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At TotalCAD , we believe in continuously improving our offerings to better serve the needs of architects, designers, and engineers. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce the Ci Launchpad Tool — a new platform where innovative tool ideas begin their journey, and where you have the power to shape their future. What is the Ci Launchpad Tool? The Ci Launchpad Tool is where all our new ideas for Archicad tools start their life. From early prototypes to proof-of-concept functions, the Launchpad provides you with a unique opportunity to access these developing tools and offer valuable feedback before they become fully-fledged features. Think of it as a testing ground for innovation, where your input plays a crucial role in determining the future of the tools we develop. How Does the Ci Launchpad Tool Work? Early Access to New Tools With the Ci Launchpad , you get the chance to experience early versions of upcoming tools, long before they are officially released. These early prototypes and concepts are ready for testing, and we want your thoughts on how they work in real-world applications. Feedback Drives Development One of the most exciting aspects of the Ci Launchpad is that it’s entirely feedback-driven . The future of each tool is largely determined by how you respond to it. If you find a tool particularly useful or think it needs more refinement, your feedback will guide its development — or even decide if it becomes a permanent part of our toolset. Graduation or Retirement of Tools Based on your feedback, some tools on the Launchpad will graduate into their own fully-fledged, standalone tools within Archicad. Others may be integrated into existing tools, or — in some cases — moved to our retired object library if they’re not quite ready for prime time. Constant Evolution The nature of the Ci Launchpad means that tools and functions may evolve over time. As early-stage prototypes, they are subject to change — and by sharing your experiences, you help guide that evolution. Why Should You Get Involved? Be Part of the Innovation Process By testing early tools and providing feedback, you become a key part of the development process. Your insights help us fine-tune tools and create features that are truly useful to you and your workflow. Shape the Future of Archicad Tools Your voice matters! The tools you love today may have been born in the Ci Launchpad , and with your input, we can shape future releases to better suit your needs. Access Cutting-Edge Features Want to be the first to test new functionalities and help us refine them? The Ci Launchpad offers a unique opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and take advantage of the latest developments in Archicad. How to Get Involved with the Ci Launchpad The Ci Launchpad is now live, and we invite you to check out the latest tools in development. If you’re interested in helping us guide the direction of future development, simply visit the Launchpad to explore what's on offer, test out the tools, and share your feedback with us. Your input will be invaluable in shaping the next generation of Archicad tools! Get Started Today! Ready to be part of the future of Archicad? Visit the Ci Launchpad now, explore new tools, and let us know what you think. For more information or questions, feel free to contact us at info@archicad.co.za .

At TotalCAD , we are always looking for ways to make your design process faster, more efficient, and more user-friendly. That’s why we are excited to announce the release of the Ci Fitout Tool – a game-changing addition to your Archicad toolkit that simplifies the process of fitting out rooms in your building projects. What is the Ci Fitout Tool? The Ci Fitout Tool is designed to help you quickly and easily fit out rooms with minimal effort. Whether you’re designing a hotel, office, or residential building, this tool makes it incredibly simple to add furniture, fixtures, and other elements to your rooms, all in just a few clicks. How Does It Work? Using the Ci Fitout Tool is straightforward and intuitive. Here’s how it works: Choose the Type of Room : Select the type of room you’re fitting out (e.g., bedroom, office, bathroom, etc.). Set Parameters : Define key parameters like the number of beds, tables, dressers, baths, or other furniture items you want to include in the room. One-Click Placement : Once your parameters are set, simply click on your room, and voilà! The tool automatically places all the elements in the room for you. With this tool, you can go from an empty room to a fully outfitted bedroom (or any other type of room) in just one click! Why Use the Ci Fitout Tool? Save Time : What used to take hours of manual work can now be done in seconds. Simplify Your Workflow : The tool eliminates the guesswork and complexity of room fit-outs, allowing you to focus on the bigger picture of your design. Consistency : Ensure all rooms of the same type are fitted out with the same furniture, fixtures, and features, maintaining consistency across your project. Streamline Design Changes : Need to change the room layout or elements? The Ci Fitout Tool makes it easy to adjust your design on the fly. A Game-Changer for Architects and Designers Whether you’re working on a small residential project or a large commercial development, the Ci Fitout Tool helps you streamline the process of room fit-outs, improving efficiency and reducing the time spent on manual configuration. Ready to take your design process to the next level? The Ci Fitout Tool is available now, and we highly recommend giving it a try! Want to Learn More? For more information on how the Ci Fitout Tool can enhance your Archicad workflow, click here to read more. If you have any questions, feel free to contact TotalCAD at info@archicad.co.za . We’re here to help!

At TotalCAD, we’re dedicated to helping you unlock the full potential of Archicad. Check out our recent blog posts for valuable tips, tools, and strategies to enhance your design process. Recent Blog Highlights: Unleash Your Creativity with Ci Doors+Windows Tool from TotalCAD Discover how the Ci Doors+Windows Tool can elevate your designs. Enhance Realism in Archicad with Ci Coverings Tool Learn how to add realism to your projects using the Ci Coverings Tool. Knowledge Assessment Test your Archicad knowledge and improve your skills. Keynotes Tool Enhance your workflow with the Keynotes Tool. Understanding the Survey Point in Archicad For Accurate Project Coordination Master project coordination with a clear understanding of the survey point. Debunking More Archicad Myths Set the record straight on common Archicad misconceptions. Unlocking Design Collaboration With BIMcloud For Education Explore how BIMcloud enhances design collaboration in educational settings. Maximizing Efficiency: Doors and Windows Schedules in Archicad Tips for creating efficient schedules for doors and windows. Expressions Defined Properties Workflow Guide: Optimizing Your Archicad Projects Optimize your projects with defined properties. Archicad AI-Visualizer Is Transforming The Way We Design Discover how AI is changing design workflows. Get The DWG Interoperability Workflow Guide Streamline your collaboration with DWG interoperability. Archicad's Breakthrough: Attaining BuildingSMART's IFC4 Architectural Reference Exchange Certification Learn about Archicad's achievement in interoperability. Join TotalCAD User Group Meeting: Building Community Creates Unity Get involved in our community and share insights. Archicad Redefines Speed On Mac: A Dynamic Partnership With Apple Discover the benefits of Archicad’s performance on Mac. Unlocking Design Potential With BIMx Explore how BIMx enhances design presentations. Archicad Achieves An Impressive 13th Consecutive Win Celebrate Archicad’s recognition in the industry. Unleash Your Design Potential With Archicad AI Visualizer Learn how the AI Visualizer can transform your design process. Boost Productivity And Profitability Now With Archicad Collaborate Discover how Archicad Collaborate can enhance your workflow. Debunking 5 Myths About Archicad Get the facts about Archicad. Exploring Some Of Archicad 27's Key Features Dive into the new features of Archicad 27. Integrated MEP Modeler In Archicad Learn about the MEP modeling capabilities within Archicad. Archicad For Structural Engineers Discover how Archicad supports structural engineering. Highlight Some Of Archicad 27 New Features An overview of the latest updates in Archicad 27. Supercharge BIM Project Production In Archicad With These Tools Tools to enhance your BIM project efficiency. Effective Collaboration Strategies For Architectural Projects Using Archicad Strategies for improving collaboration in architectural projects. How To Optimize Your Project Performance Tips for maximizing project performance. Teamwork For Archicad Discover the benefits of teamwork in Archicad. Archicad and BIMcloud SAAS Now For The Price Of Archicad Subscription Take advantage of this great offer. A Few Of Many Reasons Why Archicad Is The Preferred Choice By AEC Professionals Understand why AEC professionals choose Archicad. BIMx Explained Learn about the features and benefits of BIMx. How To Create A Site Plan In Archicad Step-by-step guide to creating site plans. Archicad Collaborate South Africa Explore the benefits of Archicad Collaborate in South Africa. For more insights, check out our full blog at TotalCAD. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to contact us at info@archicad.co.za !

We are excited to introduce the Cloud-Hosted AI Visualizer in Archicad 28, powered by Stable Diffusion ! This innovative tool enhances your workflow during the early design phase, generating design alternatives based on your initial concepts and prompts. With the AI Visualizer, you can add details, context, and fresh ideas to your designs, making it a valuable asset for architects and design professionals. AI-Assisted Inspiration Ready to enhance your project with the AI Visualizer? We've chosen the industry-leading Stable Diffusion Engine to power Archicad’s AI Visualizer, ensuring it meets the unique needs of architects and designers. Create a simple concept model in Archicad and use text prompts to generate a multitude of refined design variations for your clients—all without manually creating multiple detailed models. Explore a New Design Process The Archicad AI Visualizer produces design alternatives during the early design phase, enhancing your original concept with added details and ideas. This allows you to: Get Inspired : Tap into your creativity with high-quality images generated by the Stable Diffusion AI engine. Accelerate Design : Evaluate more potential design alternatives quickly, reducing the need for additional 3D modeling. Involve Your Clients : Present visual alternatives to clients early in the design process, facilitating meaningful feedback. Expand Your Toolset : Impress your clients with stunning visualizations optimized for architectural and interior design. Seamless Integration with Archicad The AI Visualizer is deeply integrated with Archicad, requiring no additional third-party solutions or add-ons. From Archicad 28 onwards, it will run automatically in the cloud, saving and storing images locally. This cloud-based infrastructure means you don’t need powerful hardware or complex installation procedures—simply use it right out of the box! Availability The Archicad AI Visualizer is available to Archicad Collaborate users and students eager to integrate AI-powered architectural visualization into their workflows. Your enthusiastic feedback while testing the experimental desktop AI Visualizer for Archicad 27 confirmed our decision to develop this new cloud-based version. Important Transition Information Please note that after December 31, 2024 , the locally running experimental desktop version of AI Visualizer for Archicad 27 will reach its end of service. Here’s what you need to know: The new AI Visualizer for Archicad 28 will offer new functionalities, including the ability to control creativity, image size, and upscale images for client sharing—all running smoothly in the cloud. Support and maintenance for the experimental desktop version will end after the final update is released, with all download links and the related Community portal becoming read-only post-December 31, 2024. You may keep the previously downloaded version as-is. Contact Us If you have any questions or need assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out. Thank you for being part of this exciting journey! We look forward to continuing to support you and your customers with more advanced product versions. For more information, contact TotalCAD at info@archicad.co.za .

In an ever-evolving architectural landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential. That’s why it’s time to consider converting your SSA/Forward subscriptions to Archicad Collaborate —all at the same price! Archicad Collaborate is designed to be your Subscription at Your Service: automatic, accessible, and always-on. Why Choose Archicad Collaborate? With Archicad Collaborate, you gain immediate access to the latest features and innovations as soon as they’re released. This means you can leverage the most advanced tools available while keeping costs predictable, allowing your business to enhance efficiency and maintain a competitive edge. Embrace Future-Focused Flexibility Archicad Collaborate is built for cloud-based services, making it accessible across disciplines, geographies, and team sizes. You can easily scale your subscription up or down based on project needs, enabling seamless work in hybrid environments while ensuring industry-standard security and compliance. A New Era of Archicad Design remarkable buildings with a platform that evolves alongside rapidly emerging technologies. Archicad Collaborate supports dispersed multi-disciplinary teams, enabling collaborative workflows that keep pace with today’s demands. Transitioning from Perpetual to Cloud Subscription From Desktop Only to Cloud-Enabled : While traditional Archicad operates as a desktop-only application, the new cloud-enabled version extends local features with advanced capabilities like the Archicad AI Visualizer. Enhanced Teamwork : Collaborate effortlessly with built-in Teamwork capabilities that allow for efficient project sharing and presentation workflows. Robust Data Safety : Archicad automatically saves project changes locally for added security, while cloud backup features ensure your data is safe and easily recoverable. The Benefits of Conversion Switching to Archicad Collaborate from SSA/Forward offers numerous advantages, including: Continuous Updates : Subscription license holders receive immediate access to software updates and fixes as soon as they’re available. Flexible Licensing : Scale your licenses based on project workloads, making it easier than ever to manage your team’s needs. Special Conversion Offers : SSA/Forward subscribers can take advantage of unique conversion benefits, including: Preferential Pricing Compatibility with versions dating back to v13 Floating licenses Perpetual fallback options for peace of mind Cost-Effective Solutions Convert now to enjoy significant savings with flexible payment options: No Time Commitment : Lock in discounts for up to three years with annual payments in 2024, 2025, and 2026. Three-Year Commitment : Enjoy up to six years of discounts with upfront payments, ensuring long-term savings. Conclusion Transitioning to Archicad Collaborate not only future-proofs your BIM subscription but also provides you with agile, responsive, and up-to-date software solutions. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your architectural practice—convert your SSA/Forward subscription today and embrace the future of design with Archicad Collaborate! Click Here to view our Frequently Asked Questions. For more information on the conversion process and to take advantage of these special offers, contact us today! info@archicad.co.za

We’re here to keep you informed and help guide you through the SSA to Subscription conversion process with ease. Below are answers to the most common questions about the program. Frequently asked questions 1.Why is Graphisoft shifting to a Subscription model? Our customers want us to be innovative and to benefit from state-of-the-art technology. Moreover, in a competitive landscape, we need a sustainable business model. While perpetual license & SSA was a sustainable business model until the 2010s, today, it is clear that sustainable means a subscription model, which guarantees that we can continuously invest in our solutions. The difference is not in pricing but in using the best available technology. At the same time, we respect the preferences of our customers, so our shift to Subscription is gradual. 2.How long will Graphisoft offer this conversion program for SSA/Forward? Graphisoft’s “SSA/Forward to Subscription” conversion program is intended to be a multi-year program. The offering’s current conditions are valid through 2024, and the new terms outlined on this page will take effect in the first quarter of 2025. 3.Can non-SSA/Forward licenses be converted to subscriptions under the same conditions? At present, non-SSA/Forward licenses must be upgraded/brought into the SSA/Forward pool before they can take advantage of the conversion program’s benefits. Graphisoft may, at its discretion, offer direct conversion routes for non-SSA/Forward licenses at a later stage. 4.What will happen to SSA/Forward licenses not converted to subscriptions? Customers can choose not to take advantage of the “SSA/Forward to Subscription” conversion program and continue using their perpetual license(s) of Archicad without SSA/Forward coverage once their SSA/Forward contract runs out in 2026. Customers with SSA/Forward terms ending beyond 2026 should consult with their local Archicad provider/Graphisoft Partner. 5.What will happen with non-SSA/Forward perpetual licenses? Customers will have a choice to upgrade their non-SSA/Forward Archicad perpetual licenses to the latest version of Archicad with SSA/Forward until the end of 2025. These customers will also be eligible to participate in Graphisoft’s SSA/Forward conversion program. Archicad perpetual licenses without active SSA/Forward still entitle customers to use their Archicad software for as long as customers have compatible hardware and operating system to run them onbut will not be updated with the latest software/hardware developments. 6.What is Graphisoft’s plan with other perpetual-licensed products like DDScad? The current conversion program does not include DDScad. Graphisoft may offer a similar conversion program for DDScad in the future. 7.What are the main terms of the SSA/Forward to Subscription conversion in 2024? SSA/Forward customers can convert their SSA/Forward licenses to 3-year or 1-year Archicad Collaborate subscriptions. For 3-year upfront-paid subscriptions, Graphisoft guarantees price parity with SSA/Forward for the initial subscription term and the same discount percentage at the first renewal. Yearly paid subscription plans are available for a 10% markup compared to the 3-year upfront-paid option. SSA/Forward license pools may only be converted as “all or nothing.” 8.What are the main terms of the SSA/Forward to Subscription conversion in 2025? SSA/Forward customers can convert their SSA/Forward licenses to 1-year Archicad Studio subscriptions at the end of their SSA/Forward term. Graphisoft offers an SSA/Forward-level customer price for the initial subscription term and a maximum yearly price increase guarantee until 2028. Optionally, SSA/Forward customers can convert their SSA/Forward licenses to 1-year Archicad Collaborate subscriptions at the end of their SSA/Forward term. Graphisoft offers Archicad Collaborate at a 20% marked-up price compared to the SSA/Forward level customer price in 2025 for the initial subscription term and a maximum yearly price increase guarantee until 2028. Actual price increase percentages are market-specific and will be communicated through local channels later. SSA/Forward license pools may only be converted as “all or nothing”. 9.What is the Archicad Studio Subscription offered as the default conversion product in 2025? Archicad Studio, a complete Building Information Modeling (BIM) solution, is a subscription product for those looking for tailored solutions for independent work or local teamwork. It brings all the benefits of a well-known Archicad license to a subscription platform at an affordable price. Archicad Studio supports Teamwork locally and speaks your language. Available subscription terms are 1 month and 1 year. Archicad Studio benefits include: Standard Archicad with the purchased local language pack — Standalone desktop app for macOS and Windows Local teamwork with BIMcloud Basic — For cloud-based features, upgrade to Archicad Collaborate, additional cost applies Includes subscription benefits — Maximize the value of your subscription with exclusive tools, training, support, and services such as the BIMx mobile app for iOS and Android 10.What are the options for customers converting in 2024 when their conversion period is over? For customers converting in 2024, converted subscriptions will be renewed at the standard subscription list price after their maximum 3+3-year or 1+1+1-year conversion terms run out. Alternatively, customers may choose to fall back onto the perpetual path with their licenses. In such cases, their perpetual licenses will be upgraded to the then most up-to-date perpetual software – albeit without the SSA/Forward coverage going forward. 11.What are the options for customers converting in 2025 when their conversion period is over? For customers converting in 2025, converted subscriptions will be renewed at a price adjusted with a similar magnitude price increase % as guaranteed until 2028 but without an exact % guarantee in the future. Customers may choose to fall back onto the perpetual path with their licenses during 2025-2028. In such cases, their perpetual licenses will be reset to the Archicad version they converted from subscription in the first place – albeit without the SSA/Forward coverage going forward. 12.Can customers who leave the conversion come back with similar conditions later? Customers who decide to leave Graphisoft’s conversion program will revert to the perpetual license track without SSA/Forward and will not have the option to re-enter the conversion program. 13.How many licenses will each customer have after their conversion to subscription? When a customer enters the SSA/Forwaard to Subscription Conversion Program, they must surrender their perpetual Archicad licenses. In return, they will receive an equal number of Subscription(s). However, to ensure backward compatibility for customers’ projects created with Archicad 25 or earlier versions, Graphisoft will also provide the customer with a set of perpetual Archicad 25 licenses, called Compatibility Licenses, to be used for working on those earlier projects. Please note that the customer is strictly not allowed to use their Subscription and Compatibility Licenses simultaneously – they can use one or the other at any given time. Furthermore, the customer cannot sell, lease, or transfer a Compatibility License to a third party. 14.How is compatibility ensured with projects created in earlier versions of Archicad? As part of our conversion program’s benefits, we are providing compatibility back to Archicad 8.1 by leaving converted perpetual licenses as Archicad 25 perpetual licenses in your hands. This way, you can open/edit projects that are up to 15 years old while still benefiting from Archicad Collaborate’s cloud licensing. 15.What will happen to customers’ existing Archicad Collaborate subscription licenses? Customers’ existing (earlier purchased) licenses are independent of the “SSA/Forward to Subscription” conversion program, so Graphisoft’s standard subscription terms and conditions (including pricing) apply to those licenses. 16.Can subscription licenses be used as network (floating) licenses or offline licenses? Graphisoft’s subscription products run using modern “cloud licensing” technology. Thus, licenses can be freely assigned to individuals using the Graphisoft license management portal. As an additional benefit, Archicad Collaborate subscription customers can also assign their licenses to a group of users as a license pool, where users can fetch these licenses on a first-come-first-serve basis. Users can also go offline with named cloud licenses for up to 7 days. 17.Can I host BIMcloud in my own private cloud with an Archicad Collaborate subscription? For clarity: “private cloud” means you can host BIMcloud on your own servers, in a data center of your choosing, or even in your local office. And yes, Graphisoft is working on a solution to provide this option with the same cloud licensing technology. Part of the package will be “bring your own license” functionality, meaning that users can collaborate on a different BIMcloud as guests but using their own license from their own company. We will provide you with an ETA for these options later. 18.What can I do if I am interested but my SSA/Forward term is sometime in the future? In 2024, Graphisoft offers the opportunity to convert their perpetual Archicad licenses on SSA/Forward licenses mid-term as well. In such a case, the parties will need to reach a financial settlement, the process and mechanics of which may vary depending on the market. Mid-term changes in SSA/Forward contracts require the mutual agreement of all parties, so such conversion will only happen at the customer’s request and with the support of the involved Graphisoft Partner. Starting in 2025, Graphisoft will offer the opportunity to convert SSA/Forward licenses at their renewal term only. Customers with SSA/Forward term beyond 2025 should consult their local Archicad provider. 19.Define “perpetual’s” meaning for licensing, and how does that relate to “cloud”? Perpetual license in software means that you have a perpetual right to use the software for which you purchased it (i.e., the version that you purchased it for). This means any perpetual license of Archicad purchased before December 31, 2025, gives you the right to use the software “as is” for as long as you have compatible hardware and operating system to run them on. The counterpart to “perpetual” is not “cloud” licensing (that’s a technical solution – see next question), but rather “subscription” licensing, which gives you the right to use the software (the most up-to-date version of it) as long as you have an active subscription. 20.What is “cloud” licensing, and how is it compatible with other licensing technologies? Cloud licensing is a specific technical solution to software licensing. It is called “cloud” because the license is hosted by the vendor (Graphisoft) in the cloud, and the customer can manage access through a web interface. By default, cloud licenses are “named” licenses, meaning they are each connected to a specific user. As mentioned above, Graphisoft also offers a network/floating type licensing for Archicad Collaborate customers. This table gives an overview of license types vs. licensing technologies: 21.What about the compatibility of projects created in Archicad that use different licensing methods? Licensing is about access to software, not access to content created by the software. This means Archicads running with cloud licenses can open projects created with Archicads running physical key-based licenses and vice versa. The same is true for Archicads running with perpetual vs. subscription licenses. Thus, companies with a mixed license pool (perpetual and subscription) will be able to open, edit, and work on the same project. 22.With a subscription license, we can expect more frequent/continuous updates. How will this work? Naturally, subscription products provide more frequent updates for license holders because they allow more agile delivery of innovation and bugfixes. This, however, doesn’t mean “forced” updates—the control (and responsibility) of updating remains with the customers. This also supports customers who prefer to keep their differently licensed Archicads on the same build to ensure compatibility. 23.Will SSA/Forward service delivery work after SSA/Forward is removed from the pricelists? According to the recent announcement by Graphisoft, SSA/Forward contracts will be serviced until their term expires in 2026. Customers with SSA/Forward terms ending beyond 2026 should consult with their local Archicad provider/Graphisoft Partner. 24.Can the SSA/Forward contract still be renewed in 2025? Can they be converted in 2026 still? Customers can choose to renew their SSA/Forward contract in 2025. Such contracts will be offered a last chance to convert to a subscription in 2026, albeit at the then- applicable conditions and price points. 25.What is the definition of “existing customers” eligible to buy perpetual licenses and SSA/Forward in 2025? Existing customer means customers who own at least one perpetual license of Archicad (no SSA/Forward coverage is required!). Trial, Educational, and subscription-only customers do not fall into this category and will not be able to purchase perpetual licenses beyond 2024. Existing customers are also eligible to upgrade their old version Archicad licenses with SSA/Forward until the end of 2025. 26.Can I add/remove licenses to/from my conversion subscription license pool? Individual subscription contracts (subscription licenses purchased at the same time) can only be managed as one unit at the current moment. That is, cancellation applies to all licenses under the same contract; additional subscription purchases will create an additional contract. For additional/new subscription purchases, the actual subscription list price always applies. 27.What tools/support does Graphisoft provide for customers migrating from legacy BIMcloud setups? Graphisoft set up a dedicated cross-functional support team to help customers with migrating tasks related to legacy BIMcloud SaaS setups. Customers operating smaller/simple BIMcloud tenants will receive help in the form of migration process guides, and customers operating larger/complex BIMcloud tenants will receive help in the form of migration assistance at a pre-scheduled term. For more information contact TotalCAD at info@archicad.co.za

Are you tired of feeling constrained by limited options when it comes to designing doors and windows for your architectural projects? Say goodbye to restrictions and hello to endless possibilities with TotalCAD's Ci Doors+Windows Tool. Explore Infinite Design Possibilities With the Ci Doors+Windows Tool, you have the freedom to explore a vast array of door and window styles. From classic to contemporary, from minimalist to ornate, unleash your creativity without constraints on style, complexity, or construction. Effortless Customization Tailor doors and windows to your exact specifications with ease. Experiment with different panels, opening methods, trims, and sills until you achieve the perfect look for your project. And the best part? You can share your custom creations across projects using TotalCAD's powerful Ci Presets system. Structural Flexibility Creating complex window and door layouts has never been simpler. With just a few clicks, generate intricate designs that meet your project's unique requirements. Modify window contour shapes on the fly without the hassle of redesigning the entire window. Personalize Every Detail Make every element of your design reflect your vision. Choose from a diverse range of sash glazing methods and door leafs. Define sizes according to your specific ideas and preferences, ensuring every aspect of your project is tailored to perfection. Style Meets Documentation Harmonize sills with your chosen window and building style effortlessly. Add mouldings and trims that complement your design aesthetic, enhancing the overall look and feel of your project. Streamlined Scheduling Save time and effort with automated scheduling features. Produce fully dimensioned graphical schedules of Doors+Windows in moments, using powerful filters and criteria. Add notes and automatically calculated areas to your schedule for comprehensive documentation. Architect-Friendly Packages TotalCAD offers architects package options tailored to your needs. For more information, visit our online store at www.totalcad.co.za . Don't let limitations stifle your creativity. Experience the freedom to design doors and windows exactly the way you envision with TotalCAD's Ci Doors+Windows Tool. Reach out to us at info@archicad.co.za to learn more.

Transform your Archicad projects with the new Ci Coverings Tool, designed to add unparalleled realism and detail to your architectural models. This innovative tool allows you to apply 3D modelled skins to walls, slabs, columns, and roofs, enhancing both 2D and 3D views with depth and texture. Key Features of the Ci Coverings Tool: Comprehensive Coverage: Apply a variety of scalable claddings in both 2D and 3D views across different architectural elements. Versatile Applications: Walls: Add bricks, boards, logs, panels, sills, and trims around openings to enhance wall surfaces. Foundations: Integrate footings and multiple footing profiles around slabs for structural realism. Slabs: Create timber decks, incorporate Single T and Double T pre-cast slab components, and more. Columns: Enhance columns with footings, fluting, wrapping, ensuring updates synchronize with column changes. Roofs: Choose from seven cladding types (Flat, Corrugate, Ribbed, Shingle, Tiles, Spanish Tiles) for customizable roof surfaces. Apply gutters, downpipes, flashings, and soffits to complete the roofing details. Automatic Updates: The 3D modelled surfaces maintain a dynamic relationship with primary architectural elements. Any changes or updates to the base elements automatically reflect in the attached coverings, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in your designs. Visual Consistency: Whether in 2D, 3D, section, or elevation views, the applied coverings retain their proportions and visual integrity, adapting seamlessly to object size adjustments. How It Works: The Ci Coverings Tool integrates smoothly into Archicad workflows, enhancing the design process by adding intricate detailing and realistic textures to architectural elements. From conceptual designs to final presentations, this tool empowers architects and designers to create compelling visualizations with ease. Get Started Today: Ready to elevate your Archicad projects with realistic surface detailing? Contact TotalCAD for more details at www.totalcad.co.za . Explore how the Ci Coverings Tool can transform your architectural designs into immersive, lifelike representations. Enhance realism, streamline workflows, and exceed client expectations with every project. For further information, visit our website or contact us directly to schedule a demonstration. Discover the power of Ci Coverings Tool in revolutionizing your Archicad experience. Contact TotalCAD at www.totalcad.co.za for more details.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Archicad Knowledge Assessment, a valuable tool designed for Archicad users to evaluate their software knowledge, earn certifications, and receive personalized learning recommendations. Fast Facts about the Archicad Knowledge Assessment: Target Audience: Archicad users who want to test their software knowledge. Structure: 30 theoretical multiple-choice questions. Duration: 30 minutes. Language: English. Passing Score: 40% for Archicad BIM User Certification. Who Should Take the Knowledge Assessment? The assessment is ideal for Archicad users ranging from beginners to advanced levels who wish to measure their skills and identify areas for improvement. Test Description: The assessment covers various topics including Modeling, Documentation, Visualization, Data Management, Coordination, and Collaboration. Passing Criteria: To obtain the Archicad BIM User certification, examinees must achieve at least 40% overall across all question categories. Preparation: While completion of foundation and advanced Graphisoft courses from the BIM Author Program is recommended, it is not mandatory before taking the assessment. Assessment Benefits: Certification: Achieve 40% or more to automatically receive the BIM User Certificate. Detailed Results: Receive a detailed assessment report and personalized learning recommendations shortly after completing the assessment. We encourage all Archicad users to take advantage of this opportunity to assess their knowledge, earn valuable certifications, and access tailored learning resources. Click here to read more. Excited to get started? Contact TotalCAD at info@archicad.co.za for further details.

Are you tired of the tedious process and potential errors involved in annotating your Archicad drawings? Ci Keynotes is here to revolutionize your workflow by simplifying annotation tasks with greater accuracy and efficiency. What is Ci Keynotes? Ci Keynotes is a powerful tool designed to streamline the annotation process in Archicad. It provides a framework to create and manage a database of notes, allowing you to attach notes automatically to elements based on their attributes. Whether you're creating a new database or transferring an existing one, Ci Keynotes ensures that annotations are placed correctly and consistently throughout your project. Features and Benefits Automated Annotation: Attach notes directly to model attributes such as materials, wall composites, etc., and create labels across all views that include these attributes. Flexible Annotation Options: Place full notes directly on drawings or use reference keys that compile into a schedule of notes. Display notes in various formats including 'Key', 'Short Description', 'Long Description', and 'Specification Reference'. Enhanced Editing Capabilities: Edit notes within Archicad, allowing for quick updates and revisions without leaving your design environment. Customizable Note Schedules: Create and customize schedules of notes to be included in project layouts, providing comprehensive documentation and clarity. User-Friendly Interface: Easily find and replace notes, import notes from external files, and globally change the appearance of Keynote labels to match project requirements. Conclusion Ci Keynotes empowers Archicad users to annotate drawings efficiently and accurately, reducing errors and improving productivity. Whether you're working on architectural plans, construction details, or interior designs, Ci Keynotes enhances your ability to communicate effectively through clear and precise annotations. Ready to streamline your annotation process with Ci Keynotes? Customize your notes schedules, enhance your project documentation, and eliminate the tedium of manual annotation tasks. Click here to learn more about Ci Keynotes and optimize your Archicad workflow. Contact TotalCAD for further information.

If you are actively involved in a BIM-enabled project, you know how a model placement is extremely important for seamless project coordination, especially when compliance with ISO 19650 is required. Therefore, agreeing upon the project location and coordinate system should be one of the first steps of project start-up. During export (e.g., to IFC, DWG, or BCF formats), select the Survey Point in the respective translator settings to define the model's position. This approach maintains model accuracy while facilitating seamless collaboration across design disciplines. For detailed guidance on implementing the Survey Point in your projects, download the Workflow Guide from the Graphisoft Learn catalog page. Click here to learn more. Contact TotalCAD if you have any questions.

Welcome back to our series dedicated to dispelling misconceptions about Archicad, the premier BIM software empowering architects and construction professionals. Today, we'll tackle some prevailing myths surrounding this innovative platform. Myth 1: BIM is Only for 3D Modeling Archicad transcends traditional 3D modeling by offering a holistic design experience. Here's why BIM is more than just creating visuals: Unleash Creativity: Enjoy powerful algorithmic design tools and free-form capabilities that transform concepts into extraordinary designs. Flexible Modeling: Move seamlessly from conceptual volume models to comprehensive Building Information Models (BIM) at any stage of your project. Stay in the Flow: Design in both 2D and 3D views with familiar tools like layers and favorites, enhancing your creative process. Archicad empowers architects to focus on design excellence while seamlessly integrating real-life construction elements. BIM encompasses more than just creating 3D designs; it's a comprehensive approach that also focusses on other critical aspects such as design, visualization, collaboration, and documentation. Myth 2: Archicad is Only for Architects While architects are Archicad's primary users, it's embraced by a spectrum of building and construction professionals: Design Professionals: Utilize powerful algorithmic tools and large model support for streamlined workflows. Construction Professionals: Leverage automatic documentation and quantity take-offs for precise project execution. Archicad fosters collaboration across disciplines, ensuring comprehensive project delivery. Myth 3: It's Not Suitable for Structural Engineering Archicad supports structural engineering by facilitating seamless communication between architects and engineers: Design Development Workflow: Architects and engineers collaborate to align structural solutions with architectural intent. Adapt to Conditions: Tailor structural designs to project requirements, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. Archicad's integrated approach ensures structural elements enhance architectural beauty. Myth 4: Archicad Can't Handle Large Projects Archicad excels in managing large-scale projects, evidenced by its performance, collaboration features, and documentation capabilities: Performance Optimizations: Maintain responsiveness with complex elements and layers. Collaboration: Enable simultaneous project work with Archicad's Teamwork function. Documentation: Automatically generate and update project documentation, ensuring accuracy. Archicad integrates seamlessly with other software, enhancing project scalability. Myth 5: It's Expensive for Small Firms Archicad offers affordable licensing options tailored to firms of all sizes, emphasizing long-term benefits: Efficiency and Productivity: Streamline design processes, saving time and reducing errors. Versatility and Integration: Integrate with industry-standard software, expanding firm capabilities. Scalability: Choose flexible licensing options to suit small firms' budgets. Investing in Archicad empowers small firms to compete effectively in a dynamic market. Conclusion Archicad is more than a software; it's a catalyst for innovation and collaboration across the architectural and construction landscape. By debunking these myths, we invite you to explore the limitless possibilities of Archicad, where creativity meets efficiency in every design endeavor. Join us as we redefine architectural excellence with Archicad, setting new standards in BIM technology. Contact TotalCAD today! www.totalcad.co.za info@archicad.co.za