Interactive ArchiCAD Practice Manual – guest blogger Vaneshrie Sullivan shares insights into her book
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.
ArchicadKnowHow
Hi Jared
Re
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.
This is due to individuals/Small business & companies Not investing in Basic Training which is mostly reasonably priced & available if they took the time to look around.
Why invest in Cad without Training your Staff
Re
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.
I agree
Again Due to None or Very little Structured Training.
http://www.archicadknowhow.com.au
ryan waddington
This book looks amazing but as a student it is a bit on the pricey side. Are there any other books aimed at students, I’m not a novice but i just want to be able to up my game and better my skills.
Thanks
Jared Banks
Ryan,
I agree. This book is more geared for the office wanting to develop their standards than an individual wanting to learn. There are two books available via Amazon. They are in my Amazon widget to the right. But those are also probably for beginners (read some reviews on Amazon to see what you think). To up your game, I’d recommend reading blogs like mine and every ArchiCAD forum post with images. That’s how I taught myself. Also if you are interested in rendering within ArchiCAD, search for Dwight Atkinson’s books on rendering in Lightworks and Artlantis. He’s a super genius when it comes to that stuff.
I’ll let you know if I think of any other books out there. To be honest, we need someone to start writing some! 🙂
Vaneshrie Sullivan
Hi Ryan,
Thanks for the comment… I would love to help out students wanting to learn ArchiCAD… the main reason I wrote this is because I wanted to help users better understand ArchiCAD, and how to make the software work in the best possible way.
Since your comment I have been racking my brain to come up with an idea to assist.
Seeing as this has been target for Practices, I will be willing to sift out the necessary information for Individuals, ie. students and staff working in an office hoping to better their skills… generalising the information I already have, making it more affordable to the individual…WATCH THIS SPACE, and thank you for the comment, hopefully if all goes well, Maybe your version will be out in a month or two 🙂