That can help manage incompatibilities between survey standards and data files. It works best with .CSV files, and uses a spreadsheet “translation file” that spells out code conversions. The tool will read the conversion and apply them to one or more point files. Line work codes, as well as prefixes and suffixes in the coding are all accounted for.

    This offers unparalleled flexibility when working with subcontracted surveyors and their are various survey standards. This should also improve the surveyor’s efficiency as they are not forced to work in a foreign survey code list.

    Conclusion

    CTC’s Survey Template Manager Tools are part of a CIM Manager suite of add-ons for Civil 3D that help you manage survey standards, and convert point files. By using CTC’s Survey Manager Tools, you can streamline your survey workflow with Civil 3D and improve the quality and efficiency of your survey data and civil projects. To learn more about CTC’s Survey Tools, visit our website or contact us for a demo.

    Maximizing Security and Collaboration with Autodesk Construction Cloud: A SolidCAD Perspective

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    At SolidCAD, we’re proud to partner with Autodesk to bring forward-thinking solutions and services to the construction technology landscape. Autodesk’s recent strides in trust, security, and collaboration are perfectly aligned with our mission to deliver excellence to our clients.

    Enhancing Autodesk Construction Cloud Security

    Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) continues to elevate project management with advanced security features. Imagine managing your projects with the confidence that multi-factor authentication (MFA), role management, and seamless data syncing bring. These updates are crafted to enhance your project management capabilities, leveraging serverless architecture and custom integrations for a smooth, efficient workflow.

    Commitment to Data Security and Privacy

    In the realm of data security and privacy, Autodesk sets a gold standard. Their security and privacy organization has seen remarkable growth, now encompassing over 150 experts globally. This team meticulously measures security and privacy requirements, reporting progress to the board of directors quarterly. The three key pillars—build, run, and maintain—are not just concepts but active practices. Through threat modeling, rigorous testing, and proactive incident response, Autodesk ensures your data is safeguarded at every step.

    Recent Improvements in Autodesk Construction Cloud

    Significant improvements to ACC are transforming project management. Imagine the ability to approve information between linked projects or hide specific tools within the platform. These are just a few examples of the recent updates. The launch of Bridge is particularly exciting, allowing subcontractors and third parties to collaborate more efficiently on projects, with seamless data syncing between accounts. Moving to a serverless architecture and adopting an event-driven design further prioritizes reliability and performance.

    Upcoming Features and Investments

    Autodesk is continuously evolving. Upcoming features include secure service accounts for apps, project audit logs, activity tracking, and centralized role management. Their investment in data sovereignty, especially in Canada, reflects a commitment to regionalization. Additionally, their focus on generative design is a testament to their dedication to leveraging customer feedback for innovation. Recently, a video demonstration showcased Autodesk’s humane approach to AI, ensuring technology serves you better.

    The Future of AI and Customer Feedback

    Generative AI is revolutionizing various applications, and Autodesk is at the forefront. Customers are actively exploring its potential and providing valuable feedback on its impact on creativity and intellectual property. Autodesk’s sessions to identify gaps and mitigate risks emphasize the importance of community and collaboration in AI development. Your feedback plays a crucial role in shaping the future of AI solutions.

    Data Privacy and Security in AI

    Data privacy remains a top priority. Autodesk is cautious about using customer data, with no commercial use occurring without thorough discussion and consent. They’ve implemented an architecture for GDPR compliance, ensuring that all data is securely deleted upon request, addressing one of the top customer concerns.

    Transitioning from BIM 360 to ACC Unified

    The transition from BIM 360 to ACC Unified poses challenges, particularly for ongoing projects. Autodesk focuses on regionalization and centralizing permissions rather than developing migration tools. ACC is poised to distinguish itself from BIM 360, offering unique features and enhancements.

    Security Settings

    ACC’s standout features include multi-factor authentication. Ongoing developments aim to enforce Single Sign-On (SSO) and 2FA policies, enhancing security measures to stay ahead of potential threats. These advancements ensure that your data and projects are protected with the highest standards.

    Seamless Integration with Other Tools and Platforms

    Integration is key to a cohesive project management experience. Autodesk is diligently working to integrate the Construction Cloud with other tools and platforms. We see some of our customers being enthusiastic about these developments, despite challenges like managing email notifications for project invitations.

    High Availability and Data Replication

    Autodesk’s commitment to high availability and data replication means your data is always within reach. Customer data is replicated between data centers in different locations, ensuring no data loss or delay in service if a failover occurs. This replication process is swift, typically within 15 minutes, with daily database backups for added security.

    Securing Physical Infrastructure

    Autodesk Construction Cloud applications operate in secure data centers powered by Amazon AWS. These centers are fortified against unauthorized access and environmental hazards with a range of security measures. From facilities access control to video surveillance, fire prevention, and climate controls, every measure is taken to ensure the safety of your data.

    Investing in People

    Security starts with people. Autodesk provides comprehensive information security policy and awareness training to all employees and contingent workers. New hires sign confidentiality agreements and undergo specialized training. Regular mock phishing exercises keep the team alert and vigilant against potential threats.

    Through our partnership with Autodesk, we at SolidCAD aim to bring these advancements to our clients, providing a secure and collaborative environment for all. By continuously enhancing products and services, Autodesk ensures that trust and privacy remain at the forefront of their innovations. Join us as we build a future where your projects are not just successful but secure and reliable.

    Key Takeaways

    • Autodesk Construction Cloud Security: Elevating project management with multi-factor authentication, role management, and seamless data syncing.
    • Data Security and Privacy: Autodesk’s commitment to safeguarding data with over 150 global experts.
    • Recent ACC Improvements: Approving information between linked projects and launching the Bridge feature for efficient collaboration.
    • Upcoming Features: Secure service accounts, project audit logs, activity tracking, and centralized role management.
    • Generative AI and Customer Feedback: Exploring AI’s potential while addressing data privacy and security.
    • Transitioning from BIM 360 to ACC Unified: Focusing on regionalization and centralizing permissions.
    • High Availability and Data Replication: Ensuring data safety with replication and daily backups.
    • Physical Infrastructure Security: Operating in secure AWS data centers with advanced protective measures.
    • Employee Training: Comprehensive security policy and awareness training for all employees.

    By incorporating these key elements, we at SolidCAD ensure that your projects are not just successful but secure and reliable, leveraging our partnership with Autodesk to bring you the best in construction technology.

    Revolutionizing Contract Administration with Digital Transformation

    Posted on by David Medeiros

    In the ever-evolving AECO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations) landscape, effective contract administration is paramount. At SolidCAD, we recognize that while many of our clients use multiple tools, these tools, though digital, might not be properly tailored for the nuances of contract administration. The opportunity for digital transformation is ripe, and we champion the adoption of Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) and Bluebeam to lead this change.

    Embrace Purpose-Built Tools

    For executives and decision-makers in the construction industry, the goals are clear: save time, cut costs, and mitigate litigation risks. Current tools, though familiar, often miss the mark due to their generic design. It’s time to embrace tools specifically crafted for construction projects.

    Transformative Solutions: Autodesk Construction Cloud and Bluebeam

    1. Save Time and Cut Costs: Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) centralizes storage for all project-related data, including emails, photos, Revit or AutoCAD files, specifications, and meeting minutes. This streamlined access to information not only saves time but also reduces costs associated with managing both physical and digital storage. Achieve efficient construction management effortlessly.

    ACC’s mobile app boosts efficiency by enabling on-site access and updates to project data. Capture photos, record meeting minutes, and review files directly from mobile devices, ensuring seamless real-time data flow and decision-making.

    1. Mitigate Litigation Risks: ACC stands out with its robust version control and unlimited storage capacity. By maintaining a comprehensive record of document histories and project communications, ACC ensures a transparent and verifiable audit trail. This thorough documentation is invaluable in defending against potential litigation, providing clear evidence of project progress and decision-making processes.
    2. Enhance Collaboration: Bluebeam and other applications complement ACC with top-tier markup, measuring, and estimation tools. Its Studio Sessions feature allows multiple stakeholders to collaboratively review and mark up PDF files in real-time. This capability reduces the need for extensive email exchanges, consolidating all comments into a single, comprehensive report, thus enhancing collaboration in construction.

    The SolidCAD Edge

    At SolidCAD, we partner with Autodesk and Bluebeam to deliver cutting-edge solutions, guiding our clients through their digital transformation journey. As trusted consultants, we offer tailored strategies leveraging ACC and Bluebeam, ensuring our clients utilize the best tools for their unique needs. By adopting these purpose-built technologies, executives and decision-makers in the AECO industry can elevate efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration in their construction and contract administration processes.

    Conclusion

    Transitioning from generic digital tools to specialized solutions like Autodesk Construction Cloud and Bluebeam marks a significant advancement in contract administration. These tools not only address the immediate needs of saving time, reducing costs, and mitigating litigation risks but also pave the way for long-term operational excellence. SolidCAD is here to navigate this transformation with you, ensuring you unlock the full potential of these innovative technologies for your contract administration needs.