Expert: Bob - 3/3/2010

Question
hello.
i am from singapore.i have done an interior designing course(diploma) through correspondence.basically my background is b.tech(computer science).
now i would like to learn AutoCad.
can you please suggest me what to learn exactly...and which version.
do you have a special version of AutoCad for interior designers?
and how far it is beneficial to secure a job?
thank you

Answer
Since you are from Singapore, I presume you plan to work there or in India.

Employment is LOCAL, and professional standards vary tremendously between countries, thus I can give no specific advice. If you wanted to work in the US, you would have to come here for school.

BUT -- I suggest you
--- find local websites, industry groups, local schools, visit local designers, and see who can give you some advice on what is needed where you are.
--- take advantage of your computer skills and learn the most important programs (not all) for those working in your area.
--- to get  a job, learn what local employers want, which software they use, etc. Visit them -- you should see some different ways of working before investing time in more study.

You ask me if there is a special AutoCAD for interior designers --- No, we may use plain AutoCAD, AutoCAD Architecture, or Revit, but some countries are heavy on Archicad and others. You can start with AutoCAD 2010 trial download, but one does not become proficient until one has drawn a few projects (you could re-draw your old hand drawings)

Respectfully, if you are going to be clever enough to get a job, you need to be clever enough to do good research, so your efforts get the best result for you. AND, Interior Design is largely research and problem solving, not drawing or design.

BOB