5-step framework I use to stop jumping back and forth between different programs and speed up my interior design process.

After modeling interiors in SketchUp for a few years, I got tired of using other CAD software for technical drawings.

Then I decided to give LayOut a try.

Here’s the 5-step framework I use to stop jumping back and forth between different programs and speed up my work.

STEP 1: LAYOUT IS FOR ANNOTATIONS.

Most people think LayOut is for drawing.

Instead, it’s more of a software for annotating.

This new way of looking at it’ll make you

• work easier

• work faster

• work smarter

STEP 2: LAYOUT IS 2D SOFTWARE.

Using a vector representation of a 3D model is nonsensical.

Instead, prepare your 3D model for a 2D display.

Why?

If you do this, you reduce the number of polygons to be interpreted, which speeds up LayOut considerably.

STEP 3: LAYOUT HAS POWERFUL AUTOMATION.

Now that you’ve done the 1 and 2 steps, it’s time to unleash the power of automation.

• Name your components wisely.

• Use autotext to include the component name.

• Use autotext to include other useful information.

STEP 4: USE LAYOUT TEMPLATES.

Now you’re ready to create useful templates.

If you’ve done steps 1–3, this step 4 should be easy.

Just don’t forget:

• Prepare templates in LayOut.

• Connect SketchUp and LayOut templates.

• Add checklists to the templates

STEP 5: REVISE YOUR WORKFLOW.

That’s it. Now it’s time to revise your workflow.

• Create a global checklist.

• Measure your time.

• Revise and update.

This framework works so well because you use one software for the entire workflow.

So don’t fall into the trap of switching back and forth between different software programs for one task.

Instead, use this simple 5-steps framework.

THE 5-STEP FRAMEWORK FOR MORE SPEED AND CLARITY IN YOUR INTERIOR DESIGN PROCESS.

• LayOut is for annotation.

• LayOut is a 2D software.

• LayOut has powerful automation.

• LayOut uses templates.

• Remember to revise your workflow.