| My Design/Build Coach Articles for Remodeling and Design/Build Professionals | |||
The 3-D Software Advantage: Three-dimensional design software can be an effective communication tool There is no shortage of software programs that promise improved productivity, clearer communication and higher efficiency. Whether it is word processing, bookkeeping, estimating or CAD, you probably are inundated with offers to upgrade, if not purchase, new software. In the big scheme of things, who has time to review their software needs, make an analysis of what is most suitable for his/her company and then learn the program through either informal or formal training? I would guess the answer is not many! As a designer, I recognized the usefulness of CAD programs back in the 1980s. It did not put me in good stead with some of my architect/designer friends. I remember one friend telling me, "You need to feel the pencil in your hand in order to create meaningful design." I was a pariah. Over time, that attitude has changed among the design set. We now see how modifications can be made more readily with a computer. Likewise, the programs which create the drawings are more sophisticated and offer better representations of our ideas. Three-dimensional drawing software is one type of program that benefits all three parties to design/build: the designer, the builder and the homeowner. To the homeowner it offers better representation of space. We live in a 3-D world in which two-dimensional plans can leave people with uncertainty about the end result. For the designer, current 3-D software programs (Chief Architect, Soft Plan, etc.) offer flexible drawing options that are no longer encumbered with multiple key strokes. For the builder these programs offer the ability to communicate to the homeowner what they are purchasing. But a funny thing has been happening with this communication tool. Not only does it convey images of completed projects, but it also helps the team make alterations to the plan. What better way to stay on schedule and within budget than by agreeing on the design before construction begins? Another benefit of using 3-D software is the ability to sell more projects. By helping the client visualize the finished product, you often end up selling more. While the homeowner may have envisioned a 12- by 12-ft. space as adequate for their addition, actually seeing a representation of that space may prompt them to increase the scope and size of the project. I’ve witnessed a builder make recommendations to the homeowner about such issues only to be dismissed. But as soon as the 3-D plan was shown, they became much more receptive to the idea. There are a number of ways in which the new software program can be incorporated into your business plan. Probably the least time-consuming and expensive way is to work with a designer or architect who is already proficient with the software. The designer makes the design presentation to the homeowner. During the meeting, the design can be manipulated to the client’s specifications. Builders acting as their own designers cannot get around the issue of learning the software program themselves. My advice to them is to take one of the courses offered through the software company. Of course, some individuals can sit down with the program tutorial and walk away from the computer proficient within two hours. I work with one designer who can’t wait for new software releases to come out so he can check out the new bells and whistles. He e-mailed me a plan which had the actual countertop granite the homeowner wanted on the drawing. He has sent me perspectives with landscaping that is strikingly similar to the homeowner’s. He even inserted the lake in the background — talk about personalization! As software becomes more sophisticated, we too need to up the ante. It is no longer good enough to scratch a plan on a napkin and go for it. After all, clients are becoming more sophisticated as well. |
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The 3D Software Advantage By Joseph Dellanno June 18, 2004 Reprinted from Residential Design & Build Magazine www.dbmagazine.com |
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