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       Computer Systems
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Computer SystemsThe Company has invested heavily in computer technology for all sections of the office. Through a continual upgrading process the Company has a powerful combination of computer software packages for analysis, design, draughting, costing and dynamic modeling and simulation.The administration section, accounts, CAD section and mechanical and electrical sections are networked to provide a cohesive and structured internal and external system with full e-mail and internet facilities utilising broadband delivery transfer speeds of up to 100Mb/sec. All staff and engineers have access to a central IT server provided over a Cat 5e structured cabling system. Centralised electronic storage of all administration documents, i.e. correspondence, project files, project specifications, contract details, gives direct and immediate access to such information to all staff. Similarly, central storage of all CAD drawings allows easy access by engineers to current plans for all projects using AutoCad and Voloview. The Invu electronic file management system, through which all incoming and outgoing mail and email is electronically stored, is immediately and simultaneously issued to all personnel requiring access. Staff have access to colour printers and an A0 plotter via the network. All engineers have immediate access to technical documentation, British Standards, HTMs and the like via our subscription to the online I.H.S. This system is constantly kept up to date ensuring that engineers have current documentation at all times. Engineers produce engineering specifications using NES 'Specification Expert' which is updated on a continuous basis to ensure specification documents refer at all times to current standards. The Practice has committed to the development of its Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES) software system and is now one of only a few Practices to have the in-house capability to develop dynamic thermal models and natural ventilation strategies. We have now augmented this system with the ability to carry out SBEM (Simplified Building Energy Model) calculations, which has become an integral part of the new commercial building warrant process, and we can also produce Energy Performance Certificates. We also utilise Hevacomp for mechanical and electrical design. We are committed to ensuring that we keep at the forefront of technological advances, and assess our requirements on an ongoing basis. |