This blog is about using BIM on a day to day basis. I cover ArchiCAD tips and tricks, BIM and management thoughts, and occasionally how this all relates to the Minnesota ArchiCAD Usergroup (which I started in 2009). The specifics are about ArchiCAD—that’s the software I use and sell—but the overall themes are relevant regardless of your software. Programs are just tools. BIM is a mentality.

Interactive ArchiCAD Practice Manual – guest blogger Vaneshrie Sullivan shares insights into her book

Posted: January 22nd, 2012 | Author: | Filed under: Guest Bloggers | Tags: , | 4 Comments »

The Interactive ArchiCAD Practice Manual came from the realization that, although there are numerous books on teaching ArchiCAD users how to use the tools and navigate around projects, there is not much guidance on how to apply this software in the most efficient manner in an everyday office environment. ArchiCAD is both user friendly and customizable, giving users the freedom to work in the software in countless ways. The price to be paid for this flexibility is that, in an office with many staff and no basic guidelines, the wheel is constantly re-invented. Over 10 years of training ArchiCAD users, I have also noticed that new features are not being applied in a structured format. Many users work with the latest software, but neglect the newer tools and workflows.

The standards in the Interactive ArchiCAD Practice Manual aim to provide solutions to setting up Projects that are easily adaptable through phases of Planning, Tender, Construction, Interiors and As-Built drawings, and have been developed over the years. This book refers to ArchiCAD version 14, however, it is possible to adapt the standards to suit older versions as well. I am hoping that the Interactive ArchiCAD Practice Manual together with standard templates and example files available for download will be a starting point to assist offices in creating the foundations for a structured Practice. It is my hope that every ArchiCAD user will find this book beneficial to their practice.

It is my intention to continue working with newer versions of ArchiCAD and to keep updating these standards. I also offer consultancy services to ArchiCAD users, such as Tailoring Custom Office Templates, Creating Translator Files, Training, Technical Support, Creating Library Parts, etc.

For a preview of the book please visit the website.