Revit LT in the making?

This question has been around for quite long now amongst the Revit enthusiasts. Will or can there be a lite version of the flagship Autodesk product "Revit". Over the years, Autodesk has made several attempts at adding robust conceptual modelling tools in their kitty. Some years back, Autodesk pitched against Google to acquire SketchUp. But after Google bagged it, Autodesk went on to strengthen its own set of Conceptual tools in AutoCAD and Revit line of products.

Finally there is some noise again about Autodesk developing a separate application for conceptual design, simulation and analysis called Project Vasari. Its still to appear in the labs and once it is there, it'll be available to download and try at your own risk. Keep watching at the Autodesk Labs page. Click here to read more!

Innovative Tea Blending concept

Found this link on Giranar's www.chaichai.in very innovative. On their Signature Cup webpage, one can actually blend different teas, add toppings and make their own mix! You can then order it online and have it delivered! Very innovative!

Check this link. http://www.chaichai.in/Home/Site/MySignatureCup.aspx

Don't know how many takers are there for such a concept but its surely ahead of times!

It definitely seems the pizza concept is hitting the tea market.

Tips for Getting Started in Building Information Modeling (BIM)

I’ve been learning, training and creating high-value projects in BIM for several years and I’m often asked for a few pointers on getting started in a BIM Project. There are many pointers and you will create your own as you go ahead. I’ve listed few of them below.

• Plan your project, visualize your process, workflow, and desired outcome. Begin with the end in mind.
• The first project you do in BIM is about a change in processes. You got onto BIM to leverage technology to help you alter the way you approach design and construction. Don’t expect BIM to have the same workflow as it did for you in CAD.
• Your first project will help define your project standards. Make sure that you start storing your standards in one centralized space. Write down your thoughts, save created libraries etc.
• Put the mason’s hat on. Model the building as it will be built.
• No need to model every bit in 3d. Use your BIM software to get the essential dimensions and building form correct. You can then embellish the model with 2D details.
• Start with the broader elements like walls, openings, roofs, etc. Work your way down to a comfortable level of detail.
• Model correctly from the beginning so you don’t have to fix things later
• If you are still in early phase of design and do not know the exact wall type, use generic walls to capture your design intent; changing these later will be simple.
• Get information into the project as soon as it is known
• Not everybody likes 'Change'. Select your team that will persist in your first attempt.
• BIM’s single-model environment forces a much higher degree of team communication between all consultants. Plan for it and be prepared.
• Adding a BIM expert to your first few projects can take them forward faster. Ask for help or at least look for it online.

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VOW - Free Monthly Neighbourhood Newsletter

Some of you may already be knowing about Voice of Wadala - a Free Neighbourhood Newsletter that aims at Connecting Neighbours for a Better Quality of Life.

Voice of Wadala or VOW as it is popularly known was started in 1994 and later expanded to become Voice of Wadala, Dadar, Matunga & Sion covering the entire F/North Ward of Mumbai.

For a small period VOW was not coming out regularly, and now we plan to restart the newsletter in a manner in which it can exist in a self-sustaining model.

The Core team of VOW invites you to be a part of this newsletter, in ways that you would like to. Drop us your contact details on info@vowfoundation.info and we will get back to you about how we can get connected.

We intend to make 24 editions of this Free newsletter, one for each ward. So whether you are from Wadala or any other region in Mumbai, you can be the torch-bearer for the initiative in your locality.

For more on VOW & its intentions, visit our website. Do leave your comments here or on our email.

One Number to Ring All Your Phones

Google Resurrects GrandCentral Service: Comes Google Voice

Google Voice gives you a single phone number that, when called, can ring one or several of your other phone numbers as you choose, so you’re no longer tethered to a single work, home, or mobile number. The phone numbers are available in most U.S. area codes, though not internationally.

“Think of it as a way to manage the phone,” says Vincent Paquet, a GrandCentral cofounder and now senior product engineer at Google.

McGraw-Hill Construction BIM Report Shows Growing Demand for Digital Models

Changing the Way Firms Do Business

The BIM SmartMarket Report shows that the BIM revolution is affecting firms in many ways. Major findings include:

-- BIM promotes a more collaborative environment, and users recognize a need to rethink roles and workflow.

-- 72% of users have had at least a moderate impact on their internal project processes, and two-thirds report that BIM has had at least a moderate impact on external project processes.

-- Half of users perceive BIM to have had a very positive impact on their companies; only 7% report a negative impact.

-- Most BIM users (73%) are at least moderately involved in green building projects and find BIM to be helpful with those projects. For example, BIM tools can be used to analyze the performance of energy efficiency elements and sustainable materials.

Click here to read the full article.