Architects know the struggles of trying to keep up with the demands of the industry. From tight deadlines to the pressure to deliver economically feasible high-quality work, it often feels like a never-ending treadmill.
But one of the biggest challenges facing professionals in these fields is the slow and outdated workflows that have been the norm for far too long. Here are just a few reasons why the architectural industry is not seeing the fast advancements we see in other fields in terms of project speeds and workflows:
Manual processes: Many tasks in architecture and engineering still rely on manual processes, from taking site measurements to creating 2D drawings. These tasks can be time-consuming, prone to errors, and in constant update streaks, slowing down the overall project timeline.
Lack of integration: Many professionals in these fields still rely on multiple software programs and tools to complete their work, leading to a lack of integration and a fragmented workflow. This can make it difficult to access and share important data and documents, leading to delays and inefficiencies.
The public services: Let's not go there.
But, Building Information Modeling (BIM) has already revolutionized the practices of architects and engineers, and it's easy to see why. BIM, as a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building or infrastructure, allows professionals to design, construct, and manage buildings (or infrastructure) in an integrated and coordinated way.
But BIM is not the only technology driving this revolution. Peripheral technologies like LiDAR scanning have become integral for the advancement of workflows in these fields.
LiDAR- the workflow booster.
LiDAR scanning uses lasers to quickly and accurately scan and map the surface of a site or area, creating highly detailed 3D models - in seconds - that can be used as the backdrop of the design process from day-one.
For example, a renovation project. The stripped-down building can be scanned to instantly create a 3D point-cloud model clone (of millimeter accuracy) - allowing designers to work on the real-time digital twin. The same file can be shared with the structural engineers for a close inspection of the structure - or - interior designers that could start the work based on a quick volume analysis.
This technology is a game-changer for architects and engineers, allowing them to gather data and create models faster and more accurately than ever before. No more second-guessing height data, or neighboring views. No more looking for that one site picture that is always missing.
By incorporating lidar, professionals receive a dense point-cloud with all-you-can-need data -- and accompanied 360 images. The data not only improves current workflows but also future-proofs the work in a constantly evolving industry. Whether practices are transferring to BIM, or staying put with CAD workflows, lidar has become integral for advancing workflows with the adoption of ‘drag-and-drop’ site scans; in a matter of seconds.
AutoCAD- and pointcloud data.
One of the main concerns for professionals considering the adoption of lidar scanning and BIM is whether their computers will be able to handle the large scan files and data generated by these technologies. But, computers have come a long way in recent years and are extremely capable of handling even the most complex scan files.
In fact, AutoCAD, one of the most widely used software programs for architects still working in 2D, showcases an extreme performance when importing large scan sites (attached video). In this way, AutoCAD workflows receive an invaluable boost by having all of the context with a click.
So don't let concerns about computer performance hold you back from embracing the future of workflows in architecture and engineering. With the right tools, resources, and collaborators, you can take advantage of the power of lidar scanning and BIM.
If you are intrigued about Lidar scanning or BIM modeling, don't hesitate to reach out or book a free consultation on our website.