With over 8 years of experience as a BIM and VDC manager for construction management companies, coupled with 3 years as a design professional, Andres has witnessed the transformative power of digital practice management in the construction industry. By integrating cutting-edge technology and software programs, he has successfully enhanced project planning and execution across various construction phases. As the AEC industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for designers and builders to embrace and master the use of different software programs. This will enable them to effectively implement digital practice management in design and construction workflows, ultimately leading to improved collaboration, proactive issue resolution, and efficient planning. By leveraging these advancements, we can exceed project and client expectations, while staying within budgets and schedules, and pave the way for a smarter and faster future in construction.

Joung Taek Yi is a registered architect in the State of New York and a member of the AIA.

His background in digital practice management involves overseeing BIM at BKSK for 3 years, participating as a BIM committee member at Magnusson Architecture and Planning for 3 years, and providing guidance on the initial significant BIM project at Gluckman Tang.

Some of his notable projects and achievements include: multifamily housing developments in New York City and New Jersey with BKSK Architects; the three-phase Linden Terrace project in Brooklyn, NY and the Andrews Avenue Senior Housing development with Magnusson Architecture and Planning; Hongshan 6979 and K11 Select projects with Laguarda Low Architects; and the Exhibition Facility and Headquarters in Fort Worth, TX and the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum New Exhibition Building Expansion with Gluckman Tang.

Susy Mikhail holds a Bachelor of Architecture from The City College of New York (CCNY), is a Licensed Architect in New York and Virginia, NCARB Certified, and LEED GA Certified.

She has worked on several notable projects and accomplishments throughout her career. These include the Child Care Center at the NFATC campus for the Foreign Service Institute in Arlington, Va., the 120th Street mixed-used multifamily housing project in New York City, and her successful support of over 20 architecture and interior firms with Revit/BIM implementation through 4 ideal design. Currently, she is managing the creation of Firm Standards for three office projects.

Susy has extensive experience in digital practice management. As the co-founder and services director of 4 ideal design, a digital practice management consulting firm, she specializes in BIM implementation firmware. Her firm helps architecture firms establish efficient Revit workflows and processes, enabling them to create concise documentation using the Revit models. Susy and her team also provide training and on-boarding support for staff, assess their Revit skills, and offer customized training tutorials. Additionally, they provide ongoing project support, troubleshooting issues, and reviewing models for best practices and proper maintenance.

The importance of Digital Practice Management:

Digital Practice Management (DPM) is a critical part of any successful firm. It not only impacts the efficiency level of production, but it also touches on the quality of the drawings and models executed by the staff. My goal is to educate professionals on the importance of a successful DPM environment. From principals and firm owners to the young professionals learning how to navigate the architecture world. I believe having an effective DPM, a firm is guarantee to see efficient and productive results.

Associate Dean Daniel Harper has primary oversight of the undergraduate programs. His responsibilities will extend into aspects of every degree program. Harper brings a wealth of experience as a designer, an academic administrator, a researcher, a professor, and an expert in evidence-based design. He has a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration from Ohio University, and a Master of Interior Design from Harrington College of Design. A design educator since 2006, he served as assistant dean for the College of Fine Arts at Ohio University, and most recently, was the professor who chaired the interior architecture programs there. He has published extensive research, including a co-authored book on makerspaces in academic libraries called Academic Library Makerspaces: A Practical Guide to Planning, Collaborating, and Supporting Campus Innovation. His current research is focused on interior designers as leaders. He has presented his research at conferences all over the world. He began his career as a design practitioner for 14 years in commercial and healthcare design. He’s also an award-winning textile artist who creates art quilts. “I believe in leadership as service,” says Harper. “I’m here to support our students and the faculty through the rollout of a new curriculum, initiatives to increase and strengthen diversity and inclusion, program accreditation/reaccreditation, new program development, expanding study abroad…just to name a few priorities.” 

Tim Chogovadze works as an architectural designer specializing in exterior facade design for multi-family residential buildings. He utilizes digital tools to create presentations and documentation for his projects, from initial concepts to construction stages. Additionally, he has experience in landscape architecture and has collaborated on cultural projects with an international architecture firm in Italy and The Caribbean.

Tim strongly believes in using an array of techniques, ranging from sketching, drawing, Photoshop, 3D modeling, rendering and animation to create cohesive, strong and clean presentations as well as help develop a consistent and clear design language.

At NYSID, Tim teaches intro-level software courses for Photoshop, InDesign, and Presentation Techniques III, which focuses on advanced 3D modeling and rendering.

Importance of Digital Practice Management:

We have the ability to design using traditional tools like paper, lead, and colored pencils. Our medium could be anything from mylar and bond paper to something as simple as a napkin. Alternatively, our medium could also be digital, utilizing software and mouse clicks. Technology doesn’t hinder the creative thinking process, but rather amplifies it, provided we have a good understanding of how to use the tool effectively.

With over a decade of architectural design experience, Mr. Cramer is an architect and Certified Passive House Designer who has successfully collaborated between architecture and engineering. His extensive expertise spans various project types, including residential, commercial, institutional, corporate interiors, and retail. His specialization lies in building enclosures and sustainable design, encompassing bespoke facade systems, parametric and 3D modeling, thermal analysis, energy modeling, envelope investigation, facade renovation, rehabilitation, and fabrication. Mr. Cramer's technical prowess allows him to provide innovative and informed design solutions and analysis to project teams and clients alike.

Some of his most notable projects include the Highbridge, The Rise, Cooper Park Commons Building 2, and Bishop House with Magnusson Architecture and Planning (MAP). Additionally, he has worked on projects for Buro Ehring, such as Albright Knox Museum Expansion, MoMA Expansion, United Therapeutics, Smith College Nielsen Library, Pier 17, and Manor 82.

Mr. Cramer holds several credentials, including being a Registered Architect in Washington, DC and New York State, a Certified Passive House Designer (PHI), a member of the AIA, and NCARB.

Digital Practice Management Experience:
At MAP, he was a member of the BIM committee, collaborating with the BIM consultant 4iD to enhance the firm's drawing and modeling standards. At Buro Ehring, he worked internally with the firm principal to develop drawing standards and typical details.

Importance of Digital Practice Management:
Mr. Cramer firmly believes that digital practice management is crucial for the long-term success of architecture and interior design firms. Having experienced the challenges of starting a company without any standards or digital practice management, he recognizes its significance in ensuring efficient, consistent, and effective work processes. By minimizing risk, maximizing profitability, and delivering high-quality end products to clients, digital practice management serves as the foundation for professional firms.