The acronym “AEC” in this case refers to “Architecture, Engineering, and Construction.” 

AEC is a group of professionals who bring together their expertise in the fields of Architecture, Engineering and Construction in order to complete construction projects. Each discipline is essential to the safe, effective and efficient completion of any construction project whether it be commercial, residential, or industrial. 

What role does Architecture play in the AEC industry?

Architects in AEC work to design the project that matches their client’s needs. They work to make designs are aesthetically pleasing and practical, while ensuring they meet industry laws and standards. Architects do this while working out logistical details like creating a budget and schedule that fits the parameters of the project. Once the project begins, architects serve as consultants to the engineers and construction managers to ensure that the project goes smoothly. In other words:

• Architects consult with the client and design the project.
• They follow industry regulation/laws and standards.
• Serve as counsel for engineers and construction managers during the project.
  

What do Engineers do in the AEC industry?

Civil Engineers play the vital role in the AEC industry of ensuring that the project is safe from start to finish. Engineers make sure that the project is technically feasible and complies with government regulations. Like architects, engineers also manage budgets and oversee the safety of construction sites. Engineers do this by providing their expertise to construction groups on site. Engineers can also streamline communication between the client, the contractors, and construction teams.

• Engineers make sure projects are feasible and comply with government regulations.
• They manage budgets and oversee construction site safety.
• Counsel architects and contractors on site.
• Bridge the gap between other industry professionals and the client.

What does the Construction sector do in the AEC industry?

The construction sector of the AEC industry involves both construction managers and highly skilled contractors and subcontractors. Construction managers hire and coordinate contractors and other employees in a project. They create schedules, mitigate risks on the construction site and ensure that the construction team stays on task. Construction managers also communicate with the engineers and architects to make sure that the project is being done safely, legally and efficiently. Construction teams/skilled laborers take directions from the construction manager to physically build the project. 

• Construction managers coordinate the construction crew and ensure site safety and smooth operation.
• They hire and create schedules for the construction team. 
• They manage their team and directly communicate with the architects and engineers.

What software does the AEC industry use?

Constructing highly complex commercial, residential and industrial projects requires a team of experts to work together. These experts share a common goal of a safe, efficient, and cost effective project. Typically these highly specialized teams use software designed to help streamline their projects. This software is known as Computer-aided Design software or “CAD software”. 

CAD software allows architects, engineers, and other design professionals to create 2D and 3D models of their designs on a computer as well as create schedules for the project. Popular CAD software programs include Software from Autodesk like AutoCAD and 3DS Max as well as programs like Sketchup developed by google.

To complement CAD software, Taradigm has a solution for advanced PDF editing, which includes editing 3D and 2D PDFs created using CAD software. Through a partnership with Bluebeam, we are pleased to offer Bluebeam Revu, which is the best PDF editing, markup and collaboration tool. Revu is an essential tool used in the AEC industry. Additionally, we offer a wide variety of training options.

To aid in project planning and resource management for the AEC industry, Taradigm is partnered with Oracle to offer premier scheduling applications. Primavera P6 is the industry standard for scheduling, used by the largest construction companies, the pharmaceutical industry, and world governments. Oracle has begun to move this application to the cloud in what is called Oracle Primavera Cloud (OPC). Since the AEC industry is the slowest to adopt new technology, Oracle has worked to make sure that OPC is familiar and streamlined. Taradigm also serves the AEC industry by providing training for Primavera P6, OPC, and Bluebeam Revu, as well as CPM scheduling services for those who wish to outsource scheduling to experts. If you have any questions, or comments, don’t hesitate to contact us or leave a comment below.