A CAD technician, more commonly known as a draftsperson, is someone who produces technical drawings through the use of CAD software such as Autocad, Revit, or even Inventor. This is usually in architecture or even engineering disciplines such as Civil and MEP. A distinction should be made between a CAD operator and a CAD designer. In most cases, a designer will be a highly qualified person in a specific discipline such as an architect or a structural engineer. A CAD operator may not have the requisite qualification to design (engineer) solutions, but they do have the technical capacity to draw or translate freehand drawings and sketches into CAD drawings.
As a new contractor or even a building consultant, you might think that you need to hire a CAD operator immediately. However, this notion isn’t set in stone. There are plenty of considerations before you choose to hire. Let’s dive into some of these considerations.
1. Can you do it yourself?
This wholly depends on your work line and your skills. For example, civil engineers will generally be required to learn drafting skills in their training. Therefore, if you are a consultant or a contractor with these skills, you may not need to hire a CAD technician. There are plenty of CAD operators who have no engineering or design background whatsoever, yet they are masters at operating applications like AutoCAD. If you are willing to put in the hours to learn despite the steep curve, you can DIY.
2. How specialized is the project?
For highly specialized projects that require complex drawings and intricate documentation over a substantial period, it may be wise to hire a CAD technician. Also, if say, you are a civil engineer or architect but require mechanical drawings, you may be necessitated to hire a specialized CAD operator.
3. Is there a choice of outsourcing the work?
Outsourcing of work presents a cost-effective way of handling complex projects without the need for long-term commitment to a new employee. Although outsourcing may seem costly in terms of a one-off payment, it can provide cost savings when there is little work inflow. Always outsource specialized CAD work to someone with valid credentials and someone who can show proof of work done.
4. What kind of work volume are you handling?
Maybe you have been handling the design and drawing tasks yourself but are suddenly facing an influx of new work. In this case, you may want to retain a CAD operator over a contract period, for example, 6 months. Likewise, if you anticipate the expansion of your business during incoming business cycles, it is better to hire a CAD operator early enough to show them the ropes.
5. Can you design and draw at the same time?
Experienced designers don’t need to hire CAD operators since they can almost merge the two processes. This may eliminate the need to hire a CAD operator. Likewise, experienced designers know how to create and reuse CAD templates, and this may eliminate the need to hire a CAD operator altogether.
6. Do you need someone to learn on the job?
If what you do is too specialized and will at some point require massive replication, you may hire a new CAD operator to transfer these skills to them. Keep in mind that a CAD operator with no industry experience can be a great asset at a low cost as they can learn on the job and even help you innovate.
7. Do your drawings require certification by a CAD operator
This is rarely the case in the local Kenyan construction scene. However, in more advanced economies with tighter regulations, construction drawings from specialized projects may have stringent rules about who can produce the drawings. In this case, a certified CAD operator may be required, such as in the construction of a mega-structure.
In summary
Hiring a CAD operator isn’t a prerequisite to running a construction business or even being a consultant. This depends on the scope and complexity of the project, and whether these CAD services are needed on a one-off, in cycles, or permanently. The volume of work is also crucial to determining your CAD needs. Outsourcing is always an option although one can also take time to learn CAD skills. Always avoid a long-term employment commitment to a CAD technician unless it will support your strategic business goals.
