Starting out this new year, 2025, I've started exploring trends. The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry is rapidly evolving with technology. Staying ahead means embracing innovations that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver better outcomes. Let’s explore key trends shaping the industry and how businesses can align with them to stay competitive. Read more →

Happy New Year from Between the Lines and Cascade Technology Consulting! As we usher in 2025, I want to take a moment to thank my amazing clients who helped make 2024 such a fulfilling year. Your trust and collaboration have been instrumental in driving meaningful transformations, and I am excited to continue our partnerships as we move into this new year. Read more →

It seems someone really really wanted the Delicate Arch model I created years ago that the National Park Service at Arches National Park recreated in a durable metal and installed near the trail head in the very popular national park. This tactile model helped people that were unable to see the arch or make the hike still understand the beauty of the natural arch. Hopefully the thief gets caught, but also a new one replaces it, and nobody steals that one as well. Read more →

SolidWorks has had a major milestone birthday. In November of 1995, SolidWorks 95 was released changing the 3D CAD market. I had one of the first commercially purchased packages which at the time cost about $4000 a seat. Read more →

Having been both a customer and user of Autodesk products, and as a member of product teams, I’ve had the unique experience of seeing things from both perspectives. I’ve been the voice of the customer, advocating for their needs, interpreting their sentiment, and translating real-world use cases into product strategy. Whether you’re a startup or scaling up, here are some lessons that might help you focus on what really matters. Read more →

AI is rapidly changing industries around the globe, offering innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, creativity, and productivity. However, as AI technologies become more integrated into our daily lives, concerns about privacy, ethics, and the misuse of intellectual property (IP) have... Read more →

Computer-aided design remains one of the indistinguishable tools in mechanical and industrial design. Well, Windows has always been on pole position as far as computer-aided design is concerned because of its comprehensive computer-aided design packages. Mac users are therefore left with few native applications to choose from. The tides, however, are changing. Driven by increasingly powerful Mac hardware, developers are bringing professional-grade CAD solutions to the Mac operating system. Two of those leading the charge include Shapr3D and Autodesk Fusion 360. This blog post will briefly explore these two native CAD solutions for Macs, showcasing their features and capabilities and how they will increasingly change the design workflow for professionals and amateurs alike. Read more →

Digital twins are instrumented virtual replicas of physical assets and are becoming essential tools for simulating and optimizing designs before construction and during operation. AI may enhance these twins by making them smarter, more adaptive, and more insightful. AI doesn't... Read more →

In today's fast-paced world, where every month seems to bring a new wave of bits, bytes, gadgets, gizmos, and software, it's easy to get overwhelmed. We often find ourselves focused by the latest tech, believing it's the magic key to success. But here's the thing—technology is merely a tool. Without our skill, creativity, and experience, and even gut instinct even the most advanced tech won't do much. It's like having the fanciest paints and brushes without the artistic skills to create a masterpiece. Read more →

In today's fast-paced world, manufacturing is undergoing a major transformation. Driven by technological advancements, shifting market demands, and the push for sustainability, this evolution was evident at the recent IMTS—the world's largest manufacturing technology show with over 100,000 attendees. Attending with some startup clients, I got an up-close look at the technology trends. Read more →

AEC Hackathons have been incredible and inspiring, leading to the formation of actual industry startups with products born from hackathon-generated ideas. I've personally participated in two events, one in Seattle and another in Copenhagen. If you ever have the chance to participate or even just attend, take it—it's enjoyable and you witness innovation at the very moment it ignites change in the industry. Read more →

Wow, what a crazy couple of weeks it's been! Read more →

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ll be attending the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) this year in Chicago! From September 9-14, 2024, McCormick Place will be the epicenter of innovation, and I’m looking forward to diving into the latest advancements in the manufacturing technology space. IMTS is where the magic happens—where ideas come to life, technologies evolve, and the future of manufacturing takes shape. Read more →

Today marks a big blog milestone—21 years of "Between the Lines Blog." What started as a simple idea has grown into a fun and trusted source for those in the AEC and manufacturing design technology industry. It’s wild to look... Read more →

As a technologist and avid outdoor adventurer, I’ve always been on the lookout for innovations that enhance both my digital and real-world experiences. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Apple iOS developer beta 18.1, which comes packed with... Read more →

I'm looking for your help and input in researching ways to better mitigate risks on job sites through the use of a mobile web application that is dead simple easy. One of the key challenges I'm trying to address is... Read more →

In today's rapidly evolving technology landscape, staying ahead of the curve is not just an advantage—it's a necessity. One of the most transformative technologies is Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI. Recognizing the immense potential and growing demand for AI expertise, Microsoft has made available eighteen free generative AI courses designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills. Why AI Skills Matter AI is more than just a buzzword; it's a fundamental shift in how technology interacts with the world. From enhancing business processes to enabling new forms of creativity, AI's applications are vast and varied. By diving into AI learning, you not only enhance your professional value but also open up new opportunities for innovation and problem-solving. Read more →

I used the app 3D Scanner App on my iPhone 15 Pro and scanned in high resolution using LiDAR the sign and tree section to generate a 3D model that you can then export to use elsewhere such as a 3D scene or 3D print, share on Sketchfab, or even use AR to view in your space. Read more →

If you're an AUGI member who attended #AUGICON24, you should have received an email this morning containing instructions on how to access the video replays of our AUGICON 2024 event. You'll also be joining our new AUGI Community Platform! Not... Read more →

In the AEC industry, efficient project management and accurate data collection are crucial for ensuring successful project outcomes. Site Marker is a solution designed to streamline and enhance project reporting processes, bringing you and your issue reporting literally onto the map. The days of pen and paper reports are over. Field users can now leverage the Site Marker mobile app to quickly document and report daily activities with pinpoint precision, powered by real-time geolocation on the job site. Site Marker is a location-based land development platform that enables users to document and report action items from a mobile device in real-time. Forget notepads, construction drawings and hand-typed reports. Everything arrives on-site with you in the Site Marker mobile app. Read more →

Such a great time over the 2 days for the inaugural AUGI CON24 event. Thank you to the 1000+ registered attendees from over 40 countries that attended, presenters, panelists, and AUGI board. User helping Users Community and all volunteers. The... Read more →

“Nemetschek Group and Autodesk agree on advancing open, interoperable workflows for the entire building lifecycle.” This is good for customers of both AEC software vendors. Read more on this agreement from Architosh: Autodesk and Nemetschek Group Partner on Interoperability by... Read more →

Mentoring is a powerful tool for professional growth and development, especially in the fast-paced and ever-evolving fields of design and technology. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting, having a mentor can provide invaluable guidance, support, and insights to grow and prosper as a person and in your career. Read more →

Esri and Autodesk have formed a strategic alliance to integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Building Information Modeling (BIM). Read more →

I’m leading a panel on AEC Industry Software at AUGI CON 2024 on the 2nd day. This 90-minute panel is not aimed at marketing or sales pitches, nor will it be a debate. Instead, it is designed to be an informative and engaging 90-minute discussion that highlights various perspectives and experiences from industry experts and software developers. Our goal is to provide our live audience, primarily AEC software users, with valuable insights into the evolution of AEC software, its current challenges, innovative solutions, and a look into what the future holds.To ensure the session is as enriching and informative as possible, we are assembling a group of panelists (AEC Software, AEC Startups, and AEC Industry Experts) who can contribute unique viewpoints on these topics. Read more →