Transition to Annotative Scaling

[cj_follmer]

I am beginning to plan how to transition to Annotative Scaling in AutoCAD 2008 and wondering if and how anyone else has jumped over to it. I like what the annotative scaling can do and would love to reduce the number of layers and styles we now use to show the same information.

We currently have a system of numbered layers, text styles, dim styles, etc that control the size and appearance of the annotation and use layer states to control the display of layers. I've customized the system so it will do things like automatically create layers and styles based on the current scale. This level of customization while great, I think is making it hard to plan for the transition.

I'm of course planning on making new styles, blocks and layers which will use the annotative scaling. I guess I'm thinking of making an on/off switch on our system that will make the drawings annotative or not. But before I go too far down this path would like to hear of anyone else's experience with it. Were your users able to pick it up quickly? Does it cause problems with consultants outside the office you share your drawings with? Any other tips or techniques...

Thanks

CJ

[leothebuilder]

I think annotative scaling is great. Just instruct your fellow users. Consultants....well, they just have to get used to it.

[dxarhoulakos]

We're in the midst of implementing it here.

Couple things I noticed in your post. While annotative does control dimstyles, and text styles, it has no effect on layers other then reducing the number of "extra layers requirwed for multiple scales.

It also works for linetype scales, blocks and hatch patterns.

What I've discovered here while implementing is this:
1. Its very difficult to implement in the middle of a project. It should be implemented at the very beginning of a project. (Our projects are very large...1-2 million sq. ft. on average, you may have luck on small projects).
2. Have the users start off with something simple at first to get the hang of it. I like to use column grid bubbles as a good example on "learning how annotative objects work" Once they're comfortable, they can move forward with notes, dims, etc.

[cj_follmer]

thats a good suggestion about starting small. I'll keep that in mind.

thanks

cj