WHITLEYGroup is a team of talented architecture and engineering professionals, dedicated to providing affordable, architectural services including CAD visualization. We serve as top-notch CAD specialists on their clients' project teams. WHITLEYGroup provides architectural, computer-based services including 2D drafting, 3D modeling, CAD training, architectural project documentation, CAD file translations, rendering, animation, system selection consulting, CAD implementation consulting, and the development of product demonstration CDs and customized CAD interfaces. The firm offers these services to architects, contractors, litigators, engineers, facility managers, interior designers and other construction industry professionals.

Many firms do not have the resources for an extensive investment in computer visualization technology. WHITLEYGroup guides clients through all stages of their visualization projects, expanding on computer and hand-generated designs to produce anything from CAD documentation to a full-blown photo-realistic computer animation.

WHITLEYGroup is constantly upgrading computer technology to provide its clients improved and expanded services. One look at the WHITLEYGroup office indicates the firm's commitment to state-of-the-art equipment, which includes large high-resolution monitors, powerful computers, a sophisticated local-area-network, and audio/visual equipment so the WHITLEYGroup staff can study a project with clients.

"On some projects, the client comes to our office and works alongside us on our computer systems," reported Whitley. "Recently, we were asked to help develop a rendering for a tenant improvement of a geometrically complex office lobby. The architect selected wall paneling and stone finishes from our database. We then manipulated the wall paneling to more closely approximate the desired texture and color. Lighting was very important in this space, to establish atmosphere and highlight the architectural details. We showed the client exactly what the space would look like. The client was considering cancelling the project, but became very excited and gave the go-ahead on the project after viewing our rendering of the planned improvements. The cost for the rendering was less than half of a hand-rendered water color. And since WHITLEYGroup has the information stored in the computer, additional images can be generated at a fraction of the cost of hand-rendered images."

Recently, many municipal projects have begun requiring that projects be submitted in InterGraph (MicroStation) format. While most architects and engineers in San Diego County use AutoCAD, many cannot justify spending $3500 for yet another CAD package and then sending their staff members off for costly, additional training. Whitley mentions that he's been able to use his extensive experience translating AutoCAD files into InterGraph format to help local firms meet these government requirements and at rates well within the project's budget.

On a recent tenant improvement project for a major health care provider, the senior staff asked to see the Executive Conference Room. WHITLEYGroup included the Frank Lloyd Wright and Gustav Stickley furniture from its drawing database, and incorporated a photograph of the panoramic view from the office. "More of our clients are asking us to integrate site photographs with their CAD models. It's a wonderful presentation," Whitley remarked.

WHITLEYGroup is currently working on a project developing construction documents as slices through a 3-dimensional representation of the building. Changes made anywhere in the building are automatically updated throughout the drawing set. In addition, WHITLEYGroup is exploring the use of virtual reality input devices so their clients can "walk" through their projects. Whitley notes that this is the direction in which client presentations are headed.

With today's complex relationships in the design process, WHITLEYGroup believes it is paramount to share its experience, knowledge and database with their clients. "Because of this, my quality standards are exceedingly high. Everything must be drawn or modeled accurately, and issues such as layer management must conform to industry standards," said Whitley.

"We work hard to help our clients get the most out of computers to practice architecture." This attitude permeates Whitley's personal commitment to the profession.