Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist at SSOE, explains in this article featured on the SPAR 3D blog how the rise of reality capture has opened up the market to more inexpensive, easier-to-use hardware, resulting in many new professionals using a technology with which they are unfamiliar. This is where the issue of marketing tactics comes in, as users heavily relay on the accuracy claims—more specifically, the percentage of accuracy statements made by the manufacturer. Tony goes on to explain how these numbers can be misleading and the importance of educating yourself before making a purchase. Continue Reading →

Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist at SSOE, examines whether blockchain is just hype or something more in this AEC Next article. As the industry prepares for a boom in disruption and innovation, the term blockchain—described in the article as an “open distributed ledger that can record transactions between two parties efficiently and in a verifiable and permanent way”—comes up repeatedly. With transparency built into the technology, Tony explores what blockchain could mean to the AEC industry and built world. Continue Reading →

Vince DiPofi, PE, Chief Operating Officer at SSOE, was featured in ENR’s May 2018 cover story, “The Top 500 Design Firms: Worry Despite Strong Markets”. From construction tariffs to talent acquisition, the article highlights some of the concerns surrounding the industry, despite its predicted continual growth. Vince’s commentary focuses on the impact of generative design and its ability to help architects and engineers deliver better solutions to clients. Continue Reading →

Tony Sabat, BIM / CAD Technical Specialist and one of several licensed drone pilots at SSOE, discusses the shift in reality capture as a result of drone / unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology in this AEC Next article—spoiler: reality capture is now easier than ever. Using this non-destructive technology to generate a 3D model can be a game changer, allowing you to turn assets into detailed, accurate deliverables. With the drone’s speed, mobility, and safety, it has become the most efficient method for capturing the existing conditions of many facilities and sites, with added benefits downstream. Continue Reading →

Jason Christen, PMP, Senior Account Executive at SSOE, and Mark LaBell, Senior VDC Technical Leader, were both featured in a BD+C Magazine article that examines the rise of 3D laser scanners, which have recently evolved into handhelds. 3D laser scanning is the fastest, most efficient method to capture existing conditions. In addition to allowing us to scan harder-to-reach places, handheld scanners provide the ability to show clients results immediately after taking a scan with a workable model showing an accurate representation of the facility—a major benefit of the technology that often translates into cost savings for our clients. Continue Reading →

Industry survivors must embrace shifting paradigms in order to remain competitive in the private sector. Suzan Huff, RA, LEED AP BD+C, Master Architect at SSOE, recently authored an article in Lab Manager Magazine highlighting three concepts trending in commercial laboratory design: flexibility, transparency, and positive branding. With traditional lab practices changing, the spaces themselves are being modified to accommodate. In addition to creating open, adaptable spaces, Suzan also recommends incorporating movable / convertible items, such as furniture, to create an easily transformable, dynamic group environment and interior and exterior image branding to better appeal to the public. Continue Reading →