In a drive to convert outdated 2D general draughting software users to the latest building information modelling technology, Autodesk is distributing hundreds of iPod Nanos to architectural firms.
The Nanos will come pre-loaded with 13 interviews with architectural specialists highlighting the benefits of Autodesk Revit technology.
According to Errol Ashwell, MD of Autodesk Africa, architects are visual people and text-dense communication cannot compare to the power of the video capability of the iPod Nanos.
"Interviewees weren't paid for their time, their endorsements were authentic. The majority of participants even allowed us to include their contact details in accompanying material so their counterparts could contact them to discuss the technology further," says Ashwell.
In direct marketing terms, the pilot project was a phenomenal success, achieving a 50% response rate, he notes.
"Our biggest challenge," says Ashwell, "were those architects who couldn't believe that all they had to do was register to get an iPod - no strings attached!"
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