Google SketchUp could be one of those planet (and construction industry) changing products. Developed a few years ago, the free drafting program from Google allows almost anyone to easily draw 3D models. It’s an open source program that has thousands of users creating models of things like steel beam shapes and windows that allow users to grab items without lots of extra work.

Imagine if AutoCad lost its iron grip on computer drafting and a free program took it’s place. Think Microsoft operating systems being replaced by Linux. To me, it’s a when, not an if, question. You might think, “Ok, so maybe SketchUp saves design professionals lots of money on licencing fees and allows me to work at their level for no cost, but how does that change the world?”

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqMXIRwQniA&feature=player_embedded

Folks use SketchUp to model the ancient city of Rome, as shown above, as well as the current city of Rome, as shown below.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwuHiu3wmUA&feature=player_embedded

Take a few minutes and watch those videos. It’s astounding the work that has gone into SketchUp modeling. Now think about every city and town being modeled in that way. There will be some weird folks in every location that will derive satisfaction from the mastery of creating the models and the camaraderie of working on the team.

Everything changes when a decent model of the built environment exists. Imagine how GPS will be different as you travel. Or think about all the things advertising could do with sites like Yelp and positioning software on your phone. I think this is a big trend and we’re in the early stages. As I’ve often said, “It’s a valuable skill to spot future trends early and position yourself accordingly.”

If you’re currently under-employed in construction, take the time to learn Google SketchUp. It’s free and a skill that will have future value. If you’re busy with work, think about the value of devoting some time to learning it. Remember, where you end depends on what you do now. If you do nothing extraordinary now, don’t expect to end anywhere special.