Google Sketchup 7

Wanted to mention a tool which I used recently for one of my clients. One of my clients wanted to build a custom shed. To assist with the design and dimensions of his custom shed, I Googled for a 3D software. What I came across was Google's Sketchup 6. I used it to design his shed and was placed on Google's Sketchup notifier. Google has now come out with an enhanced version 7. And it's all for free!!!

It's an amazing tool. Took some time to learn Version 6. With the enhanced Version 7, I'm sure they have improved on some of the complexities of the older Version 6. Haven't had a chance to go in and try the new Version 7 yet. Looking forward to playing around with it since I need to build a couple sheds, re-do a patio cover and enclose it as well as several re-model projects in my own home which is a fixer-upper.

10 years ago when I was a contractor, I used a software from Broderbund which I think was called Architect 3D. That was a clunky software in my opinion compared to Sketchup 3D. The nice thing about Sketchup is that you don't have to have a very powerful computer to use the software. But, if you take into account that my computer from 10 years ago was probably half as powerful as my current PC, I guess it's all relative.

Good job Google for creating and making available this great tool for the everyday Joe. For any of you interested in checking out the software and downloading it, here is the URL:

http://sketchup.google.com/