ArchSmarter Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

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ArchSmarter Podcast

Michael Kilkelly

Business

Frequency: 1 episode/19d. Total Eps: 12

Helping AEC professionals work smarter, not harder.

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Data updated on 04/07/2026

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https://www.archsmarter.com/revit-addin-bootcamp
4 shares
https://archsmarter.com
3 shares
https://www.archsmarter.com/blog/revit-template
1 share

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelkilkelly/
4 shares
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-barnett-8386702a/
2 shares

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RSS feed quality

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Score global : 58%

Publication history

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Revit Automation Showdown: Dynamo vs. Python vs. C#

Season 1

Wednesday, May 7, 2025 • Duration 21:13

Episode Summary

In this episode of The ArchSmarter Podcast, host Michael Kilkelly talks about Revit automation approaches, comparing Dynamo, Python, and C#. He explains the strengths and limitations of each method with real-world examples, helping listeners choose the right automation approach based on their skills and project needs.

Key Topics Covered

Why automation matters in Revit: time savings, increased accuracy, and customization
Evolution of Revit automation tools since the API's introduction in 2005
Detailed comparison of three primary automation approaches:
- Dynamo: Visual programming for non-programmers
- Python: Flexible middle ground through PyRevit and Python Shell
- C#: Maximum performance through macros and add-ins

Key Takeaways

Dynamo is best for Revit users without programming experience, BIM managers creating standardized workflows, and those new to automation.
Python offers more flexibility than Dynamo while remaining accessible to those with basic coding skills.
C# provides the highest performance and deepest integration, but requires more specialized skills.

Featured Example Cases

Using Dynamo to automate door hardware data entry for 3,000+ doors
Implementing Python via PyRevit to validate MEP components against client standards
Creating C# add-ins to automate standardized project setup for multiple disciplines

Resources Mentioned

ArchSmarter Toolbox: Free Dynamo scripts and Revit macros
Building Coder website: History of Revit API
Revit API Launchpad: Learning environment for C# and Revit API
Launchpad Explorer: Free productivity tools built using Launchpad

Connect with Michael

Leave a review and subscribe to the podcast.
Share with colleagues who could benefit.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.

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Building Better Tools: How One Architect Transformed His Company's Workflows Through Coding

Season 1

Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • Duration 29:14

In this episode, I speak with Tom Flaherty, a licensed architect and BIM Manager at a Texas-based residential design firm. We discuss his journey into Revit programming and how he developed custom add-ins that dramatically improved his company's efficiency.

Episode Highlights

Tom shares his background with programming, starting from childhood when his father (a self-taught programmer at Texas Instruments) taught him the basics
How Tom's early interest in AutoLISP transitioned to creating Revit add-ins when his firm switched platforms
Why Tom prefers developing C# plugins over Dynamo scripts for a better user experience and stability
The challenges of "users not following directions" motivated Tom to create user-friendly tools that enforce standards
How Tom's custom "Plan Flip" add-in reduced a 4-6 hour process down to less than a minute
The evolution of Tom's role from Senior Associate to officially recognized BIM Manager
Current projects Tom is working on, including a "super tagger" that works across multiple views and context-aware renumbering tools
Advice for architects interested in learning to code: "Don't doubt yourself," and find learning resources that match your style

Time-Saving Tools Discussed

Sheet creation tool using Excel data to automate naming and numbering
Plan flipping tool that handles door swings, elevation renaming, and sheet renumbering
Schedule creation tool that rebuilds missing or deleted schedules
A project cleanup tool that removes non-compliant elements and unused content

Connect With Us

Website: ArchSmarter.com
LinkedIn: Michael Kilkelly
LinkedIn: Tom Flaherty

Enrollment is Open for the Revit Add-in Bootcamp!

Season 1

Monday, March 24, 2025 • Duration 07:19

Enrollment is now open for the next cohort of the Revit Add-in Bootcamp. The Bootcamp starts on March 31st.

Click the link below to learn more and apply!

https://www.archsmarter.com/revit-addin-bootcamp

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Code, Calculations, and Construction: A Structural Engineer's Journey

Season 1

Monday, March 17, 2025 • Duration 30:33

Episode Description

In this episode, Michael Kilkelly interviews structural engineer Bob Barnett about his programming journey from early computing with punch cards and FORTRAN to creating sophisticated Revit add-ins that automate structural calculations. Bob shares how he uses code to eliminate errors in his work, his experiences learning the Revit API, and his approach to building custom tools that make his structural engineering practice more accurate and efficient.

Timeline

0:00 - Introduction to Bob Barnett and the episode theme
1:49 - Bob's early programming background and history with computers from punch cards to modern systems
5:33 - Journey from AutoCAD LISP programming to exploring the Revit API
9:24 - The immediate satisfaction of problem-solving through programming versus long-term architectural projects
13:22 - Bob's dual focus: using automation to increase efficiency and eliminate human errors in structural calculations
17:35 - The filtered element collector as a breakthrough moment in understanding the Revit API
20:16 - Plans for future tools focusing on steel beams and composite members
23:27 - How AI assistance has transformed Bob's programming workflow and accelerated development
28:17 - Advice for engineers considering learning the Revit API

Key Takeaways

Bob focuses on automating calculations to eliminate transcription errors rather than just saving time.
Working on one structural element at a time gives engineers better control and understanding than running large models.
The Revit API provides access to all model data, allowing for direct calculation without manual data entry.
Learning programming fundamentals enables building powerful custom tools specific to your workflow.
AI tools can significantly accelerate the coding process, but you still need to understand programming basics.

Resources Mentioned

Connect with Us

The Art and Science of Effective Learning: Insights from a Master Trainer

Season 1

Monday, March 3, 2025 • Duration 31:49

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the ArchSmarter Podcast, host Michael Kilkelly speaks with Michelle Rasmussen, a multidisciplinary learning expert with over 20 years of experience in instructional design and technical training. Michelle shares valuable insights on effective learning strategies, the evolution of software training, and how to implement successful training programs in the AEC industry.

Key Topics Covered:

Michelle's journey from Air Force civil engineering to becoming a training expert
The neuroscience behind effective learning and information retention
How combining multiple learning modalities enhances knowledge retention
Adapting training methods to shorter attention spans
Using breathwork to optimize learning capacity
Strategies for creating safe learning environments
The "fail fast forward" approach to learning new skills
How AI is transforming training capabilities

Key Takeaways:

The Four Learning Modalities: Combining reading, hearing, seeing, and doing creates the strongest retention of new information. When teaching someone else what you've learned, retention increases to approximately 90%.
Strategic Training Design: Break training into short, digestible chunks (5-10 minutes) and switch between different activities to maintain engagement and accommodate shorter attention spans.
The Power of Repetition: Creating strong neural pathways requires repetition. Using quizzes and assessments isn't just for evaluation—it's another opportunity for reinforcement.
Psychological Safety: Creating an environment where learners feel safe to make mistakes is critical for effective learning. As Michelle says, "You're either winning or learning."
Breathwork for Better Learning: Increasing oxygen flow to the brain through simple breathing exercises can significantly improve learning capacity and help manage frustration during challenging learning moments.

Memorable Quotes:

"If you relate what you're learning to something you already know, you'll retain it much better because it creates neural pathways like a superhighway."

Resources: Connect with Michelle: Subscribe to the ArchSmarter Podcast:

The ROI of Learning to Code: Building Value Through Custom Tools

Season 1

Monday, February 17, 2025 • Duration 27:29

In this episode, we discuss:

James' journey from zero programming experience to creating powerful custom tools
How his firm tracks and measures ROI on automation efforts
The practical impact of custom tools on daily workflows
The story behind saving 800 hours on a single project
Tips for balancing development time with project work
Advice for professionals considering learning to code

Key Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and James' background
05:30 - First experience with programming
12:45 - The panel project that saved hundreds of hours
18:20 - Tracking ROI and development time
25:15 - Current projects and future tools
31:40 - Advice for beginners

Resources Mentioned:

Connect with James on LinkedIn

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Why Learn to Code in the Age of AI?

Season 1

Monday, February 3, 2025 • Duration 10:38

Why Learn to Code in the Age of AI? Episode 6 of the ArchSmarter Podcast

In this episode, Michael Kilkelly explores the evolving role of programming skills in an AI-driven world, using his recent experience building Launchpad, a Revit learning tool, as a practical example.

Episode Highlights

The modern programmer as a "digital master builder"
How AI accelerates development while requiring deeper programming knowledge
Why fundamental coding skills remain crucial in the age of AI
Practical insights from building Launchpad, an interactive Revit learning tool

Key Takeaways

Vision and Understanding Are Essential
- A clear vision of the project is crucial before writing any code
- AI can help implement features but can't determine what makes an effective tool
- Programming knowledge helps shape and direct AI's capabilities
Quality Control Is More Important Than Ever
- Programming knowledge is crucial for evaluating AI-generated code
- Understanding fundamentals helps identify over-engineering and complexity
- Experience helps spot potential issues before they become problems
Programming Knowledge Amplifies AI's Capabilities
- A better understanding of coding leads to better AI prompts
- Fundamental programming skills become the foundation for working with AI
- Technical knowledge helps direct AI toward optimal solutions

Featured Example: Launchpad Development

Two-week development timeline (compared to typical two-month timeline)
Interactive learning tool for C# and Revit API
Built using AI assistance while teaching others to code

Resources Mentioned

Launchpad - Interactive Revit API learning tool
"Cathedral" by David Macaulay
Visual Studio
Revit API

Connect With ArchSmarter

Website: archsmarter.com

Next Steps

Scrappy Scripting: Why Good Enough Beats Perfect Every Time

Season 1

Monday, January 6, 2025 • Duration 11:34

Episode 6: The Power of Scrappy Scripting: Why Done is Better Than Perfect

In this episode, we take a close look at "scrappy scripting" - the art of creating practical, functional automations and tools without getting caught up in perfection. Learn why sometimes the best script is the one that actually gets finished.

Key Topics Covered:

What "scrappy scripting" means and why it matters
Real-world examples from AEC professionals
How to start small and achieve significant results
The 80/20 rule in automation
Practical areas for implementing scrappy scripts

Stories & Examples:

The wall panel manufacturer saving hours on shop drawings
The mechanical engineering firm's equipment schedule checker
Hospital project view automation success story

Quick Tips for Getting Started:

Start with a clear, specific problem
Focus on the happy path first
Embrace imperfection
Build in small increments

Resources Mentioned:

Revit Add-in Bootcamp
Dynamo
Visual Studio
Excel for basic automation

Weekly Challenge: Pick ONE tedious task you do weekly and spend 30 minutes trying to automate it. Focus on making it work, not making it perfect.

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The 80/20 Rule: How I Stopped Designing Custom Coat Hooks (and Why You Should Too)

Season 1

Monday, December 9, 2024 • Duration 15:13

The 80/20 Rule: How I Stopped Designing Custom Coat Hooks (and Why You Should Too)

Show Description:

In this episode, Michael shares how a simple lesson about coat hooks early in his career led to a powerful realization about productivity and prioritization in architecture. Learn how the 80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle) can transform your architectural practice and help you focus on what truly matters.

Episode Outline:

Introduction and coat hooks story
What is the Pareto Principle?
History of the 80/20 rule
Three key applications in AEC
The FOCUS Framework:
Real-world examples and implementation
Weekly challenge and wrap-up

Key Takeaways:

80% of your results typically come from 20% of your efforts
Success isn't about doing everything perfectly—it's about identifying and executing the vital few elements that matter most
The FOCUS framework provides a practical approach to implementing the 80/20 rule in your practice

Weekly Challenge:

Pick your most challenging project and identify its vital 20%. Focus exclusively on these elements for one week and track your results.

Connect With Me:

Website: archsmarter.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaelkilkelly

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Working Lazy by Design: A Framework for Smart Automation

Season 1

Monday, November 18, 2024 • Duration 17:09

Want to know the secret of highly productive professionals? They're strategically lazy. In this episode, Michael introduces the CLIMB framework - a systematic approach to automation that helps you work smarter, not harder. Learn how to transform tedious manual tasks into efficient automated workflows and why sometimes you need to work harder now to be lazier later.

Key Topics

Why being "lazy" can make you more productive
The CLIMB Framework for automation:
- Capture processes
- Leverage templates
- Implement automation
- Monitor results
- Bridge systems
Common automation pitfalls and how to avoid them
How to choose what to automate first

Resources Mentioned

The CBT Method for Creating Templates

Revit Add-in Academy: Learn to create your own Revit tools

ArchSmarter blog

Connect with Michael

LinkedIn: Michael Kilkelly

Website: www.archsmarter.com

Episode Quotes

"If you want something done, ask a lazy person."

"Sometimes you have to work harder up front to be lazier later."

"You can't bridge systems if you haven't captured your processes."

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ArchSmarter Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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ArchSmarter Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

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Other15

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RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

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Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

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LinkedIn5