Proper Protocol for Cad Request

[Oremus]

I was wondering what you guys do when you need to request cad files? Do you put this in the GC's lap or do you call the architect direct? What is the *proper* route for this request?

 

[rbulsara]

Depends on where you fit in the system. What is your role? You can only ask your client or vendor.

Rafiq Bulsara

http://www.srengineersct.com

 

[skdesigner]

I usually preface with a phone call to the relevant cad document purveyor (Arch,Mech,Struc), and follow up with a requisition letter via e-mail, listing all the files I need. Most of the smaller firms are happy to help, but I've been noticing lately that quite a few of the larger, national and international firms are starting to charge (a) per drawing or (b) a flat rate for any required files.

If that's the case, I usually dump it on whomever we're subbed to, be it the plumber/tin basher or general contractor. They usually have a bit more weight to throw, and since I always write it into our standard bid letter that we require electronic files, they usually take care of business pretty quickly.

Of course, this is all on the assumption that you're a sprinkler designer looking for floor plans to lay out your system.

 

[Oremus]

I've noticed more and more architectural firms getting a little snotty and 'reporting' me (so to speak) to the GC for going over their heads, presumably,- that's why I ask. I've worked for companies that had the designers call the architect direct and others where the estimator/PM would hand you everything you need to get started. I've always taken it for granted that everyone went to the architect direct but then realized maybe I"ve been doing it 'wrong' all this time and the GC should be the one hit up for the electronic files??

 

[TravisMack]

My company is a design firm. We request directly from our clients. My understanding is that the sprinkler contractors are going through the GC to get the files. Many times, the HVAC contractor, plumbing contractor, sprinkler, etc..are requesting DWG files. By having the GC do it, the architect is able to send (1) set of DWG files to the GC for them to disperse to all of the subs. I understand why the architect firms are preferring that route.

Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC

http://www.mfpdesign.com