The ND Innovates initiative, launched in October, continues to generate employee ideas to make the University more efficient through improved processes and automation. Like a well-oiled machine, the ND Innovates team in the Office of Strategic Planning and Institutional Research then identifies and implements the concepts most likely to produce financial savings, which are dedicated to student financial aid. Often, the ideas for efficiencies save more than money; the new way of doing something often leads to saved time for faculty and staff.
Jamie LaCourt, project specialist with the Facilities Design and Operations division, submitted his idea with that thought in mind. He suggested eliminating the printing of building drawings and specifications for construction projects and fully adopting Bluebeam Revu as the exclusive tool to update changes and document feedback from projects team members and outside consultants. Bluebeam Revu is a markup and editing software designed specifically for the architecture, engineering and construction industry that allows for greater collaboration and efficiency.
LaCourt pointed out in his submission that the obvious gains for adopting Bluebeam Revu are reductions in printing costs and having a more sustainable footprint. Additionally, there is the benefit for those working on projects to experience the ease of making updates and notifying project team members of the changes. LaCourt says, “Bluebeam Revu allows everyone working on the project to have visibility and access to the most current changes in order to allow for more precise planning.”
Jason Hilty, a network design professional in the Office of Information Technologies, uses Bluebeam Revu for Notre Dame’s construction projects. He says it has transformed how he does his job: “Bluebeam Revu saves so much time when making changes to design drawings.” Hilty says he can’t see doing his job without it.
Other accepted Ideas that make it easier for staff:
Mary LaViolette, senior administrative assistant, Student Affairs
-
Replace light switches with sensors in single-user bathrooms.
Pamela Mullin, development coordinator, Development
-
Reduce the printing of Advisory Council books and develop an online version.
ND Innovates continues to welcome ideas submitted through innovates.nd.edu. Prizes will be awarded to people who submitted the ideas that are implemented. Since some ideas are submitted by more than one person, the person who submitted the idea first will receive the award.
Originally published by at ndworks.nd.edu on August 11, 2019.