Ideate Software Announces New Version of Ideate Sticky for Autodesk Revit

PRESS RELEASE: San Francisco, CA, 1/26/2015 – Ideate Software, a veteran Autodesk Developer Network member, announced today that updates are available for Ideate Sticky for Autodesk Revit versions 2014, 2015 and 2016. Ideate Sticky imports and synchronizes Microsoft Excel file content into the Revit project environment. The updates to Ideate Sticky for Revit include significant enhancements and improvements.

In response to a top customer support request, visual fidelity has been improved by added support for Line Style Mapping. “Ideate Sticky user feedback was integral in the development of the features in this update,” says Glynnis Patterson, Ideate Director of Software Development. “We designed this to allow end-user control of the assigned line styles, as well as out-of-the-box default values to get our customers up and running with great results.”

Other improvements in this release of Ideate Sticky include:

• Added support for hidden rows and columns within your Revit project
• Designers and engineers can now use any Named Region as a way of defining a Sticky, an easy method for splitting a long Excel worksheet into separate 'pages'
• Versions 2015 and forward now support inclusions of an image, such as a company logo, within the header

Richard Taylor, Ideate Software Technical Evangelist says, “The ability to support embedded graphic images in the Microsoft Excel schedule, plus the ability to support many Excel line styles, will greatly enhance the graphic fidelity of the Sticky Schedule within the Revit environment, reducing the necessity for additional schedule editing.  Customers can easily link the Excel Schedule into Revit knowing that the proper formatting of fonts, graphic images, line styles, hidden rows and columns, and merged cells, will be handled by Ideate Sticky effortlessly and elegantly.” 

He adds, “No matter your discipline, Ideate Sticky allows you to extend the project team by providing the ability to link non-BIM Excel data directly into the Revit project.”

Bob Palioca, President, Ideate Software says, “Ideate Software is always listening and deeply involved in how are customers are using our Ideate Software solutions. The latest release of Ideate Sticky reflects that commitment to our customers.”

To ensure consistent graphic results, all Ideate Sticky end-users should be updated at the same time.

Ideate Sticky carries a five-star rating on the Autodesk App Store, and is available with a non-commercial free trial. Download the trial today.

For more information, call 888.662.7238, or contact sales@ideatesoftware.com

About Ideate Software

Ideate Software allows Autodesk Revit users to have unprecedented control over their data. Ideate BIMLink, Ideate Explorer for Revit, and Ideate Sticky were all developed to solve persistent problems in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) workflows. Ideate Software solutions enable Revit users to save time, increase accuracy, improve Revit project deliverables, and elevate design.

Autodesk, Autodesk Revit and ATC are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries.

Microsoft Excel is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

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Ideate, Inc. and Modulus Consulting Enter into Partnership to Offer Deeper Bench of BIM Services and Solutions

PRESS RELEASE

Contact: marketing@ideateinc.com

San Francisco, CA, 12/2/2015 – Ideate Inc., a multi-decade veteran Autodesk Developer Network member and Autodesk Platinum Value Added Reseller (VAR) today announced that it is entering into a partnership with San Francisco-based Modulus Consulting.

Modulus provides BIM guidance, support, and services to building project teams. A long-time industry ally of Ideate Software, Modulus specializes in BIM Consulting, BIM Coordination, Architectural & Structural Modeling, MEPS Systems Modeling, Laser Scanning (LiDAR), and in-sourced BIM support. 

Bob Palioca, President of Ideate Inc. and Ideate Software, said, “Our mission for 33 years as a trusted VAR has been about empowering our customers with tools and training so they can make the transition to BIM and succeed. Our new partnership with Modulus will now enable us to offer our clients superior project assistance, broadening our effectiveness. Modulus performs extremely valuable services and I’ve been referring customers to them for years.” 

He added, “While Ideate will remain Ideate, and Modulus will remain Modulus, we are confident that we will complement each other in bringing a deep bench of BIM services and solutions to the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) community.” 

“Bob is a trusted and respected leader in our industry,” said Peter Michealsen, Managing Principal of Modulus Consulting. “Modulus is excited to bring on a partner with a long history of serving and supporting the technology side of the AEC community in ways that perfectly complement our own services and support. Ideate's expertise in BIM software development, implementation and training, together with Modulus' expertise in BIM production and project support, offer a more complete solution for our clients.” 

“Modulus continues to be independent with respect to software; we will not be selling or developing software and we will always use and recommend the tools we think are best for each specific job,” he added. 

Staff members from the two companies will gather together at an Ideate Inc.-hosted Customer Appreciation and Holiday Party event at the Autodesk Gallery on December 17th.

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in Revit software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Platinum Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Autodesk’s highest level of authorization.

About Ideate Software
Ideate Software allows Revit users to have unprecedented control over their data. Ideate BIMLink, Ideate Explorer for Revit, and Ideate Sticky were all developed to solve persistent problems in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) workflows. Ideate Software solutions enable Revit users to save time, increase accuracy, improve project deliverables, and elevate design.

About Modulus Consulting
Modulus Consulting is a San Francisco-based consulting firm with branch offices in Oakland, CA, Portland, OR, and Washington D.C., specializing in the practice and implementation of Building Information Modeling, or BIM. Modulus has supported hundreds of projects from small tenant improvements to multi-billion dollar hospitals. Founded in 2010, the company provides guidance, support and services to building project teams across the country.

Autodesk, Autodesk Revit and ATC are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. 

Microsoft Excel is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. 

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WRNS Studio Keeps Revit Models Clean with Ideate Software

PRESS RELEASE

Contact: marketing@ideateinc.com

San Francisco, CA, 09/17/2015 – Ideate, a multi-decade veteran Autodesk Developer Network member and Autodesk Platinum Value Added Reseller, announced today the publication of its latest “Spotlight on” customer success profile featuring WRNS Studio and its use of Ideate Explorer for Revit modeling.

Ideate Software is a set of in-depth Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) data management tools that helps keep Revit models clean. With it, staff can delete problem items, analyze files quickly, and enhance BIM data flow with increased speed and accuracy. The software can facilitate better collaboration, minimize workflow interruptions, improve project deliverables, and elevate design.

Jason Halaby, Designer and BIM Manager, WRNS Studio, San Francisco, regularly uses Ideate Explorer to turn tedious Revit model projects into quick exercises. “You can hardly compare time savings now with how we did things before because there are things you simply cannot do without Ideate Explorer” says Halaby.

WRNS Studio cares deeply about the quality of their models, and Ideate Explorer helps the teams to keep their Revit models clean. Halaby uses Ideate Explorer to find and change elements, purge line styles that are not up to office standards, even add detail views from different projects into the WRNS file library. “Ideate Explorer is also outstanding at finding linked AutoCAD files that are otherwise hidden inside of a particular view,” he says.

Bob Palioca, President, Ideate Inc., says, “We know how critically important it is to keep Revit models clean and lean, especially as AEC projects become so massively complex. We are proud to able to contribute so significantly to our clients’ time savings and quality control by creating Ideate Explorer.”

Ideate has published “Ideate Software Presents: Spotlight on WRNS Studio” success story online. Download the WRNS Studio success study to learn more.

Ideate BIMLink and Ideate Explorer carry a five star rating, for managing Revit models, on the Autodesk Exchange Apps Store, and are available with a non-commercial free trial.

For more information, call 888.662.7238, or contact sales@ideatesoftware.com.

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in Revit software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Platinum Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Autodesk’s highest level of authorization.

About Ideate Software
Ideate Software allows Revit users to have unprecedented control over their data. Ideate BIMLink, Ideate Explorer for Revit, and Ideate Sticky were all developed to solve persistent problems in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) workflows. Ideate Software solutions enable Revit users to save time, increase accuracy, improve project deliverables, and elevate design.

Autodesk and ATC are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates, in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

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Ideate, Inc.’s Own Sash Kazeminejad Selected as North American Top ATC Instructor for 2015

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, 4/28/2015 – Ideate, Inc., Autodesk Developer Network member for more than 20 years – and Autodesk Platinum Value Added Reseller – announced today that Senior Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) Application Specialist and LEED AP Sash Kazeminejad has been named Autodesk Authorized Training Center (ATC) Top Instructor – North America – for 2015.

Sash achieved status as an Autodesk Certified Instructor in 2014. Since then, nearly 170 students have submitted evaluations attesting to his enthusiasm, expertise and effectiveness, resulting in an overall Instructor Performance Quality rating of 99%. This designation identifies him as the top instructor in North America among the 635 active Autodesk-certified instructors.

When asked how he plans to maintain or even improve upon his success as an ATC instructor Sash says, “it’s simple: focus on being an effective teacher and ensuring that students are receiving value. Continue to bring others along in their learning of the tools and techniques. Also, be someone that students trust as an advisor. The goal is to be able to pass on knowledge that goes beyond normal, basic instruction.”

Sash enjoys teaching and learning about the details deep within software. He notes that mastering any software can take years and that he is always learning something new. A natural curiosity, matched with a strong commitment to never take the process for granted or take things at face-value, set him up well to constantly be adding to his own skill set and to effectively help others build theirs'. His enthusiasm for instruction – and his ability to effectively present and diagnose problems – clearly serve him well and set him on the path to this achievement.

Ideate Training Manager, Jennifer Anderson, emphasizes, “People believe in and respond to Sash’s approach because he has the industry experience and the expert knowledge of the software. Students go out of their way to evaluate Sash as an instructor and Sash goes out of his way solicit those evaluations and that feedback. In our training at Ideate, our commitment is to the success of individual students.” Sash Kazeminejad’s recognition as Top ATC Instructor is a testament to that focus.

Ideate President, Bob Palioca says “Sash has significant expertise in AEC applications and important experience in the field of architecture, in particular. His ability to demonstrate and teach sophisticated workflow solutions in a highly relatable and effective way makes him a valued resource to our Autodesk training program and to the Ideate team more broadly.  We are delighted for Sash and congratulate him for this accomplishment.”

About Ideate, Inc. 
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Platinum Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, one of Autodesk’s highest levels of authorization.

Ideate Software allows Revit users to have unprecedented control over their data. Ideate BIMLink, Ideate Explorer for Revit, and Ideate Sticky were all developed to solve persistent problems in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) workflows. Ideate Software solutions enable Revit users to save time, increase accuracy, improve project deliverables, and elevate design.

Autodesk, Autodesk Revit and ATC are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. Microsoft Excel is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

Ideate, Inc. Named Autodesk Reseller of the Year

SAN FRANCISCO, California, 3/19/2015 - Ideate, Inc., an Autodesk, Inc. Platinum Value Added Reseller, today announced that 3D design, engineering and entertainment software industry leader, Autodesk, Inc., has named Ideate, Inc. its North American Reseller of the Year for FY15 at the Autodesk One Team Conference, an annual sales and leadership event held this month in Las Vegas, NV, that brings together Autodesk employees and partners from around the world. This is the top honor awarded annually to an Autodesk partner and recognizes Ideate, Inc. for its outstanding achievements in delivering world-class service and technical expertise to customers throughout fiscal year 2015, exceeding expectations in sales, growth and other key measures.

 “It is rewarding and gratifying to be acknowledged as Autodesk Reseller of the Year.” said Bob Palioca, President of Ideate, Inc. “This honor exemplifies our obligation to overwhelmingly delight our customers and our commitment to our communities’ success.” 

"The award celebrates Ideate’s outstanding performance and Autodesk expertise,” said Steve Blum, senior vice president of Worldwide Sales and Services, Autodesk. “Ideate consistently shows leadership as an Autodesk partner and creates innovative solutions that help make customers more efficient, competitive and innovative.”

Autodesk’s global channel partner network includes more than 2,000 partners, all of whom support customers across a number of industries, such as architecture, engineering and construction; manufacturing; automotive; utilities and government; telecommunications; games; television and film. 

About Ideate, Inc. 
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Platinum Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Autodesk’s highest level of authorization. 

Autodesk and the Autodesk logo are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates, in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

Ideate, Inc. Publishes Ideate Software Presents: Spotlight on ZGF

SAN FRANCISCO, California, 03/17/2015–Ideate, Inc., a multi-decade veteran Autodesk Developer Network member and Autodesk Platinum Value Added Reseller today announced the publication of its latest “Spotlight on” customer success profile featuring ZGF Architects LLP and its use of Ideate Software including Ideate BIMLink and Ideate Explorer for Revit.

Ideate Software is a set of far-reaching Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) data management tools that help the Revit community clean up models, delete problem items, analyze files quickly, enhance data flow speed and accuracy, increase collaboration, minimize workflow interruptions, improve project deliverables, and elevate design.

Trevor Taylor, BIM Director, ZGF Portland, Oregon, acknowledges the place Autodesk Revit holds in helping the firm meet contemporary challenges and compete in a changing world of design, and the importance of Ideate Software as projects grow more complex. As Taylor explains, “We used to share drawings; now we share data. And that data doesn’t sit still. Ideate BIMLink improves on Revit’s ability to constantly review and adjust project information.”

Taylor uses Ideate Explorer for model auditing, power selection and model maintenance. He says, “A Revit model can be a bit of a Black Box, thus making forensics and problem-solving difficult. With Ideate Explorer for Revit, we can quickly locate, modify and even remove items that would be otherwise invisible to even the most persistent Revit expert.”

Bob Palioca, President, Ideate Inc., says about the trend within the AEC community toward increasing complexity and demands for shared data, “Our customers depend on our Revit-based solutions to enhance, improve and streamline their Revit workflows. It is our delight to fulfill and consistently exceed these customer expectations.”

Ideate has published “Ideate Software Presents: Spotlight on ZGF” online. Download the Customer Spotlight Success Study.

Ideate BIMLink and Ideate Explorer for Revit each carry a five star rating on the Autodesk Exchange Apps Store, and are available with a non-commercial free trial. For more information, call 888.662.7238, or contact sales@ideatesoftware.com.

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Platinum Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Autodesk’s highest level of authorization.

About Ideate Software
Ideate Software allows Revit users to have unprecedented control over their data. Ideate BIMLink, Ideate Explorer for Revit, and Ideate Sticky were all developed to solve persistent problems in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) workflows. Ideate Software solutions enable Revit users to save time, increase accuracy, improve project deliverables, and elevate design.

Autodesk and ATC are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates, in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

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Richard Taylor Joins Ideate Software as Technical Evangelist

SAN FRANCISCO, California, 03/3/2015–Ideate, Inc., an Autodesk Platinum Value Added Reseller, today announced that Richard Taylor has joined Ideate Software as a Technical Evangelist. Richard comes to Ideate Software after being employed by Autodesk for more than a decade, his most recent position there was as Revit Platform Feature Product Manager. His vast expertise in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and 3D visualization software, combined with his extensive knowledge and experience in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industries will help to expand the Ideate Software business and its BIM-focused solutions.

Ideate Software is a set of far-reaching Building Information Modeling (BIM) data management tools that help the Revit community clean up models, delete problem items, analyze files quickly, improve speed and accuracy in data flow, increase collaboration and overcome repeated workflow interruptions.

All Ideate Software, from the first release for Revit 2011, undergoes rigorous testing to ensure that it is robust and stable, and all Ideate Software BIM data management solutions updates are meaningful and frequent.

Ideate BIMLink lets users pull information from a Revit file into user-friendly Microsoft Excel and push volumes of precise, consequential BIM data from Excel into Revit with speed, ease and accuracy. Ideate Explorer for Revit allows users to extensively manage Revit models. Ideate Sticky for Revit combines the ease and flexibility of Excel spreadsheet editing with the convenience of a sticky note.

Bob Palioca, President of Ideate, says of the addition to the Ideate Software team, “Richard Taylor brings significant experience as a facilitator and presenter in the global AEC software and design industry. His notable ability to demonstrate and teach sophisticated technical software solutions in a highly relatable way across many different disciplines, cultures, and levels of experience makes him a valued technical evangelist for Ideate Software. We are delighted to welcome him.”

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Platinum Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Autodesk’s highest level of authorization.

About Ideate Software
Ideate Software allows Revit users to have unprecedented control over their data. Ideate BIMLink, Ideate Explorer for Revit, and Ideate Sticky were all developed to solve persistent problems in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) workflows. Ideate Software solutions enable Revit users to save time, increase accuracy, improve project deliverables, and elevate design.

Autodesk and ATC are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates, in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

Ideate, Inc. Appointed as an Autodesk Platinum Tier Partner in Recognition of Industry Expertise, Services, and Customer Satisfaction

SAN FRANCISCO, California, 02/10/2015–Ideate, Inc. today announced that Autodesk has promoted the firm to Autodesk Platinum Tier Value Added Reseller. Ideate is now part of a small number of Autodesk Value Added Resellers worldwide that have achieved Platinum Tier status.

“Autodesk Platinum Tier acknowledges the instrumental role these companies play in delivering  excellent design solutions, products and services,” said Steve Blum, senior vice president of Worldwide Sales and Services at Autodesk. “Whether through the services they deliver, or their notable customer satisfaction scores, these partners constantly show that they can provide exemplary services and capabilities to their customers.”

Platinum partners provide their customers with best-in-class full solutions from pre- and post-sales support, consulting, training, implementation, and customization. Ideate, Inc. works closely with Autodesk to help customers design, simulate and analyze their ideas, increase operational efficiencies and maximize their return on investment in Autodesk software solutions.

As a Platinum partner, Autodesk solutions source Ideate Inc. helps the AEC professional community fully implement the expanded Autodesk solution set. Ideate provides technical training and consulting resources to meet industry specific customer needs and also hosts various in-person and virtual events to help educate its clients, providing them with updated information in the latest industry trends and technologies.

"To be appointed Autodesk Platinum Partner is both rewarding and gratifying. The Platinum designation tells us we have been more than trusted advisers to Autodesk users for nearly three decades. We are fulfilling our commitment to overwhelmingly delight our customers while we help them achieve success,” says Ideate President Bob Palioca.

About Ideate, Inc.

Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Platinum Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, Autodesk’s highest level of authorization.

Autodesk and ATC are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates, in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

Ideate, Inc. Launches Ideate Sticky, a New Autodesk Revit Add-in Software Solution

San Francisco, CA, 2/3/2015–Ideate, Inc., a multi-decade veteran Autodesk Developer Network member and Autodesk Gold Value Added Reseller today announced the availability of a new Autodesk Revit add-in Ideate Software solution, Ideate Sticky for Revit, designed to work with Autodesk Revit 2015 and Autodesk Revit 2014. 

Ideate Software is a set of far-reaching Building Information Modeling (BIM) data management tools that help the Revit community clean up models, delete problem items, analyze files quickly, improve speed and accuracy in data flow, increase collaboration and overcome repeated workflow interruptions. 

Ideate Sticky combines the ease and flexibility of Microsoft Excel spreadsheet editing with the convenience of pasting a sticky back note. This unique utility enables users to create and post Excel worksheet contents within the Revit project while matching the Excel table cell content, format, and style with highest possible visual fidelity. 

“Revit schedules are the perfect tool to represent the data behind Revit elements, but until Ideate Sticky for Revit, organizing and formatting essential non-BIM data was frustrating and time consuming,” says Ideate Director of Software Development Glynnis Patterson. “Ideate Sticky provides a live link to Excel inside of Revit, along with a convenient way to display tabular data inside of Revit. Our customers’ needs for an ahead-of-the-pack text editor capability motivated our development of Ideate Sticky.” 

“More and more our Revit-using AEC customers need ways to present and share information for cross-discipline collaboration,” says Bob Palioca, President, Ideate Inc. “We are delighted to introduce Ideate Sticky, another important solution to help our customers succeed.” 

Ideate Software developers surveyed customers who tested Ideate Sticky about how many stickies they anticipated using on a per project basis. Dan Dankert, CAD/BIM Manager, Mead & Hunt, Madison, Wisconsin, answered, “10 to 30.” Similarly, when asked about ways customers envisioned distributing Ideate Sticky within their companies, Nancy McClure, BIM Consultant, Aperte Design, San Francisco, California said, “…Network license available to all users,” and Glen Walson, BIM Manager, Interface Engineering, San Francisco, California, said, “…distribute to all Revit power users… the individuals who do the most production work per team.” 

A non-commercial trial of Ideate Sticky software is available at http://ideatesoftware.com/download/. For more information, call 888.662.7238, or contact sales@ideatesoftware.com.

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Gold Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, one of Autodesk’s highest levels of authorization.

Ideate Software is a comprehensive set of far-reaching BIM data management tools. Ideate BIMLink powers the “I” in BIM, allowing users to pull data from an Autodesk Revit file into Microsoft Excel for fast and precise editing, and push the data back into Revit with equal ease. Ideate Explorer for Revit lets users search, filter, quantify and select to easily manage the 100,000+ elements in a Revit model. Ideate Sticky for Revit combines the ease and flexibility of Excel spreadsheet editing and the convenience of posting a sticky note. All three solutions help Autodesk Revit users solve problems in AEC workflows and help the Revit community leverage BIM to its fullest advantage.

Autodesk, Autodesk Revit and ATC are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. Microsoft Excel is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

This post was originally published on the Ideate Software Blog.

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Ideate, Inc. Publishes Ideate Software Presents: Spotlight on Aperte Design

San Francisco, CA, 11/25/2014–Ideate, Inc., a multi-decade veteran Autodesk Developer Network member and Autodesk Gold Value Added Reseller today announced the publication of its latest “Spotlight on” customer success profile featuring Aperte Design and its use of Ideate Software. Of specific focus is the firm’s use of Ideate BIMLink. 

Ideate Software is a set of far-reaching Building Information Modeling (BIM) data management tools that help the Revit community clean up models, delete problem items, analyze files quickly, improve speed and accuracy in data flow, increase collaboration and overcome repeated workflow interruptions. 

San Francisco, California-based Aperte Design, headed by Revit Specialist BIM consultant Nancy McClure, CSBA, LEED AP, works with multiple design teams to define workflow processes that leverage software tools to streamline tasks, which in turn allows teams to spend more time focusing on their designs. On projects ranging from government research labs to grand scale transit-oriented housing developments, McClure integrates Ideate BIMLink into many workflow processes, from early stage Programming through to documentation data management. 

McClure notes that with the help of Ideate BIMLink, she is shifting teams away from isolated design tasks to workflow methods that leverage data more globally. She explains, “Ideate BIMLink breaks down key category barriers in Revit, allowing project data to be broadly referenced without duplication and risk of error.” 

Bob Palioca, President, Ideate Inc., says about the shift away from tedious, error-prone data entry toward higher value design tasks, “It is a source of great delight to know our Revit-based solutions are helping our customers continually improve and enhance their Revit workflows. “ 

Ideate has published “Ideate Software Presents: Spotlight on Aperte Design” online. Download the Customer Spotlight Success Study.

Ideate BIMLink carries a five star rating on the Autodesk Exchange Apps Store, and is available with a non-commercial free trial. For more information, call 888.662.7238, or contact sales@ideatesoftware.com.

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Gold Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, one of Autodesk’s highest levels of authorization. 

Ideate Software is a comprehensive set of far-reaching BIM data management tools. Ideate BIMLink powers the “I” in BIM, allowing users to pull data from an Autodesk Revit file into Microsoft Excel for fast and precise editing, and push the data back into Revit with equal ease. Ideate Explorer for Revit lets users search, filter, quantify and select to easily manage the 100,000+ elements in a Revit model. Both solutions help Autodesk Revit users solve problems in AEC workflows and help the Revit community leverage BIM to its fullest advantage.

Autodesk, Autodesk Revit and ATC are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. Microsoft Excel is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

This post was originally published on the Ideate Software Blog.

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Ideate, Inc. Announces New Ideate BIMLink for Revit Improvements

San Francisco, CA, 11/05/2014–Ideate, Inc., a multi-decade veteran Autodesk Developer Network member and Autodesk Gold Value Added Reseller today announced the availability of Ideate BIMLink 2015.1 and Ideate BIMLink 2014.4. These Ideate Software solutions bring an array of enhanced features [video] customers have requested and are designed to work with Autodesk Revit 2015 and 2014 respectively.

Ideate Software is a set of far-reaching Building Information Modeling (BIM) data management tools that help the Revit community clean up models, delete problem items, analyze files quickly, improve speed and accuracy in data flow, increase collaboration and overcome repeated workflow interruptions.

This recent Ideate BIMLink update lets BIM and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) managers, project leaders, facility managers and other users access, analyze, extract and edit BIM data with speed, ease and accuracy. Users can quickly pull volumes of information from a Revit file into user-friendly Microsoft Excel and round-trip the data with equal ease.

Ideate Director of Software Development Glynnis Patterson says, “These new releases encompass the performance improvements industry professionals have requested. We make sure our BIM data management solutions are robust and our updates meaningful and frequent.”

Bob Palioca, President, Ideate Inc. says of the new Ideate BIMLink release, “As our AEC customers encounter heightened needs for collaboration across disciplines and greater client demands, we respond. This point release is evidence of our ongoing commitment to our customers’ success.”

Customers who tested the new features offered comments on the most valuable aspect of Ideate BIMLink to their workflows. Tay Othman, Job Captain for Gensler, noted greatest value in “Automation and extending Revit capabilities.” Erica Spicer, Project Coordinator at PDR said, “Having the model be the central up-to-date single point of truth for all schedule-related information.” And Dan Morrison, VDC Engineer for BPi - BGC POS International acknowledged, “Being able to manipulate data in ways that can’t be done within Revit.”

Ideate BIMLink carries a five star rating on the Autodesk Exchange Apps Store, and is available with a non-commercial free trial. For more information, call 888.662.7238, contact sales@ideatesoftware.com, and for support, contact support@ideatesoftware.com.

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM).  As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Gold Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, one of Autodesk’s highest levels of authorization. 

Ideate Software is a comprehensive set of far-reaching BIM data management tools. Ideate BIMLink powers the “I” in BIM, allowing users to pull data from an Autodesk Revit file into Microsoft Excel for fast and precise editing, and push the data back into Revit with equal ease. Ideate Explorer for Revit lets users search, filter, quantify and select to easily manage the 100,000+ elements in a Revit model. Both solutions help Autodesk Revit users solve problems in AEC workflows and help the Revit community leverage BIM to its fullest advantage.

Autodesk, Autodesk Revit and ATC are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. Microsoft Excel is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

This post was originally published on the Ideate Software Blog.

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Ideate, Inc. Named Autodesk Q1 Reseller of the Quarter

SAN FRANCISCO, California, 7/15/2014 - Ideate, Inc., an Autodesk, Inc. Gold Value Added Reseller, today announced that 3D design, engineering and entertainment software industry leader, Autodesk, Inc., has named Ideate, Inc. its North American Reseller of the Quarter for the First Quarter 2015 Autodesk fiscal year.

Reseller of the Quarter is chosen from more than 200 partners throughout North America, based on conscientious customer support, use of best practices, industry knowledge and dedication, and exceptional sales growth. The honor underscores the Ideate, Inc. commitment to customer satisfaction and its attention to customer loyalty. The Reseller of the Quarter designation is in part an acknowledgement of Ideate experiencing 72 percent increase in software license sales to customers in AEC and media & entertainment (M&E) in addition to significant new license and Autodesk Subscription sales.

“Ideate earned the title of Reseller of the Quarter because of its commitment to customers” said Bill Griffin, vice president worldwide channel sales, Autodesk. . “Ideate demonstrates best practices as it drives the adoption of our software. We’re looking forward to our continued collaboration to address the growing and changing needs of our joint customers.”

Ideate Inc., an Autodesk solutions source for nearly three decades, helps the AEC professional community fully implement the expanded Autodesk solution set. Ideate provides technical training and consulting resources to meet industry specific customer needs and also hosts various in-person and virtual events to help educate its clients, providing them with updated information in the latest industry trends and technologies.
    
"To be acknowledged as Autodesk Reseller of the Quarter North America confirms our success in achieving our mission to help our customers succeed and win even more new business. Our customers' success is our yardstick to measure our own success," says Ideate President Bob Palioca. "To overwhelmingly delight our customers with complete solutions brings us satisfaction, so this designation certainly delights us.”

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Gold Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, one of Autodesk’s highest levels of authorization.

Autodesk, the Autodesk logo and ATC are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. 

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Ideate, Inc. Publishes Spotlight Success Study Featuring Sparling and Ideate BIMLink

San Francisco, CA, 05/21/2014– Ideate, Inc., a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer and Autodesk solutions provider offering quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry with a special focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM), today announced the publication of the latest Ideate Software customer success profile, “Ideate Software Presents Spotlight on Sparling: How Sparling is Solving Large Project Challenges with Ideate BIMLink.”

Sparling, a specialty consulting firm with offices in Washington, Oregon, and California, offers electrical engineering, technology design consulting, audio/visual consulting, and acoustical and lighting design services. The firm provides design excellence and market leadership to fuel smart decisions in a wide variety of markets, from healthcare to biotech, education to entertainment. With a 67-year legacy of leadership, the firm’s 130 seasoned professionals work collaboratively to deliver design excellence in their own backyard and on a national stage.

The firm is maximizing its BIM advantage with Ideate BIMLink – an Autodesk Revit tool that improves information flow, facilitates collaboration and makes managing BIM data faster and easier. R. Robert Bell, Design Technology Manager, Sparling, Lynnwood, Washington says of Ideate Software, “We are using Ideate BIMLink with great success to simplify several tedious tasks. Ideate BIMLink lets us provide a far higher level of service than we would be able to achieve without it.”

Large project challenges highlighted in the success profile include ways Sparling has been eliminating warnings in 10 minutes with Ideate BIMLink vs. “forever” without it. Also, see how the Sparling team is making asset tagging easy in a large datacenter project, and how they have been able to accommodate sudden and unexpected changes in mid-stream quickly, even for projects of enormous size and complexity.

Bob Palioca, President, Ideate Inc., says, “We are delighted to see how our Ideate Software customer Sparling is creatively using our robust, resilient Revit data management tool, Ideate BIMLink. We celebrate their success as they gain a competitive edge and fulfill the sophisticated needs of clients on the cutting edge of BIM design technology.”

Ideate has published “Ideate Software Presents: Spotlight on Sparling” online. Read the Customer Spotlight Success Study.

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM).  As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Gold Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, one of Autodesk’s highest levels of authorization.

Ideate Software is a comprehensive set of far-reaching BIM data management tools. Ideate BIMLink powers the “I” in BIM, allowing users to pull data from an Autodesk Revit file into Microsoft Excel for fast and precise editing, and push the data back into Revit with equal ease. Ideate Explorer for Revit lets users search, filter, quantify and select to easily manage the 100,000+ elements in a Revit model. Both solutions help Autodesk Revit users solve problems in AEC workflows and help the Revit community leverage BIM to its fullest advantage.

Autodesk, Revit and ATC are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. Microsoft Excel is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

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Ideate, Inc. Publishes Study in Success on PYATOK Winning New Business with Revit

SAN FRANCISCO, California – 5/6/2014 - Autodesk Gold Value Added Reseller Ideate, Inc., a solutions provider offering quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, today announced the publication of a new Study in Success, “Rapid Revit Implementation Fast-Tracks PYATOK to Winning New Business.”

Ideate customer PYATOK, an Oakland based architectural firm established by Michael Pyatok, FAIA in 1984, first began considering the advantages of Autodesk Revit and the full power of parametric modeling about a decade ago. The firm designs award-winning multi-family housing for families, students, and seniors with emphasis in affordable, college and university housing, and market-rate developments throughout the western US. PYATOK focuses on up-to-the-minute green building technologies, cutting-edge modeling processes, and participatory design methods. The firm’s principals decided that a trickle-in effect would not be effective, so they made the decision in 2007 to bring in Ideate, Inc. to facilitate the transition.

Curtis Caton, Principal, PYATOK explains, “Ideate was a big part of our support getting started with Revit, and it still is. Using Revit allows our team to spend more time thinking and getting into creative problem solving. Fast track implementation started paying off right away.”

The Study in Success addresses an array of PYATOK projects from their earliest in the Revit implementation process to the most recent. The sampling reveals how PYATOK used Revit to overcome compressed schedules, respond to unforeseeable project demands related to programmatic changes, surmount neighborhood pressures, and resolve inconsistencies between 2D design engineering partners and PYATOK.

Bob Palioca, President, Ideate Inc. says, “The PYATOK transition to Revit delivered an advantage that continues to propel this firm forward with a competitive edge for winning new business. Helping PYATOK implement Revit quickly so the firm can succeed beyond expectation has been especially gratifying.”

Ideate has published “Rapid Revit Implementation Fast-Tracks PYATOK to Winning New Business” online. Download the Study in Success at www.ideateinc.com/ideas/case.html

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Gold Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, one of Autodesk’s highest levels of authorization.

Autodesk, ATC and Revit are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. 

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Ideate, Inc. Publishes Spotlight Success Study Featuring NBBJ Seattle and Ideate Software

SAN FRANCISCO, California – 03/25/2014 – Ideate, Inc., a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer and Autodesk solutions provider offering quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry with a special focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM), today announced the publication of its latest “Spotlight on” customer success profile featuring NBBJ Seattle and its use of Ideate Software.

NBBJ is a design practice of worldwide scope with locations in Beijing, Boston, Columbus, London, Los Angeles, New York, Pune, San Francisco, Seattle and Shanghai. The firm’s comprehensive, end-to-end services include architecture, environmental graphics, interior design, landscape architecture, lighting design, planning and urban design. Important projects in the US Pacific Northwest have included the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in Seattle, Washington, the Seattle Children's Bellevue Clinic and Surgery Center, Bellevue, Washington, and Amazon.com at Denny Triangle, Seattle, Washington.

The firm has been using Ideate Software, a comprehensive set of Autodesk Revit tools, to maximize its BIM advantage by improving information flow, facilitating collaboration and making the management of BIM data faster and easier. Richard Sachs, Project BIM Coordinator, NBBJ, Seattle, Washington says of Ideate Software, “I have been using both Ideate BIMLink and Ideate Explorer for Revit heavily.” He adds that without these advantages, “I would not be able to do my job as project BIM lead.”

The firm has used one Ideate Software solution, Ideate BIMLink, for the sequential labeling and scheduling of 9,000 curtain panels. The fact that the solution is automated and accurate via Microsoft Excel has saved the firm valuable time.

NBBJ has used a different Ideate Software solution, Ideate Explorer for Revit, to create selection sets for the panels. As Sachs explains, “Revit allows you to select all Instances by Type, but it’s more difficult to select all the Types of one Family; Ideate Explorer makes short work of it.” 

BIM project auditing is another Ideate Explorer for Revit use. With it, Sachs says, “I can easily find CAD imports that Revit gives you no easy way to find. I can select all the room separation lines and move them to the correct workset.”

Bob Palioca, President, Ideate Inc., says, “Our customers are relying on our robust, resilient Revit tools to power them through their most complex, sophisticated BIM projects. We are delighted with the success of our Ideate Software customer, and gratified to learn of our role in making data management on a vast scale much easier for NBBJ.”

Ideate has published “Ideate Software Presents: Spotlight on NBBJ Seattle” online. Download the Customer Spotlight Success Study at http://ideatesoftware.com/ideatebimlink/success/

About Ideate, Inc.
Ideate, Inc. is a leading Autodesk Authorized Developer with 25+ years’ experience in software development and specific focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). As an Autodesk solutions provider, Ideate has offered quality software, training, support and custom consulting services to the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries since 1992. Headquartered in San Francisco, California and operating Autodesk Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) in California, Oregon and Washington, Ideate is recognized as an Autodesk Gold Partner for Architecture, Engineering and Construction, one of Autodesk’s highest levels of authorization. 

Ideate Software is a comprehensive set of far-reaching BIM data management tools. Ideate BIMLink powers the “I” in BIM, allowing users to pull data from an Autodesk Revit file into Microsoft Excel for fast and precise editing, and push the data back into Revit with equal ease. Ideate Explorer for Revit lets users search, filter, quantify and select to easily manage the 100,000+ elements in a Revit model. Both solutions help Autodesk Revit users solve problems in AEC workflows and help the Revit community leverage BIM to its fullest advantage.

Autodesk, Autodesk Revit and ATC are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. Microsoft Excel is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.    

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Expectation vs. Outcome

In today's consulting world, a lot of talk is made about setting expectations. "We have to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients". This phrase is discussed with the same certainty as looking out the window and seeing if it is raining or not. My experience with expectations, is that it is far more difficult; closer to deciding if it will rain during my vacation this summer.

"Expectation - a strong belief that something will happen or be the case in the future." 

Expectations require discussion, analysis, synthesis, and some push back to the client to properly "set the expectation". It is important to realize that one of the reasons the client uses consulting services is that they have a need (however undefined the need has been stated). Defining and clarifying that business 'need' is the key to setting expectations. The business need is what is the driving force for customers to reach out and look for consulting.

SETTING EXPECTATIONS

Some Strategies:

• Proactive - If the client has to voice their expectations, you already have lost some credibility ground with the client.
• Early - have the expectation discussion early. Don't believe that everyone understands, no matter how many times you have interacted with this client, I believe in setting expectations during pre-sale meetings (much to the account manager's dismay/objections).
• Firm - don't agree to something your company cannot do or a time schedule that cannot be met. 
• Decision Maker - your only true client is the person who writes the checks. Solving the decision maker's business issue(s) is the priority. 
• Communicate - in writing where possible. This is hard for some to find time in this cell phone/texting world. If communication is done well, there is a start of a checklist to customer satisfaction. 

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

Now comes the harder part, meeting and exceeding expectations. I learned from Bob Palioca that by setting realistic expectations, exceeding expectations is an achievable and sustainable goal. His point is that if I promise 110% if what is achievable and I reach 99.9% of that goal, then my customer will be upset. However, if I promise 98% and deliver that same 99.9%, my customer will be delighted. (I met and exceeded the customer's expectations.)

"Anger always comes from frustrated expectations." -Elliot Larson

Like the last good dinner at a restaurant you had, what the clients desire is a predictable outcome at an agreed upon price. 

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David Haynes, NCARB, PMP, LEED AP
Ideate Director of Consulting

David is a Registered Architect, Project Management Certified Professional, who previously had his own architectural practice and was President of a commercial design-build construction company for 15 years. A graduate of University of Arizona, he has worked as an Architect, contractor, developer and as a national construction manager for a national retailer. David currently provides business process analysis, virtualization and change management solutions for AEC clients across the United States involved in the design and building industry. Follow David on Twitter: @dhaynestech 

Get it. Know it. Use it.

This post was originally published on David’s blog Connecting the [Data]…