Direct Answer
Tectonix functions as your detailing and project management partner — we receive the design documents, build the Tekla structural model, submit shop drawings, manage all RFIs, deliver DSTV files for your CNC equipment, and provide a fully coordinated IFC package. Our fabricator clients typically brief us at project kickoff, review drawing submittals, and receive production-ready files without managing the detailing process day-to-day.
Full Explanation
The Tectonix engagement workflow: (1) Project kickoff — you share design documents (structural drawings, project specification, connection schedule). We establish the communication protocol, RFI routing, and submittal schedule. (2) Modeling — our detailers build the 3D Tekla model and flag RFIs as they arise. (3) First submittal — anchor bolt plans are submitted first for early foundation work. General arrangement and piece mark drawings follow on the agreed schedule. (4) Review cycle — we submit, track review, incorporate comments, and resubmit. (5) IFC release — upon approval, we issue IFC drawings and DSTV/NC1 files. (6) Production support — we answer questions from your shop floor, update the model for design changes, and re-issue drawings with revision clouds. (7) Close-out — we deliver an as-built model and organized drawing package.
What This Means for Your Shop
Fabricators who use Tectonix for the first time often report that the biggest benefit isn't just drawing quality — it's the proactive communication. We surface problems before they become fabrication stops. Our project managers attend the same coordination meetings you do, so you're never surprised by a design change we didn't already know about.
Common Mistakes
Treating the detailer as a service bureau rather than a project partner. Fabricators who share context early — project schedule, customer concerns, complex bays — get better results than those who hand off documents and wait for drawings.
Recommended Process
At Tectonix project kickoff, brief us on: (1) Your target erection start date. (2) The highest-risk bays or conditions you've identified. (3) Any special inspection or certification requirements. (4) Your CNC platform (so we configure DSTV correctly). This context shapes our detailing priorities from day one.