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Discover the essential techniques and strategies to unlock seamless collaboration between Archicad and other applications in our comprehensive workflow guide on DWG and DXF interoperability. Explore scenarios, techniques, and strategies for importing and exporting DWG files, along with common case scenarios such as integrating topographic surveys, collaborating with engineers, and delivering documentation. Delve into managing content consistency through Smart Merge options, ensuring seamless interoperability between Archicad and AutoCAD environments. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this guide serves as an invaluable resource for optimizing your workflow and enhancing productivity. Click Here to access the “DWG Interoperability workflow guide from Graphisoft Learn: Affiliate link: https://learn.graphisoft.com/visitor_catalog_class/show/49789?affiliate=349732 Remember to use the 'FORWARD' coupon code for free access if you are a FORWARD/SSA client! For any further questions please contact us at info@archicad.co.za

TotalCAD is excited to announce our monthly Archicad user group meetings, designed to foster community engagement and knowledge sharing among Archicad users. Join us monthly to connect with fellow professionals, learn valuable tips and tricks, and stay updated on the latest Archicad developments. Upcoming Meetings: We will kick off with the first session on February 29, 2024, from 14:00 to 15:00. Don't forget to suggest topics of interest for these upcoming sessions when you register. We'll be finalizing the details soon and sharing them with you. Access Previous Sessions: Missed a session? No worries! You can access recordings of our previous user group meetings on our YouTube channel. Check out some popular sessions from our playlist here: Register Now Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of our vibrant Archicad community. Register for our next user group meeting here: Reserve your spot now and be ready to expand your Archicad knowledge! Together we can elevate our skills, strengthen our industry connections and create unity within this community.

Archicad has marked a significant milestone in 2023 with the achievement of buildingSMART's IFC4 Architectural Reference Exchange Certification. This accolade underscores Archicad's dedication to facilitating seamless collaboration through enhanced data exchange efficiency within architecture. The IFC4 schema represents a pivotal advancement in interoperability and open standards, solidified by our buildingSMART certification, ensuring excellence in fostering consistent workflows across diverse software platforms. The technical strides of IFC4 surpass its predecessor, IFC2x3, boasting refined geometric representations, sophisticated parametric modeling capabilities, and an expanded feature set supporting a wide array of BIM workflows. This evolution addresses the escalating complexity of architectural projects and aligns with the stringent requirements imposed by public building authorities. For professionals and firms aspiring to lead in BIM technology, Archicad's latest accomplishment in IFC4 support serves as a call to embrace a future-proofed workflow. Explore how Archicad's buildingSMART-certified IFC4 import capabilities can revolutionize your architectural practice and propel you into the future of BIM collaboration. In a parallel development, buildingSMART International announces the approval of IFC 4.3 as the latest ISO 16739 standard, solidifying its status as the final standard. This international accreditation positions IFC 4.3 at the forefront of the industry, following thorough improvements and amendments in the ISO process, garnering 100% approval and set to be formally published in the coming weeks. Clive Billiald, Chief Executive of buildingSMART International, expressed excitement, stating, "Having formal approval from ISO that IFC 4.3 will become an internationally accredited standard is excellent news for our industry. I do not doubt that the quality of the standard has been improved through this process, and I commend the work of everyone involved over a number of years. Now we look forward to supporting the adoption and use of this new standard by the industry and software vendor community." About buildingSMART International: buildingSMART International stands as a vendor-neutral, non-profit organization leading the development of open standards that facilitate digital information flows across the built asset industry. With a mission to engage industry participants in the development of open standards worldwide, buildingSMART provides the necessary technical and process support to establish consensus-based open standards. Collaborating with members across the built environment spectrum, buildingSMART also partners with international standards bodies such as ISO, CEN, and OGC. The core Industry Foundation Class (IFC) standard achieved ISO approval in 2012. Contact TotalCAD today for any further questions! info@archicad.co.za

Archicad AI Visualizer, powered by the cutting-edge Stable Diffusion Engine, revolutionizes the early design stages with inspiring and detailed 3D visualizations. As we embark on this groundbreaking journey, your feedback becomes the driving force behind our innovation. We invite you, real users, to collaborate with us during this explorational phase. AI-Assisted Innovation Ready to explore the capabilities of the visualizer? We've chosen the industry-leading Stable Diffusion Engine to optimize Archicad's AI Visualizer for architects and design professionals. Generate refined design variations effortlessly using text prompts, providing clients with a multitude of visual alternatives without manual modeling. Explore a New Design Process Archicad AI Visualizer seamlessly integrates into your design workflow, adding details, context, and ideas to your original concept during the early design phase. Get inspired by high-quality images generated by the Stable Diffusion AI engine. Accelerate Design & Involve Your Clients Accelerate the design process by evaluating numerous design alternatives without additional 3D modeling. Involve your clients early on by presenting visual design alternatives, enriching the collaborative design thinking process. Expand Your Toolset & Protect Your IP Expand your design toolset with deeply integrated Archicad AI Visualizer, optimized for architectural and interior design use. Rest easy knowing your Intellectual Property is fully protected, as the tool runs on your computer, saving and storing images locally. Available in Archicad Archicad AI Visualizer seamlessly integrates into Archicad, eliminating the need for additional third-party solutions or add-ons. The tool is ready to empower your design process right where you work. Click here for more info. Get Started Today! Archicad AI Visualizer is available for download to all curious minds eager to explore the future of AI-powered architectural visualization. Grab your Archicad 27 license, follow the Installation Instructions and User Guide, and start your design revolution! Click here for more info. Join the Community Become a part of the Archicad AI Visualizer group on Graphisoft Community. Explore what others are creating, share your images, and exchange tips and tricks. Let's shape the future of architectural visualization together! Click here to join the community. Click here to watch the Building Together Digital Event. If you have any further questions contact TotalCAD today! info@archicad.co.za

BUDAPEST, October 31, 2023 — Graphisoft, the forefront developer of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software solutions for architecture and multidisciplinary design, takes center stage in Apple's recent global launch. The tech giant, unveiling the latest MacBook Pro and the iMac, features Archicad as the epitome of speed and versatility powered by the M3 family of chips. The MacBook Pro and the 24-inch iMac showcase substantial technological advancements, with the M3 chip seamlessly integrating with Archicad to deliver an unparalleled level of efficiency and power in design workflows. This collaboration between Archicad and Apple promises to revolutionize architectural design by providing a high-speed performance experience. The advertisement spotlights the design processes employed in the Cox Graae + Spack-designed Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, DC. Marton Kiss, Vice President of Product Success at Graphisoft, expressed excitement about Apple's recognition of Archicad as the ideal BIM software to showcase the speed, power, and versatility of the new MacBook Pro. Kiss added, "Archicad is the obvious choice for architects using Mac computers." Archicad's Strengths Archicad stands out with its robust built-in tools and user-friendly interface, making it the most efficient and intuitive BIM software available. Boasting features like out-of-the-box design documentation, one-click publishing, photo-realistic rendering, and best-in-class analysis, Archicad allows architects to channel their focus into designing exceptional buildings. The recent updates to Archicad prioritize project manageability, introducing highly requested additions to enhance design team efficiency. Improved consistency and new productivity tools make the design process with Archicad faster and more enjoyable, even for architects transitioning from other design platforms. According to Kiss, "Graphisoft is available on all platforms, and native Apple Silicon support for Archicad means users can take advantage of Apple's latest hardware innovations." Archicad Collaborate Archicad Collaborate, a subscription-based offering that seamlessly combines the power of Archicad, BIMx, and BIMcloud SaaS. This collaboration ensures fast, efficient, and secure access to shared projects in real-time, all at an affordable price. Unlike other BIM software providers, Archicad Collaborate includes award-winning BIMcloud SaaS as part of the Archicad subscription price in the user-friendly online Graphisoft Store. For support contact TotalCAD today. info@archicad.co.za

BIMx – Explore, Engage, Mobilize Bridge the gap seamlessly between the design studio, the client’s office, and the construction site with the award-winning BIMx. This versatile presentation and coordination app cater to desktops, mobile devices, and the internet, creating an unparalleled experience in the world of architectural design. Present with Powered-Up BIMx Elevate the design narrative by engaging clients on-site with the enhanced capabilities of BIMx. Accelerate the approval process with professional presentation solutions that empower you to control the entire experience. We’ve Got Issues Introducing BIMx Issues – your tool to mark up any 2D or 3D views during on-site visits or off-site meetings. BIMx Issues are BCF compliant, ensuring they remain trackable throughout the entire design process, fostering efficient collaboration. Sign In for More BIMx Features, at No Extra Cost Access additional features in BIMx effortlessly by signing in. Previously exclusive Pro features are now accessible to everyone with a free Graphisoft Account. Experience enhanced collaboration features with the new account-based licensing on mobile devices. Information at Your Fingertips Stay informed on the go with access to the exact specifications of building design elements. Seamlessly transition between layouts and 3D views, effortlessly retrieving 3D element information directly from 2D layouts. Associative labels ensure you get the most crucial information with ease. Accurate Sun Positioning in BIMx Involve your clients in crucial design decisions by leveraging Accurate Sun Positioning in BIMx. Optimize your design for the environment by harnessing natural light, creating a realistic and impactful visualization of your projects. The Sky is the Limit Enrich your design presentations with visual context from the dynamic skybox in BIMx. This precise visualization, coupled with accurate sun positioning, showcases an impressive airspace that corresponds to the time of day you set, elevating the realism of your projects. Explore. Game-Like Experience Simple, game-like navigation makes BIMx the 'best anywhere' presentation and collaboration tool on the market. Drive the design narrative on the building site for fast, specific client feedback. BIMx is the universal language connecting you with the entire world. Game-Like Experience Share your design effortlessly with all project stakeholders, eliminating the need for extensive training. BIMx offers a game-like experience, allowing anyone to dive right in and explore the intricate details of your project. Complete Project Documentation BIMx Hyper-models include hyperlinks to the comprehensive 2D project documentation and more. Bid farewell to the hassle of searching and opening incorrect sheets – hyperlinks guide you precisely to the right one. 2D and 3D Explained Ensure that team members or clients not trained in reading 2D plans instantly grasp your design intent when they experience the project in 3D. BIMx bridges the gap, making design comprehension accessible to all. Next-Generation BIMx Web and Desktop Apps Experience faster loading, smoother navigation, and new customization tools with the next-generation BIMx Web and Desktop apps. The enhanced features transform BIMx into a robust BIM collaboration tool, offering an enriched user experience. BIMx Desktop Moved to Stores Download the latest version of BIMx Desktop Viewer directly from your app store. Benefit from automatic updates, faster access to new features and fixes, and an overall improved software delivery experience. Embark on a revolutionary journey with BIMx, where design exploration, engagement, and mobilization redefine the way we connect with architectural projects. Click Here for more info on Issues Creation in BIMx Click Here for more info on Interactive Labels in BIMx Layouts Click Here for more information on Graphisoft ID based BIMx licensing Click Here for more information on Dynamic Skybox Click Here to read more. For support contact TotalCAD today! info@archicad.co.za

Graphisoft Celebrates 13 Consecutive Wins for Archicad as 'BIM Product of the Year' In an unprecedented achievement, Graphisoft's Archicad secures its 13th consecutive win as 'BIM Product of the Year' at the prestigious Construction Computing Awards. Known affectionately as 'The Hammers,' these awards are a testament to Archicad's unwavering excellence and innovation. Archicad, a cutting-edge Building Information Modeling (BIM) software solution, empowers professionals to design and deliver projects seamlessly. Industry-wide experts and design professionals have recognized and voted for Archicad, acknowledging its efficiency and intuitive interface. The software's robust built-in tools, coupled with a user-friendly interface, position Archicad as the most efficient BIM solution available. Offering out-of-the-box design documentation, one-click publishing, photo-realistic rendering, and top-notch analysis capabilities, Archicad enables architects to focus on their core competency—designing exceptional buildings. The latest version, released in October, introduces a host of features, including a brand-new design option solution, enhanced professional visualization tools, improved project management for complexity, and advancements in open, multidisciplinary design collaboration. Explore the innovative features of Archicad 27. Ron Close, Vice President of Marketing Success at Graphisoft, expresses, "This continued recognition of Archicad as the best BIM solution for architecture reinforces our commitment to empowering teams to design great buildings." About Archicad Archicad empowers designers to tackle projects of any size with its powerful built-in tools and user-friendly interface, making it the most efficient and intuitive BIM software on the market. The award-winning software supports OPEN BIM, ensuring workflow transparency, longevity, and data accessibility for built assets. With features like out-of-the-box design documentation, one-click publishing, photo-realistic rendering, and top-tier analysis capabilities, Archicad allows users to focus on their passion: designing outstanding buildings. Discover more about Archicad. About Graphisoft Graphisoft is at the forefront of empowering teams to design exceptional buildings through award-winning software solutions, learning programs, and professional services for the AEC industry. The company's products and solutions champion OPEN BIM, promoting workflow transparency, longevity, and data accessibility for built assets. Archicad, the preferred BIM software for architects, provides a complete end-to-end design and documentation workflow for architectural and integrated practices. BIMx, a leading mobile and web BIM app, extends the BIM experience to all stakeholders in the building design, delivery, and operations lifecycle. BIMcloud, the AEC industry's first and most advanced cloud-based team collaboration solution, facilitates real-time collaboration globally. Part of the Nemetschek Group, Graphisoft is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of intelligent MEP design tools with solutions such as DDScad. For more information click here or visit the TotalCAD website at www.totalcad.co.za

Share your project on BIMcloud SaaS and use Archicad's robust tools and BIMx Pro to collaboratively design buildings with your team, and share the results with customers and clients worldwide. Collaborate Subscription - Keeping Teams Connected and Projects on time. Archicad Create designs of all scales using Archicad's comprehensive built-in tools and intuitive user interface. BIMcloud Make your projects accessible on a secure cloud server hosted by Graphisoft, enabling real-time collaboration with your team without the need for additional IT investments to get started. BIMx Shape the design narrative with clients in-person to expedite the approval process. Utilize professional presentation tools that empower you to manage the overall experience. Subscribe & Save Maximize the value of your subscription with exclusive tools, training, support, and services. For more info contact TotalCAD today! info@archicad.co.za

In the world of architectural software, Archicad stands as a powerhouse, but it's not immune to some common misconceptions. Let's set the record straight and dispel the top 10 myths surrounding Archicad: 1. Archicad is Only for Mac Users Reality: Archicad is versatile and available for both Mac and Windows platforms, ensuring accessibility for a wide user base. Click here for comprehensive details regarding Archicad's system requirements. 2. It's Only for Small Projects Reality: Archicad is not limited by a project size. It's equally efficient for residential projects and large-scale commercial developments. Click here to explore in-depth case studies showcasing successful projects of various types and sizes completed using Archicad. 3. Archicad Can't Handle Complex Geometry Reality: Archicad is a champion when it comes to managing intricate architectural designs and complex geometries. Click here to watch - Architectural Classics Remodeled in Archicad. 4. It Lacks Collaboration Features Reality: Archicad is widely recognized as an industry leader in collaboration, providing powerful tools such to facilitate effective teamwork. Here are some of the key features: BIMcloud: Archicad enables collaboration with your team, even when they are located in different cities or countries. Change Management with Teamwork: Archicad's Change Tracking, integrated with BIMcloud, manages the impact of one team member's changes on others' work. Working with Revit + Solibri: Archicad allows you to export RVT models, hotlink RVT models into Archicad, import MEP Equipment into your Archicad project, and more. Add-Ons for Seamless Collaboration: Archicad offers smooth integrations with third-party applications to ensure uninterrupted and efficient workflows. Start collaborating now with Archicad Collaborate Subscription: Share your project on BIMcloud SaaS and use Archicad's robust tools and BIMx Pro to collaboratively design buildings with your team, and share the results with customers and clients worldwide. These features make Archicad a powerful tool for collaborative work in architecture and design. 5. Archicad Can't Export to Other Software Reality: Archicad supports multiple export formats, promoting seamless interoperability with other software applications and supports an OPEN BIM approach. Export Capabilities: Archicad can export to various formats, including FBX, which is an industry-standard format for visualization, VR, and AR applications. It also supports collaboration with Revit-based engineers who do not use IFC exchange. Archicad can import Revit geometry and export the Archicad project as RVT. Archicad also imports RFA-based families as native Archicad objects. Click here for more information Open BIM Support: Archicad supports Open BIM, a progressive, future-proof approach to AEC collaboration. Open BIM helps connect stakeholders such as software vendors, software users (architects, engineers, and builders), as well as clients/owners to co-create great buildings. It ensures workflow transparency, longevity, and accessibility of data for built assets. Archicad and the Nemetschek Group fully support buildingSMART’s openBIM program. Click here for more information. Archicad's capabilities, compatibility, and flexibility make it a top choice for professionals in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry. For more information and to explore what Archicad can do for your projects, contact TotalCAD at info@archicad.co.za.

Archicad 27 has arrived, and it brings with it a host of powerful features that are set to redefine the way architects and designers work. In this blog, we'll delve into some of the standout features that make this version a game-changer. 1. Integrated Design Options Feature (Key Feature) Evaluate and share design alternatives quickly and efficiently thanks to the Integrated Design Options feature. This amazing feature allows architects and designers to seamlessly incorporate multiple design options within the same project. This means you can explore different design iterations, configurations, and alternatives in a single file, eliminating the need for separate projects. It streamlines the design process, enhances collaboration, and ensures that you have a comprehensive view of all your design choices. This feature alone is a game-changer for those seeking design flexibility and efficiency. 2. Industry Standard Certification Archicad has always been a pioneer in the field of Building Information Modeling (BIM), and Archicad 27 continues this tradition. This version comes with industry-standard certification, ensuring that you're working with a platform that meets the highest industry benchmarks. Archicad 27 is equipped with IFC4 file import and export certification issued by the international buildingSMART organization. Whether you're collaborating with other professionals, clients, or organizations, this certification gives you the peace of and enhances data exchange consistency and efficiency across diverse disciplines and solutions. 3. Intelligent Tracker The Intelligent Tracker is another gem in Archicad 27's arsenal. It offers a more intuitive and efficient way to navigate and interact with your model. This feature is designed to streamline your design process by providing real-time feedback and visual cues. It's like having a guiding hand as you work, ensuring that you can focus on your design vision rather than the technicalities of the software. You will no longer need your calculator, all calculations are done directly from the Intelligent Tracker. These are just a few of the highlights in Archicad 27. The software continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in architectural design and BIM, making it an invaluable tool for professionals in the industry. To learn more about how Archicad 27 can elevate your design capabilities and streamline your workflow, click on the link below or alternatively you can contact TotalCAD at info@archicad.co.za. https://graphisoft.com/solutions/whatsnew

Valladares Pagliotti & Asociados (VPA) relies on Archicad for their structural engineering, integrating it with other software like SAP, ETABS, and MATLAB. They prioritize collaboration with architects to align structural solutions with architectural intent, enhancing beauty while ensuring safety. In projects like Esmeralda House, they create strong structural elements, earthquake-resistant columns, and adjust slab thickness. At Tierra Patagonia hotel, they face wind challenges, and Archicad streamlines planimetry generation. VPA has even developed its own software for structural engineering, tailored to Chilean regulations for reinforced concrete buildings, making up a significant portion of their projects. For more information on this click on the link below. https://www.nemetschek.com/en/reference/use-archicad-structural-engineering Generating a Structural Analytical Model This feature set improves and streamline the collaboration between architects and structural engineers. In this workflow, ARCHICAD creates a Structural Analytical Model that mirrors the Physical Model. The two models are generated simultaneously, and any changes made to the Physical Model are automatically reflected in the Structural Analytical Model. The Structural Analytical Model serves as a simplified representation of the Physical Model and is shared with a structural engineer for analysis in programs like SCIA Engineer. The engineer uses their analysis software to perform simulations and optimize the Structural Analytical Model. Afterward, the updated Structural Analytical Model is sent back to Archicad, which then updates the Physical Model accordingly. This bi-directional process eliminates the need for file conversions and prevents data loss. Interoperability with structural analysis programs is achieved through the Structural Analytical Format (SAF), designed for efficient model exchange compared to an IFC-based approach. Archicad 24 introduces additional features, such as Model Compare, Issue management, Change Tracking in Teamwork, and Model Check for both analytical and physical models, to support this workflow. To create a Structural Analytical Model in Archicad: Use the "Show Structural Analytical Model" toggle, accessible from the View menu or the Structural Analytical Model Toolbar. Components Included in the Structural Analytical Model The Structural Analytical Model comprises: Load-bearing elements. Elements containing a core. Elements created using eligible Archicad tools (e.g., Beams, Columns, Slabs, Walls, Single-plane Roofs). Elements enabled at the element level (via the "Structural Member" checkbox in Element Settings). Elements existing in the model based on Renovation Status (hidden elements marked as "To Be Demolished" or "New" in the current view are excluded). Element connections defined by Layer Intersection Group, influencing the Structural Analytical Model's geometry. Layer visibility does not affect inclusion; even elements on hidden layers can be part of the Structural Analytical Model. Default Position of 1D and 2D Members By default, 1D Members are generated at the element's center of gravity, while 2D Members align along the core plane's center. These defaults can be adjusted individually in an element's Settings dialog using the Eccentricity control. Automatic Adjustments by Generation Rules The "Structural Analytical Model Generation Rules" are automatically applied during generation. These rules optimize the geometry of 1D and 2D Members and certain End/Edge Release definitions, ensuring compatibility with external analysis programs. For more information click on the link below. https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/user-guide-chapter/85615/ For general enquiries please contact TotalCAD at info@archicad.co.za

The integration of MEP Modeler in Archicad enhances BIM collaboration among architectural, structural, and MEP engineering disciplines, fostering early-stage cooperation. Archicad 23's Opening Tool and Archicad 24's MEP Modeler Add-on facilitate this collaboration. Key Uses of Integrated MEP Modeler for Architects: Initial MEP design. Modeling from 2D MEP drawings. IFC-based model exchange workflows. Visualization. Collision Detection is crucial in these workflows, necessitating 3D modeling of pipes and ducts. In Archicad 24 (except START Edition), the MEP Modeler is seamlessly integrated, requiring no separate download, installation, or license. For more information click on the link below. https://community.graphisoft.com/t5/Modeling/Integrated-MEP-Modeler-in-Archicad/ta-p/304055 For general enquiries please contact TotalCAD today. info@archicad.co.za