01/06/2019
In the fast-paced world of digital design and engineering, seamless access to your Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software is paramount. For organisations working with Transport for London (TfL), maintaining this access is crucial for successful project delivery. This article delves into the support structure and resources available when you encounter difficulties accessing or utilising essential CAD tools like Bentley, Autodesk, and Solidworks.
The Role of the TfL CAD Support Team
At the heart of CAD support within TfL is the dedicated CAD Support Team. This expert group is responsible for the comprehensive management and support of key CAD software suites, including Bentley, Autodesk, and Solidworks. Their remit extends to ensuring that all organisations collaborating with TfL, particularly those involved in digital design and handover processes that require the submission of CAD data, have the necessary tools and assistance to succeed. They are the primary point of contact for any technical hurdles you might face.
When to Contact the CAD Support Team
It's not uncommon for users to encounter situations where they are unable to access or effectively use their CAD software. This could range from login problems and software glitches to more complex issues with platforms like Bentley ProjectWise or Autodesk Docs. When such scenarios arise, prompt and accurate support is vital. The TfL CAD Support Team is available to assist you during their operational hours.
Support Availability:
- Monday to Friday: 09:00 - 17:00
If you find yourself in a situation where your CAD software is inaccessible or not functioning as expected, the most direct route to resolution is to reach out via email. Send your query to [email protected]. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible regarding the issue, including any error messages you receive, the specific software you are using, and the nature of your work.
Raising a Service Request for Tailored Support
For more structured and trackable support needs, TfL utilises a service request system. This ensures that your specific requirements are logged, prioritised, and addressed efficiently. The type of support you require will determine the specific service request you should raise.
TfL ProjectWise Related Requests:
Bentley ProjectWise is a powerful document management and collaboration system often used in large-scale infrastructure projects. Issues related to ProjectWise can significantly impact workflows. The CAD Support Team can assist with a variety of ProjectWise-specific requests, including:
- Add users in ProjectWise: Onboarding new team members and granting them access to the system.
- Change user permissions: Modifying access levels for existing users to ensure appropriate data security and workflow management.
- Permission issues: Troubleshooting and resolving problems related to user access rights and restrictions.
- QA Enquiry/Issue: Addressing quality assurance queries or reporting issues found during the review process.
- CAD files workflow/Change state: Managing the lifecycle of CAD files within the ProjectWise environment, including moving them through different workflow stages.
- Delete files: Assisting with the secure and authorised deletion of CAD files when necessary.
- Deliverables Management | Transmit data to TfL: Guidance and support for the formal submission of project deliverables and CAD data to TfL.
- Seed and Tag set issues: Resolving problems related to project templates and metadata tagging conventions.
- Additional Folder structure: Assistance with setting up or modifying project folder hierarchies.
- PDF rendition support: Help with generating or troubleshooting PDF versions of CAD drawings.
- Free a CAD file: Releasing CAD files that may be locked or checked out, allowing other users to access them.
- Importing background data: Support for bringing external data into the ProjectWise environment.
- Search for CAD data: Assistance in locating specific CAD files within the ProjectWise repository.
Maximising Your CAD Proficiency with TfL Induction
For new CAD users joining projects with TfL, or for those who need a refresher on the specific systems in use, TfL offers a valuable induction program. This training is designed to equip you with the foundational knowledge required to navigate TfL's CAD environment effectively.
'CAD induction: Intro to ProjectWise, Question and Answers session'
This comprehensive 2-hour session provides new CAD users with an essential overview of TfL's CAD systems. It's an excellent opportunity to understand the core functionalities, best practices, and common workflows. The session is structured to include ample time for questions and answers, allowing you to address any specific concerns or seek clarification on particular aspects of the system. Attending this induction can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering basic access or usage issues and ensure you are productive from the outset.
Common CAD Software Issues and Solutions
While the TfL CAD Support Team is your primary resource, understanding some common issues can help in troubleshooting. Here's a look at typical problems and general approaches to resolution:
| Common Issue | Potential Cause | General Solution Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Cannot launch software | Licensing issue, corrupted installation, insufficient system resources | Check license status, reinstall software, ensure system meets minimum requirements, restart computer. |
| Software crashing unexpectedly | Corrupted files, incompatible plugins, driver issues, memory leaks | Save work frequently, update graphics drivers, disable third-party plugins, check for software updates. |
| Slow performance | Large file sizes, complex geometry, insufficient RAM, background processes | Optimise models, use efficient drafting techniques, close unnecessary applications, consider hardware upgrade. |
| Unable to open specific file formats | Missing file converters, outdated software version, file corruption | Ensure correct file translators are installed, update CAD software, attempt to re-save the file from the source. |
| ProjectWise login failure | Incorrect credentials, network connectivity issues, server problems, expired credentials | Verify username/password, check network connection, contact IT support if server issues are suspected, reset password if applicable. |
| Autodesk Docs access denied | Incorrect permissions, account issues, expired token | Verify your role and permissions within the Autodesk Construction Cloud project, contact your project administrator or the TfL CAD Support Team. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the best way to report a CAD software issue?
For immediate assistance, email [email protected]. For more structured support, raise a service request through the appropriate channels, especially for ProjectWise-related matters.
Q2: What are the operating hours for the TfL CAD Support Team?
The support team is available from 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday.
Q3: Can the CAD Support Team help with issues related to file management in ProjectWise?
Yes, the team can assist with a wide range of ProjectWise functionalities, including adding users, managing permissions, file workflows, and data transmission.
Q4: I'm new to TfL projects. Should I attend the CAD induction session?
Absolutely. The 'CAD induction: Intro to ProjectWise, Question and Answers session' is highly recommended for all new CAD users to familiarise themselves with TfL's systems and best practices.
Q5: What information should I include when reporting a problem?
Provide details such as the software you are using, the specific error message (if any), the task you were trying to perform, and any steps you have already taken to resolve the issue.
Conclusion
Accessing and utilising CAD software effectively is fundamental to your work with TfL. By understanding the support structure, knowing when and how to contact the CAD Support Team, and leveraging resources like the ProjectWise induction sessions, you can minimise disruptions and ensure your projects run smoothly. Remember, clear communication and detailed problem descriptions are key to receiving prompt and effective assistance.
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