How it works

We follow British Standards and industry standards such as the Institution of Structural Engineers' Standard Method of Detailing Structural Concrete. We do all our detailing using specialist software which reduces the likelihood of errors and allows changes to be made easily. For concrete detailing, we use CADS-RC (www.cads.co.uk) which has been specifically developed for the UK market. The bar bending schedules are produced automatically from the completed drawing. Our drawings and schedules are customized with our client's title block and logo and graphic preferences.

Exchange of Information

On small jobs it is sufficient to exchange drawings by e-mail. On larger jobs, we prefer to set up an FTP server, a password protected web site where both parties can upload information such as drawings, comments and forms. This web space is hosted by a specialist UK company or can be hosted by the client.

All queries are recorded in a RFI form (Request for Information) that we maintain up to date. This allows both parties to keep track of all communication in one location. We do not normally issue paper copies of our drawings, unless you have asked us to include this in our price.

Detailing Instructions

To start detailing, we need the following:

	Structural General Arrangement drawings (GA's) as Autocad 2005 or earlier versions. Microstation files should be converted to Autocad (.dwg). This should include all plans, sections and details, and a .ctb file if special graphic conventions are requested.
	Detailing instructions from the engineer, either as sketches, A4 calculations sheets, marked-up copies of the GA's or output from a design software package. If most of the instructions are issued in one go at the beginning, then they can be issued as a paper copy which we will send to India overnight. If the information is issued in stages, then it is best to issue it as PDF files that are e-mailed directly to India.
	Concrete pour layout if more than one pour per floor
	We ask our clients to fill in a Project Briefing Sheet, a form asking for general information on the project such as which British codes we should follow, kicker height, minimum cover, maximum length of bars available on site and what issue procedures you like us to follow.

Issue of Information and revisions

Teczoom drawings prepared with CADS-RC can be read by anyone with Autocad software. Bar bending schedules can be issued as PDF files, Excel files (which allow you to make changes later) and SDI files which can be used electronically in the manufacturing process.

If the project changes after completion of the drawings, revisions will be charged on an hourly basis. The clients can also make their own revisions using Autocad. However if you do not have a CADS-RC licence, the schedule will not be updated automatically so you will need to amend the excel sheet manually.

Time Difference

Mumbai is 5.5 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and 4.5 hours ahead during summer daylight saving time. Therefore our Mumbai office opens when it is 5am in London. To make best use of this, we ask our clients to reply to queries and issue information by the end of their day so the people in Mumbai can get working immediately when they arrive.