Global design and BIM software developer Vectorworks Inc. introduced the Service Pack 2 update for Vectorworks 2017, which includes a multitude of general improvements to the software along with enhanced compatibility with Bluebeam Revu PDF creation, editing and markup software from Bluebeam Inc., a leading developer of technology solutions for the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries. This improved functionality will appear in the 2017 product line, specifically Vectorworks Architect, Landmark, Spotlight and Designer.
 
“Accessible open standards, flexible design processes and overall productivity gains are highly prioritized by the design community,” said Steve Johnson, vice president of product development at Vectorworks. “With this in mind, we teamed up with our partner and sister company within the Nemetschek Group, Bluebeam, to provide an optimized PDF export between our robust BIM software and Bluebeam Revu.”
 
As part of the new collaboration capabilities, Vectorworks 2017 has an improved PDF export functionality that now automatically includes Vectorworks space object data and attributes. Space objects can be used as dynamic, data-rich massing model components, supporting BIM workflows as part of the 2D/3D design process with parametric modeling. These data-rich PDF files can be readily imported by Revu users, saving time and increasing accuracy by eliminating the need to enter space object data manually every time an architect issues a revised set of construction drawings.
 
“When it comes to developing a seamless set of applications that work together, interoperability is everything," said Don Jacob, CTO at Bluebeam. "Vectorworks and Bluebeam worked together to tailor a solution for their users that streamlines data transfers, preserving valuable data in the process that Revu users can use to begin working with immediately.”
 
To learn more about the other Service Pack 2 performance improvements in Vectorworks 2017 software, read the Vectorworks Knowledgebase article. Current users can implement the Service Pack 2 updates by running the “Check for Updates command,” and those purchasing a Vectorworks 2017 license after the Service Pack 2 release should double check that it was downloaded too.