The typical implementation process for RFEM software involves several key steps, ensuring a smooth transition and effective utilization of the software. Here's a step-by-step overview:
Initial Consultation: This phase involves understanding the specific needs and requirements of the client. Dlubal Software representatives discuss the project scope, objectives, and any particular challenges the client might face.
System Requirements and Installation: The next step is to ensure that the client's hardware and software meet the system requirements for RFEM. The installation process includes setting up the main program and any necessary add-ons.
Training and Onboarding: Dlubal Software offers comprehensive training sessions, which can be conducted online or on-site. These sessions cover the basics of RFEM, including modeling, analysis, and design functionalities. The training ensures that users are comfortable with the software and can utilize its features effectively.
Customization and Configuration: RFEM is highly customizable to fit specific business needs. Users can configure the software with various add-ons tailored to their project requirements. This modular approach allows for specialized analyses and design checks according to different standards.
Integration with Existing Systems: For clients using Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows, RFEM can be integrated with other design and analysis tools. This integration facilitates seamless data exchange and enhances collaboration.
Support and Maintenance: After implementation, Dlubal Software provides ongoing support and maintenance. This includes troubleshooting, updates, and access to a knowledge base with tutorials, webinars, and technical articles.
The entire implementation process can vary in duration depending on the complexity of the project and the client's specific needs. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months.
RFEM can be extensively customized to fit specific business needs, thanks to its modular structure and flexible features. Here are several key points highlighting its customization capabilities:
Modular Add-Ons: RFEM offers a range of add-ons that can be integrated into the main software to extend its functionality. These add-ons cover various specialized analyses and design checks, such as nonlinear material behavior, dynamic analysis, and specific standards for concrete, steel, timber, and glass construction.
User Interface Customization: The software's user interface is highly customizable. Users can adjust display settings, assign different colors to various objects, and use photorealistic rendering to enhance visualization. The interface can be tailored to individual preferences, making it easier to navigate and use.
Integration with BIM: RFEM supports seamless integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows. This allows for efficient data exchange between RFEM and other design and analysis tools, facilitating collaboration and improving project efficiency.
Customizable Units and Settings: Users can manage global unit settings for input data, loads, and results. These settings can be saved and imported later, allowing for consistent use across different projects.
Automation and AI Support: The Machine Intelligence Assistant (MIA) in RFEM provides intelligent suggestions and automates repetitive tasks, enhancing productivity and accuracy. This AI support can be customized to fit specific workflows and project requirements.
Training and Support: Dlubal Software offers comprehensive training and support services, including online manuals, webinars, and tutorials. These resources help users customize the software to their specific needs and ensure they can fully leverage its capabilities.
Pre-Built Models: RFEM provides access to a wide range of pre-built models that can be customized and used to streamline workflows and accelerate the design process.
These customization options make RFEM a versatile and powerful tool for structural analysis and design, capable of adapting to a wide range of engineering applications and business needs.
The pricing of RFEM software includes several components beyond the base cost of the software itself. Here are some additional costs to consider:
Setup Fees: There are no specific setup fees mentioned for RFEM. The primary cost is the purchase of the software and any required add-ons.
Maintenance and Support Charges: Dlubal Software offers a service contract that includes regular updates and technical support. The cost of this service contract varies depending on the specific modules and add-ons you have purchased.
RFEM offers comprehensive training and support to new users, ensuring they can effectively utilize the software. Here are some key aspects of the training and support provided:
Online Tutorials and Webinars: Dlubal Software provides a range of online tutorials and webinars that cover various aspects of RFEM, from basic modeling to advanced analysis techniques.
User Manuals and Documentation: Detailed user manuals and documentation are available online, offering step-by-step guidance on using the software.
Technical Support: Users have access to technical support through email and phone. The support team assists with troubleshooting, software updates, and any technical issues that may arise.
RFEM incorporates several security measures to protect user data and ensure the integrity of the software:
Data Encryption: RFEM uses encryption protocols to protect data during transmission and storage, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure.
Regular Updates: The software receives regular updates to address any security vulnerabilities and improve overall performance. These updates are part of the service contract.
Access Control: RFEM includes access control features that allow administrators to manage user permissions and restrict access to sensitive data.
Backup and Recovery: The software supports data backup and recovery options, ensuring that users can restore their data in case of any unexpected issues.
These measures help ensure that RFEM remains a secure and reliable tool for structural analysis and design.
RFEM releases updates regularly to ensure the software remains up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. These updates typically include minor revisions and innovations within the current program generation. Users with a service contract receive these updates automatically via their Dlubal account. Additionally, major upgrades, which involve significant revisions or new program versions, are also available, often at discounted rates for service contract holders.
RFEM's policy on data ownership ensures that users retain full ownership of their data. This means that any models, analyses, and results created using RFEM are the property of the user. The software also supports data portability, allowing users to export their data in various formats for use in other applications or for archiving purposes. This flexibility ensures that users can easily manage and transfer their data as needed.
RFEM's modular structure allows for easy scaling to meet changing organizational needs. Users can start with the base program and add specific modules as their project requirements evolve. This scalability ensures that the software can grow with your business, providing the necessary tools for increasingly complex analyses and designs. Additionally, Dlubal Software offers flexible licensing options, including cloud-based licensing, which allows users to access the software from any location and adjust their usage based on current needs.
RFEM, developed by Dlubal Software, offers flexible service contracts with terms for renewal and cancellation. Here are the key points:
Service Contract Levels: RFEM provides two levels of service contracts: Basic and Pro. Both levels include access to the latest program updates, but the Pro level offers additional benefits such as priority phone support and online assistance via video conferencing.
Renewal Terms: Service contracts are typically renewed annually. Users can choose to renew their contracts to continue receiving updates and support. If a service contract is not renewed, users can still use the software but will no longer have access to updates or priority support.
Cancellation Policy: Users can cancel their service contracts at any time. However, it is important to note that cancellation will result in the loss of access to updates and priority support. Refunds for unused portions of the service contract are generally not provided.
RFEM meets a wide range of national and international compliance standards, ensuring its suitability for various engineering applications. Some of the key standards supported by RFEM include:
AISC 360: American Institute of Steel Construction standards for steel design.
CSA S16: Canadian Standards Association standards for steel structures.
EC3: Eurocode 3 standards for the design of steel structures.
ACI 318: American Concrete Institute standards for concrete design.
CSA A23.3: Canadian standards for concrete design.
These standards cover a wide range of materials and structural types, ensuring that RFEM can be used for projects that require adherence to specific regulatory requirements.
