Avoiding Mistakes, Saving Money: The Case for Virtual Design and Construction
by Michael Lingerfelt, AIA
Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) is another tool in corporate architects' toolbox to better integrate design practices, construction processes, and project management systems. While not a panacea for new project constraints such as increasingly compressed schedules and tighter budgets, the talent, tools, and training are are available for any firm to begin reaping the benefits of VDC today.

The New Architect: Keeper of Knowledge and Rules
by Jonathan Cohen, FAIA
Today's information technology offers an unprecedented opportunity to integrate the fragmented processes of building design, product manufacturing, and construction into a highly interactive enterprise. Architects could put themselves at the center of that transformation by taking on the role of project information manager.

The Case for Virtual Building
by Jonathan Cohen, FAIA
Building owners would be much better served if the entire chain of information—from design and construction to operations, maintenance, and disposition—could remain in one seamless digital format, accessible over the Internet. This is the core idea behind the virtual building model. Early adopters of this process will gain a distinct competitive advantage and will have the opportunity to shape emerging standards and influce the direction of the real estate industry for years to come.

For BIM's Sake
by Martin Fischer
Building information modeling (BIM) will continue to be discussed quite a bit until BIM becomes part of our daily toolset. Consider the use of BIM in your daily practice, not for BIM's sake but for the project's, the architecture profession's, and your sake.

Stanford Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Online Certificate Program
The Stanford University Center for Professional Development offers architecture, engineering, and construction professionals a certificate program in VDC, including the theory, methods, and use of computer modeling to manage all aspects of design-construction projects.