Brewing with BIM
By Joseph Whitney
Brewing with BIMMar 16, 2020
BWB Episode 80 - Revolutionizing Construction Tech with Matthew Byrd
In this special episode of the Brewing with BIM Podcast, meet Matthew Byrd, a construction tech pioneer and founder of Nexus 3D Consulting. He's behind the Reality Capture Network (RCN), the world's largest community for reality capture pros, offering education and an annual conference.
Be sure to attend the 2023 RCN Conference as Matt and crew unite industry leaders, discuss tech, digital twins, and the future.
BWB Episode 79 - Construction Financials with Jake Horton
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we catch up with long time friend and fellow industry technologist, Jake Horton. Jake brings a wealth of knowledge with his tenure in the AEC space. Jake highlights the significance of accurate cost estimation, effective budgeting, and the benefits of leveraging advanced software tools and cloud-based platforms for streamlined financial processes. Tune in as we enjoy tasty beverages and great conversations about technology and the pain points it solves.
This episode brought to you by Flypaper:
Streamline your model coordination with the new Sherlock Procore Integration! Say goodbye to complex workflows and hello to a seamless Navisworks Clash and Procore Coordination Issue experience.
Learn more:
BWB Episode 78 - Design Master Software
In this episode of the Brewing with BIM Podcast, we have the pleasure of hosting a special guest, David Robison, the President of Design Master Software. Join us as we delve into the innovative world of Design Master Electrical RT, an add-in for Revit that brings a range of powerful electrical calculations to your fingertips.
During our conversation with David, we explore the remarkable features that Design Master Electrical for Revit offers to professionals in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. One of the standout capabilities is the generation of one-line riser diagrams, which can be effortlessly customized to align with your existing drafting style. As your design progresses, you can conveniently update feeders and other labels directly within Revit.
Design Master Electrical RT goes beyond individual calculations, also offering selective coordination capabilities. By assigning time-current curves to the breakers in your design, you can visualize and coordinate curves in drafting views, ensuring optimal coordination and system protection.
Join us in this captivating episode as we gain insights from David Robison about the extensive benefits Design Master Electrical RT brings to the AEC industry. Whether you're an architect, engineer, or construction professional, you'll discover how this innovative software can revolutionize your electrical design process within Revit.
Design Master Website: https://www.designmaster.biz/
BWB Episode 77 - IDL BIM
In this episode of the Brewing with BIM podcast, we sit down with IDL BIM, a leading company in the building information modeling (BIM) industry that specializes in producing accurate and high-quality Revit models. Using state-of-the-art technology such as Revit, ChatGPT, and other advanced tools, IDL BIM has revolutionized the building design process, delivering accurate models that are both time and cost-effective.
During the podcast, IDL BIM's team will share their insights on how they leverage these technologies to enhance the Revit modeling process, reduce errors, and improve collaboration across teams. They will also discuss some of the challenges they have faced in implementing these technologies and how they have overcome them to provide unparalleled services to their clients.
Whether you are a BIM professional looking to stay on top of the latest trends and best practices in the industry or a business owner looking to optimize your building design process, this episode of Brewing with BIM is a must-listen. Join us as we delve deep into the world of Revit modeling and discover how IDL BIM is transforming the building design landscape.
BWB Episode 76 - Gary Cowan
Hey BWB Fans,
On this momentous episode of Brewing with BIM we had the privilege of chatting with one of Irelands' premier BIM experts, on St. Patrick's Day no less. Gary Cowan has been in the BIM/VDC space for over 20 years and has been involved with some amazing projects in the UK. Perhaps the most recognizable was the renovation of the prestigious Claridge hotel which was featured on BBC.
BWB Episode 75 - AI in Construction
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we dive into low code/no code tools like ChatGPT, Workato, and other tools making their way into the construction industry. Tech companies have broken down silos only to have created bigger silos with each CDE. While most integrations aren't ready to go out of the box, we are finding companies and platforms that help us "bridge the gap".... So tune in as we dive into tangents and rabbit holes that not even we expected.
BWB Episode 74 - Jordan Bullock
BWB Episode 73 - I Love BIM
Hey BWB Fans,
Welcome back to yet another jam packed episode of Brewing with BIM. Join us as we catch up, discuss data migration, review BIM for site and utility contractors, discuss Bluebeam's changes, and Autodesk University.
BWB Episode 72 - Unity
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we had the pleasure of connecting with Dave Ménard and Kate Kirwan of Unity. Unity has long been at the forefront of visualization but their recent acquisition of VisualLive has shown just how committed they are to the AEC industry. Dave and Kate give us a peak into Unity's focus on AEC and their mission to solve real problems. Tune in as we discuss digital twins, BAM (Big Ass Models), and the importance of visualizing projects beyond the computer screen.
BWB Episode 71 - AU22 Courses
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we break down some of the AU Sessions we are looking forward to most. For the sake of time we limited it to 5 each but there are just so many good ones this year.
What are some of your most anticipated sessions this year?
BWB Episode 70 - Matt Webster CAD DJM
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we get to chat with another of the great staff at CAD DJM, Matt Webster. Tune into this episode to learn how Matt works with cutting edge technology such as scanning and VR. Like most of us in this space, Matt’s foray into construction technology was unconventional. Listen in as he explains his path to construction and hear how his passion for technology drives him.
Connect with Matt (be sure to congratulate him on his upcoming nuptials)
BWB Episode 69 - Seth Oakley
Hey BWB Fans,
This episode was a long time in the making. After bonding on LinkedIn over beer, geography, and technology I knew I had to meet up with Seth. Upon meeting in person, he did not disappoint. Seth is passionate about his city, knowledgeable about local beer, and committed to developing meaningful spaces.
This episode is packed with Cincinnati history, technology talk, reverence for great architecture, and as always great beer.
BWB Episode 68 - Coordinates and Coordination with Will Dam
Hey BWB Fans,
This was an exciting episode and you are in for a treat. In this episode we dive into coordination, coordinates, scanning, BIM, and so much more with survey and VDC professional, Will Dam. Will is locally renowned expert out of the Pacific Northwest and works for one of the largest general contractors in the area, Andersen Construction. So grab your favorite drink and join us as we tackle coordination.
BWB Episode 67 - 2021 Tech in Review
Hey BWB Fans,
We are back from break and wanted to kick 2022 off right. Tune in as we review some of the best construction and design tech of 2021, new features, trends, acquisitions, and headlines. There is much to cover as 2021 was a big year for construction tech. Don't worry, we find plenty of time for tangents and great alcohol.
BWB Episode 66 - GeoBIM
Hey BWB Fans,
If you've tuned in to prior episodes you've likely heard us talk about connecting GIS and BIM. In this episode we dive into one of the best ways to connect the data, GeoBIM. Don't worry, we find plenty of time for tangents and to drink great beer.
Resources:
BWB Episode 65 - The Importance of Data
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode of Brewing with BIM we explore the emerging importance data in construction. There are many forms of data in construction ranging from design data, project data, and even data that goes beyond a single project. As we move into these common data environments it's important to utilize tools to view across a single CDE and into financials, safety, risk, etc. We have tools at our disposal to aggregate, analyze, and even share this data. However, we need to emphasize the importance of the roles and related tools. If you are curious about the data on your project or in your design, this is a great starter episode as we dive further into the world of data in future episodes.
BWB Episode 64 - Existing Conditions
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode of Brewing with BIM we dive into the world of scanning with the Existing Conditions crew. They are responsible for scanning some of the coolest projects in the Northeast. We tackle the hurdles of scanning and discuss why on some projects it is best to go with the pros. Grab a beer and tune in to a great episode.
BWB Episode 63 - BIM to the Max with BIM2
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode of Brewing with BIM we go international as we talk with construction and BIM evangelist, Hannes Endriß's. Hannes is the CTO of German BIM startup, BIM2.
At BIM2 they are "bimifying" temporary, yet still very important, construction elements such as scaffolding and formwork. As a veteran of the industry with a background in engineering, Hannes has a unique perspective for BIM for construction and constructability.
Tune in as we dive into all things BIM, Construction, and beer.
BWB Episode 62 - Breaking down Bluebeam
Hey BWB Fans,
Dave and I wanted to revisit the BIM basics, i.e. simpler tools that all can leverage. In this episode we dive into Bluebeam and review how it fits into the BIM and digital construction puzzle. If you are completely new to Bluebeam this one is definitely for you as we break down the different versions as well as use cases by discipline.
BWB Episode 61 - Coordination Tips and Traps
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode of Brewing with BIM we dive into a BIM topic fresh on our mind, coordination. There is a lot to coordination and this will be something we dive into further as we pick apart VDC and all it entails. There are some pitfalls one should be aware of going into coordination as well as some tips to make your process smoother. Tune in as we jump in feet first.
This episode was brought to you by Red Transit Consultants. Red Transit Consultants provides Automation Apps and Custom Programming solutions for the Design and Drafting Industry. Let them automate the tedious tasks for you, so you can focus on the design.
BWB Episode 60 - Conquering CAD with Steve Hill
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we get to talk with Steve Hill from Red Transit Consultants about the inner workings of CAD. Steve is an Autodesk Expert Elite and CAD wizard who has worked at some large civil and environmental firms. Today Steve owns his own company and helps his customers conquer CAD with plugins and custom development. Tune in as we drink, discuss, and learn!
BWB Episode 59 - Car Talk
Hey BWB Fans,
This episode is dedicated less to BIM and more to another topic near and dear to our hearts, muscle cars. We've got a few projects in the works and just wanted to talk about them. If you are looking for your weekly BIM fix fear not, we will return later this week with a new episode.
BWB Episode 58 - VDC and Scanning with Ron Nauta
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we get to dive into scanning and BIM with Ron Nauta. Ron is the Director of VDC/BIM at Team Zelus. We had a great conversation around BIM & scanning pain points and workflows. Don’t worry we save plenty of time for tangents and amazing beers.
Find out more about Ron:
Find our more about Team Zelus:
BWB Episode 57 - Back 2 the Basics
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we get back to the primitive beings we are, BIM Apes. We are excited about all the new tech, AI, robotics, generative design, but that can be overwhelming to someone just getting into BIM. In this episode we get back to our roots and discuss simple steps to get into BIM and why it is beneficial. After all, BIM is more than creating complicated 3D models to look pretty.... To quote a true BIM advocate, Johann Tuckler, #BIMIsMoreThanModels
BWB Episode 56 - Mastering AI with Alice Technologies
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we get to dive into elements way beyond BWB comprehension yet somehow our special guest makes it relatable. Join us as we talk AI and construction tech with the dynamic René Morkos. René is the founder of Alice Technologies. Alice has one of the coolest origin stories out there.
Find out more about René and Alice Technologies at the links below.
BWB Episode 55 - Point Clouds in the Cloud with John Niles
Hey BWB Fans,
Join us and construction technology legend John Niles as we dissect beneficial workflows and tools for connecting point clouds to the cloud. If you aren't already familiar with John Niles of Gafcon, run don't walk to connect with him on LinkedIn.
BWB Episode 54 - What's Brewing in BIM
Hey BWB Fans,
I’ll be the first to admit that while we love our guests and our format, every now and then you just have to go freeform. Dave and I had no agenda and just wanted to catch up on BIM, technology in general, and discuss somethings we’ve been seeing in the industry.
BWB Episode 53 - Identifying Broken Workflows
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we start near the beginning identifying broken handover process between firms and disciplines on a project. Some of these age old problems still occur despite new contract types, BIM execution plans, and even long standing relationships. We know there is more here than meets the eye but we talk about this issue and others we are seeing and dive into how cloud collaboration (ignited by the pandemic) is resolving pieces - or at the very least getting the traditional players to take a deeper look at old practices.
If you like this episode and want to be part of the upcoming series for mapping the whole construction process and identifying common issues contact us.
To take part of the whiskey bullet raffle ending soon be sure to register here.
BWB Episode 52 - Soaring in the New Construction Cloud
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode of BWB, we dive into the new Autodesk Construction Cloud and related modules. There is much to explore! Whether you are new to ACC or transitioning from BIM 360 this is a must listen to podcast. Of course we dive into alcohol and a multitude of tangents.
BWB Episode 50 - Finding the Valor in BIM
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we dive into real BIM problems with Chris Bowker of Valor VDC. Many of you know Chris as the BIM/VDC manager out of the mid-Atlantic who makes content useable for fabrication teams. Chris has tasked himself with making Revit content useable for the fab shops (i.e. constructible). So whether you need to account for buffers, need complex families, or just want to better understand how BIM works for the trades - this episode is for you. We also find time to discuss David and Chris's time in the service, Dynamo, whiskey, and everything in between.
Find out more about Chris Bowker and Valor VDC
BWB Episode 50 - A Leg Up with Lenovo
Hey BWB Fans,
It’s hard to believe but this was our 50th episode and what an episode it was. For the big 5-0 we got to talk tech with a man who has been behind the scenes of some of the major technology transitions in the AEC industry. Of course I am talking about none other than Chris Ruffo.
Like most of us in AEC tech, Chris’s path into the industry was somewhat untraditional. Chris’s path began with Alias. That name should sound familiar to all in the AEC tech space as they were acquired by Autodesk. Alias had a number of applications but they were becoming known by Architects for their visualization tool, Maya.
After the acquisition Chris worked for Autodesk focusing on the Forge platform. For those unfamiliar with Forge- Forge is a series of APIs that allow for the pushing, pulling. analyzing, dissecting, manipulating, and aggregating of data. These APIs are ever growing and make up the core of Autodesk’s Construction Cloud. Forge allows users to create their own automations and tie into existing systems. For example, JE Dunn tied theirs to a customized inhouse estimation database to help accelerate the preconstruction phase.
As for Chris, his future only got brighter. After Forge, he spent some time at Epic Games before landing at Lenovo. Lenovo has literally been powering the AEC industry. Their partnerships with chip makers as well as their focus on customer driven development is spurring new innovations that will enable the future of the AEC industry.
BWB Episode 49 - The Hidden Blessings of 2020
Hey BWB Fans,
Let's face it, 2020 kind of sucked - hard. In this episode we recap what was good about 2020. After all, every second of the year couldn't have been bad. How has 2020 blessed you? What are you looking forward to most in 2021?
BWB Episode 48 - Spitting BIM Bars with Johann Tuckler
Hey BWB Fans,
It’s not often we get to say that we physically needed to recover after doing a podcast but this was a doozy. Not only did we get deep into the essence of BIM in our second episode Johann but we somehow managed to drink a bottle of whiskey between us.
This episode is proof that BIM can be fun. We talk about everything from FM, contractual obligations, GIS, open source software, BIM 360, dynamo, data loss, owners needs, alcohol, and we wrap up with a rap battle challenge. Johann, the ball is in your court to get this BIM rap battle on the books.
BWB Episode 47 - The Expert Elite
Hey BWB Fans,
This is a cannot miss episode. We chat with new friend and long time Autodesk legend, Rob Sinclair. For those that don’t Rob, stop living under a rock. Rob is the Corporate CAD Manager of the well respected and well established civil firm Civil & Environmental Consultants. In this episode we dive into great beer as Rob is even more of a connoisseur than us mere fanatics at BWB. Rob covers 80+ applications and pieces of technology. We dive into a few in this episode discussing everything from drones, CAD, scanning, Dynamo, and the cult robotic sensation - Spot. This conversation goes down as one of my faves as we talk about scanning historic sites in Italy, AU, and so much more. This may be the longest and most jam packed episode to date.
Oh, did we mention Rob is a member of the esteemed Autodesk Expert Elite!
BWB Episode 46 - AU2020 Review
Hey BWB Fans,
This was a fun episode to wrap up AU 2020. Although this year we didn't have a push up competition we did learn a lot, have fun, and as usual at AU we drank alcohol. This AU contained exciting acquisitions, game changing announcements in cloud offerings, and further cemented the future of BIM. This was apparent in the DfMA, prefab, and BIM to GIS sessions. You can find out more on our findings here.
BWB Episode 45 - BIM Process with Carlos Caminos
Hey BWB Fans,
We finally get to put Pittsburgh on the Brewing With BIM map with local BIM & CAD expert Carlos Caminos. Carlos' BIM philosophy is spot on. His approach to mapping needs regardless of current software capabilities, leveraging incremental changes to fuel the company BIM revolution, and streamlining workflows for an improved process and deliverable are what make him such a great leader in the BIM community. His transition to BIM started with parametric modeling tools in the semi conductor space and led to improving BIM in the local oil and gas industry. Carlos' knowledge and implementation strategy are sure to help any firm transition to BIM and improve outdated, inefficient processes.
BWB Episode 44 - BIM Tech with Britton Langdon
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode of Brewing With BIM we chat with long time BIM evangelist and BIM entrepreneur, Britton Langdon. For those that don't know Britton, he is the genius behind MSuite. MSuite's spooling tools in BIMPro have saved thousands of hours of labor while his fabrication status tracking tools in FABPro have allowed users to streamline the fabrication process while reducing waste & increasing productivity. These tools are so revolutionary that they've grown primarily by word of mouth within the industry. Big things are on the horizon for this rapidly expanding BIM technology company.
Find out more about MSuite
BWB Episode 43 - Bad to the Bone
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we interview the original bad boy of BIM, Josh Bone. Okay, so maybe the bad boy image might be a stretch given that he is an industry advocate and such a legend in the construction podcast scene but it was worth it to name the episode after him. In this episode we talk BIM, alcohol, data, the trades, and so much more. Tune in to learn more about what Josh has done and is doing for the industry.
BWB Episode 42 - The Evolution of Technical Support with Paul Stuva
Hey BWB Fans,
This was a great episode in which we catch up with long time friend and colleague Paul Stuva. We dive into tangents regarding weather and seasonal/regional construction, CIM, BIM, the mass adoption of BIM 360, and how the technical support landscape has evolved. Technical support used to be about helping customers get up and running when they were down or solving what seems like a never ending cycle of the 10 most common problems every day. Today it is more about project support and being a partner and advocate for the customer rather than helping solve the same issue every few months. Paul provides great insights on the most common issues, how client habits are changing, and what he sees for the future of support.
This episode is brought to you by Unifi Labs. Be sure to check them out https://unifilabs.com/getstarted
BWB Episode 41 - Full Service CAD with DJM
Hey BWB Fans,
This was another great episode packed with useful information, tangents, and as always fueled by our dear friend alcohol. In this episode we had the pleasure of connecting with Tim Libman and John Brown with DJM CAD & Coordination out of the Philly area. We dive into the pitfalls and perks of scanning. We made sure to address the rise of scanning in the US as well as how it falls into the larger process. It is worth pointing out that in addition to DJM's great work they are providing face shields for construction teams, healthcare workers, and kids.
Be sure to check out this episode!
BWB Episode 40 - Construction Tech Talk with Brian Poage
This is an episode you wont want to miss. We get to talk with Brian Poage about his experiences with some of the largest GC's in the country and how he helped implement technology. We talk construction technology, specifically the ease of use of tools like Raken. Lastly, we get to dive into how Brian is making a real impact in the world. This young entrepreneur found away to do some good in the world. Find out more in this episode:
Aloha for People: www.alohaforpeople.com/
The Aloha Bungalow: thealohabungalow.com/
BWB Episode 39 - Hail to the Scan King, Greg Hale
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode of Brewing With BIM we have a yet another BIM icon. If you do not know the name Greg Hale, be sure to take note. Greg is widely recognized as a BIM expert in the Northeast United States where he was an early adopter of Revit and Navisworks. He has since taken on scanning. In this knowledge packed episode we discuss scanning in all it glory. This includes scan to BIM, scan for verification, and knowing which tool to use for the job. We also dive into coordination specifications, sharing 3D content, and wanting to change the mentality around deliverables.
BWB Episode 38 - UNIFI-ying BIM Standards with Dwayne Miller
Hey BWB Fans,
This episode was a real treat. We got to interview one of the greatest minds in BIM, Dwayne Miller. Dwayne has an impressive background working on some of the largest, most complex projects in the early days of BIM. If they were ever to make a movie about BIM I imagine they'd have to base the lead off his character and his corresponding rise to BIM success. Today, Dwayne is the CEO and Co-Founder of arguably one of the greatest BIM tools available, UNIFI Labs. Dwayne talks about his beginnings with the military, history working on casino projects, and ultimately developing a solution to one of the biggest gaps in our industry. This is an episode you won't want to miss!
Be sure to check out UNIFI Labs for free: https://unifilabs.com/getstarted
BWB Episode 37 - CAD Manager Confessions with Eric DeLeon
Hey BWB Fans,
We are back with our long time friend and podcast mentor, Eric DeLeon. Eric is the soothing voice behind The CAD Manager Confessions. When he isn't preaching about CAD management he is practicing it in his daily profession. Eric is a technology enthusiast and an early adapter of LiDAR for civil and construction purposes. In this episode we drink, we talk like old friends, discuss impacts of COVID, the future of CIM, and so much more.
BWB Episode 36 - BIM Standards and The Importance of Training
In this episode we dive further into the the need for BIM standards and discuss why this topic will likely never be resolved or and is still relevant. In addition we dive into the need for both internal and external training, mentoring, and staff development. Don't worry, we talk about wild fires, motorcycles, and so much more while throwing back some whiskey.
BWB Episode 35 - Bluebeam 20
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode of Brewing With BIM we highlight new features of the recently released but highly anticipated Bluebeam 20. Don't worry we tackle hard hitting topics like fitness and weight loss, home remodeling, choppers and bobbers, home brewing, and finally we wrap it up in true nerd fashion by discussing video games systems. Don't worry we find plenty of time for libations and take a look at the various Bluebeam mobile apps.
BWB Episode 34 - Better You Better BIM Revisited
Hey BWB Fans,
When we did our first Better You Better BIM episode we were expecting life to get back to normal after a few months. Now that we are nearly 6 months into COVID with no end in sight we thought now might be a good time to revisit some resources for leveling up your BIM game, staying sane, or to just learn something new.
BWB Episode 33 - Rob "OG Civil 3D" Gadbaw
In this episode we get to chat with OG Civil 3D guru Rob Gadbaw. Rob is literally known all around the world for for his work in Civil 3D, CAD software development, and with iConstruct. Rob's development of KobiLabs plugins for AutoCAD, Revit, and Civil 3D has not gone unnoticed. KobiLabs was featured in the July 2020 edition of AUGIWorld. Rob's team has a unique development methodology where they don't look at what other people are developing for ideas but instead listen to customers feedback to build the next tool or improve on old workflows. It's no wonder Rob garnered a name for his development. His work as Client Success Manager for the US at iConstruct is nothing short of amazing. Their export packages are world renowned as well as their clash tools. Check out this podcast to find out more about Rob and his amazing work.
BWB Episode 32 - BSing with BIM Pt Deux (Hot Shots reference for you 90's Charlie Sheen Fans)
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode of Brewing with BIM we are all over the map. We discuss the open letter to Autodesk, Revit 2021.1, updates to BIM 360, FormIt, Infraworks, home projects, broken bones, and so much more. Don't worry, we find plenty of time for tangents and great alcohol.
BWB Episode 31 - Revit Plugins
Hey BWB Fans,
In this episode we discuss something all Revit designers and drafters can not live without, Revit plugins. Whether you are wanting to export to AR/VR platforms, simply looking for a faster way to work, or are wanting to push Revit past its limits - you are sure to find a plugin that fits your needs. Check out this episode of Brewing With BIM as we highlight a few of our favorite and our customers most utilized plugins. Don't worry, we dive down random tangents such as mattress shopping and road trips all while enjoying some sweet nectar (beer).