A diverse skillset is what typifies and differentiates the successful CAD manager. Juggling many responsibilities, they set the benchmark for team success through the effective implementation of their management strategy.
Hiring the best talent
Creating a CAD benchmarking test for recruitment can ensure that only the best CAD talent becomes part of the team. This is a simple and surefire way to assess knowledge, expertise and competence in practical CAD application. Look for CAD certified professionals who will being credibility and skill to the team.
Procurement procedures
Being diligent with purchasing procedures will ensure that not only are software and hardware purchases cost effective, but also fit for purpose. Always get several quotes and have a checklist of requirements that can be discussed with the seller or re-seller. Optimise the return on investment by prioritising software and hardware that represents the best ROI in terms of time and productivity.
Standardise software updates
By implementing these processes, CAD users will achieve competence before software updates occur, avoiding costly mistakes later. Implementing a clear plan, backed up with training and support, will help ease the transition.
Professional development
Implementing regular training ensures that CAD professionals are at the cutting edge of new developments in the field. Committing to professional development enhances skill sets, confidence, ability and ultimately productivity for an exponential return on the initial investment.
Value and act on feedback
Good communication skills are not only about the ability to effectively outline a complex project. Create a work environment where CAD users are given the opportunity to feed back on their experience. Fast implementation of changes is a valuable way to prove that feedback has been both listened to and acted on.
Be hands on
A good CAD manager ensures he’s familiar enough with software platforms to confidently solve day to day issues that arise. Take the lead on formulating and implementing CAD standards and communicate them effectively to management so you’re all on the same page. Knowing your software allows CAD managers to plan effectively for future implementation of updates and new technology, and prepare relevant budgets and cost implementation justification.
Achieve managerial control
Be proactive, not reactive. Understanding the workload and mastering it enables a good CAD manager to pay attention to the fine detail. As the last link in the chain, the CAD manager is in a unique position to take an overview of the entire engineering and design process, identifying any potential problems before they can become major issues. And if that process saves time and cuts costs, the company becomes more profitable.
Better reporting = better communication
CAD manager can feel as if they operate in a vacuum where common misconceptions and preconceptions are rife. One key to managing for success is the reporting process when used to educate as well as inform. Clear, well written reports put management in the picture when it comes to issues like training, human resources and potential dangers. Circulating simple weekly reports outlining what you’ve done and intend to do will help CAD managers and their management teams to track changes and review developments by conveying vital information simply and effectively. Aligning your thinking with management demonstrates the value effective CAD management adds to a company.
A balancing act
CAD managers may be technologists at heart, but they’ve also shown the ability to take charge by solving problems and communicating their solutions effectively to their team. Combining the skills of thinking like a CAD operator and communicating like a CAD manager efficiently can be a difficult act to pull off. But it’s precisely that ability that identifies great CAD management.
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The Skills Show 2012 – General Day Two Have A Go by WorldSkills UK licensed under Creative commons 4