CAD Conversion and the Importance of QC
CAD conversion converts one CAD drawing to another. As such, it includes Scan-to-CAD, the conversion of paper drawings to 2D or 3D CAD, Raster-to-Vector Conversion, the process of converting scanned (raster) files to 2D CAD (vector) files, CAD Translation, the process of converting one CAD file type to another, for example, converting an AutoCAD file to a Microstation file, and 2D to 3D CAD Conversion, which requires converting 2D vector files to 3D files with depth. BIM Conversion adds building information to 3D drawings, enabling “cradle-to-grave” building management and maintenance. While each CAD conversion activity requires different skill sets and levels, they all require QC.
Quality control reviews all factors involved in a process or production. In this paper, we will discuss QC as it applies to CAD conversion.
CAD Conversion Quality Control requires specified control, intelligent job management, defined processes, reliable performance, and data and record integrity. CAD conversion quality control requires software knowledge, process skills, conversion experience, and personal integrity, motivation, and a desire to do a good job. Specific controls must be in place, including peer or superior reviews of each converted file and customer review and feedback to meet customer standards. If any of these are deficient, the final converted files’ quality is at risk.
Quality control in CAD conversion emphasizes testing and maintaining processes that guarantee the accuracy of the conversion, whereas quality assurance seeks to ensure that each drawing, 3D model, or BIM is an accurate CAD conversion representation to avoid or minimize issues that could lead to problems during construction or manufacture. QC is important when a construction or manufacturing company outsources its CAD conversion. Quality control issues are a top reason for not renewing a CAD conversion contract, especially for government agencies. Before outsourcing your work to a CAD conversion provider, find out how many government contracts they have.
It’s not enough for a CAD conversion service provider to guarantee “the highest quality and accuracy” or that “files are checked and rechecked.” Any CAD conversion outsource company committed to accuracy will have processes and personnel in place to ensure all CAD standards are followed and all documents are converted accurately. Download our free white paper to learn about CAD conversion and quality control.