RISA Customer Spotlight-Facet

Getting Started

Facet has experienced remarkable growth, expanding from a modest group of 12 to a robust team of 136 employees since 2005. A key component of this success has been the company’s early adoption of innovative structural engineering software. Facet’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge tools began with the use of ADAPT-PT/RC, which allowed for optimization of load re-input processes and streamlined the overall workflow. This early innovation paved the way for more advanced technologies, laying a strong foundation for Facet’s engineering prowess.

By focusing on streamlining their operations and exploring the intricacies of software architecture, Facet positioned itself at the forefront of efficient engineering practices. The deep understanding of ADAPT's backend files allowed them to drive improvements that continue to benefit the company today, especially through ADAPT-Builder, which has brought even more sophisticated modeling and analysis capabilities.

Advancements with RISAConnection

A major leap forward for Facet came with the incorporation of RISAConnection. This software brought significant efficiencies in designing brace frames and moment frames, leading to reduced design time and cost-effective project completion. One notable example was the quick adjustment of connection conditions on a tight deadline, demonstrating how RISAConnection improved both speed and accuracy during critical project stages.

By adopting RISAConnection, Facet enhanced its ability to handle a broader range of structural connections, providing their clients with faster, more reliable designs. This efficiency allowed the firm to remain competitive in a fast-paced industry, where time savings and cost control can make a significant difference in project success.

Expanding Capabilities with Integration of RISA and ADAPT

Facet's journey of expanding its capabilities was significantly bolstered by integrating RISA-2D with ADAPT, a strategic move that opened doors to working on more complex projects. This integration enabled the seamless design of wood, steel, and concrete structures in one modeling environment. As a result, Facet was able to take on a wide range of projects, from large-scale multifamily developments to unique high-end residential homes.

The decision to merge RISA and ADAPT technologies was a transformative one, creating a unified workflow that bridged previously siloed design and analysis processes. Facet also adapted to the subscription-based software model, moving away from traditional hardware keys. This not only simplified software management but also provided greater resilience during IT downtimes, ensuring smooth project continuity during critical phases.

The Software Journey Deepens

Facet’s strategic software adoption began with ADAPT, but it quickly expanded as project complexity increased. The introduction of RISA-2D, chosen for its robust wood design capabilities, allowed the company to elevate its residential projects. As the firm grew, so did its project needs, leading to the adoption of RISA-3D. This proved critical for a multi-story residential project that required complex modeling of retaining walls, where RISA-3D’s finite element analysis capabilities played an integral role in ensuring precise load-bearing calculations.

The adoption of RISAFoundation further strengthened Facet’s ability to deliver comprehensive designs, seamlessly transitioning from structural modeling in RISA-3D to detailed foundation design. This created a smooth workflow and improved design accuracy, particularly for projects requiring intricate foundation analysis. With each new tool, Facet’s ability to take on more challenging projects grew, underpinned by a commitment to optimizing their engineering output through innovative software solutions.

Looking Ahead: Future Plans

Facet continues to explore additional tools like RISAFloor, aiming to further optimize operations and enhance the services they provide to clients. This forward-thinking approach to software adoption aligns with their long-term strategy of embracing technological advancements that deliver real value in engineering design and project execution.

Facet’s two-decade journey of integrating RISA and ADAPT software reflects the company’s dedication to staying ahead in the structural engineering industry. By focusing on innovative software solutions, they have cultivated a reputation for excellence and precision, ensuring continued success as they adapt to the evolving demands of engineering projects. Facet’s forward momentum, supported by strategic software partnerships, promises to be a defining factor in their ongoing growth and competitiveness.