The software allows users to input information about a building and review it for code compliance, said Joel McLafferty, B-Code's CEO. Test projects show that B-Code takes architects about 30% less time to conduct a code-compliance analysis on a building compared with conventional methods, and reduces costs by about 20%.
Other features include instant comparison of alternate designs and accessibility by users at different locations.
The database-driven Web site (www.b-code.com) is being marketed in concert with the International Conference of Building Officials. B-code will be adaptable to the forthcoming International Building Code - a merging of the UBC, the Standard Building Code and the National Building Code.
The IBC should be adopted by most states in 2002, according to Mark Johnson, ICBO director/product development.
