Computer Aided Design Training Methods in Interior Design Professional Practice

Abstract

Objective The purposes of this study were to investigate computer aided design (CAD) training methods chosen by interior design professionals and to gather general information on CAD use by interior designers. Research Design A questionnaire was sent to 500 randomly selected members of the Institute of Business Designers (IBD) in December of 1993. The primary focus of the questionnaire was on CAD training methods used by interior design professionals, with questions relating to the hiring of new employees, training of existing employees, and the educational background of employees. In addition, the questionnaire asked general questions, including the number of employees, the type of work done by the firm, the years of experience using CAD, the computer software used, and the methods of updating the CAD system. Analysis Preferences in CAD training methods and usage were tabulated and are reported using frequency percentages. Key Findings Of the 259 valid respondents, 71% used CAD for design and drafting. The most common training methods included: training by software vendors, assistance from previously trained employees of the firm, and self–directed teaching using a manual or tutorials. Vendors played a very important role in the training of the first CAD user as well as those trained at a later date. In addition, 40% of firms using CAD for the first time hired a designer with existing CAD skills. Fifty–two percent of firms with previously trained CAD professionals used these people to train other members of the firm. Conclusion This research can be helpful to professionals searching for ways to approach the training of designers on CAD. In addition, educators and students can benefit by becoming more aware of the use of CAD and CAD training methods in the professional world.