Visuals

Today I would like to talk about visualization data. But not just any visualization. I would like to talk about floor plan visuals.

I find tremendous value in the ability to graphically display Space Data on a floor plan.

A CAFM/IWMS program typically has a drawing viewer. In my experience, these viewers have been pretty basic. For some, it almost seems that the viewer is an afterthought addition to the overall program. The viewers are basic limited, and not very customizable.

This is just my opinion and based on the programs I have used. I am sure there are some really great drawing viewers out there, I just have not experienced them yet!

To me, a good viewer should be able to easily display any mix of Space data parameters and queries based on the Space attributes (both text labels and hatching). It should be able to:

• globally change any and all colors and have the ability to override the colors for one off needs.
• have highlighting options should be easy to create and deploy.
• allow text labels to be repositioned.
• have extensive printing options.
• have bulk printing capabilities.
• stack and display multi-storied building floors in one view.
• have a dynamic title block / legend.

Also, a big win, in my book, would be the ability to build QC highlights.

• Want to see Missing Space Classifications in Red and everything else in Green? Done.
• Want to know which rooms have occupants in non-occupiable Spaces? Done.
• Want to know which Spaces recently had changes to *insert any Space attribute here*? Done.
• Need to see anything related to Space hatched/highlighted anyway you can image? Done.

Having data is great. And you can get a lot of actionable insight from tabular reports. But, being able to visualize Space data on a floor plan anyway you would like to slice it? Even better!

I would say, the same applies to Building or Site level data. I want to be able to see my portfolio data on a map and be able to easily create queries to display the data.

• Which Buildings have leases coming up? Done.
• Where are all the Office Buildings with capacities over 100 and only has 25% occupancy for the past two quarters? Done.
• Which Buildings are sitting out in the middle of the ocean (due to address/lat/long data)? Done.

Some of these asks seem like pretty easy asks in my book, or at least should be with todays technology.

• Are you running into similar problems?
• Do you have any good work arounds?
• Are you using a program that accomplishes everything you want?
• Do you have any other pain points not listed above?

I would love to hear about it! Tell us about it in the comments below!

And if you have an amazing tool, and can share, I am sure we would all love to see it. I know I would!

Thanks for reading and if you have any questions, do not hesitate in adding a comment or messaging me. I am always willing to help!