Computer Aided Design Takes Building Design a Level Up: Handy Tips for Construction Managers

As construction budgets grow tighter by the day, sophisticated technology brings answers for age-old inefficiencies. Let’s break down how computer aided design is taking shape.

How would you like a near-actual replica of your building structure?

Tonnes of productive hours would be spent productively. Computer aided design has overturned hardliner traditional methods of carrying a slush-pile of drawings sheets. Once upon a time, construction managers would stroll every corner of a jobsite—today, they can plan the entire design-build-operate process through a digital model.

CAD design, a virtual operating system, patches architects, construction managers, project managers, owners, contractors and subs in a three-dimensional environment, where they’re able to visualize the final product through construction phases. Being interoperable with popular construction software, CAD facilitates efficiency across office and field operations. Dig more ways to build efficiency on jobsites.

Even with the industry’s slow progress in embracing technology, CAD tools have evolved to meet changing demands of field engineering. As the name indicates, it aids construction project managers in improving construction operations—by spotting deficiencies, diagnosing risks in time, and optimizing resources through precise drawings.

While they oversee actual construction, a project manager is the one they’re answerable to. The PM is the common link between designers, engineers, contractors, and the owner—aligning their interests through thick and thin. Check this site as it uncovers subtle differences between the roles of construction project managers and project managers—we bet you didn’t think they differed, right?

Now for the part where CAD helps a construction project manager ensure the success of a project.

What Is CAD Primarily Used For?

CAD has had a long history of evolution. From the time it was commercially used in the 1970s, multiple CAD programs have dented the surface. Each version got more precise and cognizant of prevailing industry conditions, which enabled greater accuracy on the field. At the moment, the construction industry is operating 3D CAD programs that help build 3D design models. With dimensional access, users can document design changes through annotations and visual effects applied to depict exact requirements.
When integrated with Building Information Modelling (BIM), CAD is the go-to tool for architects to prototype buildings from which construction managers draw uniform measurements to plan jobsite activities. This has shrunk chances of costly errors and reworks since the physical and functional characteristics of the structure are fit to project needs.

How Do I Choose a Business-Fit CAD System?

All CAD software is similar at heart as you’re playing with XYZ coordinates in all. Producing changeable blueprints is the main deal maker of CAD. Here are versions on market:

• 2D CAD: Two-dimensional systems help create flat drawings of products and structures as it doesn’t allow the use of perspective and scale while sketching conceptual designs.
• 5D CAD: This is used for building the design of a mechanical part and its governing manufacturing program. It automates equipment handling at scale.
• 3D CAD: 3D CAD systems allow the creation of solid models in combination with building information modelling.
• 4D-BIM: This version enhances visual perception of the construction plan.
• 5D-BIM: This version power packs 3D CAD with additional details including aesthetics, thermal and acoustic functions, and advanced geometry improving a CM’s ability to estimate the impact of early-stage design decisions.
• 6D-BIM: The newest version takes it to the next level with advanced capabilities of project lifecycle management with data maintenance that has provided enviable leverage to companies eyeing ahead-of-schedule project closeouts.

How Does One Set Up CAD Software?

Different CAD versions are compatible with different industry software platforms.

A CM should consider, however, if the version they’re buying will integrate well with their existing systems whether Windows or Mac or Android or iOS. Any version you go with, it has to at least be compatible with DWG, DXF, and DWT files, the most frequently used in the industry.

Always a first step to buying any software, check the appropriate license to be had for your CAD version. Depending on peculiar project needs, you’ll foresee software updates most suited for business when choosing the version you want to be licensed to operate—this is because certain options are as-is proprietary versions that don’t allow changes while others are open-source allowing modifications.

Your CAD option will ideally be compatible with your BIM system as they’ll need project insights and specifications projected in the CAD dashboard. Each CAD option differs in ease of use, but do a free trial with the top-most suited versions before signing up for a subscription plan. All quality versions are priced differently in the range of $100-$5000. Here’s a CAD app review for further insight.

How Are Construction CAD Solutions Advantageous?

CAD construction software simplifies documentation alongside offering the flexibility to edit it throughout the design and drafting process. Multiple teams can upload real-time images helping designers and project managers take a detailed look into issues and risks. Everyone’s empowered with a steady flow of information to overcome challenges as they occur. Compared with their less-automated jobsite counterparts, fully tech-equipped construction firms save significant lead time in restructuring operations.

We’ve all had to deal with unruly client demands that shift at the drop of a hat. The construction industry involves high stakes; even with small projects, a construction manager is looking at multiple thousands of dollars at risk if unexpected changes aren’t seen to fruition. CAD helps you align your business needs from time to time without derailing project operations.

Closing Comments

The CAD software is undergoing further development of 3D capabilities. More builders and constructors are expecting smart functionality that seamlessly integrates with customized building software.

CAD has revolutionized automation in the construction sector. As more design innovations come to the fore, more construction managers will see it imperative to go all cloud.

Are you using a CAD model? What features are the most beneficial, and which are you anticipating to be available in the coming years? Tell us in the comments below!

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