Resource Manager. Access models and parts from many sources, view information about them, search for them by name, and organize them into folders (applause for this last item) through drag and drop (more applause).
More Beam Functions -- aka structural member object. Starting with a preliminary design, Vectorworks now has three modes for structures: column, beam, and freeform in concrete, steel, timber, and custom profiles. When an arc'ed beam is placed (with freeform tool), existing beam extend to meet automatically (applause). Beams can be edited in 3D space to create wave like shapes from steel members.
Irrigation -- new tools for analyzing irrigation designs, with catalogs from irrigation manufacturers, complete with specs, such as flow, recommended pressure. It will show the actual performance of the network based on the input (water under pressure).
Analytics -- like CIPs in other CAD programs, this tracks the commands users use to see which commands are used the most. I presume opt in will be optional.
Cloud Services -- this refers to their mobile (Nomad) and Web apps, as well as have servers do calculations. Previously available only to subscription users, now available to all customers. Subscribers now get 20GB of storage (a new high among CAD vendors) and access new features sooner. Non-subscribers get 2GB storage and use of Nomad mobile app, logging in with an existing Google or Facebook account.
VGM -- Vectorworks Graphics Module being developed since 2013 to use OpenGL to speed up displays. Now in 2017, the entire model (including 2D) is stored in the graphics board's memory. More information of detailed 2D drawings are displayed more quickly during zooming and panning. Users no longer need to wait for the image to finish updating before drawing some more (applause).
VR -- virtual reality and Web view technology preview. In the future, users will be able to walk around inside buildings after uploading the model, then viewing it inside a Web browser. It knows where floors, walls, and stairs are, so that you can navigate normally (applause). When displayed on a mobile device, you can move the iPad around to see around. Stereo view lets you put the phone inside a cardboard viewer.
In conclusion, the new ceo says that he sees many more improvements that could be added to Vectorworks. He wants to tap into emerging markets, keep the software's value pricing, expand into adjacent verticals, and encourage third-party developers. 70% of new features come from users.
...and that's it for the keynote. I plan to attend some of the educational sessions later today.
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