The AIA Technology in Architectural Practice Knowledge Community (TAP) serves as a resource for AIA members, the profession, and the public in the deployment of computer technology in the practice of architecture. Technology in Architectural Practice monitors the development of computer technology and its impact on architecture practice and the entire building life cycle, including design, construction, facility management, and retirement or reuse.
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Contact | Advisory Group | Building Connections
Highlights
AIA/TAP Seminar and Special Discount for Ecobuild America Conference
December 7-10, 2009 | Washington, D.C.
Ecobuild America, sponsored by the National Institute of Building Sciences, focuses on strategies and tools to design high performance, sustainable structures, plus the technology to do it faster and more profitably. AIA/TAP will present session S103, “Integrated Project Delivery, Architecture, and Building Connections.” AIA members are eligible for a 15% registration discount by using code AIAF09 at check out. Visit www.aecEcobuild.com.
TAP Update on BIM for Design: Latest Tools and Trends
The San Francisco Digital Design Breakfast Club is an informal group of local AEC professionals who meet once a month to discuss the use of digital technologies in design and construction, address philosophical questions posed by those technologies, and share stories about our experiences with them. Eleven members of the group compiled a report from the trenches, a mosaic of how-to’s and lessons learned on BIM and IPD. This was a rapid-fire presentation in the pecha-kecha format: each presenter has a little under 7 minutes to speak for 20 seconds about each of 20 slides. See videos and PPTs of each presentation.
Google SketchUp for Energy Analysis (4 LUs HSW/SD)
These free, step-by-step online tutorials on 3D modeling and energy analysis tools—Open Studio, SketchUp, and EnergyPlus—qualify for 4 LUs (HSW/SD) following completion of the four-hour program and a quiz. This is a quick, easy way to fulfill your annual AIA sustainable design (SD) continuing education requirement at no cost!
The Knight News Challenge Seeks Innovations that Use Technology to Distribute Content
The Knight News Challenge is a contest for the best digital ideas for transforming digital news. They are looking for ideas for data visualization tools from architects. There are three rules for submissions to follow: use digital, open-source technology; distribute news in the public interest; test your project in a local community. Five million dollars is awarded annually.
Resources
Federal Agency Recovery Resources Available Online
The AIA Federal Relations team has posted links to key federal agencies' Web sites that explain how they will allocate stimulus funding. Visit the AIA's Rebuild and Renew page to access these agencies and their sites.
Building Information Model (BIM) Awards Archive
The BIM Awards Program honors projects that highlight proven strategies and the latest trends in design and technology in the building industry. View the awards archive.
Changing Times | Time for Change: Practice, Productivity and Effectiveness Conference
Architects practice in a world that is changing at a breathtaking rate, requiring near-constant reassessment of business models and professional practices. Held on September 24–26, 2009 in Chicago, Changing Times | Time for Change conference explored the major areas of challenge and opportunity that are reshaping architecture practice. Join in the discussion on the conference networking Web site.
Change the World Conference
The conference held in the spring of 2008 centered on “Harnessing BIM Technology and Integrated Practice Delivery for Sustainable Design.” Join in the discussion on the conference networking Web site.
EDGES
The AIA Technology in Architectural Practice Knowledge Community official electronic newsletter is EDGES. See the Tips for Authors if you are interested in contributing content. Read the Letter from the 2009 Chair.
Building Connections
Building Connections is the International Clearinghouse for Interoperability Standards and Activities in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Real Estate industries.
Architecture Knowledge Review Podcast Series
Architecture Knowledge Review is a podcast series for design professionals, featuring interviews, discussions, and best practices by architects and other design professionals who are at the forefront of the profession. Subscribe to the series on iTunes. Some featured podcasts are:
- Owner-Driven IPD: Putting Theory into Practice
Markku Allison ,AIA, speaks with Phil Bernstein about the difference between traditional project delivery approaches and IPD and the relevance of turning theory into practice. Phil is Vice President of Architecture, Engineering & Construction (AEC) Industry Strategy and Relations at Autodesk, the world’s leading creator of 2D and 3D Design software. MP3 - The Federal Government Wants You Practicing Overseas
Senior International Trade Specialist Mark Wells describes U.S. Department of Commerce Commercial Service programs proven to match American architects with foreign clients, provide customized market research, and intervene when problems arise, such as overseas clients that withhold payment. MP3 - AIA's BIM Protocol Exhibit and Newest IPD Documents
In October 2008 the AIA introduces the BIM Protocol Exhibit, a new tool which helps manage the use of BIM across an entire project. In addition, the Institute introduces two new agreements for the Single Purpose Entity family of Integrated Project Delivery documents. In this interview, Brad Milton, AIA of the AIA's Documents Committee provides an overview of these important new documents. MP3
Speaker's Registry
Find knowledgeable, qualified speakers on topics ranging from land use, sustainability, and green architecture to affordable housing and public health. Or register as a speaker yourself.