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Just How 3D Are We? Part 4
13 Apr, 2011 By: Robert GreenIn this final installment in the 3D CAD usage series, you'll learn how to select your first project and tackle other implementation challenges.
In the previous three editions of the CAD Manager's Newsletter, I've been exploring the actual versus perceived usage of 3D systems, and drawing the conclusion that management support and realistic expectations are required for any company to implement and use 3D optimally.
In my last installment, I even assigned you some homework: defining your company's 3D implementation and usage. In this installment, I'll pick up where we left off, assuming that your homework is done and your senior management team is on board.
Get Started with IT Now!
3D software produces larger files than 2D does, and brings with it capabilities like animation, rendering, and clash detection analysis that all create large files too. In addition, the workstation resources required to perform these types of 3D tasks are well beyond those of a basic AutoCAD machine.
Bottom line: You're going to need better workstations and more network storage in a 3D environment than in a 2D environment, and that means your information technology (IT) department will need to get involved.
Given this bottom line, you've got to have a plan and a budget for your IT requirements. Of all the items on your checklist, this one requires the longest lead time — because workstations and networks aren't cheap — so you'd better start planning now!
Select Your Starter Project
Now that you've got your workstation and network plan in place, it is time to choose your first 3D project. (Or, if you're expanding your existing system into a new area of 3D use, your first project to test the new functionality.) To get started on the right foot, consider the following when making your choice:
Dip your toe in the water first. The point is to learn the new 3D tools, and that's best done on a project of minimal complexity where you're ensured a good outcome. Don't try to design the next moon rocket during your first foray into 3D!
Allow time to train. Even if you pick a starter project that is manageable, you'll never succeed if you don't provide training and mentoring. Training can be carried out in many ways (more on this in a moment), but it must be done or users will be discouraged and unable to complete their work.
Complete training just prior to usage. Do not train users in their new 3D software environment three months prior to your starter project. Instead, bring users back from training and start them working in 3D immediately, so what they've learned will be fresh in their minds.
Select the right users. The employees you choose for this project should be motivated, eager to learn, and willing to put in extra time to get the project done.
Startup and Training Define Expectations
When I assigned you homework in the last edition, one of the concepts I focused on was managing stakeholder expectations about how fast and easy the transition to 3D would be. I hope you thought about expectation management a good deal, because not thinking about it typically results in disappointed senior managers and users — which no CAD manager wants.
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AutoCAD Tips!
Autodesk Technical Evangelist Lynn Allen guides you through a different AutoCAD feature in every edition of her popular "Circles and Lines" tutorial series. For even more AutoCAD how-to, check out Lynn's quick tips in the Cadalyst Video Gallery. Subscribe to Cadalyst's Tips & Tricks Tuesdays free e-newsletter and we'll notify you every time a new video tip is available. All exclusively from Cadalyst! |
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