Individual Research contributions to Group project

28/02/2025

I proposed the topic for the group project, explaining its functions and features. I have recorded minutes to meeting, ensuring all ideas from team members were accurately noted. I expanded on each member's ideas, providing reasoning and justifications for their inclusion. Additionally, I created the table of contents for our report, structuring the key sections to maintain organization and clarity.

4/03/2025

For research, I utilized ChatGPT to gather background information on LiDAR and Sonar, exploring their functions and features. I also checked the common hearing ranges for hearing-impaired individuals to determine how auditory signals can be used in traffic systems. This researched aimed to enhance safety measures, particularly for jaywalkers and individuals with disabilities waiting at red lights. 

7/03/2025

In my research, I looked into how AI can analyzes pedestrian adjusts traffic signals based on real-time traffic flow. By processing data locally, AI can react faster. LiDAR helps map and detect pedestrians, and combining it with sonar data improves accuracy. I've also looked into cities that use AI-driven signals that change based on traffic conditions. I also explored ways to alert impaired individuals and the pros and cons of integrating cameras, and assessing whether LiDAR and sonar alone can provide sufficient accuracy and clarity to enhance pedestrian safety without the need for cameras.

10/03/2025

Format the technical report. 

21/03/2025

Our team did mock presentation and took note of the feedback given and improved our speech. After presentation, I went to read the feedback given to me during the actual presentation in order to improve myself for the future oral presentation.

04/04/2025

Double check the whole technical report for grammar, and reformat the table of content and citation to APA 7 using ChatGPT. Write critical reflection and other possible engagement contribution. 

Reader Response Final Draft

Autodesk Revit (2025) is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software that is widely used in the architects, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for 3D modeling, design visualization, and project collaboration, enabling professionals to plan, design, and manage building projects efficiently. According to the same website, one of Revit's key features is its parametric modeling capabilities, which ensure that any changes made to the model automatically update all associated elements, maintaining consistency and accuracy throughout the project lifecycle. Additionally, its features facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration, allowing architects, engineers, and contractors to work cohesively within the same platform. 

Despite Revit's broad adoption and contributions to project efficiency and collaboration, its high cost and complexity pose notable challenges for smaller firms, potentially limiting accessibility.

One major problem with Autodesk Revit is its subscription-based pricing model, which can be a significant financial burden for small firms operating within limited budgets (TrustRadius, 2024). The subscription fees for Revit are relatively high compared to other design software, creating a major obstacle for smaller firms looking to adopt BIM technology (TrustRadius, 2024). Additionally, implementing Revit often requires substantial investment in high-performance hardware to handle the software’s demanding processing requirements, further increasing costs. These financial constraints make it challenging for small firms to transition to Revit, especially when operating within strict budgetary confines. For many firms, these upfront and recurring expenses hinder technological advancements that could otherwise improve operational efficiency and competitiveness.

Apart from cost concerns, the complexity of Revit presents another significant challenge for smaller firms (ArchDaily, 2025). The software's steep learning curve requires a significant investment in training and skill development, which can be challenging for firms with limited resources (ArchIT, 2024). These factors may restrain smaller firms from fully embracing Revit, thereby restricting their access to advanced BIM capabilities. The software's extensive functionality, while highly capable, can be overwhelming for new users. Mastering Revit requires a significant time commitment to training and practice, potentially affecting efficiency throughout the transition phase. For small firms with a limited workforce, allocating time to learn new software can stretch resources and disrupt ongoing project workflows. This challenging learning curve may discourage small firms from adopting Revit, despite its long-term benefits.

However, despite these challenges, Revit offers a wide range of advantages that can enhance the operations of small firms. The software’s integrated 3D modeling and documentation capabilities optimize the design process, reducing the likelihood of errors and missed details. (Pinnacle Infotech, n.d.). Revit’s collaborative tools facilitate seamless communication among project stakeholders, which is crucial for efficient projects. Additionally, the ability to visualize designs in 3D enhances client presentations and decision-making, ultimately improving project outcomes. Revit's automation features also make it easier for people from different fields to work together. Revit automatically applies changes to one part of the model to the entire structure, thereby minimizing the risk of costly construction errors. These advantages make Revit a valuable tool for firms seeking to improve workflow efficiency, mitigate design conflicts, and ensure regulatory compliance within their projects.

To address the challenges associated with Revit's cost and complexity, small firms might consider alternative solutions such as Autodesk Revit LT. According to NTI Diatec (n.d.), Revit LT is a more affordable and streamlined version of the full software, offering essential BIM functionalities suitable for smaller projects. Although it lacks some advanced features, Revit LT provides a more accessible entry point for small firms looking to adopt BIM technology without incurring substantial costs. Additionally, investing in structured training programs can help firms navigate Revit’s learning curve effectively. Online courses, Autodesk-certified programs, and in-house training initiatives can equip employees with the necessary skills to use the software efficiently, minimizing disruptions during the transition phase. Companies may also consider hiring BIM specialists or consultants who can offer guidance on best practices, further optimizing the software’s use in real-world applications.

In conclusion, even though Autodesk Revit presents certain challenges for small firms, particularly regarding cost and complexity, the software's benefits in enhancing design accuracy, collaboration, and project efficiency are significant. By considering cost-effective alternatives like Revit LT and investing in appropriate training, small firms can overcome these obstacles and utilize the advantages of BIM technology. Strategically embracing Revit can improve workflow efficiency, simplify project management, and strengthen their market presence in the AEC industry.

(Used ChatGPT to check grammar.)

References

Autodesk. (2025). Revit. Retrieved February 12, 2025, from https://www.autodesk.com/products/revit/overview 

TrustRadius. (2024). Revit pricing 2025: Is Revit worth it? Retrieved February 12, 2025, from https://www.trustradius.com/products/revit/pricing 

ArchDaily. (2025). How to adopt BIM: 3 ways to approach your firm’s pilot project. Retrieved February 12,2025, from https://www.archdaily.com/790251/how-to-adopt-bim-3-ways-to-approach-your-firms-pilot-project 

NTI Diatec. (n.d.). Autodesk Revit LT software. Retrieved February 12, 2025, from https://ntidiatec.com/pages/autodesk-revit-lt 

Pinnacle Infotech. (n.d.). What is Revit? Its benefits & uses. Retrieved February 12, 2025, from https://pinnacleinfotech.com/what-is-revit-its-benefits-uses/ 

Reader Response Draft #4

Autodesk Revit (Autodesk Revit, 2025) is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software that is widely used in the architects, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for 3D modelling, design visualization, and project collaboration, enabling professionals to efficiently plan, design, and manage building projects. According to the same website, Revit's parametric modelling capabilities ensure that any changes made to the model automatically update all associated elements, maintaining consistency and accuracy throughout the project lifecycle. Its features facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration, allowing architects, engineers, and contractors to work cohesively within the same platform. 

Despite Revit's broad adoption and contributions to project efficiency and collaboration, its high cost and complexity pose notable challenges for smaller firms, potentially limiting accessibility. 

One problem with Autodesk Revit is the subscription-based pricing model of Revit can be a significant financial burden for small firms operating with tight budgets. The financial impact of implementing Revit is a primary concern for small firms. The subscription fees for Revit are relatively high compared to other design software, creating a major obstacle to entry for smaller firms (TrustRadius, 2024). Moreover, the implementation of Revit often requires investment in high-performance hardware to handle the software's demanding processing requirements, further escalating costs. Therefore, these financial constraints can make it challenging for small firms to make the switch to Revit, especially when operating within tight budgetary confines. 

Another problem other than cost is the complexity of Revit also poses challenges for smaller firms (ArchDaily, 2025). The software's steep learning curve requires a significant investment in training and skill development, which can be challenging for firms with limited resources (ArchIT, 2024). These factors may restrain smaller firms from fully embracing Revit, thereby restricting their access to advanced BIM capabilities. The software's extensive functionality, while highly capable, can be overwhelming for new users. Mastering Revit requires a significant time commitment to training and practice, potentially affecting efficiency throughout the transition phase. For small firms with a limited workforce, allocating time to learn new software can stretch resources and disrupt ongoing project workflows. Hence, this may be discouraging for small firms from adopting Revit, despite its long-term benefits. 

However, it's worth noting that Revit offers a wide range of advantages that can enhance the operations of small firms. The software's integrated 3D modeling and documentation capabilities optimize the design process, reducing the likelihood of errors and missed details. Revit's collaborative features enable smooth communication among project stakeholders, which is crucial for efficient project delivery. Additionally, the ability to visualize design in 3D can improve client presentations and decision-making processes. These benefits can lead to increased efficiency, improve project performance, and enhance client experience for small firms. 

To address the challenges associated with Revit's cost and complexity, small firms might consider alternative solutions such as Autodesk Revit LT. According to NTI Diatec (n.d.), Revit LT is a more affordable, streamlined version of the full Revit software, offering essential BIM features suitable for smaller projects. Although it lacks some advanced functionalities, Revit LT provides a more accessible entry point for small firms into the BIM workspace. Furthermore, engaging in specialized training programs can help firms in overcoming the learning curve associated with Revit, enabling them to utilize the software's capabilities more effectively.

In conclusion, even though Autodesk Revit presents certain challenges for small firms, particularly concerning cost and complexity, the software's benefits in enhancing design accuracy, collaboration, and project efficiency are significant. By exploring alternative versions like Revit LT and investing in appropriate training, small firms can overcome these obstacles and utilize the advantages of BIM technology to enhance their market presence in the AEC industry.

Reader Response Draft #3

Autodesk Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software that is widely used in the architects, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for 3D modeling, design visualization, and project collaboration, enabling professionals to efficiently plan, design, and manage building projects (Autodesk Revit, 2025). According to the same website, Revit's parametric modeling capabilities ensure that any changes made to the model automatically update all associated elements, maintaining consistency and accuracy throughout the project lifecycle. Its features facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration, allowing architects, engineers, and contractors to work cohesively within the same platform. 

Despite Revit's broad adoption and contributions to project efficiency and collaboration, its high cost and complexity pose notable challenges for smaller firms, potentially limiting accessibility. According to TrustRadius, the subscription-based pricing model of Revit can be a significant financial burden for small firm operating with tight budgets. Additionally, the software's steep learning curve requires a significant investment in training and skill development, which can be challenging for firms with limited resources (ArchIT, 2024). These factors may restrain smaller firms from fully embracing Revit, thereby restricting their access to advanced BIM capabilities. 

The financial impact of implementing Revit is a primary concern for small firms. The subscription fees for Revit are relatively high compared to other design software, creating a major obstacle to entry for smaller firms (TrustRadius, 2024). Moreover, the implementation of Revit often requires investment in high-performance hardware to handle the software's demanding processing requirements, further escalating costs. These financial constraints can make it challenging for small firms to make the switch to Revit, especially when operating within tight budgetary confines. 

The complexity of Revit also poses challenges for smaller firms (ArchDaily, 2025). The software's extensive functionality, while highly capable, can be overwhelming for new users. Mastering Revit requires a significant time commitment to training and practice, potentially affecting efficiency throughout the transition phase. For small firms with a limited workforce, allocating time to learn new software can stretch resources and disrupt ongoing project workflows. This challenging learning curve may discourage small firms from adopting Revit, despite its long-term benefits. 

However, it's worth noting that Revit offers a wide range of advantages that can enhance the operations of small firms. The software's integrated 3D modeling and documentation capabilities optimize the design process, reducing the likelihood of errors and missed details. Revit's collaborative features enable smooth communication among project stakeholders, which is crucial for efficient project delivery. Additionally, the ability to visualize design in 3D can improve client presentations and decision-making processes. These benefits can lead to increased efficiency, improve project performance, and enhance client experience for small firms. 

To address the challenges associated with Revit's cost and complexity, small firms might consider alternative solutions such as Autodesk Revit LT. According to NTI Diatec (n.d.), Revit LT is a more affordable, streamlined version of the full Revit software, offering essential BIM features suitable for smaller projects. Although it lacks some advanced functionalities, Revit LT provides a more accessible entry point for small firms into the BIM workspace. Furthermore, engaging in specialized training programs can help firms in overcoming the learning curve associated with Revit, enabling them to utilize the software's capabilities more effectively.

In conclusion, even though Autodesk Revit presents certain challenges for small firms, particularly concerning cost and complexity, the software's benefits in enhancing design accuracy, collaboration, and project efficiency are significant. By exploring alternative versions like Revit LT and investing in appropriate training, small firms can overcome these obstacles and utilize the advantages of BIM technology to enhance their market presence in the AEC industry.

Summary + Thesis + Supports #2

Thesis statement: Despite Revit's popularity, the software's complexity and cost pose challenges for smaller firms, potentially limiting its accessibility. 

Support #1: Smaller firms often operate on tighter budgets and may find these costs prohibitive compared to alternative design tools

Support #2: Revit has a complex interface and extensive features that require significant training for a new users

Support #3: Revit requires powerful hardware for smooth operation, further raising costs for firms with older or less advanced computer systems

Counterargument: Recent advancements in AI-driven design automation and clous-based collaboration tools are making Revit easier to use and more accessible for teams

Conclusion: While cost and complexity present challenges, Autodesk Revit remains an industry-standard tool due to its advanced features, collaboration capabilities, and automation. Smaller firms may still find workaround through affordable alternatives or leveraging advancements like AI and cloud technology.