AP3D Consulting

Information Technology

Computer Aided Design

Business Management Consulting

Information Technology

Information technology has become an essential tool for the architectural design, interior design, and real estate management professions. Determining appropriate hardware specifications, integration, and management of computer resources are critical to a successful and productive computer system. The goals must be to create a system which will benefit both the design process and design product of a firm, a system which is cost-effective, and a system which grows and adapts to business needs.

Our services include complete computer system integration, hardware and software installation, networking, email/groupware systems, software customization, training, and on-going support.

These topics include:

Strategic Planning: assessment, analysis, and budgeting

Local Area Network (LAN): development and management

Infrastructure design: network switches, firewalls, cabling, Internet access

Servers: file storage, print, and email/groupware

Workstations: application installation, upgrades, and problem resolution

Virtual Private Networks (VPN): remote access

Anti-Virus systems

Data backup

For firms with no in-house IT management or support, AP3D can provide a completely out-sourced solution. This can range from periodic maintenance visits to full-time on-site support. For firms with existing in-house IT staff, AP3D can provide help with special projects or upgrades.

Computer Aided Design

The ability to create digital databases which represent built environments allows designers, builders, and facility managers to work with construction documents in ways that have not been previously possible. Computer aided design (CAD) systems, automated business management tools, and digital communication provide professionals with robust tools to design, construct, and manage buildings. This includes the accurate production and modification of drawings, the rapid studying of design alternatives, and the analysis of building data.

With a staff that includes professional, experienced architects, AP3D Consulting specializes in CAD system specification, integration, customization, and support.

For firms looking to develop or upgrade their use of CAD system technology, AP3D can begin by assessing the specific needs and goals of the company, and from this information produce a strategic plan for a cost effective hardware and software solution. This plan can be used to develop hardware and software system specifications, which we coordinate with a selected vendor, comprehensive CAD standards, and customized software functionality.

Business Management Consulting

AP3D provides consulting to design firms on business management topics, including assessment reports, accounting software implementation, project management, accounts receivable/invoicing, and contract administration.

Assessment Reports. This unique service can greatly benefit design firms of all sizes, providing both a broad overview of the business operations of the firm as well as specific information and tools that can be used to more effectively manage a practice.

After collecting information based on interviews with principals and accounting personnel, and an extensive review of the administrative operations of the firm, a report is prepared outlining and evaluating the status of the current business methods and practices. Recommendations will be made on ways these practices can be enhanced or improved.

We will review accounting software functionality and accounting techniques, including invoicing, accounts receivable, accounts payable and financial reporting. Also included is an assessment of techniques used for budgeting and forecasting, overhead determination and allocation procedures, firm ratios and project management reporting.

This Assessment Report will be an extremely valuable product, giving the firm an awareness of how their management practices and process measure up to industry standards and providing the firm with tools to save time and money and improve the growth potential of their practice.

Accounting/Project Management Software. Training of personnel to most effectively use current software or assist in software conversions and training.

Project Management. Work with Accounting and Professional staff to increase the effectiveness of project financial management techniques by initiating or improving reporting and budgeting procedures and through the use of training and seminars for management staff.

Accounts Receivable/Invoicing. Development and streamlining of systems for invoicing and accounts receivable to produce shorter turn-around times.

Contract Administration. Work with management and staff to develop improved practices.

General Services. Our other financial management services include the development of budgets and goals for your practice, the use and analysis of ratios to proactively manage the firm, and transition planning and development. Our operational services include reviews of employee Policy Manuals and benefit plans and FLSA compliance evaluations.