Addressing the Downturn

Most architecture firms are responding to the downturn in one of several ways. The AIA-Architect report notes that only 1 out of every 5 firms is looking to investments in new technologies (information technologies) as a way of changing as a direct result to the downturn. A drop in IT investments at this time will likely slow BIM (building information modeling) adoption at a time when the industry at large is moving forward.

Part of the drive towards BIM is also directed at addressing “green design” which is more easily managed with BIM applications than with traditional CAD software. Interestingly, the AIA-Architect report didn’t specifically ask for this within its queries and only 26 percent of firms are responding to the downturn by addressing a broader set of services — of which “green design” may fit into. 

As firms look to address the downturn more than half (64 percent) are trimming expenses, which likely includes layoffs, reduced hours and pay and cutting back on all unnecessary expenses. Still, 51 percent of firms are looking at improving operational efficiencies — of which better utilization of information technologies should naturally fit. Into that bucket BIM should go! 

To read the full report go here.

InBrief: Altair announced today that recently acquired solidThinking, a leading CAID (computer-aided industrial design) software application has been added to its HyperWorks Enabled Community (HWEC), bringing the total apps available under the HyperWorks platform to 44. HyperWorks license customers can download and install solidThinking for Mac and Windows at zero incremental cost. 

Brazil for Rhino News

Robert McNeel & Associates, has announced that Rhino users can now use Brazil r/s 2.0, the same technology the world’s most demanding CG artists use without leaving Rhino. Brazil r/s for Rhino is still in development but all Rhino 4.0 users are invited to fill out an application. 

AIA  Billings Index Drops 6 Points

Another sign of the United States’ deep economic woes, the AIA, (American Institute of Architects) released the latest AIA Billings Index number for September. The AIA-ABI rating was 41.5. Any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings. 

“With all of the anxiety and uncertainty in the credit market, the conditions are likely to get worse before they get better,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “Many architects are reporting that clients are delaying or canceling projects as a result of problems with project financing.” To read the full release go here.