GRAPHISOFT EcoDesigner for ArchiCAD 14 Simultaneously with the release of ArchiCAD 14, GRAPHISOFT is proud to introduce the new version of the world's number one building energy information modeling tool to the BIM market. EcoDesigner for ArchiCAD 14 offers numerous new features covering three main areas: * a feature set that supports sustainable architectural solutions equally for all climate regions; * a dynamic calculation engine capable of precisely evaluating complex building geometries and MEP systems; * detailed results that display all relevant information regarding a building's energy systems The New EcoDesigner User Guide A combination of the updated manual and the Advanced EcoDesigner User Guide, this documentation explains the new features of EcoDesigner for ArchiCAD 14 in detail, and contains all the information necessary to perform the dynamic energy evaluation of ArchiCAD models. From the explanation of the fundamental terms of building physics to advanced software customization, it enables every user to utilize EcoDesigner to its full potential. Download the User Guide here. Early Design Phase The truth of sustainable design is that approximately 80% of the design decisions that influence a building's energy performance are made by the architect in the early design phase; the remaining 20% are made by engineers at the later phases of design. Therefore, it is critical for architects to be able to utilize a quick and reliable energy performance evaluation at the earliest stage of the building design process. Using GRAPHISOFT EcoDesigner, architects can easily analyze their design, at an early stage, for energy efficiency. Providing invaluable feedback on the building's energy performance means the architect can make better decisions on how to conform to regulations and satisfy the interests of the client and the operator of the building. Ultimately, with energy efficiency, we all win! "Energy efficiency is becoming a key factor. ArchiCAD allows the Architect to positively affect the design at the earliest and most convenient phase." Teemu Kurkela, CEO, JKMM Architects, Finland Informed Decisions "Sustainable architecture" is the practice of designing, constructing and maintaining buildings in a way that their environmental impact is minimized. One of the most important aspects of sustainable design is energy efficiency - a drive to reduce the amount of energy a building consumes during its life-span. GRAPHISOFT EcoDesigner enables architects to quickly and efficiently evaluate design alternatives based on energy consumption, carbon footprint and monthly energy balance.