What does CIAT think about CAD?
CIAT sees CAD as a tool to enable efficient architectural design, alongside other tools such as drawing boards and models. CAD software has progressed massively since its introduction and modern object driven packages can facilitate efficient and innovative design when used in conjunction with other computer software, such as spreadsheets, email and schedulers and hardware such as webtablets and PDAs. CAD software and its associated packages and hardware are becoming more intuitive and easier to use. This does not however mean that the only training you require is for the software. CAD software can only represent and communicate your design to others; it does not understand parameters such as material interaction or performance and prescription specification. A full understanding of building technology and the science of architecture is required to make full and effective use of the software. Consequently, CIAT does not approve of or endorse CAD training in isolation.
