Architectural CADD News by Software |
Last Updated : February 22, 1999
SoftPlan
SoftPlan Inc. = http://www.softplan.com
Latest Version : ?
Web Site : http://www.softplan.com
Online Forum : ?
Note from Architectural CADD : SoftPlan is an architectural CADD program oriented towards Builders, and doing wood frame houses less than 4 stories high. It works in 3D easily, similar to competitors such as ChiefArchitect, BuildersCAD, or ArchiCAD, and does great visualization (rendered perspectives) that sells designs, and generates complete wood frames of the entire building.
Comments from Architectural CADD : In certain regions, such as north-central Massachusetts and much of New Hampshire, SoftPlan is a favorite among Design/Build firms, and SoftPlan's automatic wood cut list printouts are expected by many lumber yards. It is very good for this specific purpose and it is very appropriate for "house-smiths". Architects who do unusual stuff or certain other categories of design projects would find this software limiting.
Available March 1st 1999
SoftPlan Systems, Inc. proudly announces the release of SoftTalk - it's new voice activation module. With this add-on, users of Version 10 have the ability to access SoftPlan commands through cutting edge voice recognition technology. Leaving the mouse in the drawing area, all menu items can be activated verbally. No other CAD program in the world allows you to talk your way from concept to completed drawing. SoftTalk comes fully equipped with software, a quick-start manual and the SoftTalk Headset - you'll have complete, hands-free control of SoftPlan in just minutes.
Example: John, a SoftPlan Version 10 user looking to drastically increase productivity, invests in SoftTalk. The package arrives and he follows the step-by-step instructions, loading the software and plugging in the SoftTalk headset. After installation has been completed, SoftPlan is opened and John is greeted by the SoftTalk operator with the words, "SoftTalk is listening". To begin his design work, John wants to draw some 2x4/Brick exterior walls. Usually this would require using the mouse to select Draw - Wall - 2x4/Brick. However, because John is using SoftTalk, he can simply say, "Two by four and brick". The SoftTalk operator echoes this command in John's ear, alerting him that he can instantly begin to draw his exterior walls. After completing the exterior walls, John wants to add a few casement windows. Before SoftTalk, John would use his mouse to select Draw - Opening - Window - Casement. Utilizing SoftTalk, John simply says, "Casement", and immediately hears the SoftTalk operator answer, "Casement", alerting him that he can now begin adding casement windows. After the windows are added John says, "Edit". The SoftTalk operator answers with, "Edit", indicating that he can begin selecting items to edit. He clicks on a window in his drawing, bringing up the edit dialog box for that window. To change the window size he says, "Width, three feet six inches. Height, five feet". Satisfied with the rest of the window properties he says, "Ok", and the editing is complete. As John gets further into his design work he begins to customize SoftTalk to meet his personal design needs. For instance, when John draws exterior siding walls they are typically 2X4/Siding. With this in mind he trains SoftTalk to draw a 2X4/Siding wall whenever he says the word "Siding". SoftTalk allows John to greatly increase his productivity while drastically decreasing his mouse and keyboard strokes.