Computing in Architectural Practice

Personal computers have proven useful in architectural practice for almost two decades, at first for helping in secretarial and clerical tasks, and then in replacing the apparatus of manual drawing by computer-aided draughting (CAD). However, most smaller architectural firms still utilize only the word-processing functions of their computers. This book provides a concise introducing for small and medium sized architectural practices considering introducing computers or using them to enhance the way in which information is originated by and communicated between members of the building team. This book covers the three main areas of architectural practice in which computers have been most useful: office management, scheme and production drawing, and project management. Necessary technical terms are clearly explained, and key ideas illustrated with figures and diagrams.