layers vs "standards"

let's be real about this. Does anyone (other then the engineers) really use
the AIA standard layers??

I've had the pleasure of working with several well know (in the area) timber
framers and construction companies over the past 1/2 dozen years and ALL of
them have used there own layer format. usually not more then 12 or 15 common
sense layer names.....I just don't understand the need to have so many when
when 12 or 15 will do just fine......

Paul Caruthers

 

I also must admit, in the 10 years I've been doing this, I have never worked
for a "Real Arch. firm"

Paul

 

Yes, quite useful when appling layer filters. Just takes a little getting
use to.

 

We don't, and I have yet to see a set of architectural drawings in our part
of the country that does. Those who argue that it's simpler (than *what*,
for heavens sake?) just haven't thought the problem through, IMO. We've
been using a hierarchical layering system since R9, and it still serves us
well today. We have no need for "layer filters," because we can select and
manage whole groups of layers with a couple of simple wildcards.

As you say: a good commonsense naming convention does the job very nicely.
___

 

I guess it depends on the kind of work you do. I can't imagine doing a
residential remodel with only 15 layers. In fact, at it's most simple, my
standard ( a variation on the AIA CLG) uses about 25 layers for all new work
'plan' drawings, including ceiling plans, simple electrical and lighting
plans, and roof plans. Site info add more layers, as do structural drawings.
And a remodel slightly more than doubles this, with Existing versions of all
the base layers, and a few Demo layers as well.
One of the main reasons I use so many layers is graphics. I can produce all
sorts of 'drawings' from the same basic data, with lots of control over
lineweight, linetype, freeze/thaw, etc. I think it helps to make drawings
that are easy to read and understand.
But I can see where a 'framing' plan that a construction company produces
would not need more than 15 layers, and I can also see where all those
layers probably could conform to the AIA CLG naming convention, and
everything else is left out. Personal preference at that point, and if you
already have a custom system in place that works, why change. Other than
ease of training new hires, and perhaps fewer questions from consultants,
another issue that builders maybe have less problem with than architects...

Best,
Gordon