L’architecture ne consiste pas seulement à concevoir des structures; c’est un mélange complexe d’art et de science qui façonne l’environnement bâti, reflétant les nuances culturelles, sociales et technologiques de son époque. Plus important encore, il s’agit d’un processus de collaboration dans le cadre duquel les concepteurs s’efforcent à donner vie aux visions de leurs clients. Strasman Architects est un cabinet canadien d’architecture et de design d’intérieur expérimenté, largement reconnu pour son approche hautement collaborative et ses conceptions primées. Depuis plus de quarante-cinq ans, ils se concentrent à fournir des solutions élégantes et durables pour des projets techniquement complexes. Ils sont motivés par la découverte, ce qui signifie qu’ils écoutent leurs clients pour bien comprendre leur vision et les défis qu’ils devront relever, bien avant de commencer à mettre au point une conception. L’accent mis sur la découverte découle de leur respect des priorités de leurs clients et des besoins du projet, plutôt que d’imposer des notions préconçues de ce que devrait être leur conception. Cette approche respecte le budget et le calendrier ainsi que la forme et la fonction, et s’appuie sur un sens inhérent de la gestion de l’environnement et de la communauté dans laquelle ils travaillent.
Strasman est l’un des principaux architectes canadiens pour les installations de transport en commun. Avec plus de 200 projets de transport en commun déjà réalisés, ils sont reconnus et recherchés pour leur expertise dans les installations de maintenance des bus et des systèmes ferroviaires légers et lourds, ainsi que pour leur vaste expérience dans le développement des stations de transport en commun, y compris les stations nouvelles et existantes à Toronto et dans tout le sud de l’Ontario. Strasman a exécuté des projets d’infrastructure de référence et d’importance cruciale pour des autorités de transport telles que la Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), Metrolinx, VIA Rail, York Region Transit, Grand River Transit, BC TransLink et Calgary Transit, parmi beaucoup d’autres.
L’entreprise continue de se développer avec plus de 40 membres de l’équipe, répartis entre le siège social à Toronto et le studio à Vancouver. En tirant parti d’un large éventail d’expertises et de compétences techniques, ils peuvent adapter la réalisation des projets aux besoins spécifiques de chaque client. Leur approche implique l’utilisation d’un ensemble polyvalent d’outils techniques, notamment Revit et Revitzo pour la coordination des modèles et la détection d’interférences, ainsi qu’AutoCAD et MicroStation. En outre, ils utilisent une suite complète d’outils de visualisation tels que Rhino, V-Ray et SketchUp pour améliorer l’expérience globale du projet.
L’utilisation de ces outils par leur équipe n’est pas un processus statique, mais dynamique. Les employés de Strasman sont activement impliqués dans la découverte continue de méthodes puissantes pour exploiter les capacités de leur logiciel et le font en intégrant de manière transparente de nouveaux outils au fur et à mesure qu’ils deviennent disponibles. Dans un paysage technologique en constante évolution, Strasman encourage une culture de l’innovation et de l’efficacité dans l’utilisation des logiciels.
Strasman façonne activement le paysage architectural canadien grâce à plusieurs projets d’envergure. Actuellement, le cabinet dirige la conception du tramway léger (LRT) Waterfront East de la TTC (de Queen’s Quay à Union Link), contribue à la modernisation du centre d’entretien de Toronto de VIA Rail en tant que membre d’une équipe de conception-construction, et conçoit les principales installations du nouveau centre d’exploitation et d’entretien 4 du Skytrain (OMC 4) à Coquitlam, en Colombie Britannique. En outre, Strasman participe à la revitalisation progressive de la station Warden de la TTC, supervise la rénovation des installations d’entretien et d’entreposage des bus pour deux installations de la York Region Transit et joue un rôle essentiel dans le développement d’une nouvelle installation d’entretien à la station d’épuration de Mid-Halton.
Après plus de 500 projets et 25 prix pour leurs conceptions, nous sommes impatients de voir comment ils continuent à contribuer à l’évolution de l’architecture à travers leur travail.
Architecture is not merely about designing structures; it’s an intricate blend of art and science that shapes the built environment, reflecting the cultural, social, and technological nuances of its time. Most importantly, it’s a collaborative process where designers focus on bringing to life the visions of their clients. Strasman Architects is an experienced Canadian Architecture and Interior Design Firm, who is widely recognized for their highly collaborative approach to award-winning designs. For over forty-five years, they have focused on providing elegant, sustainable solutions for technically complex projects. They are driven by discovery – meaning they listen to their clients to fully understand their vision and the challenges they will face, long before they begin to resolve a design. The emphasis on discovery is derived from their respect for their clients’ priorities and the project’s needs, rather than enforcing preconceived notions of what their design should be. This approach respects budget and schedule as well as form and function, and layers in an inherent sense of stewardship for the environment and the community they work in.
Strasman is one of Canada’s leading architects for transit facilities. With 200+ transit projects already completed, they are recognized and sought after for their expertise in transit maintenance facilities for buses and light and heavy rail systems as well as their extensive experience with transit station development, including new and existing stations across Toronto and throughout southern Ontario. Strasman has executed landmark and critical infrastructure projects for transit authorities such as Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), Metrolinx, VIA Rail, York Region Transit, Grand River Transit, BC TransLink, and Calgary Transit, among many others.
Their firm continues to grow with over 40 team members, located in their head office in Toronto and their studio in Vancouver. By leveraging a diverse range of expertise and technical skills, they can tailor project delivery to meet the unique requirements of each client. Their approach involves employing a versatile set of technical tools, including but not limited to Revit and Revitzo for model coordination and clash detection, as well as AutoCAD and MicroStation. Additionally, they use an extensive suite of visualization tools such as Rhino, V-Ray, and SketchUp to enhance the overall project experience.
Their team’s use of these tools is not just a static process, but a dynamic one. Strasman’s employees are actively involved in continually discovering powerful methods to harness the capabilities of their software and do so by seamlessly integrating new tools as they become available. In an ever-evolving technological landscape, Strasman fosters a culture of innovation and effectiveness in software usage.
Strasman is actively shaping the Canadian architectural landscape through several impactful projects. Currently, the firm is spearheading the design for the TTC Waterfront East LRT (Queen’s Quay to Union Link), contributing to the modernization of the VIA Rail Toronto Maintenance Centre as part of a design-build team, and designing key facilities within the new Skytrain Operations and Maintenance Centre 4 (OMC 4) in Coquitlam, British Columbia. Additionally, Strasman is also involved in the phased revitalization of TTC Warden Station, overseeing bus maintenance and storage facility renovations for two York Region Transit facilities, and playing a pivotal role in the development of a new maintenance facility at the Mid-Halton WWTP.
After more than 500 projects, and 25 awards for their designs, we are eager to see how they continue to contribute to the evolution of architecture through their work.
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Having recently attended the CIM Symposium 2023 in Vancouver, I find myself reflecting on the digital transformation that the mining industry is undertaking. The conference served as a beacon, illuminating the path through the digital disruption that is reshaping our approach to projects.
Digital Disruption Unveiled
The overarching theme of the symposium was undoubtedly the digital disruption sweeping through the mining sector. It’s no secret that our industry, traditionally perceived as resistant to change, is now at the forefront of a technological revolution. The presentations echoed a collective acknowledgment that standing still is not an option.
Communication as the Linchpin
Amidst the whirlwind of technological advancements discussed, one resounding takeaway was the pivotal role of communication. In an industry where collaboration is paramount, effective communication is the linchpin that ensures all stakeholders, from contractors to communities, are on the same page.
The emphasis on collaboration and long-term partnerships over transactional relationships struck a chord in the context of digital transformation in mining. The need for open communication channels, facilitated by cutting-edge technologies, emerged as a cornerstone for success in this area.
Technology: A Catalyst for Efficiency
The significant impact of technology was clear and noticeable. From AI-driven efficiencies in contracting to the application of 3D CAD images and drone videos in project execution, technology is not just a tool but a catalyst for unprecedented efficiency. The concept of Mining 4.0, as explored in various presentations, underscored the industry’s commitment to embracing the digital future.
Sustainability: A Non-Negotiable Imperative
Another echoing theme was the inexorable link between technology and sustainability. It’s no longer enough for projects to be technically proficient; they must also adhere to the principles of sustainable development. The discussions on ESG criteria influencing contractual obligations and the integration of sustainable practices highlighted a paradigm shift towards responsible mining.
Adaptable Financing for a Digital Era
Delving into the financial aspects of project development, the symposium highlighted the need for an integrated and adaptable approach to financing. Dynamic cash flow modeling emerged as a potent tool, allowing us to tailor financing packages to the specific characteristics of each project. This adaptability, combined with strategic technical due diligence, was positioned as a key strategy in navigating the complexities of project financing in the digital age.
Personal Takeaway: A Call to Action
As an industry consultant deeply rooted in the mining landscape, my key takeaway is a compelling call to action. The digital disruption we are witnessing is not a distant wave; it’s here, reshaping our projects, our relationships, and our responsibilities.
Our role, as stewards of this transformative period, is to champion effective communication, harness technological advancements for sustainable practices, and embrace adaptability in our financial models. The CIM Symposium 2023 served as a rallying point, urging us to not merely adapt but to lead the charge in this era of digital transformation.
In conclusion, the symposium was not just a collection of presentations; it was a collective pause, a moment of reflection, and a call to arms for the mining industry. As we navigate the digital disruption, let us do so with open minds, collaborative spirits, and a steadfast commitment to the responsible and sustainable future we are crafting for the mining sector.
Promotion Fusion 360 3 pour 2 – Offre à durée limitée!
Les clients peuvent bénéficier d’une réduction de 33.34% sur l’achat de lots de (3) trois nouveaux abonnements d’un an à Fusion 360 achetés en même temps.
Faites vite, l’offre se termine le 31 janvier 2024
Les réductions seront reflétées dans toutes les listes de prix mondiales. Tous les pays (à l’exception de la Chine) peuvent acheter via le réseau des revendeurs. Cette promotion est une offre mondiale, elle figure sur toutes les listes de prix (à l’exception de la Chine) et est disponible partout. La promotion Fusion 360 est actuellement disponible à l’achat.
La promotion est disponible jusqu’au 31 janvier 2024. La remise de 33,34 % s’applique aux forfaits Fusion 360 de (3) trois nouveaux abonnements d’un an.
AUTODESK SE RESERVE LE DROIT D’ANNULER, DE SUSPENDRE OU DE MODIFIER UNE PARTIE OU L’ENSEMBLE DE CES PROMOTIONS, A TOUT MOMENT ET SANS PREAVIS, QUELLE QU’EN SOIT LA RAISON ET A SA SEULE DISCRETION. LES PRIX DES LOGICIELS AUTODESK PEUVENT CHANGER.
Autodesk et Fusion 360 sont des marques déposées d’Autodesk, Inc. et/ou de ses filiales et/ou sociétés affiliées aux États-Unis et/ou dans d’autres pays. Tous les autres noms de marques, de produits ou marques commerciales appartiennent à leurs propriétaires respectifs. Autodesk se réserve le droit de modifier à tout moment et sans préavis l’offre sur ses produits et ses services, les spécifications de produits, ainsi que ses tarifs. Autodesk ne saurait être tenue responsable des erreurs typographiques ou graphiques susceptibles d’apparaître dans ce document.
PROCEPACK is a firm specializing in the purchase and sale of packaging and process equipment. They serve customers from a wide range of industries from food and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals. They leverage their vast and established network of partners to source the best materials to meet their customer bases’ diverse needs.
Facing the Future Together – Increasing Productivity and Efficiency with Inventor Pro and Vault Pro
The Challenge
PROCEPACK found success with their previous software, creating high-quality products for their customers, but they knew they were capable of more. As they planned for the future, they began to feel frustrated by lack of communication with their former software provider and felt like their business needs were not being truly understood. Their questions were often met with estimates rather than conversations and they began to feel ignored. As a company who value partnership and strong business relationships with their customers, they knew they needed to find a software provider who felt the same way.
Additionally, offering custom packaging presents its own challenge. PROCEPACK needed software that they could fully rely on to create high-quality fully customizable designs in a cost-efficient and time-efficient manner. With such a vast customer base, they needed a system that could accommodate the ever-changing needs of not just their industry, but the industries of all their customers.
The Solution
PROCEPACK connected with SolidCAD, not only looking for software solutions, but for a long-term partner to support their continued growth. They had several conversations with the SolidCAD team to discuss their goals and needs and worked together to find a solution.
They decided to upgrade to Inventor Pro to insure they could create custom designs accurately and consistently. Additionally, after further understanding PROCEPACK’s vision and needs, our team recommended Vault Pro to facilitate easy and flexible document management across teams.
Confident with our new partnership, and impressed by the skill of our technical staff, PROCEPACK also opted for custom programming to increase efficiency and reduce unnecessary time and money spent on tasks that were easily automated. Our teams continue to communicate regularly and maintain a strong relationship as we grow together into the digital future.
The Results
PROCEPACK have been able to increase productivity
Reduced cost through automation of their environment, including their ERP
Documents can be easily accessed online without the need for physical records
Both SolidCAD and PROCEPACK have gained a strong partnership and built a positive relationship for years to come
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The construction industry is undeniably a crucial pillar of Canada’s economy and society. However, in the 21st century, it faces a multitude of challenges and opportunities, including workforce shortages, climate change concerns, evolving customer expectations, and fierce global competition. In this context, digital technology emerges as a key driver and enabler of innovation and transformation within the construction sector.
While digital transformation is sweeping through the industry, not all construction companies have embraced it with equal fervor. Some have emerged as early adopters, blazing the trail, while others have been more cautious, following suit at their own pace. Additionally, the adoption of digital technology varies across different regions and segments of the construction industry. In this blog post, we will explore how the Canadian construction industry compares to its global counterparts in terms of digital technology adoption and delve into the underlying reasons. We will also discuss how proper custom training and implementation can address the technology adoption challenge, as well as why construction companies should move away from Excel and emails. Finally, we will discuss the way forward for the Canadian construction industry in the digital era.
How does the Canadian construction industry compare to the rest of the world in terms of adopting digital technology and why?
According to a report by McKinsey & Company, the global construction industry has been one of the least digitized sectors, ranking only above agriculture and hunting. The report estimated that if the global construction industry fully embraced digital technology, it could increase its value added by $1.6 trillion per year, or 2 percent of global GDP.
But the report also noted that there are significant variations in the level of digitization across regions and segments of the construction industry. For instance, Europe and North America have been more advanced than Asia and Africa in terms of adopting digital technology in design and engineering. However, Asia has been leading in terms of adopting digital technology in construction and operations. Moreover, some segments of the construction industry, such as infrastructure and industrial projects, have been more digitized than others, such as residential and commercial projects.
According to a survey conducted by KPMG in Canada and the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) in 2020, the Canadian construction industry has been lagging behind other industries in Canada, as well as other regions in the world, in terms of adopting digital technology. The survey found that only 25 percent of Canadian construction companies felt like they were in a considerable or great position relative to their competitors in terms of technology or digital implementation, compared to 47 percent globally. The survey also found that only 23 percent of Canadian construction companies said their decisions were supported by and based on data to a considerable or great degree, compared to 36 percent globally.
The survey identified several challenges and barriers that prevent Canadian construction companies from adopting digital technology more quickly, such as lack of skills or talent, lack of budget or funding, lack of leadership or vision, resistance to change, lack of awareness or understanding, and lack of collaboration or integration. The survey also highlighted some drivers and benefits of digital transformation in the Canadian construction industry, such as improving productivity, increasing efficiency, enhancing customer satisfaction, reducing costs, increasing profitability, and improving quality.
One of the indicators of digital adoption in the construction industry is the use of software tools for project management and collaboration. Here’s a little treat for you for reading this post so far. In a lighthearted twist, I turned to an AI model to generate a prediction based on the adoption of Excel compared to popular alternatives like Procore and Autodesk. Although the AI’s prediction may not fully satisfy the parameters and assumptions required for an accurate projection, let’s take it in good spirits and have some fun exploring its findings.
The attached graph shows the adoption scale of Excel, Procore, and Autodesk Construction Cloud among Canadian construction companies from 1985 to 2025 (projected):
*Projected values based on current trends and assumptions.
The graph shows that Excel has been the dominant tool for construction companies since its introduction in the mid-1980s, and has steadily increased its adoption rate over the years. But it also shows that Procore and Autodesk Construction Cloud have emerged as viable alternatives in the past decade, and have gained some market share from Excel. It’s worth noting that Autodesk Construction Cloud as we know it, has evolved over the years and many may know this platform by Plangrid, Bim 360 Build or Build. The graph also projects that by 2025, Procore and Autodesk construction cloud will have increased their adoption rates by another 10%, while Excel will have reached a plateau at around 80%. This suggests that construction companies are becoming more aware of the benefits and limitations of Excel, and are exploring other digital solutions that can offer more integration, collaboration, and innovation.
“I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been. – Wayne Gretzky”
Disclaimer: My AI friend claims that the data for this graph was obtained from various sources, such as industry reports, surveys, interviews, and websites, and that the assumptions for the projections were based on the current trends and growth rates of the software tools, as well as the expected changes in the market and customer preferences, but I digress.
How can proper custom training and implementation address the technology adoption challenges?
One of the main challenges that Canadian construction companies face when adopting digital technology is the lack of skills or talent to use or implement the technology effectively. Going back to the survey by KPMG and CCA, 49 percent of respondents said that finding or developing people with the right skills or expertise was a major challenge for their company.
To overcome this challenge, construction companies need to invest in proper custom training and implementation programs that can help their employees learn and adopt the technology in a smooth and efficient manner. Some of the best practices for successful construction technology implementation include:
Getting buy-in from the entire team, from executives to end-users, by showcasing how the technology will drive value for them and addressing their concerns or feedback.
Setting a clear timeline and milestones for the implementation process, and assigning roles and responsibilities to each team member involved.
Understanding the existing workflows and company structures that will be impacted by the technology, and customizing the solution to fit the specific needs and goals of each project or division.
Involving employees in the training process, and providing them with continuous support, feedback, and resources to help them apply their knowledge in the field.
Measuring and communicating the success and outcomes of the implementation process, and celebrating the achievements and improvements along the way.
By following these best practices, companies can ensure that their employees are well-equipped and motivated to use and implement digital technology effectively and that they can maximize the return on investment of their technology solutions.
Why should construction companies move away from Excel and Emails?
Another challenge that Canadian construction companies face when adopting digital technology is the resistance to change from internal stakeholders who are used to working with traditional tools such as Excel and emails. Why fix something that’s not broken? Looking back at the survey by KPMG and CCA, 50 percent of respondents said that overcoming resistance to change was a major barrier for their company.
Internal development is never easy. The growth of a company can be compared to the growth of people on a personal level as well. This reminds me of the famous analogy of lobsters by Dr. Jordan B. Peterson. Stay with me here! So, lobsters, they grow by molting. Picture this: they struggle and break free from their old shells, all the while absorbing water that expands their body size. Talk about a transformation! Now, this molting process happens around 25 times in the first 5-7 years of a lobster’s life. And it’s no walk in the park. But guess what? It’s absolutely necessary for their growth.
You see, as company owners, the weight of leadership falls on your shoulders. It’s up to you or your leadership team to ensure that your team members understand the rewards that come with staying up-to-date in our ever-evolving industry. When the benefits become crystal clear, the cost of keeping pace is no longer a concern.
There are actually many reasons why construction companies should move away from Excel and emails, and adopt more advanced and specialized software tools for project management and collaboration- even if that means going through temporary pain. Some of these reasons include:
Excel and emails are prone to errors, inconsistencies and duplication, which can lead to inaccurate data, miscommunication and rework.
Excel and emails are not designed for collaboration, which can result in silos, delays, and conflicts among project stakeholders.
Excel and emails are not scalable or adaptable, which can limit the growth, innovation, and efficiency of construction companies.
Excel and emails are not secure or compliant, which can expose construction companies to data breaches, cyberattacks, and legal risks.
By moving away from Excel and emails, construction companies can benefit from software tools that are specifically designed for construction project management and collaboration. These tools can offer features such as:
Real-time data capture, analysis, and visualization, which can improve decision-making, transparency, and accountability.
Cloud-based storage, access, and sharing, which can enhance mobility, flexibility, and connectivity.
Workflow automation, integration, and standardization, which can increase productivity, quality, and consistency.
Data protection, encryption, and backup, which can ensure security, compliance, and reliability.
By adopting these software tools, construction companies can improve their performance, efficiency, quality, and safety on their projects, as well as create a competitive edge in the market.
What is the way forward for the Canadian construction industry in the digital era?
The Canadian construction industry is keen on promoting innovation and driving digital transformation. Advances in technology, like artificial intelligence, drones, and 3D modeling, along with improved project delivery models, are reducing waste, boosting productivity, and enhancing sustainability. The industry calls for increased investment in research and development, education and training, and collaboration to accelerate this transformation.
To thrive in the digital era, the Canadian construction industry should focus on these key areas:
Building a digital culture: Foster an innovative and digitally-ready mindset across the organization, from top management to frontline workers.
Developing digital skills: Invest in training and upskilling programs to equip the workforce with the necessary expertise in digital tools, data analysis, digital workflows, and cybersecurity.
Embracing collaborative platforms: Adopt collaborative platforms and project management tools to streamline communication and enhance project coordination.
Implementing advanced technologies: Embrace technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM), drones, robotics, and IoT for better project visualization, data-driven decision-making, automation, and safety.
Leveraging data analytics: Utilize data analytics to gain insights, optimize operations, and make informed decisions by analyzing data from sensors and construction management software.
Prioritizing cybersecurity: Protect sensitive project data, intellectual property, and client information through robust cybersecurity measures and employee education.
Collaborating with technology providers: Partner with technology providers, startups, and research institutions to access innovative solutions and industry insights.
Promoting industry-wide standards and best practices: Standardize processes and adopt best practices to facilitate interoperability, data exchange, and collaboration among stakeholders.
By embracing digital technology and implementing these strategies, the Canadian construction industry can overcome barriers, drive digital transformation, and achieve improved productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. This will contribute to the industry’s growth and success in the digital era. And here at SolidCAD, we can help.
Accruent Meridian is an engineering document management system (EDMS) that helps organizations streamline document management, ensure safety and compliance, maximize collaboration, and achieve a single source of asset information. But how does it align with the agile principles that guide many software development teams today?
The agile principles are statements that define the agile methodology and act as best practices for agile teams. The agile principles and core values are documented in the agile manifesto, a brief document that defines agile. Agile principles also apply to other project management methodologies derived from agile, such as kanban or scrum.
In this blog post, we will explore how Accruent Meridian supports some of the key agile principles and how it can benefit your engineering projects.
Agile Principle 1: Satisfy the Customer Through Early and Continuous Delivery of Value Software
The first principle of agile is to deliver value to the customer frequently and consistently. This means that instead of waiting for a long time to release a final product, agile teams deliver small increments of working software that can be tested and validated by the customer.
Accruent Meridian helps you achieve this principle by enabling you to manage and share engineering documents across the entire asset lifecycle. You can easily create, review, approve, distribute, and access documents from any device, anywhere, anytime. You can also track changes, revisions, and versions of documents to ensure accuracy and consistency. By using Accruent Meridian, you can deliver valuable information to your customers and stakeholders faster and more reliably.
Accruent Meridian helps you streamline document management, ensure safety and compliance, maximize company-wide collaboration, and achieve a single source of asset information.
Agile Principle 2: Welcome Changing Requirements, Even Late in Development
The second principle of agile is to embrace change as an opportunity to deliver better value. This means that instead of resisting or avoiding changes in requirements, agile teams welcome them and adapt their plans accordingly.
Accruent Meridian helps you achieve this principle by providing you with flexible and configurable workflows that can accommodate changing needs and expectations. You can easily modify or create new workflows to suit different types of documents, projects, or processes. You can also use Meridian Explorer to search and browse documents by metadata properties or text content. You can filter your search results by specific values or criteria to find the most relevant documents for your current situation.
Agile Principle 4: Business People and Developers Must Work Together Daily Throughout the Project
The fourth principle of agile is to foster collaboration between business people and developers. This means that instead of working in silos or communicating sporadically, agile teams work together daily throughout the project to ensure alignment and understanding.
Accruent Meridian helps you achieve this principle by enabling you to integrate with other systems and applications that are used by different stakeholders in your organization. You can connect Meridian with ERP, CMMS, GIS, CAD, BIM, Microsoft Office, SharePoint, and more. This way, you can ensure that everyone has access to the same information and can collaborate effectively across different platforms.
Accruent Meridian enables you to integrate with other systems and applications that are used by different stakeholders in your organization.
Agile Principle 7: Working Software Is the Primary Measure of Progress
The seventh principle of agile is to measure progress by delivering working software. This means that instead of relying on documentation or reports, agile teams demonstrate their work by showing functional software that meets the customer’s needs.
Accruent Meridian helps you achieve this principle by allowing you to publish and distribute documents in various formats that are compatible with different devices and systems. You can export documents as PDFs, DWGs, DWFs, TIFFs, JPEGs, PNGs, etc. You can also use the Meridian mobile application to access documents on your smartphone or tablet. By using Accruent Meridian, you can show your work in a way that is convenient and accessible for your customers.
Case Studies & Testimonials
Staples, a leading office products company, uses Accruent Meridian to manage over 1.5 million engineering documents across 2,000 stores in North America. Accruent Meridian helps Staples reduce costs, improve compliance, and increase productivity.
GNC, a global health and wellness retailer, uses Accruent Meridian to manage over 300,000 engineering documents for more than 8,000 locations worldwide. Accruent Meridian helps GNC streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and ensure data accuracy.
Total Olefins Antwerp, a petrochemical company, uses Accruent Meridian to manage over 300,000 engineering documents and 150,000 objects for its plants in Belgium. Accruent Meridian helps Total Olefins Antwerp optimize engineering change processes, integrate with other systems, and link documents with assets.
AbbVie, a biopharmaceutical company, uses Accruent Meridian to manage over 100,000 engineering documents for its manufacturing facilities in the US and Europe. Accruent Meridian helps AbbVie maximize efficiency, improve communication, and ensure compliant control of engineering information.
Accruent Meridian is a powerful EDMS that can help you align your engineering projects with the agile principles. By using Accruent Meridian, you can deliver value to your customers faster and more reliably, embrace change as an opportunity to improve, foster collaboration across different stakeholders, and measure progress by delivering working software.
Accruent Meridian offers you powerful search, ease of use, extensive configurability, and scalability with its Meridian Explorer feature.
If you want to learn more about how Accruent Meridian can help you achieve agility in your engineering projects, request a demo today!
A feature that is sometimes overlooked when working with AutoCAD Electrical, is the “Location Code”. This field shown on Figure 1, and can be found inside the edit component window inside the schematic or panel footprints.
The Location Code can be used to help us better organize our drawings, specially when we are working with large projects that can contain dozens of drawings and hundreds of components.
Figure 1
By making sure that we use the location code in all our components, it helps us create more precise “Reports”, like a Bill of Material for a specific location, and it gives us more control on how we manage and explore our drawings by using the “Location View”.
When we are creating any kind of report, we have the option to select specific “Location Codes to Extract” as seen in Figure 2. This will help us narrow down the report to only the components that have been to be used in that specific location, helping us create a more precise report that focuses in only the components that we need to see instead of all the components of a specific drawing or project.
Figure 2Figure 3
Another useful tool that is rarely used with AutoCAD Electrical, is the “Location View” that becomes useful only when you start using location codes as part of your components.
The Location View can be found inside the Project Manager and its grouped as follows: project name > installation code > names of the locations.
In Figure 3 we can see an example of a project called “Module 04”, no installation code (depicted as questions marks), then all the available location codes used in that project. From here we see that above the “CABINET” location we have a location named (??), which indicates that there are schematic components that do not have been assigned a location code.
From this Location View we can also expand any of the existing locations so we can see all the components that have been assigned to that specific location. We also have the ability to “Surf” and navigate to that specific component directly from this tab making it easier to search and find any specific components directly from this view. The surf command is also available for all the components labeled as (??) so we can navigate to where they are located inside our drawings and proceed to assign a specific location, until all the components have a location code.
Have you noticed in Revit you have to choose between ducting and piping that supports flow propagation OR ductwork that is modelled for the intent of fabrication?
In the 2024 release of Revit, Autodesk has made great improvements related to the fluid flow within fabrication elements, getting us one step closer to the single tool for both design and construction.
Using Ductwork as an example I will show you the new functionality and point to some of the benefits of each approach to modeling in Revit MEP.
Figure 1. Design and Fabrication Ductwork Interchanging
One of the limitations of Fabrication Ductwork since its introduction to Revit in version 2016 has been that, once placed or converted from Design to Fabrication, you lose the design data within the model. No Flow values passed from the Air Terminals, Plumbing Fixtures, Equipment etc into the Fabrication elements. This meant that when the model was passed from the design consultant to the contractor – and they made the change to fabrication parts to enable them to export data out to a cutting table or spooler – they would have to manually calculate future changes in flow values to make sure the ducts were ideally sized.
This differs to the design elements, where the flow, duct size, fluid velocity would all be visible within the design elements, making a change to the ducts dimensions immediately shows up with changes to the velocity, as would a change to the flow value of a downstream connected element.
In Revit 2024, Fabrication MEP elements now show all of the same information as the design elements:
For some reason they have neglected to include the simple Duct/Pipe Sizing tool for MEP Fabrication Ductwork, but you can get around this with a ductulator, or some simple Dynamo:
Just kidding (on the simple bit), let me know if you want the Dynamo File, Its by no means complete, but it does some basic sizing of Rectangular MEP Fabrication Ductwork based on velocity, flow and cross sectional area.
Another limitation is that the System Color Schemes do not show up for Fabrication elements, when you place a System Color Scheme into a view to show the Duct Velocity for example, you will see something similar to the below with Design Duct:
But it has no effect on MEP Fabrication Ducts in the view… So while Design Duct has some knowledge of which systems are passing through it, MEP Fabrication Ductwork would seem to not have been made privy to this information.
So how do we get MEP Fabrication Ductwork showing the flow value from connected Air Terminals in Revit MEP? Follow these steps in Revit 2024:
2. Start a new project based on the new Metric Multi-discipline template.
3. On the Systems Ribbon Tab, Fabrication Panel, click the Fabrication Part tool.
4. Click Settings in the lower right corner of the MEP Fabrication Parts palette.
5. Select the ‘Fabrication Metric 8.0’ Fabrication configuration.
6. Scroll down the unloaded services until you see the ‘HVAC: General Supply’ service, select it and click the Add button to move it to the Loaded Services column.
7. Click OK to exit the Fabrication Settings dialog.
8. On the Systems Ribbon Tab, HVAC Panel, click the Air Terminal tool.
9. Open the L1 – Mechanical view.
10. Select the ‘M_Supply Diffuser : 600 x 600 Face 300 x 300 Connection’ Family Type in the Type Selector and place it at an elevation of 2400 from L1.
11. On the MEP Fabrication Parts palette, select the ‘Multi-Point Routing’ tool.
12. Click on the top center of the placed Air Terminal.
13. Set the Middle elevation in the properties to 3200.
14. Continue to place more MEP Fabrication Ductwork, or finish the command.
15. Select the Air Terminal and note the Flow value on the Options Bar.
16. Select a piece of the connected MEP Fabrication Ductwork and note in the Mechanical – Flow properties there is a Flow value that matches the flow from the connected elements.
To learn more about Revit, feel free to contact us and one of our representatives will reach out to you shortly.
Accruent Meridian is a software solution that helps organizations manage their document (Agreements, Compliance, Contracts, Drawings, Financial, Insurance, Plans) needs throughout their entire lifecycle. It is designed to streamline document management, ensure safety and compliance, maximize collaboration, and achieve a single source of asset (equipment) information.
But is it the right software for your needs?
In this blog post, we will explore some of the benefits and how the SolidCAD Meridian Team can help you implement, configure, manage, and troubleshoot Accruent Meridian software for its best uses.
Benefits of Accruent Meridian
Purpose-built for engineering document management: Unlike generic document management systems, Accruent Meridian software is tailored to the specific needs and challenges of engineering document management. It creates a single source of truth for all engineering documents and drawings with audit and version control functionality. It supports parallel changes, concurrent engineering, release management, handover management to internal and external stakeholders, and more. It provides regulatory compliance and reduced risks and costs associated incomplete or outdated data. It also integrates with popular CAD applications and other enterprise systems1.
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How the SolidCAD Meridian Team can Help You
Learning curve: Accruent Meridian software is a powerful and complex solution that may require training and guidance to use effectively.
How can the SolidCAD Meridian Team Help You:
Live in-person or on-line training using your fully configured Meridian system as the interface.
Review all features, functions, and best practices you may need to familiarize yourself with Accruent Meridian.
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How can the SolidCAD Meridian Team Help You:
Create a data migration strategy and plan to define the scope, objectives, risks, and timeline of the project.
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Monitor and troubleshoot any errors or issues throughout and after the data migration.
Document and report the data migration results and outcomes.
Cost: Accruent Meridian software is not a cheap solution. It is an enterprise-grade software that comes with a price tag that reflects its value and capabilities. The cost of the software depends on various factors such as the number of users, licenses, modules, features, deployment options, support levels, etc.
How can the SolidCAD Meridian Team Help You:
Scope of Work: Assist in streamlining the size and complexity of your Meridian implementation:
Features
Integrations
Number of Users
Deployment Model (Cloud or on-premise)
Infrastructure Model: Cost effective and efficient way to host, store and manage Meridian.
Dedicated Servers
Cloud Services
Hybrid Solutions
Professional Management: The Meridian implementation and management is not a one-time event. Meridian will need regular updates and maintenance, let the SolidCAD team lower the:
Management Costs
Headaches
Testing
Security
Future Updates and Maintenance
Changing Needs
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Industries using Accruent Meridian:
Manufacturing
Oil & Gas
Chemical
Pharmaceutical
Utilities
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Government
Engineering
Conclusion:
Accruent Meridian software is a comprehensive solution for document management that can help you streamline your processes, ensure compliance and safety, maximize collaboration, and achieve a single source of asset information.
To learn more about Accruent Meridian and how it can help your team, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the SolidCAD Meridian team.
Benefits of Accruent Meridian