Why learn SketchUp?

SketchUp is a computer application (software) developed originally by a group of professionals from the architecture and engineering disciplines. It is designed to let you create models of your intended design in a 3D environment an intuitive way. The figure below shows some typical SketchUp images.

A typical SketchUp model. Rear of two story house model (top) and front of house model below.

Dynamic viewing

SketchUp provides some innovative tools for visualizing the design. It is possible to cast shadow, take and X-RAY view, quickly orbit the model and view it from different directions.

An X-Ray view of the rear of the house and a front view (also an X-ray view).

Some thoughts about SketchUp training

We find it quite difficult to slot people in to a SketchUp training program at just the right level. If you have used AutoCAD or IntelliCAD and understand the concepts behind producing 3D models, all you need is a brief introduction to the SketchUp interface. An hour or two will help set you up.

If you routinely produce 2D models with AutoCAD, you may need a little more (perhaps half a day), but if you have no knowledge or skill with vector based drawing programs than you will need a more comprehensive program (a full day). 

Google SketchUp can be downloaded from the Internet

The company that developed SketchUp was called @LastSoftware. In March 2006, Google bought @LastSoftware and SketchUp. Google have released a free (or home) version of SketchUp.

Our training can be delivered in a number of different ways:

• In your offices (Adelaide or Canberra, ACT) - all we need is a small room, we bring computers with us,

• In-house in our training room at Thebarton, South Australia or

• By distance learning which can be delivered either on CD-ROM or via our broadband learning site.

The most cost effective method of learning is to use the broadband site. There are opportunities there to try before you buy. Once you are enrolled for a course, you can take advantage of our support forums.

Our distance program - broadband or CD-ROM based

We have spent many years developing a learning system which mimics the one-on-one approach. Our students are supported by email, a support section on this web site and if broadband eLearning is chosen, by Q&A forums associated with the individual course. We have successfully taught students in remote areas of all Australian states (and Christmas Island) in Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, south Africa, New Zealand, Dubai, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Our distance learning program - some preliminaries before enrolling

1. Don't forget, visit the Online eLearning site http://www.softwaretutor.net and examine the syllabus for the course that you intend to take.

2. Play at least one of our sample movies embedded within the course syllabus. These movies are in WMV format and will play in Windows Media Player on most Windows based computers. Our courses contain many instructional movies. These are an integral part of or learning model and we want to be assured that your equipment works with the movies that we make before you enrol. These movies provide comprehensive instruction on the use of SketchUp commands to build drawings. t

3. Obtain a copy of the (free) trial version of SketchUp software and establish that it works on your computer before ordering a course.