New Builds ~ Design and Planning

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New Builds ~ Design & Planning

Design & Planning

Equipment guidance

TechSoft Project Managers are keenly aware of new developments and methodologies in practical curriculum areas and are able to advise and specify the right range and level of resources to support learning in Design & Technology, Art & Design, Textiles and Engineering. These areas have developed probably more than any other in recent years and are likely to continue to do so. We design and equip learning spaces to meet current needs but, where possible, with sufficient flexibility to accommodate timetable shifts and different emphases as national and local priorities dictate. The right mix of hand, machine and CNC equipment will be specified with care to provide best value and a safe, efficient and inspiring workspace for students and teachers.

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TechSoft Product Guide

We only specify resources from suppliers we have total confidence in. If a particular brand of equipment is requested by teaching staff (and it is not listed in our New Build Product Guide) we remain happy to discuss options. We are confident, however, that our New Build Product Guide contains a comprehensive selection to meet all likely needs.

Design

After initial consultation meetings, TechSoft will prepare outline layouts and machine specifications to meet the agreed design objective. Due regard will be taken of statutory regulations and particularly DfES Building Bulletin 81. Initial layouts will highlight where additional services are required and further drawings and specifications will be prepared for M&E contractors if appropriate. Where services are fixed, layouts will be created to optimise work space and minimise costs. Designing learning spaces with the right layout, furniture and equipment will set the scene for exciting, creative student work. To achieve this, we keenly recognise the need for co-operative working with teachers, architects and consultants. TechSoft will actively seek a shared vision with partners and lead the process of design and refinement to arrive at an agreed solution.

CAD Drawings

Furniture and machinery requires floor or bench space, sometimes space for moving parts and (crucially) a safe working area (SWA) for the operator. Many of these details are the subject of statutory guidance. TechSoft have prepared CAD drawings showing the ‘footprint’ and SWA for all items in our New Build Product Guide where these dimensions are critical. FF&E contractors, design managers and consultants preparing room layouts will find these an invaluable tool. A CD containing all the drawings in DXF, DWG and DTD (2D Design) format is available from TechSoft on request.

	Overlap of Space These areas can be overlapped and shared between items of the same type (ie., machines or furniture)
	Clear Working Space These areas should be kept clear at all times. The exception to this rule is Prep room machines where clear working spaces can overlap (based on the assumption that only one machine will be operated at a time).