Insights to Horizon
Launched in late 2012, Horizon software is now fully fledged within the timber frame software market. “Without doubt a key factor in the take-up of Horizon is the Revit platform that it has been developed on, Autodesk’s flagship CAD technology, delivering a complete set of unrivalled features for digital building design,” says Paul Flounders of Wolf Systems. “Horizon extends this feature set further still, providing specialist automation tools for timber frame detailing work.
“Linking to Wolf’s truss and easi-joist® software, Horizon provides the designer with a full interface to completely detail all the core, engineered timber design elements for a building’s structure.
“Since its launch date, it has quite literally been a continuous process of training, installation and support for each customer embracing Horizon. We’ve increased numbers within our customer services team to ensure a robust internal skills-base and additionally, members of our design office and helpdesk have been trained to assist with incoming enquiries.”
So why have manufacturers chosen Horizon?
Better visualisation from better technology!
It made sense for us to upgrade to Horizon for two main reasons. Firstly we are increasing our design capability and have recently appointed an additional timber frame designer. Secondly, if we are to remain at the forefront of our industry, we must stay abreast of the technology.
“A lot of our customers are self-builders and they represent a growing market sector. Few of them are building professionals though, so it’s very helpful for them to be able to visualise interactive images of how their project will look, at every stage of construction. Horizon helps us do exactly that.”
David Himmons, Director, Wyckham Blackwell
“Other companies within the Wolf Group have an interest in Horizon’s development,” continues Paul. “Again, I believe this is largely driven by the interest in Revit, but also in the industry-wide traction gained in Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a collaborative, more efficient way of working. “
BIM is an important driver!
“BIM was a major factor in Fforest Timber Engineering’s adoption of Horizon software. It’s all about the trades using the same platform with the intention of working more collaboratively and with Horizon the functionality and capability’s there – it’s almost as if the industry needs to work more efficiently now.
We’re currently talking to a construction company in Cardiff about a school building project, their first BIM contract. Horizon means we’re well equipped to fulfil the timber frame requirements of this particular build and in the longer term, have great potential for future BIM projects. The potential probably outweighs the need at the moment, but this software – definitely an upgrade – puts us in a great position.”
Dave Hanney, Senior Designer, Fforest Timber Engineering.
Staying ahead of the technology curve!
“As a 94 year old company, we needed to embrace new methods of design and construction. Horizon was the most cutting-edge piece of software out there and also the most user-friendly; based upon Revit, the industry standard and a platform we knew and understood.
Moving up from dated architectural drawing tablet software, the flexibility and transparency offered by Horizon takes away the, to coin a phrase, ‘dark art’ of building design. Everything it offers, from structural elements to whole project documentation, helps us take the next steps towards modern ways of working.”
James Scott, Director, Scotts of Thrapston
Expand your horizons
Click through to our website to discover more about Horizon, contact paul.flounders@wolfsystem.co.uk or access the Horizon video form Click Here