Publication Number: HRT-11-014
Date: June 2011
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Making the Switch to 3D Design Modeling: An Online Introduction

Thinking of making the switch to using 3D design modeling for transportation projects? Make plans now to participate in the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) July 21, 2011, Webinar on "3D Design Modeling: Improved Method for Project Plans Yields Improved Projects, Improved Quality." The free Webinar will be held from 2:30 to 4 p.m. (eastern daylight time).

The 3D Design Modeling session is part of the ongoing Innovations series, which is designed to bring representatives from State and local transportation agencies, industry, academia, and others timely information on today's highway technology advances. This series is hosted by FHWA's National Highway Institute (NHI), in conjunction with the FHWA Highways for LIFE program.

The Webinar will feature a panel of representatives from the Iowa and Wisconsin departments of transportation and software vendors Bentley Systems, Inc., and Autodesk. Panel members will discuss:

• The capabilities, advantages, and benefits of using 3D design.
• Steps to transitioning from 2D design to 3D design modeling.
• The importance of design standards in achieving quality projects.
• Guidance on overcoming potential implementation obstacles.

The panel will also host a question and answer session for Webinar participants.

Other featured topics include responsibility and accountability for 3D design data and how to make 3D design data available to project bidders while minimizing the risk of contract claims and disputes.

For more information on the Webinar or to register, visit www.nhi.fhwa.dot.gov/about/innovationseries.aspx.