If anyone knows anyone who would be interested in writing software for a free BIM tool here is a request for submissions in the UK.
It would be really interesting to see a submission based on use of libre software. link: https://sbri.innovateuk.org/competition-display-page/-/asset_publisher/E809e7RZ5ZTz/content/a-digital-tool-for-building-information-modelling/1524978;jsessionid=B69A8E16284D798E16167E46749C91C8.3 >From their site: The Technology Strategy Board is to invest up to £1.5m to support the development of a free-to-use digital tool that can exploit the standards being made publicly available for building information modelling (BIM). We are running this SBRI competition in partnership with the *BIM Task Group <http://www.bimtaskgroup.org>* and the D*epartment for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS) <https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-business-innovation-skills>* . As a process, BIM involves the sharing of three-dimensional data by all those responsible for the design, construction and operation of buildings and infrastructure in the built environment. This competition will bring together the construction, digital and high- powered computing communities. A free-to-use tool has the potential to transform the procurement of buildings and infrastructure, and not just in home markets. It will place the UK in a global leadership position and provide overseas growth opportunities. SBRI competitions are open to all organisations that can demonstrate a route to market for their solution. In phase 1, up to £50k is available for feasibility studies of up to six weeks. In phase 2, a single participant from phase 1 may receive up to £1m for a six-month project of further development. In both phases, successful applicants will receive development contracts funded at 100%. We will award development contracts to a single organisation. We are encouraging applicants to collaborate with other organisations, on a sub-contractor basis, to enhance their solution. It is the responsibility of the main contractor to manage sub-contractors. The competition opens on *10 February 2014*. The deadline for registration is at *noon on 12 March 2014* and the deadline for applications is at *noon on 19 March 2014*. *Register for the webinar which will take place on 14 February, to find out more information about the competition*<https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/167775838> . -- Tomorrow's illiterate will not be the man who can't read; he will be the man who has not learned how to learn - Alvin Toffler https://trustcloud.com/!/duncan.lithgow
