3D design software is by definition complex. Even the best software can be a learning curve for good designers, because technical advances in design software are continually creating new design options and functions. Busy designers don’t need bugs or mysterious functions that might be great, if they knew how to use them. Integrated software support and training is critical for covering these situations.

Software support essentials

For businesses, installing a new system can be a bit daunting at first. A whole new software package may include brand new features and operational situations. If you’re a design or construction business, you don’t want to be guessing about these things in the middle of a contract.

Even the best software takes some getting used to, and that’s where support comes in. The top design software suppliers, who are software professionals themselves, include full support in their packages. This covers all operational needs from Day One.

The dollar value of this support, incidentally, is very high. Software support on the market can be extremely expensive, and the value of the work can be debatable. This is particularly the case with proprietary software, which requires trained experts.

Integrating software and training- Best practice

Even for experts, the best design software when first encountered can be tricky to learn. There’s a natural need to develop fluency when working with professional software, and the lead in time to operational proficiency has to be managed effectively.

Fortunately design software is created by professional designers for professional designers. The new design software is created specifically to allow efficient training at all levels.The best design software packages include tutorials designed for all software packages.

The professionals take that concept several steps further. Best industry practice is full structured training, combined with ongoing support functions. This is a realistic approach to working with complex software, and allows clients to deal with situations effectively.

Training values and adding new capabilities to design

Training values are based on the ability to produce levels of proficiency relative to product values. A high value is training which produces strong competencies in a valuable product.

The range of design software includes some very high value commercial products:

• 3D design software
• 3D modeling software
• Architect software
• Structural drafting
• Engineering software
• Design drafting
• Computer aided drafting
• Structural steel detailing
• 3D drafting software
• 3D rendering software

The basic principle of training values in relation to design capabilities is actually based on dollar values as much as design principles. A design business with higher levels of competence and wider ranges of design capabilities is naturally a much stronger business proposition.

Designers also know only too well that what they’d like to be able to do and what they’re able to do aren’t always the same thing. The new integrated business approach to training has opened up possibilities of much greater capabilities, combined with top of the line products. It’s a true winning combination.

Pacific Computing is the exclusive distributor in Aust and NZ of Tekla Structures 3D modelling construction software for structural detailing and drafting. For more information and to view our range of products, visit Construction Software.