How do you design a facility with software tools?

1 CAD Software

Computer-aided design (CAD) software is one of the most essential tools for facility design, as it allows engineers to create and modify digital representations of their design concepts. CAD software can be used to create 2D drawings or 3D models of the facility's geometry, dimensions, materials, and components. Some examples of CAD software are AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, and SolidWorks. CAD software can help facility engineers to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility of their design process, as well as to integrate their design data with other software tools.

2 BIM Software

Building information modeling (BIM) software is a type of CAD software that goes beyond the geometric representation of the facility and incorporates additional information such as functionality, performance, cost, schedule, and lifecycle. BIM software can be used to create a digital twin of the facility that can be updated and shared throughout the design, construction, and operation phases. Some examples of BIM software are Revit, ArchiCAD, Navisworks, and BIM 360. BIM software can help facility engineers to enhance the coordination, collaboration, and integration of their design process, as well as to support decision making and problem solving.

3 Simulation Software

Simulation software is a tool that can be used to test and evaluate the performance and behavior of the facility under different scenarios and conditions. Simulation software can be used to analyze various aspects of the facility, such as structural integrity, energy efficiency, thermal comfort, lighting quality, acoustics, fire safety, and ventilation. Some examples of simulation software are ANSYS, EnergyPlus, Radiance, CFD, and FDS. Simulation software can help facility engineers to optimize their design solutions, identify and mitigate potential risks, and ensure compliance with standards and regulations.

4 Collaboration Software

Collaboration software is a tool that can be used to facilitate the communication and interaction among the facility design team and other stakeholders, such as clients, contractors, consultants, and authorities. Collaboration software can be used to share and synchronize design data, documents, and feedback, as well as to manage tasks, schedules, and workflows. Some examples of collaboration software are BIM 360, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Asana, and Trello. Collaboration software can help facility engineers to improve the transparency, accountability, and efficiency of their design process, as well as to avoid conflicts and errors.

5 Visualization Software

Visualization software is a tool that can be used to present and demonstrate the design outcomes and impacts of the facility in a realistic and engaging way. Visualization software can be used to create images, animations, videos, or interactive models of the facility that can be viewed on different devices or platforms. Some examples of visualization software are Lumion, Enscape, Unreal Engine, Sketchfab, and VR/AR applications. Visualization software can help facility engineers to communicate and showcase their design vision, value, and benefits, as well as to solicit feedback and approval from the stakeholders.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?