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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

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