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ArchSmarter Podcast episodes
- Revit Automation Showdown: Dynamo vs. Python vs. C#Episode Summary
In this episode of The ArchSmarter Podcast, host Michael Kilkelly talks about Revit automation approaches, comparing Dynamo, Python, and C#. He explains the strengths and limitations of each method with real-world examples, helping listeners choose the right automation approach based on their skills and project needs.
Key Topics Covered- Why automation matters in Revit: time savings, increased accuracy, and customization
- Evolution of Revit automation tools since the API's introduction in 2005
- Detailed comparison of three primary automation approaches:
- Dynamo: Visual programming for non-programmers
- Python: Flexible middle ground through PyRevit and Python Shell
- C#: Maximum performance through macros and add-ins
Key Takeaways- Dynamo is best for Revit users without programming experience, BIM managers creating standardized workflows, and those new to automation.
- Python offers more flexibility than Dynamo while remaining accessible to those with basic coding skills.
- C# provides the highest performance and deepest integration, but requires more specialized skills.
Featured Example Cases- Using Dynamo to automate door hardware data entry for 3,000+ doors
- Implementing Python via PyRevit to validate MEP components against client standards
- Creating C# add-ins to automate standardized project setup for multiple disciplines
Resources Mentioned- ArchSmarter Toolbox: Free Dynamo scripts and Revit macros
- Building Coder website: History of Revit API
- Revit API Launchpad: Learning environment for C# and Revit API
- Launchpad Explorer: Free productivity tools built using Launchpad
Connect with Michael- Leave a review and subscribe to the podcast.
- Share with colleagues who could benefit.
- Connect with me on LinkedIn.
22 min - Building Better Tools: How One Architect Transformed His Company's Workflows Through Coding
In this episode, I speak with Tom Flaherty, a licensed architect and BIM Manager at a Texas-based residential design firm. We discuss his journey into Revit programming and how he developed custom add-ins that dramatically improved his company's efficiency.
Episode Highlights- Tom shares his background with programming, starting from childhood when his father (a self-taught programmer at Texas Instruments) taught him the basics
- How Tom's early interest in AutoLISP transitioned to creating Revit add-ins when his firm switched platforms
- Why Tom prefers developing C# plugins over Dynamo scripts for a better user experience and stability
- The challenges of "users not following directions" motivated Tom to create user-friendly tools that enforce standards
- How Tom's custom "Plan Flip" add-in reduced a 4-6 hour process down to less than a minute
- The evolution of Tom's role from Senior Associate to officially recognized BIM Manager
- Current projects Tom is working on, including a "super tagger" that works across multiple views and context-aware renumbering tools
- Advice for architects interested in learning to code: "Don't doubt yourself," and find learning resources that match your style
Time-Saving Tools Discussed- Sheet creation tool using Excel data to automate naming and numbering
- Plan flipping tool that handles door swings, elevation renaming, and sheet renumbering
- Schedule creation tool that rebuilds missing or deleted schedules
- A project cleanup tool that removes non-compliant elements and unused content
Connect With Us- Website: ArchSmarter.com
- LinkedIn: Michael Kilkelly
- LinkedIn: Tom Flaherty
30 min - Enrollment is Open for the Revit Add-in Bootcamp!
Enrollment is now open for the next cohort of the Revit Add-in Bootcamp. The Bootcamp starts on March 31st.
Click the link below to learn more and apply!
https://www.archsmarter.com/revit-addin-bootcamp
8 min - Code, Calculations, and Construction: A Structural Engineer's JourneyEpisode Description
In this episode, Michael Kilkelly interviews structural engineer Bob Barnett about his programming journey from early computing with punch cards and FORTRAN to creating sophisticated Revit add-ins that automate structural calculations. Bob shares how he uses code to eliminate errors in his work, his experiences learning the Revit API, and his approach to building custom tools that make his structural engineering practice more accurate and efficient.
Timeline- 0:00 - Introduction to Bob Barnett and the episode theme
- 1:49 - Bob's early programming background and history with computers from punch cards to modern systems
- 5:33 - Journey from AutoCAD LISP programming to exploring the Revit API
- 9:24 - The immediate satisfaction of problem-solving through programming versus long-term architectural projects
- 13:22 - Bob's dual focus: using automation to increase efficiency and eliminate human errors in structural calculations
- 17:35 - The filtered element collector as a breakthrough moment in understanding the Revit API
- 20:16 - Plans for future tools focusing on steel beams and composite members
- 23:27 - How AI assistance has transformed Bob's programming workflow and accelerated development
- 28:17 - Advice for engineers considering learning the Revit API
Key Takeaways- Bob focuses on automating calculations to eliminate transcription errors rather than just saving time.
- Working on one structural element at a time gives engineers better control and understanding than running large models.
- The Revit API provides access to all model data, allowing for direct calculation without manual data entry.
- Learning programming fundamentals enables building powerful custom tools specific to your workflow.
- AI tools can significantly accelerate the coding process, but you still need to understand programming basics.
Resources Mentioned- Revit Add-in Bootcamp
- Revit API Documentation
Connect with Us- Website: ArchSmarter.com
- LinkedIn: Michael Kilkelly
- LinkedIn: Bob Barnett
31 min - The Art and Science of Effective Learning: Insights from a Master TrainerEpisode Summary:
In this episode of the ArchSmarter Podcast, host Michael Kilkelly speaks with Michelle Rasmussen, a multidisciplinary learning expert with over 20 years of experience in instructional design and technical training. Michelle shares valuable insights on effective learning strategies, the evolution of software training, and how to implement successful training programs in the AEC industry.
Key Topics Covered:- Michelle's journey from Air Force civil engineering to becoming a training expert
- The neuroscience behind effective learning and information retention
- How combining multiple learning modalities enhances knowledge retention
- Adapting training methods to shorter attention spans
- Using breathwork to optimize learning capacity
- Strategies for creating safe learning environments
- The "fail fast forward" approach to learning new skills
- How AI is transforming training capabilities
Key Takeaways:- The Four Learning Modalities: Combining reading, hearing, seeing, and doing creates the strongest retention of new information. When teaching someone else what you've learned, retention increases to approximately 90%.
- Strategic Training Design: Break training into short, digestible chunks (5-10 minutes) and switch between different activities to maintain engagement and accommodate shorter attention spans.
- The Power of Repetition: Creating strong neural pathways requires repetition. Using quizzes and assessments isn't just for evaluation—it's another opportunity for reinforcement.
- Psychological Safety: Creating an environment where learners feel safe to make mistakes is critical for effective learning. As Michelle says, "You're either winning or learning."
- Breathwork for Better Learning: Increasing oxygen flow to the brain through simple breathing exercises can significantly improve learning capacity and help manage frustration during challenging learning moments.
Memorable Quotes:- "If you relate what you're learning to something you already know, you'll retain it much better because it creates neural pathways like a superhighway."
- "The biggest challenge, no matter what kind of training it is, is retention."
- "It's okay if you fail right now. I'm confident enough to fail at something and move forward."
- "Our attention span has gone down drastically. Something you could spend 20 minutes on at one point, now we're spending five or 10 minutes on."
- "You're either winning or learning."
Resources:- Michelle's website: CollaborativeCLAM.com
- Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn
Connect with Michelle:Visit Collaborative CLAM to schedule a free 30-minute consultation or explore training options. CLAM stands for Collaborative Coaching, Learning, And Mentoring.
Subscribe to the ArchSmarter Podcast:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review. Each week, we bring you practical insights to help you work smarter, not harder, in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry.
32 min - The ROI of Learning to Code: Building Value Through Custom Tools
In this episode, we discuss:
- James' journey from zero programming experience to creating powerful custom tools
- How his firm tracks and measures ROI on automation efforts
- The practical impact of custom tools on daily workflows
- The story behind saving 800 hours on a single project
- Tips for balancing development time with project work
- Advice for professionals considering learning to code
Key Timestamps:
- 00:00 - Introduction and James' background
- 05:30 - First experience with programming
- 12:45 - The panel project that saved hundreds of hours
- 18:20 - Tracking ROI and development time
- 25:15 - Current projects and future tools
- 31:40 - Advice for beginners
Resources Mentioned:
- Revit Add-in Bootcamp
- Peak Design Group
Connect with James on LinkedIn
28 min - Why Learn to Code in the Age of AI?Why Learn to Code in the Age of AI?Episode 6 of the ArchSmarter Podcast
In this episode, Michael Kilkelly explores the evolving role of programming skills in an AI-driven world, using his recent experience building Launchpad, a Revit learning tool, as a practical example.
Episode Highlights- The modern programmer as a "digital master builder"
- How AI accelerates development while requiring deeper programming knowledge
- Why fundamental coding skills remain crucial in the age of AI
- Practical insights from building Launchpad, an interactive Revit learning tool
Key Takeaways- Vision and Understanding Are Essential
- A clear vision of the project is crucial before writing any code
- AI can help implement features but can't determine what makes an effective tool
- Programming knowledge helps shape and direct AI's capabilities
- Quality Control Is More Important Than Ever
- Programming knowledge is crucial for evaluating AI-generated code
- Understanding fundamentals helps identify over-engineering and complexity
- Experience helps spot potential issues before they become problems
- Programming Knowledge Amplifies AI's Capabilities
- A better understanding of coding leads to better AI prompts
- Fundamental programming skills become the foundation for working with AI
- Technical knowledge helps direct AI toward optimal solutions
Featured Example: Launchpad Development- Two-week development timeline (compared to typical two-month timeline)
- Interactive learning tool for C# and Revit API
- Built using AI assistance while teaching others to code
Resources Mentioned- Launchpad - Interactive Revit API learning tool
- "Cathedral" by David Macaulay
- Visual Studio
- Revit API
Connect With ArchSmarter- Website: archsmarter.com
- Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform
- Follow Michael Kilkelly for more AEC technology insights
Next StepsIf you're interested in learning to code:
- Start with fundamental programming concepts
- Focus on understanding how systems work together
- Practice evaluating and reviewing code
- Consider enrolling in the Revit Add-in Bootcamp
11 min - Scrappy Scripting: Why Good Enough Beats Perfect Every TimeEpisode 6: The Power of Scrappy Scripting: Why Done is Better Than Perfect
In this episode, we take a close look at "scrappy scripting" - the art of creating practical, functional automations and tools without getting caught up in perfection. Learn why sometimes the best script is the one that actually gets finished.
Key Topics Covered:
- What "scrappy scripting" means and why it matters
- Real-world examples from AEC professionals
- How to start small and achieve significant results
- The 80/20 rule in automation
- Practical areas for implementing scrappy scripts
Stories & Examples:
- The wall panel manufacturer saving hours on shop drawings
- The mechanical engineering firm's equipment schedule checker
- Hospital project view automation success story
Quick Tips for Getting Started:
- Start with a clear, specific problem
- Focus on the happy path first
- Embrace imperfection
- Build in small increments
Resources Mentioned:
- Revit Add-in Bootcamp
- Dynamo
- Visual Studio
- Excel for basic automation
Weekly Challenge: Pick ONE tedious task you do weekly and spend 30 minutes trying to automate it. Focus on making it work, not making it perfect.
12 min - The 80/20 Rule: How I Stopped Designing Custom Coat Hooks (and Why You Should Too)The 80/20 Rule: How I Stopped Designing Custom Coat Hooks (and Why You Should Too)
Show Description:
In this episode, Michael shares how a simple lesson about coat hooks early in his career led to a powerful realization about productivity and prioritization in architecture. Learn how the 80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle) can transform your architectural practice and help you focus on what truly matters.
Episode Outline:
- Introduction and coat hooks story
- What is the Pareto Principle?
- History of the 80/20 rule
- Three key applications in AEC
- The FOCUS Framework:
- Real-world examples and implementation
- Weekly challenge and wrap-up
Key Takeaways:
- 80% of your results typically come from 20% of your efforts
- Success isn't about doing everything perfectly—it's about identifying and executing the vital few elements that matter most
- The FOCUS framework provides a practical approach to implementing the 80/20 rule in your practice
Weekly Challenge:
Pick your most challenging project and identify its vital 20%. Focus exclusively on these elements for one week and track your results.
Connect With Me:
Website: archsmarter.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaelkilkelly
16 min - Working Lazy by Design: A Framework for Smart Automation
Want to know the secret of highly productive professionals? They're strategically lazy. In this episode, Michael introduces the CLIMB framework - a systematic approach to automation that helps you work smarter, not harder. Learn how to transform tedious manual tasks into efficient automated workflows and why sometimes you need to work harder now to be lazier later.
Key Topics- Why being "lazy" can make you more productive
- The CLIMB Framework for automation:
- Capture processes
- Leverage templates
- Implement automation
- Monitor results
- Bridge systems
- Common automation pitfalls and how to avoid them
- How to choose what to automate first
Resources MentionedThe CBT Method for Creating Templates
Revit Add-in Academy: Learn to create your own Revit tools
ArchSmarter blog
Connect with MichaelLinkedIn: Michael Kilkelly
Website: www.archsmarter.com
Episode Quotes"If you want something done, ask a lazy person."
"Sometimes you have to work harder up front to be lazier later."
"You can't bridge systems if you haven't captured your processes."
18 min
About ArchSmarter Podcast
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Helping AEC professionals work smarter, not harder.