CompuServe Messages

Dennis: I would suggest that an SGI network would break the bank of most architectural offices and leave you without the flexibility of a WindowsNT setup. I suggest that you put a computer on every architect's desk which can perform every task that each individual is likely to need: CADD, animation, word processing, e-mail, fax/modem, image editing, page layout, spread-sheet, project scheduling, etc. You could start with a DOS/Windows environment but you'll want to go to WindowsNT as 3D Studio and CADD applications migrate to NT. I would also suggest you look seriously into MicroGDS as an alternative CAD package to Autodesk's AutoCAD. MicroGDS gives you what AutoCAD offers, plus it was written for NT, plus it has better functionality than the add-on ADE, plus it has a fully functioning photorealistic rendering/modelling package all for less than AutoCAD alone. You can open and save files in many formats including .dxf and .dwg. If you have projects which require many people accessing the same files at the same time then you'll definitely want to look at solution like MicroGDS. There are a lot of issues which your client will have to weigh (such as training, technical support, etc.). What processors give you the best bang for the buck? IMHO, the DEC Alpha processors are quite a value and they can even do division <G>. Since NT can take advantage of multiple processors there's even more reason to consider a WindowsNT setup for fast rendering and other compute intensive tasks. There's my $.02 worth. Best of luck with your client.