A South African built environment practice switches to Autodesk design technology every 1,5 working days. This is according to Errol Ashwell, managing director, Autodesk Africa who revealed this statistic while reviewing the success of the company's Switch Now campaign.

The drive targeted users of competitive computer-aided design (CAD) software, encouraging them to change to Autodesk design technology. "The campaign has been a success in more ways than one," says Ashwell. "Firstly, 61 built environment practices have switched to Autodesk design technology since the beginning of April this year.

"In addition, close scrutiny of competitive seats has revealed that Autodesk enjoys even greater market penetration than we thought we did. We were always confident that we had a comfortable 50% market share. I think we can say, without a shadow of a doubt, that we are much closer to 75%," says Ashwell.

"The campaign is not simply about getting CAD users to exchange one brand of software for another," explains Ashwell. "There have been enormous advances in technology at Autodesk, specifically the introduction of model-based design technology.

"It requires a true paradigm shift - a whole new approach to design. Switch Now, is more about encouraging companies to put traditional CAD drawing and drafting packages behind them, embracing a new way of working, and exploiting the enormous advantages offered by model-based design technology." Autodesk's model-based technology allows designers to work in 2D or 3D and create an intelligent model of a structure. The data embedded in the model can be re-used by all professionals and contractors involved in the design development process - from building designers to structural and civil engineers, as well as electrical engineers and airconditioning specialists.

According to Ashwell, the intelligence of the model means revisions, for example, are done in a fraction of the time it takes with conventional CAD tools. "Autodesk design technology is complemented by the locally developed and supported architectural, civil, and structural design applications providing increased functionality tailored to suit South African conditions."

Companies that have switched to Autodesk technology include Pretoria-based Klerck Architects. Senior partner Joe Klerck, says the practice took a bold step to replace all its 2D-based software with model-based Autodesk Architectural Desktop technology. "We have enjoyed a dramatic increase in design productivity. Initially, we were concerned about the potential drop in productivity during the transition phase. Autodesk reseller, Autograph Design Technologies, has led us through the process minimising downtime with the aid of its BridgIT migration software application."

Ashwell adds that Autodesk is very aware of its responsibilities to companies that have switched to its technology. "Our national network of resellers plays a very supportive role in helping new Autodesk users through the transition phase," explains Ashwell. "In fact, we have developed a unique migration plan, with the aid of technical and business consultants, to minimise downtime during the migration process."

The Switch Now campaign, spearheaded by Autodesk, is being run in conjunction with the company's African resellers and partners - Autograph Design Technologies, Cadplan Johannesburg, Prokon, and TECHNoCAD.

Two Switch Now workshops are scheduled for the remainder of the year:

Dates: Friday 4 October and Tuesday, 12 November

Time: 13:30 to start at 14:00 until 16:00.

Venue: VW Conference Centre, 16th Road, Midrand.

Delegates should contact Helen van der Schyff, 011 805 1555, helen@worldsview.co.za to register.

For more information contact Autodesk, 012 664 8115.