While larger companies within the structural steel detailing industry are already benefiting from what 3D tech has to offer, many small steel detailers are sticking with 2D CAD. As a small detailer your business can, however, significantly benefit from embracing 3D in model-based construction projects.
By making the change from 2D to 3D, you can improve efficiency, make savings as well as keep up with the competition and evolving industry standards.
The world has changed since 2D CAD was the norm
Why then, has the change to 3D not yet fully happened across the industry? The reason is that 2D does work – it’s just not as efficient compared to what new software can do for structural steel detailing. Shuffling amongst a pile of drawings can get the job done, but delivering a project in a visually accurate and data-packed model serves a project much better.
What was the ideal solution a long time ago can still work today, but it doesn’t mean it’s the best possible solution right now.
Be more competitive with 3D
Working in 2D can limit your options because it means you can only work with fabricators who are also using 2D - a number that is decreasing. Integrating 3D adds a completely new competitive edge, and the sheer efficiency allows working on more and bigger projects. This pays off increasingly in the long run as the industry moves more and more towards automation and digital solutions.
