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Design Software & Technical Tools
AutoCAD
Foundational software for technical 2D drafting and 3D design.
BIM (Building Information Modeling)
Process of creating a digital representation of a building’s physical and functional characteristics.
Bluebeam
PDF markup and collaboration tool used by contractors and designers.
CAP Studio
AutoCAD-based program used to specify contract furniture with live catalogs.
CET Designer
Current gold-standard visual platform for space planning, rendering, and automated quotes.
Collision Detection
Using software to ensure furniture doesn’t overlap with columns, pipes, or outlets.
Giza 2020
Classic industry-standard software for 2D/3D specification and quoting.
Revit
Primary BIM software used by architects.
SketchUp
Used for quick 3D modeling and conceptual massing of a space.
SIF File
Standard Interchange Format file used to import quotes into ordering systems.
Workplace Strategy & Layout Concepts
Activity-Based Working (ABW)
Employees move to different areas based on the task (huddle, focus, social).
Biophilic Design
Incorporating nature (plants, light, water) into the office to improve mental health.
Hot-Desking
Desks used by different people on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hybrid Work
The strategic blend of in-office and remote work.
Resimercial
Design trend blending residential and commercial aesthetics.
Zone-Based Design
Dividing an office into Quiet, Collaborative, and Social Zones.
Ergonomics & Wellness
Ergonomics
The study of people’s efficiency in their working environment.
Height-Adjustable Table (HAT)
Sit-to-stand motorized desk.
Task Chair
Adjustable chair designed for long-term seated work.
Waterfall Edge
Rounded front on seat pan to reduce pressure on thighs.
Acoustics & Privacy
NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient)
Rating of how much sound a material absorbs (0 to 1).
Sound Masking
Introducing low-level background noise to increase speech privacy.
STC (Sound Transmission Class)
Rating of how well a wall or panel blocks sound.
Sustainability & Certifications
LEED
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design green building rating system.
WELL Building Standard
Certification focused on occupant health and well-being.
Circular Economy
System aimed at eliminating waste through resource recovery.
Office Design Works • 2026 Master A&D Industry Vocabulary