Application versioning.

In the world of architecture, design, and engineering, staying up-to-date with software applications is vital. It’s the digital toolkit that brings creativity to life, but it can also be a source of frustration when not managed correctly. Welcome to another episode of “Design Under Influence,” where we delve into common IT challenges faced by professionals in these fields. Today, we’re focusing on the often-overlooked yet critical aspect of application versioning. 

At ArchIT, we understand the unique IT needs of architects, designers, and engineers. Our passion lies in providing seamless IT support, and this episode aims to shed light on an issue that plagues many in the industry. 

The Variety of Software, the Common Problem 

Architects utilize a range of software tools to bring their visions to life, and it’s no surprise that the most common challenge we encounter is with applications like Revit. This complex software, central to many architectural projects, often leads to versioning conflicts. 

But it’s not just Revit. Architectural professionals also grapple with version issues in other software like Autodesk, AutoCAD, Vectorworks, Adobe, and more. Managing these various applications and their updates can be a formidable task. 

The Manifestation of Problems 

So, what happens when these versioning issues arise? Zahin, one of our experienced engineers, points out that Autodesk Connector app often becomes a hotspot for conflicts. This app, which facilitates cloud-based collaboration, is a boon for architects, allowing multiple users to work simultaneously on the same file. However, when users update independently, it can lead to extensive conflicts. 

Updating this app is no simple task; it involves uninstalling, deleting specific files, and then reinstalling the new version, a process that can take up to 45 minutes per machine. And it doesn’t stop there; a rigorous vetting process is essential before updates are applied to prevent complications. 

The Do’s and Don’ts 

So, what’s the key takeaway for architects with IT support? Our experts unanimously advise against updating applications on your own. The potential for conflicts is high, and the consequences can be severe. Instead, rely on your IT team to guide you on when and how to update. It’s a simple call or message away and ensures smooth operations. 

The Revit Challenge 

For those heavily reliant on software like Revit, version control is paramount. Multiple individuals working on different aspects of a project can quickly lead to discrepancies if everyone isn’t on the same page. This is where IT steps in. We ensure that users don’t have the freedom to update at will. Instead, we meticulously research updates, identify potential issues, involve clients in the decision-making process, and ensure that everyone on a project updates simultaneously. This proactive approach prevents compatibility problems and project disruptions. 

The Uniqueness of Architectural IT Support 

In the world of IT, specialization matters. While many IT companies provide generic services, our specialization in architectural firms sets us apart. We’ve seen the consequences of not understanding the intricacies of architectural software, and we’ve learned from our experiences. This is why we focus on preventing issues before they become disruptive. 

The Microsoft Teams Quandary 

Beyond design software, we’ve also encountered versioning challenges with essential communication tools like Microsoft Teams and Outlook. The transition to “new Teams” has caused unforeseen problems, with users encountering issues like the inability to copy and paste and complications with links. Navigating these changes can be tricky, highlighting the importance of a strategic approach to updates. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, application versioning might seem like a minor aspect of architectural IT support, but it can have far-reaching consequences. Architects and designers should work closely with their IT teams to ensure a smooth and synchronized update process. For those in the field, the message is clear: trust your IT support, resist the temptation to update independently, and focus on what you do best—designing the future. 

Thank you for joining us on this episode of “Design and the Influence.” We’ll be back next week with more insights to empower your creative endeavors. 

If you have questions or need help please reach out to us. ArchIT specializes in providing IT services for architecture, design, and engineering firms.