*This post originally appeared on the Planet Vectorworks blog by Alex Altieri, Content Marketing Writer at Vectorworks, Inc.
Many architects and designers rely on 2D CAD workflows because of their familiarity.
And that’s valid. There’s nothing wrong with finishing projects in the way that’s most comfortable.
If you fall into this group, it’s important to recognize that even these 2D CAD workflows are evolving to contain aspects of information modeling (BIM) processes. You might be surprised to hear that you’re likely already doing aspects of BIM without even knowing it.
It’s because BIM is smart, and software developers recognize that.
Take simple objects like walls, doors, and windows for example. In Vectorworks more accurately referred to as a design and BIM software instead of 2D CAD — these objects are parametric, containing information like height, width, material, and so on.
Without even recognizing it as “BIM,” an innate feature of the software is to carry these parameters over into worksheets and documentation sets. That’s BIM — modeling with information — whether you know it or not!
Given the fact that you’re already likely doing aspects of a BIM workflow, let’s explore some of the ways to simplify BIM and make it work for you!