Have you ever wondered, “Do architects use software?” It’s a question that often arises, especially when our perception of architecture is limited to drawing and designing. But as technology continues to evolve, new advancements are constantly reshaping the way professionals approach their work. So, what about architects? Have they embraced these innovations? In this article, we’ll explore the role of software in architecture and how it’s revolutionizing the profession. Let’s dive into the question: do architects use software?
Job Description of Architects
Maybe if we truly understand the job descriptions of Architects then we can then find out if they make use of software.
An Architect is a professional who designs buildings, produces technical drawings which can make such buildings to be constructed, and also supervises the buildings till they’re fully constructed ensuring functionality and safety. They collaborate with engineers, they develop concepts for structures that meet project goals and operational standards, bringing architectural projects to life.
Do Architects Use Software?
Of course architects use software to make architectural designs. Architectural software is like the threads which bind the concept of development. They are like the incubators of creativity because they bring to life the imaginations of architects. They are faster than the manual hand drawing and help architects deliver jobs faster. They foster precision, innovation and collaboration.
Architects are responsible for visualizing proposed designs, and modern architecture goes beyond 2D drawings. Today’s trends demand that projects be fully visualized before they’re brought to life. This need for clear, detailed representations has led to the development of specialized software, making the design process faster and more efficient. So, if you’ve ever wondered, “Do architects use software?”—the answer is a resounding yes.
Kinds of Software Architects Use
The software architects use for their job demands are listed below:
- Design and Visualization
- Project Management and Collaboration
- Building Information Modeling (BIM)
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
- Sustainability and Environmental Analysis
- Code Compliance and Accessibility
1. Design and Visualization
Design and visualization tools are the heart of an Architect’s digital software. Architecture doesn’t get started without these two aspects of its job description. You would be itching to know why, oh well here’s why, a layman which is most times the clients of architects would not ordinarily understand what has been designed for him until he sees the 3D form of the building.
This software was designed to aid an architect’s creation of detailed architectural models, renderings, and animations that bring a project to life before construction begins. It is these animations that gets a layman to know what the architect has in mind for him.
Don’t think this is all, these tools also help architects to explore design options and collaborate with engineers and other professionals.
Some of the software in this category include:
- 3D Modeling Software
This is a software which enables architects to visualize the 2D plans that have been drafted by them. It also gives the architect an opportunity to design and model facades of the proposed structure. Examples include: ArchiCad, Revit and SketchUp.
- Rendering Engine
Architectural practice becomes very interesting and exciting when it is turned to a colour wheel. There are softwares tagged as ‘rendering engines’ ; what this software do is to transform 3D models into high-quality images or animations, providing a photorealistic representation of how a building will look upon completion. Not just upon completion but in real life. It throws the design model in a realistic environment making it seem more real. Examples of these ‘rendering engines’ softwares include D5 render, Atlantis, Lumion, Escape etc.
- Virtual Reality (VR) Platform
Beyond the outward appearance of a building, virtual reality platform softwares makes it possible for the architect to walk through the buildings. Incredibly right, I’ll tell you what’s more amazing, this software makes it possible for architects to even furnish the interiors of these buildings. That means you won’t be walking through an empty house but a furnished one! Examples include Lumion, D5 render, Atlantis etc.
2. Project Management and Collaboration
There is need for a software which can make collaboration possible and convenient among architects. This is not a situation where network is an issue this collaboration can go on by just sharing some links to the project. Project management is vital for keeping architectural projects on track. They help the architect to organize his or her work in a very appealing format.
These software also facilitate resource allocation, task scheduling and communication among team members, ensuring that everyone is aligned and that projects are completed on time and within budget.
These software, have engrafted in them estimating ability. An architect can quickly check the cost of the his or her design using the software without having to place calls around to ask for the latest prices of building materials in the market. Software in this category include:
- Task Management System
Well I guess you can already deduce what it does from its name. This software aids in prioritizing,tracking, and organizing the progress of designs being done on the software. This unbelievably makes it easier for teams to meet known deadlines and manage workloads. Examples include; Trello, Monograph, ClickUp, Basecamp, Deltek Ajera, Asana, Oracle Cloud HCM etc.
- Document Management Software
You know that situation of trying to recall what you saved a project as so that you can easily retrieve it? Well with the Document management software, that is no longer the case because it provides a centralized repository for all project-related documents. This makes file retrieval easier and stress free. Examples include; ArchiSnapper, Monograph, Deltek Ajera, -BQE Core, Newforma, Outplanr etc.
- Collaboration Platform
Enables real-time communication and information sharing within project teams, which is essential for coordinating efforts and making timely decisions. Examples include; BIM track, Trimble Connect, BIM Collab (BIM Collab Cloud and BIM Collab zoom) etc.
3. Building Information Modeling (BIM)
This category of software is also created to ease the workload of architects. They allow for the creation of intelligent, 3D models not just 3D models, but the type which contain detailed information about the physical and functional characteristics of a building. It enhances the ability to design, analyze, and manage building projects. Popular tools under this category are:
- BIM Software
This software allow for the generally accepted graphical representation of floor plans and other drawings indispensable for construction, and maintenance phases of the proposed buildings. Examples include; Autodesk Revit, Plannerly, Trimble Connect, Autodesk BIM 360, BricksCAD BIM, Revizto etc.
- Analysis and Simulation Tool
This is a tool which is able to instill various scenarios, such as energy consumption and structural integrity, to optimize building performance. This tool does what is called simulations to enable architects to know how their buildings can withstand different forces of nature. Examples include; Revit (green building studio), Building Simulation software, Cove tool, VELUX, Daylight Visualizer etc.
- Collaborative BIM Platform
Work is made easier with the collaborative BIM platform in that it enables all stakeholders access and contribute to the BIM model in real-time. Examples include: Autodesk BIM 360, Bentley, Navis works, Revizto, Asite, Vector works etc.
4. Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools are essential for creating precise technical drawings and plans. The bedrock of architecture being precision, CAD tools help make that possible and efficient. They are used to draft architectural plans, cross-sections, and elevations of proposed buildings with accuracy. CAD software is indispensable for achieving the technical aspects of a building project and for creating the necessary construction documents. Popular tools are:
- CAD Drawing Tool
The CAD drawing tool helps architects create detailed architectural plans and technical drawings that are indispensable for construction and which other professionals in the building industry can easily relate to. Examples include ; AutoCAD, Altium, FreeCAD, SOLIDWORKS, CATIA etc.
- 2D Drafting Software
These are a category of software which are used to create detailed 2D plans and elevations, which are critical for communicating the design in 2D forms to the other professionals in the building industry. An example is AutoCAD.
- 3D CAD Program
These software are dedicated to creating the mass of the 2D designs. These software help to paint a more comprehensive and appealing view of the proposed design. Examples include; Autodesk Revit, ArchiCAD, SketchUp etc.
5. Sustainability and Environmental Analysis
A heavy percentage in the actualization of the goals of sustainability heavily lies on the Architects knowing how their impacts contribute to the global warming we face in the world today.
It would interest you to know that there are environmental analysis tools to help Architects design buildings that are energy-efficient and eco-friendly. Designs which help to heal the earth and not wreck it are now possible thanks to this software.
These tools analyze various factors such as sunlight, wind, and thermal performance to help create sustainable designs that minimize environmental impact and carbon footprint of buildings on the earth. Popular tools are:
- Energy Modeling Software
This software was designed to predict a building’s energy usage thus checking the total energy usage of proposed buildings. Examples include; Sefaira, Adaptis, Spacewell energy, OMRT, Cove tool etc.
- Environmental Impact Assessment Tool
This tool is used to evaluate a project’s potential environmental impact and in turn, offers the architect with many other sustainable design choices. Examples include; LCA(Life Cycle Assessment) tool, SimaPro and LCA Pro.
- Green Building Certification Software
This software facilitates the process of acquiring green building certifications and this is done when designs meet the required sustainability standards. An example is Green building studio.
6. Code Compliance and Accessibility
Having a lot of important building codes which exist in the building industry to regulate building practices, there are software which were designed to help checkmate that the designs of architects are in line withese building codes.
This is a critical aspect of an architect’s responsibility, ensuring their designs do not defile the existing building codes and regulations. Code compliance and accessibility tools help to keep in check the designs made by architects and in so doing, streamline designs which are safe and accessible for all users. Popular tools include:
- Building Code Reference Software
It gives quick access to up-to-date building codes and regulations. This helps the designer access the building codes faster. Example is the UpCodes Web.
Conclusion
Architecture is not just about the initiation of design, but the practicability of such design, it is obvious that to achieve outstanding results as an architect, the incorporation of software is essential.
Most of the tasks required of architects to perform undeniably calls for the application of software from time to time.
We saw vividly the job descriptions of the modern day architect and it’s worth noting that these tasks are by no means trivial. The design, the visualizations, the simulations and determination of a building’s strength are all made easier through the use of different categories of software which have come into place. I believe this article has enlightened you on not just the answer to your question, ‘do Architects use software?’ but also on why they do so.