Presentation and communication of technical information

Technical Drawings

Technical drawings are intended to convey one (or more) specific type of information.
To be effective, they need to be constructed in accordance with a set of recognised conventions for architectural or engineering drawing.
These include views projections and symbols, prescribed methods for indicating scale, dimension, and construction materials.

Clarity in Technical Drawings

Clarity is perhaps the most important feature to consider when presenting technical drawings.
It’s necessary to keep drawings as simple and clear as possible, presenting exactly what is required, no less and no more.
Unnecessary details may confuse the audience and may lead to errors in interpreting the design.

Graphical Symbols and Notations

Graphical symbols and notations are used in technical drawings to represent various features or components in the designs.
They must follow recognised standards, such as British Standards, so they can be easily understood by everyone involved in the project.
Regularly updating knowledge on the latest symbols and notations is essential to maintain accuracy in interpretation and execution.

Technical Reports and Specifications

Technical reports and specifications provide written details about a design or a project.
They should be detailed enough to let someone else replicate the work.
Relevant diagrams, tables, and references should be included to support the text.
Reports should be written in clear, concise language and should have a logical structure for ease of understanding.

Oral and Written Communication

In addition to technical drawings and documents, oral and written communication skills are vital for conveying technical information.
This comes into play during discussions, meetings, how issues are reported, and so on.
Practising clear, concise, and persuasive speech as well as effective listening skills are critical for successful project execution.

Visualisation and Modelling

Visualisation and modelling can greatly help in communicating technical information.
Models, such as 3D digital models, can give clients and other team members a better understanding of complex structures and details.
Software skills for visualisation and modelling have become a necessity in the modern construction industry.

Use of Technology to Communicate Technical Information

Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) are becoming essential tools in the construction industry.
It’s important to be proficient in these methods to effectively communicate technical information in a way that maximises efficiency and minimises errors.
CAD and BIM can be used to create detailed 3D models of a planned building, allowing everyone involved in the project to visualise it in advance.