432 Interiors Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. of communication. For example, with a digital tablet, the designer can ■ take a photo ■ sketch a revised drawing over the photo ■ write a note on the photo ■ link a source for a new cabinet detail to an e-mail ■ upload both photo and link to the client and subcontractor for approval before ever leaving the site Quick, easy, and effective communication—all with a digital tablet—enhances the designer-client relation- ship. This digital process helps omit numerous errors and saves time that favorably reflects on a client’s bill. Computers are becoming smaller, lighter weight, and more powerful. The advantages of the computer are still the processing speed and memory needed to run large software programs commonly used in the construction and design industries. With cloud computing and file sharing, however, tablets are used more and more in design firms. If animations are used to communicate the design, computers are still needed. They offer the client an opportunity to view design revisions in “real time.” For example, if a designer is illustrating a walk-through of an interior space using a computer model, the client can view it and suggest “what if” scenarios. If the designer can make suggestions instantaneously using the soft- ware capabilities, the client can see the design modi- fied. As a result, the designer and client can make the final decision quickly. Again, this type of communica- tion enables the design process to move forward more rapidly, minimizing potential errors. Software There are many different types of software used in the architectural, construction and design fields. Some produce visuals that are construction related others are for presentation purposes. Software used for construction purposes includes computer-aided drafting (CAD) software which is a powerful tool in many industries besides design (for example engineers and landscape architects) on a global basis. Examples of such software include AutoCAD® and AutoCAD® Architecture by Autodesk®, Inc. STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Ajay Li. “As a design student, I have found that having access to technology programs like Revit, 3DS Max, and AutoCAD plays a vital role in the success of anyone who aspires to be a great interior designer. “Design programs are poetically programmed to showcase designers’ thoughts and ideas so that viewers can see exactly what the designer is visualizing. Every design program is unique and just as important as the other. I have found, however, that no other program can be as user friendly and customizable as AutoCAD. Although very basic, AutoCAD has the ability to create beautiful, custom, and even inspiring pieces that no other program can offer. AutoCAD allows the designer to tailor his or her ideas and even grow them into more intriguing pieces. I want to inspire viewers with my designs, and AutoCAD inspires me to be a better designer”. Sherilyn Yin. “As an international transfer student from Shanghai, China, I have a unique academic and life experience to share. Currently, I am participating in a double-degree undergraduate transfer program between East China Normal University (ECNU) and Colorado State University (CSU). “Before I transferred to CSU’s Interior Design program, I had been studying at ECNU for two years in Environmental Art Design (a fi eld related to Interior Design). I am a quick learner, a dedicated starter, and a passionate challenger and I excel in responsibility, achievement, positivity, and fairness. “I also worked as a summer intern at Gensler, Shanghai, for three months. During that time, my unique academic background and desire for knowledge encouraged me to not only strengthen my skills and develop my design, but also to become a creative designer in the future.” Design Perspectives