Future AEC Software Specification Assessment Criteria

Future AEC Software Specification Assessment Criteria 

1. Data Framework

• Data Exchange: How effectively the software integrates and exchanges data with other platforms, ensuring seamless workflows.
• Data Accuracy: Mechanisms in place to ensure that data is accurate and remains consistent across various systems.
• File Compatibility: Support for industry-standard data formats like IFC, BCF, and IDS.

2. Access, Use Cases, Personas, and Locations

• Cross-Platform Accessibility: The software’s ability to work across different operating systems (e.g., Windows, MacOS) and web browsers.
• Real-Time Performance: The software’s ability to handle large data sets or complex models in real-time.
• Scalability: How well the software can scale for projects of varying sizes and complexities.

3. User Experience

• Ease of Use: How intuitive the software is for new users, including the availability of user-friendly features and customizable interfaces.
• Learning Resources: Availability and quality of learning resources (tutorials, webinars, documentation).
• Customization: Ability for users to personalize the software interface, toolbars, and shortcuts to fit their workflow.

4. Automation & Intelligence

• Task Automation: The extent to which the software automates repetitive tasks, such as clash detection or issue tracking.
• AI-Assisted Insights: How the software uses artificial intelligence to provide design insights, optimization suggestions, and performance analysis.
• User Control: How much control users have over automated processes and AI-driven insights.

5. Deliverables

• Automated Documentation: How well the software produces accurate and customizable reports, drawings, and other project deliverables automatically.
• Speed of Deliverables: Time saved by automating the generation of deliverables compared to manual processes.
• Adaptability: The software’s ability to tailor deliverables to meet specific project or client requirements.

6. Access, Data, and Licensing

• Cost-Value Ratio: Whether the software’s features justify its pricing structure.
• Licensing Flexibility: Variety and flexibility in licensing options (e.g., subscription, perpetual licenses).
• Cost Transparency: Clarity in pricing and licensing terms, ensuring no hidden costs or complex billing structures.

7. Integration Capabilities

• Tool Integration: How well the software integrates with other popular AEC tools (e.g., Revit, Navisworks, Procore).
• Data Sharing: The ease of sharing and collaborating on data between different stakeholders and teams using the software.

8. Clash Detection and Coordination

• Detection Accuracy: The software’s ability to detect clashes or issues in models with high precision.
• Coordination Features: Tools that facilitate collaboration between teams, enabling them to resolve issues and track progress efficiently.
• Reporting: The ability to produce reports and track issues through a clear, accessible system.

9. Support and Customer Service

• Customer Support Quality: The availability of support resources, including help centers, forums, and direct customer service channels.
• Training: Access to training materials, online courses, and onboarding support for new users.

10. Implementation and Updates

• Implementation Speed: How quickly the software can be deployed and integrated into existing workflows.
• Software Updates: Frequency and quality of updates, ensuring the software remains relevant and efficient as the industry evolves.