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> I run a landscaping company and am looking for the best landscape
> design software to suit my needs...
>
> I have two landscape designers who will be using the software, and
> neither of them are proficient with computers, so I will have to train
> them how to use the software and hope that they can pick up the
> essentials without too much difficulty. So basically I am looking for
> software that is easy to learn and use, and something that can accept
> photographs of the customer's house and convert a 2-D landscape plan
> to a virtual rending of the appearance of the completed project would
> also be desirable. Does any software exist that meets these criteria?
>
> Thanks for any recommendations that designers can provide.

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>Dynascape (http://www.gardengraphics.com/) - it's not cheap so you'll need
>to determine if the ROI is worth it (and what features you will and won't
>use could effect your decision).
>
>Punch product (they offer a couple different ones)
>http://www.punchsoftware.com/products/MasterPro.htm - A very cheap way to
>go. It'll probably do everything you need and the output is acceptable to
>most people (I find it's 3D output to look very "cartoony" but that's
>because whenever I do 3D I strive for photo-realistic).
>
>Those are probably the 2 programs to look at first and will give you the top
>and bottom prices of the spectrum ($80-$4000+)
>
>HTH,
>
>Michael (LS)
>

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> On Thu, 14 Jul 2005 17:42:07 GMT, "Michael \(LS\)"
> <NoSpam@MyEmail.com> uttered like so:
>
>
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>
> Thanks very much, Michael. The cost is not so much of a consideration
> for me as is the ease of use by designers who are not proficient with
> computers, and the output quality. I'll be sure to consider both of
> those. How easy to use is Dynascape?

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>Depends upon where you're coming from (and what version you're using). I.E.
>I was proficient with AutoCAD before ever hearing of Dynascape. I found it
>fairly simple to learn the basics (I don't do much landscape designing
>anymore so I never really spent the time to utilize all of it's features).
>
>BTW, thought of another program to consider (I don't know much about it
>though...) Drafix Pro Landscape ( www.drafix.com )
>
>I'd suggest you look at all the info/features/reviews you can find on
>prospective software and then look at trying a demo version before making
>your final purchase decision. It'd also probably be helpful to have one of
>your designers try the one your considering on a small (not quick
>turn-around) project to see how well it meshes with your workflow & needs.
>
>HTH,
>
>Michael (LS)
>

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> On Fri, 15 Jul 2005 04:52:58 GMT, "Michael \(LS\)"
> <NoSpam@MyEmail.com> uttered like so:
>
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>
> Thanks Michael. If it was me that was using the software, I wouldn't
> care in the slightest how complicated it is to use. In addition to
> running my business, I'm also the IT specialist here. However, the
> designers who will be using the software are rather computer
> illiterate, so I am concerned about their ability to be able to learn
> to use it--though they do seem very willing to try. I will probably
> end up learning it myself (even though I'm not a designer) and then
> trying to train them to use it.
>
> Thanks for mentioning Drafix too--I'll be sure to add that to the list
> of considerations.
>
> Lothar

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>Well, taking the "leap" into CAD will be a struggle, but in the long run
>it'll make them much more productive (and will make their work more
>professional looking during the design phase - especially if they aren't
>stellar sketchers). My suggestion is to take it in baby steps. Most
>programs are going to allow you to generate material lists, 3D views &/or
>walk-arounds, sun&shadow studies, future views (i.e. what it's going to look
>like 10 years from now), etc. Start off just using and mastering the
>basics - 2D plans. Once everyone is proficient at that you can start adding
>in the other stuff.
>
>When I first started doing landscape design the landscapers I worked for all
>were amazed that I gave them a materials list that was super accurate (i.e.
>12.5 tons of 1-1/2" red limestone). It allowed them to immediate save some
>money because they were no longer over ordering nor where they having to
>make extra trips to pick up "30' more of edging". Keep in mind though that
>there will be issues for a while. Don't get upset when the first job comes
>back with an incorrect materials list. I'd suggest when you start using the
>material that you also do it the old fashioned way and compare. That'll
>help catch any software issues (i.e. forgot to input the mulch).
>
>One last thing, it'll really be helpful if someone in your office becomes an
>"expert" on the software. Whether that's you or one of the designers is
>your call. You don't want a deadline missed or a project screwed up because
>of software questions (i.e. How do I print this project for my meeting in
>half an hour!!! or There's no Picea glauca densata/Black Hills Spruce in the
>plant database!!!)
>
>HTH,
>
>Michael (LS)
>