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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

In the dynamic world of architectural design, collaboration is key. Imagine working seamlessly with colleagues on intricate projects, regardless of physical location. With GRAPHISOFT's BIMcloud, this vision is a reality, especially for educational users of Archicad. Revolutionizing Teamwork in Architecture BIMcloud, a cutting-edge solution embraced by global design firms and contractors, facilitates real-time collaboration. It empowers multiple team members to work concurrently on projects, fostering a new era of group challenges and competition. Whether you're a student or an educator, BIMcloud redefines teamwork. Students: Empower Your Team Are you looking to elevate your collaboration to the next level? Here's how BIMcloud transforms your design experience: Form a Team: Gather your peers and embark on collaborative ventures. Select a Leader: Designate a team leader to spearhead your efforts. Team Registration: The team leader kickstarts the process by signing up through the Team Leader Form, receiving a unique Team ID. Seamless Integration: Share the Team ID with teammates for streamlined registration via the Team Member Form. Project Launch: Dive into your BIMcloud Project and unleash your collective creativity. Educators: Empower Your Students For educators, BIMcloud serves as a catalyst for academic growth and innovation: Free Sign-Up: Educators can enroll for free and gain access to an exclusive university folder. Group Formation: Organize design groups within your class, appointing team leaders to guide each cohort. Student Integration: Students' individual projects seamlessly integrate into the designated folder. Continued Support: BIMcloud retains accounts beyond the semester, enabling continuous usage across classes. How It Works With EDU.BIMcloud, project files are securely stored in the cloud, with automatic backups ensuring data integrity. GRAPHISOFT manages the intricacies of project management, user creation, and maintenance, allowing users to focus on design excellence. Who Can Harness Its Potential? EDU.BIMcloud is tailored for Archicad Education users within academic settings, including universities, vocational schools, and high schools focused on architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). Educational licenses and the latest Archicad Education version are prerequisites. Getting Started Ready to embark on a collaborative journey? Here's your roadmap: Register the Team Leader: Initiate the setup by registering the team leader. Setup Completion: Upon setup completion, an email containing access details and an invitation link is dispatched. Team Member Registration: Team members register using the provided link. Launch Collaboration: Once accounts are live, dive into seamless teamwork. Embrace the power of collaboration with BIMcloud for Education. Whether you're a budding architect seeking innovative teamwork or an educator fostering academic excellence, BIMcloud is your gateway to design synergy. Unleash your creativity and redefine collaboration with GRAPHISOFT's revolutionary platform. Contact TotalCAD for support! info@archicad.co.za www.totalcad.co.za

Welcome to the Expression-Defined Properties Workflow Guide, your comprehensive resource for managing and utilizing properties defined by expressions in Archicad. In this guide, we'll explore the fundamental principles, creation, and application of expressions and properties, providing you with practical examples, solutions to common errors, and best practices to enhance your project's performance. Understanding Expressions: Expressions function similarly to calculation software like Excel or Numbers, where mathematical, logical, statistical, or other functions manage input data to generate new output data. Archicad allows you to leverage this concept to streamline your design process. Implementing expression-defined properties offers numerous advantages: Automation: Streamline repetitive processes. Information Control: Create, transform, and combine new information while ensuring office and geometric standards are met. Quality Assurance: Conduct preliminary checks for code compliance and BIM validation. Efficiency: Save time and resources by automating tasks and reducing errors. Standardization: Maintain consistency and standardization across informative processes. Maximizing Efficiency with Archicad: By harnessing the power of expression-defined properties, you can enhance your BIM workflow, improve productivity, and ensure the accuracy and quality of your designs. Maximize efficiency and streamline your workflow! Gain access to the complete guide on Graphisoft Learn (link), with exclusive free access for SSA/Forward clients. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact TotalCAD at info@archicad.co.za. Let's elevate your Archicad projects together! About TotalCAD: TotalCAD is a leading provider of Archicad solutions and support, empowering architects and designers to optimize their design processes and achieve their project goals efficiently. With our expertise and resources, we're committed to helping you succeed in the world of BIM. Contact us for more details at info@archicad.co.za

As architects and designers, we understand the importance of efficiently documenting every aspect of a building project, including doors and windows. These elements are not just functional components; they contribute to the overall aesthetics and functionality of a space. In today's digital age, leveraging Building Information Modeling (BIM) systems like Archicad allows us to streamline the scheduling process, from small-scale projects to large-scale developments. Why do we schedule doors and windows? Simply put, we can't avoid them, and there are typically a lot of them in any building project. From residential homes to commercial complexes, doors and windows play a crucial role in defining the character of a space. By documenting them quickly and efficiently, we can ensure smooth project management and communication among stakeholders. The project type significantly influences how we approach door and window schedules. In smaller projects with fewer doors and windows, individual scheduling may suffice. However, with larger projects that may have thousands of these elements, a more systematic approach is necessary. Archicad addresses this challenge by developing a system to categorize and group doors and windows, eliminating the need to elevate each one individually. Aligning industry requirements with our documentation software capabilities is key. In the case of Archicad, we adhere to standard door and window objects to ensure compatibility and ease of scheduling. By restricting ourselves to these standard elements, we can efficiently organize and manage door and window schedules within the software. The main categories to consider when scheduling doors and windows in Archicad are as follows: Tabulated Schedule Required: This category resembles an Excel table and showcases typical elevations without door types. Each item is assigned a unique ID number, allowing for easy tracking and management. Draw/Elevated Schedule Required: Doors with substantial glazing or additional elements are shown as elevations, accompanied by an ID number. These elements are scheduled as line items, providing detailed documentation. Complex Glazing/Shopfront: These elements, such as shopfronts with intricate designs, are showcased as elevations and plans elevated as per the model. They are presented as typical drawings, ensuring clarity and accuracy. For more detailed information on scheduling doors and windows in Archicad, we invite you to watch our informative video. If you have any questions or need assistance with your project, don't hesitate to contact TotalCAD at info@archicad.co.za. We are here to support you every step of the way in maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of your building projects.

In the realm of architectural design, innovation is key to staying ahead of the curve. Architects and designers are constantly seeking tools that not only streamline their workflow but also ignite creativity. Enter the AI Visualizer tool in Archicad - a groundbreaking feature that has been causing excitement throughout the industry. Its impact is undeniable, with its ability to transform the design process into an exhilarating journey. Let's delve deeper into why this tool has become a game-changer for architects and designers alike, revolutionizing the way we visualize and create spaces. Available from Archicad 27 onwards, Integrated with Stable Diffusion technology, this tool can turn basic mass models or designs into photorealistic images or artistic drawings. Plus, you have the freedom to customize your creations with prompts, adjust shape fidelity, or let the AI take the reins of creativity. Download and installation instructions here. By simply modeling a few shapes and adding a text prompt, Archicad's AI Visualizer generates stunning images. It facilitates the exploration of design concepts and alternatives during the early design phase by enhancing original concepts with details, context, and innovative ideas. There is no requirement to model landscaping separately or export/sync the model with rendering packages. By utilizing text prompts alone, a diverse array of refined design variation images can be effortlessly generated for clients, eliminating the need for manual creation of multiple detailed models. Prompts define what you want to see in your result. The AI understands simple, clear prompts, so there's no need for long, complicated sentences. A modern office building with a city in the background An apartment building within an urban context Holiday resort with beach in the background Building with contemporary facade Realistic pencil drawing of an office building Click here to watch our “Archicad’s AI Visualizer” live webinar recording. Click here for detailed information and to get Archicad AI visualizer.

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