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2022’s Top 3 Construction Technology Innovations

Construction Technology has slowly, but steadily, grown to become an industry mainstay. As costs increase and manpower decreases, the demand for efficient solutions and tools is higher than ever.

We have compiled 2022’s top 3 construction technology innovations that empower you to tackle industry-wide challenges with real solutions while working smarter, not harder.

Reality Capture Number 1 Reality Capture Services –

In the last several years 3D Laser Scanning has taken the construction industry by storm and revolutionized the way data is captured. In-Demand 3D Laser Scanners such as the Leica BLK360 and RTC360 have become popular options because of their ease of use, accuracy, and mobility. Contractors who have taken the 3D laser scanning leap report less rework and faster data capture.

Reality Capture Services take data capture to the next level – As in, off your plate entirely! A team of reality capture specialists arrive at your job site and conduct a 4-prong approach. The first step is scanning to collect the data using the right 3D laser scanner(s) for the job. Afterward, the data is extracted and a model is created using the client’s specifications. Then, the client receives a deliverable in their chosen format (Revit model, CAD drawing, etc). Lastly, is data storage. Large files can be difficult (and expensive) to store and maintain. However, hosting allows your project to remain secure on a collaborative platform that your entire team can access at any time.

Ready to give reality capture services a shot? Request a quote for your next project HERE.

2. BricscadBricsCAD –

CAD software was a groundbreaker that helped usher in construction technology. Until recently, there weren’t many software options available. As a result, a lot of firms and end-users have felt confined to frequent subscription fee hikes with no user-friendly alternatives in sight. That is until BricsCAD made its debut as the most cost-effective CAD software on the market!

BricsCAD features DWG compatibility allowing users to open and save DWG files directly. The user experience and workflow are incredibly similar to the leading CAD software competitor. Most users feel comfortable navigating the platform in only a few hours. If you choose to make the switch, your current menus, scripts, and LISP routines will run without any changes. The flexible pricing model allows you to choose between long-term licensing or monthly subscriptions. You can even combine both. Whatever works for you!

Come on – you know you’re curious and we don’t blame you! Sign up HERE for a free, no-obligation 30-day trial.

Rpg CompleteitRPG CompleteIT *powered by Avatara* –

RPG CompleteIT is a cloud-based managed network solution. IT costs can be wildly unpredictable i.e. a budget nightmare. This platform takes out the guesswork by fulfilling all of your IT needs at a per month/per user cost. Your firm will get reliable IT infrastructure, unlimited file storage, 24/7/365 expert support, disaster recovery, and much more. A cybersecurity breach can turn a promising year into a bad one instantly. RPG CompleteIT alleviates these worries with industry-standard compliance on the most secure cloud platform available.

DoD contractors – The clock is ticking on getting CMMC certified to maintain your contracts! Luckily, RPG CompleteIT can help you satisfy CMMC certification requirements in as little as 30 days.

Request an RPG CompleteIT demo today.

Contact RPG

If you have any questions about RPG’s solutions or services, feel free to send us a message at info@rpg.com or via the contact form. Would you rather speak with us directly? Call: (800) 521-6319.

RPG CompleteIT: More than an IT Subscription or Service

RPG CompleteIT

RPG CompleteIT private cloud environment is a powerful asset. RPG CompleteIT combines the elements of SaaS (Software as a Service), IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), and PaaS (Platform as a Service) to form a streamlined IT solution. This means software, hardware, application, security, storage, and support requirements are fully covered by its platform.

Transform your business with RPG CompleteIT

The market is shifting to make workforces more mobile and not chained to the office. Not only does this improve employee productivity, but it also improves employee satisfaction. Unfortunately, most businesses today are incapable of making this shift and COVID-19 revealed the Achilles Heel of many businesses’ IT solutions.

Without RPG CompleteIT many companies would have been in dire straights. It was so impactful that Schneider’s President said, “If this had happened in December before we had you guys, we would have been dead in the water.”

Read the full case study and testimonial here.

Focus more on bidding and less on IT hiccups.

When it comes to bidding on projects, you need an IT network that works for you, not against you. RPG CompleteIT is specially designed for CAD environments. Work within your CAD applications such as AutoCAD, Revit, Solidworks, and more anywhere, including directly on the jobsite. Plus, utilize unlimited file storage without the side effect of lagging network speeds.

Eliminate network connectivity issues and stay productive.

Whether working remotely or in the field, accessibility is a premium. RPG CompleteIT provides each user with a cloud desktop and SSO web apps that are accessible anywhere on a variety of devices. As a result, you no longer have to rely on waiting to return to your office desktop. Wi-Fi activates your cloud desktop. Work within your preferred applications, share files, and collaborate with your team – Even from a smart phone or tablet!

How much is your data really worth?

Ransomware attacks have doubled in 2021. Despite this, many companies are still severely lacking in cybersecurity. Are you one of them? Take hacking and ransomware worries off your plate. RPG CompleteIT is the most secure cloud environment in the country providing a multi-layered managed security approach that includes a private cloud built on NIST 800-171 framework, multifactor authentication, 24/7 security operations, server and edge firewalls. Your operating system, data, and applications remain secure in data centers.

How do we ensure security & compliance?

We do not use any third-party or public cloud data repositories. The platform uses sophisticated automation, monitoring, and provisioning systems to ensure consistency and compliance. These systems are all internally developed and linked into our private infrastructure. Our team of innovators leverages decades of cybersecurity experience to not only keep up with, but stay in front of, threat vectors and compliance demands.

RPG CompleteIT‘s ever-evolving, layered approach to managed security includes (but is not limited to):

    • Private cloud built on NIST 800-171 framework
    • Advanced security policies
    • SSAE18 II data centers
    • Server & edge firewalls
    • Multifactor authentication
    • Endpoint protection
    • DNS web & content filtering
    • Spam filter
  • Secure email encryption
  • Host based intrusion detection
  • 24/7 security operations center
  • Data loss prevention (DLP)
  • Security awareness training
  • Phishing simulation
  • Compliance documentation

The CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) is a unifying cybersecurity standard. DoD contractors must meet the CMMC requirements including a cybersecurity self-assessment and evidence of compliance to continue doing business.

Say goodbye to an ever-growing list of subscriptions and unexpected IT fees.

As hardware breaks or need replacement, software subscriptions become outdated, and network issues arise, your IT expenses can fluctuate dramatically each month. RPG CompleteIT puts an end to unpredictable IT costs. Its per user, per month payment model means scalable, streamlined costs customized to your company’s size and specifications.

Problems RPG CompleteIT solves.

If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, RPG CompleteIT is a solution for you.

    • Have you outgrown your existing support model?
    • Have you experienced a virus or security issues?
    • Do you need to address compliance issues?
    • Are you missing a disaster recovery plan?
    • Do you have plans to purchase hardware? (e.g., PCs, additional storage, server replacement)
    • Are you looking for ways to increase employee productivity?
    • Are you lacking a seamless way to work remotely?
    • Do you need better customer support?
    • Are your programs running slowly?
    • Is your IT taking up more time and energy than it should?

Download Brochure

Migrating to RPG CompleteIT is easier than you think!

Unlock your ability to access software, large files, and collaborative spaces from virtually anywhere without sacrificing cybersecurity. If you’re interested in learning more about transforming your IT, let’s chat! Fill out the form or message at us info@rpg.com. Rather speak on the phone? Call us at (800) 521-6319.

Reality Capture Data: How RPG Captures, Processes, Manages & Delivers

Reality Capture Data

Reality Capture Data experts know that capturing data is just one step in the process. Processing, managing, and delivering data are part of the workflow. The processing and producing of CAD and other deliverables can sometimes be the most time-consuming parts, therefore RPG has invested in lidar scanning equipment and software. We created a rental program to provide clients access to hardware and software that best fits their projects needs, deliverables, and business model. Our fleet includes a number BLK360s, RTC360s and BLK3Ds, all of which we use in our reality capture services. Given these successes RPG has tailored solutions that reduce costs and saves time for our clients.

Project Specifications

Location

320 2nd Street, Laurel MD 20707

Area

10,041 Square Feet

1st Level of Garage

117 Setups & 15 billion Points

Equipment

1x Leica RTC360 Laser Scanner

1x Leica BLK360 Laser Scanner

Time Onsite

4 Days

Time Post-Processing

2 Days

Deliverables

LGS & RCP Point Cloud

Registration Report

2D Plan Set

REVIT model

Challenge

The challenges of scanning the historic building, which is RPG’s headquarters, went beyond the building itself. The office is located in a heavy traffic, highly congested area. RPG opted for capturing exterior conditions using the RTC360, given the scale of the building, its complexities, and the client’s timeframe and deliverables. We used a blend of the RTC360 and the BLK360 for capturing the interior. The deliverables requested by the client included standard 2D CAD information of floor plans, elevations, and a REVIT model.

Solution

The RPG team registered all scans using Leica Cyclone REGISTER 360. This allowed the team to split the registration into logical parts and combine them to generate a final master data set. The client required access to data for the project at any given time. To generate the deliverables, the team utilized Leica Cyclone Enterprise, a streamlined and centralized project platform to access data over internal and external networks. Using this simplified point cloud access the client could import and render full density point cloud data in real time within their preferred CAD application and share viewer files with other parties needing access to the project information.

Contact RPG

If you have any questions about RPG’s construction scanning services, feel free to send us a message at info@rpg.com or via the contact form. Rather speak on the phone? Call us at (800) 521-6319.

Discover BricsCAD

Discover BricsCAD: more than an AutoCAD alternative

Discover BricsCAD, the modern, cost-effective and familiar CAD design platform. Its’ time to change the way you buy and use CAD. It’s easy to switch from AutoCAD to BricsCAD® and integrate into your reality capture workflow. BricsCAD feels like home!

Try BricsCAD Now

Why BricsCAD is more than an AutoCAD alternative:

    • DWG compatible
    • Automatic configuration and customization transfer
    • Instantly familiar to AutoCAD users
    • Intelligent CAD tools

BricsCAD is fully compatible with your current and familiar DWG-based workflows, data, and interface. Better still, with flexible licensing options it offers a significantly lower cost of ownership. In short, when you adopt BricsCAD, your team experiences the best in design and detailing with no compromises.

Compare BricsCAD with AutoCAD

BricsCAD® Lite BricsCAD® Pro AutoCAD®
License flexibility (Perpetual, subscription, network multi-user, etc.) ✓ ✓ X
Native DWG file format (through AutoCAD 2022) ✓ ✓ ✓
Industry standard commands, aliases, and variables ✓ ✓ ✓
Command Line (Autocomplete, Mid-string, Clickable options) ✓ ✓ ✓
Intelligent Contextual Quad Menu ✓ ✓ X
AI-powered tools such as COPYGUIDED and BLOCKIFY ✓ ✓ X
Solid and Surface Modeling X ✓ ✓
Full LISP Support (vl, vlr, vla and vlax) ✓ ✓ ✓
Parameters and constraints across both 2D and 3D X ✓ X
Point Cloud Preprocess, Attach, Crop, Colormap X ✓ X

Have Questions?

Do you have questions about BricsCAD and want to talk to an RPG Specialist? We are here to help! You can email us at info@rpg.com. Prefer speaking on the phone? Call us at (800) 521-6319.

Celebrating 30 Years of Digital Transformation

Here’s to 30 years of serving the AEC industry! See RPG’s transformation over three decades.

RPG has accomplished a lot in 30 years! In 1991, RPG officially opened its doors. As an offshoot of Rowley-Scher Reprographics, which had been operating since the 1920s, we dove headfirst into digital innovation for the A/E/C industry. By 1993, RPG was offering Xerox copiers and the ENCAD NovaJet, the first graphics inkjet printer available on the market. Only 3 years later, Squarefoot Solutions was born, providing our customers with comprehensive printer solutions: service, supplies, and backup printing, complete with next-day supply deliveries and a highly trained team of technicians.

From diazo to digital bond to high-speed color, RPG continuously rode the printing evolution wave straight into the wide-format world. By 2011, RPG was named the top Xerox Wide Format Dealer in the country. We added another wide format award to our mantle only seven years later: Top HP PageWide XL Dealer in the US.

In 2017, we launched our ground-breaking construction technology rental program and began to expand our services and solutions with an important mission: aiding in the digital transformation of the A/E/C industry. All along the way, RPG has remained committed to exemplary customer service and exhibiting our core values: being dedicated, flexible, dependable, knowledgeable, all while possessing integrity and a positive attitude.

As a small-woman-owned business, diversity is also an important part of RPG’s legacy. Our team includes a variety of people with fine-tuned specialties and a common goal of striving to move the AEC industry forward and remain on the cutting edge.

In the present day, RPG has expanded to three divisions:

    • RPG Digital Print Solutions offer printing and scanning technology, service, and supplies, both in the office and in the field.
    • RPG Squarefoot Solutions is dedicated to our rapidly growing VDC technology and services programs.
    • RPG CompleteIT provides Managed Network Services and 3D Collaboration Environments.

The future of RPG is an exciting one! We are currently in the development stages of a revolutionary new collaborative work environment that will make efficient collaboration truly possible from anywhere! We’re also working toward incorporating digital twins, construction-based robotics, and VR/AR into our services and solutions. All our future endeavors are focused entirely on transforming and strengthening communication. We are excited to see what we can accomplish in the next 30 years.

RPG by the Numbers

RPG’s numbers speak for themselves. Our reach is undeniable. Our wide format equipment and 3D Laser Scanner rentals have gone international! Our 87.3 Net Promoter Score demonstrates RPG’s dedication to customer satisfaction.

Rpg By The Numbers

Technology Partners

Technology Partners

Notable Awards & Achievements

Awards &Amp; Achievements

Thank You

We have enjoyed 30 years of creating partnerships. With much gratitude, we want to thank all of our customers for making 30 wonderful years possible.

What do you want to see from RPG in the next 30 years? We value your feedback and would love to hear from you, feel free to contact us at any time!

BLK360 vs. RTC360 White Paper

Take a comprehensive look at the BLK360 vs. RTC360.

Why scan? The short answer for why you should integrate 3D laser scanning into your workflow is simple: speed, accuracy, and consistency. 3D laser scanning enables a fast and accurate means of collecting millions of measurable data points in seconds to provide pinpoint accuracy, every time. The speed of 3D laser scanning will reduce the number of hours needed onsite. The accuracy reduces human error which prevents change orders and extra time onsite. All of this equates to more money in your pockets.

Scanning offers many benefits. Documents and current conditions are rarely accurate. Take a few scans onsite and you have current information at your fingertips. No more second guessing.

Now which scanner should you use? Both the BLK360 and the RTC360 are ‘the right tool for the job’. It just depends on what that job is. Schedule training or a demo with an RPG Reality Capture Specialist to see the scanners capabilities. No matter what we’re here to help and answer your questions. Contact us today.

Download the BLK360 vs. RTC360 White Paper to learn everything you need to know about the industry leading laser scanners.

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Meet the CMMC

Have you heard about the new interim rule recently announced by the DoD?

Remember your old friend NIST SP 800-171? These are the security requirements that government contractors and their subcontractors have been following since 2003. The CMMC was recently created to enhance this already existing compliance in conjunction with the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) requirements.

What this means for you is that if you don’t get certified, your organization’s DoD contract work is on the the line.

Download the guide to learn Everything you should do to effectively prepare for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).

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Need some guidance? This all may sound daunting, so let’s end on some good news. RPG has a plan of attack in place. With our RPG CompleteIT platform, DoD contractors and subcontractors can get Level-3-compliant in just 30 – 60 days. We’re even working with approved auditors to secure an economy of scale package for our clients.

All this to say, don’t worry; success is  accessible to all. With RPG by your side, you’ve go this! Email info@rpg.com to begin CMMC assessment preparation today.

How Digital Twins Impact the Construction Industry

What is a Digital Twin?

A Digital Twin is an exact copy of a physical object or process in digital/virtual form. Creating a digital twin involves a collaborative effort between any or all of the following: IoT (Internet of Things), reality capture, software integration, and artificial intelligence. The result is a structural tool the AEC industry can use to determine the current, potential, and future state of the original object. Digital Twins have the power to transform a standard 3D model from a mere visualization to reality.

How Digital Twins Impact the Construction Industry

Simply put, Digital Twins make the BIM process smarter; Streamline your project by adding accurate, key data to a 3D model such as the current position and condition of a building or object. This in turn can create a more valuable deliverable to enhance the bidding process and entice current and prospective clients.

Get as close to predicting the future as possible. Through the use of AI (artificial intelligence) programs, Digital Twins can continuously update as a project progresses in real time. This not only elevates field to office communication, it also makes it much easier to avoid costly errors during a project’s progress and allows for the overall improvement of productivity. In the case of restoration or preservation projects, a digital twin can be the crucial element that makes it a true success.

A Digital Twin Use Case

Recently, RPG’s Professional Services team worked with Mason and Hanger on a special project during COVID-19 restrictions. A Digital Twin was included as a deliverable for this project. Read more about this case study here.

Contact RPG

If you have any questions about RPG’s construction scanning services, feel free to send us a message at info@rpg.com or via the contact form. Rather speak on the phone? Call us at (800) 521-6319.