Sonders + Condoc Hybrid Approach?

[[email protected]]

Hey Condoc aficionados-

I just watched the 2-part video presentation by Nick Sonders from this year’s SketchUp 3D Summit. As always, I was really impressed with the coherence of his approach to Sketchup + Layout workflow. And I’m trying to wrap my head around the key differences between his approach, versus the Condoc Tools approach.

One thing that seems very attractive to the Sonders workflow is the comprehensive project template he uses: where all the .skp models and .layout files are all pre-linked with scenes and styles. And when starting a new project, one just swaps out the placeholder component (main building model) with the new project model.

I also really appreciate all the tools Mike has built to help streamline and facilitate efficiency while working in Sketchup. So here’s my question: is there a workflow that combines the best of these two systems? Specifically: is it possible to build a template project with both Sketchup and Layout files that are all pre-linked (using Condoc Tools). And then build new projects using these pre-linked templates?

From all my research, Sonders and Brightman are the two top contributors in terms of developing comprehensive workflows that allow  architects and designers producing construction drawings in real-world workflows to use Sketchup and Layout optimally. And it makes me wonder how to combine the best of these two methods. Any thoughts from this community?

[Ruben Benitez]

When i started using Sketchup/Layout as my main design and documentation tool 10 years ago I started with the Sonders method. Then i tried ConDocs and the ConDoc workflow and I’ve never looked back. I use it 100%. I have a couple template projects I start from that are all based in ConDocs. I don’t use predefined scenes because ConDocs takes all the work out of it and trying to do so typically makes more work. The ConDoc drawing set contains many of your defaults and your standards if your invested in customization for your style of output which it sounds like you are. My layout file has all my sheets with the appropriate views on them. They are all referenced to my template skp file. I rename the skp when I start my model and create all my scenes with ConDocs. Do a ConDocs scene save update and when I’m ready to start my layout I re-path my SKP models reference path and then I start stretching views to fit the project.

I’ve consulted foe some designer/architects who use the Sonders method and have yet to find a simple way of creating CD’s with his system thru ConDocs. Too many tags and nested groups/components. I’ve typically retagged them for ConDocs use. All the tags, groups and components used in his system make it a real challenge

[[email protected]]

That definitely addressed the heart of my inquiry. From your explanation, you seem uniquely qualified to comment on the pros and cons involved.

Can you explain how the Sketchup and Layout templates you start with in your workflow using Condocs saves you time and effort? Rather than just starting each project from scratch.

Does your Sketchup template have any pre-populated tagged geometry for reuse or as placeholders? Or is it mostly the Layout template with pre-made pages? Or are you saying you have pre-generated views already setup that you just update? Something like what you’re describing is exactly what I am wondering about is possible. Whatever clarification you’re willing to offer would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks again Ruben-

[Ruben Benitez]

Starting with a good. solid clean template saves me time. in layout all my sheets are setup, with the appropriate seen sets, annotation and or linework depending on the sheet. My sheet order is always the same and I never change it. For the most part my scenes in layout are close enough to stretch and move into the correct location. Every now and then I’ll export a scene set from SKP to the ConDoc Drawings scrapbook and drag onto the sheet. Scenes such as section are generated new with every project, they change position location all the time.

I based my template on a project that I felt was pretty solid.  My SKP model file always has the same name but a prefix based on project/job number. That SKP base file has all my typical ConDocs construction document scenes for plans. Elevations and sections are always generated new. Trying to move those section planes around in the model is time consuming. If any of plan scene set aren’t working for any reason I delete them and regenerate them and export them with ConDocs.

As for annotation I key note everything. all my general and key note blocks are MS Word RTF flies. So all my block notes are external and referenced onto the sheet. MS Word is more forgiving and easier to create noted/numbered lists. My schedules are external XLS files, referenced into layout and and modified in Excel.

I actually haven’t started a file from scratch in quite some time. If this approach is something you peruse just remember that any custom content and customization of ConDocs files has to be managed. Especially when Mike updates the software.

Hope this helps

 

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