Cohousing-L Mailing List: Software For Designing/Managing Etc.

[Harry Pasternak (Harry_Pasternak]

Here is an good source for info on software for Mac users. Its a called the
"Macintosh Construction Forum". They put out a newsletter as well as an
annual " Builders Software Directory".

The bi/monthly newsletter evaluates the quality of all kinds of software
useful for managing, designing and building, includes tips on how to use
various software packages to do the jobs required to design and build as well
as other stuff.
One issue had a series on the Internet including an article entitled
"Internet...Is It Worth It..."---in the same issue was an article on
"Converting Scanned Drawings for CAD Use".

The Directory describes about 200 software packages, runs the entire gamut
from accounting to CAD to engineering to project management to real estate
property management to estimating etc. etc.. 
For example, one of the programs "DitchBuilder"..."which selects ditch
linings for initial conditions ans design flows...".
Another is "CavWal", "...masonary  cavity wall. Provides structural design,
expansion joint design, fire ratings, acoustical ratings, and durability
information..." (looks useful for the Volkswagen Cohousing Design Team).
Another is "Architect's Fee Estimator" .
Another is "Punch Box" "lets you create and manage project check lists or
punch lists...then download to your Newton. As you walk through your job site
(with your Newton) you simply check off items as you go".
Others: "Business Plan Toolkit", "BizPlanBuilder"  
 
Their phone numbers are 800 261 8645 or 202 263 3078

I don't know if a similar group exists for PC software.

Harry

Harry_Pasternak [at] tvo.org,Internet
Thousand Islands Institute
The Independent Centre For Housing Research and Education



- sent via an evaluation copy of BulkRate (unregistered).