10 Years of Autodesk Civil 3D!

Nearly ten years ago, GBA made the investment to become an early adopter of Autodesk Civil 3D. This software took the civil engineering deliverables from 2D designs on paper to 3D models in the computer. Once a 3D model is created, any data referenced from it is instantly calculated. If the model is refined or changed, the same data updates automatically. Once completed, these models can be shared with contractors for use in machine controlled earthmoving equipment or for quantity take-offs.  

 

Being an early adopter was not easy. Our in-house Civil 3D project team worked with consultants to develop standards and processes for the new software. We frequently found ourselves in meetings with software engineers who had flown across the U.S. to meet with us to evaluate the software performance in the real world. 

 

The transition to 3D modeling software saved significant time on tasks like earthwork calculations - operations that once took several hours of computer processing now take mere minutes. Additionally, we have an ability to run design scenarios for projects while seeking to reduce overall development and construction costs. Most importantly, referencing data from a completed 3D model results in fewer errors in design documents translating to fewer delays during construction. 

 

We have continued our investment by sending key team members to attend Autodesk University (AU) each year. AU is a gathering of engineers, designers and technology teams that teach, share and learn about Autodesk products. By providing our team members with opportunities to learn and engage with their peers, we believe they will be best equipped to serve clients with innovative solutions.

 

In a design world where 3D modeling has become common place, GBA is positioned as a leader in the application of design technologies. You can read about GBA’s early adoption efforts in an Autodesk Whitepaper titled “Implementing AutoCAD Civil 3D: Three Case Studies” at this link.