CASE Tool 5-3: Managing the Use of Computer Software in the Structural Engineering Office

Computers. engineering software and BIM modeling software are used in most structural engineering offices.  It is often a struggle to manage and supervise these tools. Software availability is in constant flux, software packages are continually updated and revised, and few software packages fully meet the needs of any office.CASE Tool 5-3 is intended to assist the structural engineering office in the task of managing computers and software.  This tool is a two-level approach.  The first portion of the tool is a white paper outlining concerns and issues related to the use of structural engineering software and computers.  This paper is directed at principals and managers in firms with the intent of encouraging action within each firm to develop management procedures.  The second portion of the tool is a worksheet that will allow firms to thoughtfully address current computer/software use as well as issues that should be addressed for effective management.  This tool is not intended to provide answers to all of the various related concerns or to be a template for a management policy, but is intended to be a tool for each firm to assess and address its specific needs.