FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our FAQ page! Find quick answers to common queries about our platform, services, and more. If you need further assistance, our team is here to help. Empower your experience by exploring our FAQs.

Pricing and installation

Do I need to download anything?

Digital Blue Foam is web-based. This means you do not need to fuss about installations or updates to get started. Our interface runs best on Chrome.

Learn how to get started with DBF

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How do I cancel my subscription?

Please contact us directly if there is anything you are not happy with and we will do our best to address your concerns. If you are still not happy we will give you a full refund.

How do you work in the Enterprise account?

We typically start with an interview style meeting from where both parties learn to scope out the pilot project and deliverables. During the pilot project there will be weekly meetings on requirements and progress. During the pilot project we will create multiple prototypes. We sometimes do a competition with everyone in the organisation to try the tool and come up with a design. A pilot project typically runs for 2-3 months and during the last phase we make proposals with our customers for the enterprise account.

We prioritise custom development using agile methodology to maximize value we deliver to the organizations we work with in a transparent manner.

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How many projects can I work on?

Regardless of your account type there is no limit on how many projects you can save at a given time.

I'm a Mac user. Can I use your tool?

Yes we do not discriminate or delay other platforms. As long as you use Chrome you can use our online service. We are working to optimize Digital Blue Foam for IPad and other tablet devices to take advantage of the stylus and touch screen.

We love what you guys do! Can we have tailored solutions for our organization?

Absolutely! We work with several large organizations to make customized versions of our software to optimize customer relations and project deliverables. With our clients we also work on custom data from their past projects or simply on specific typologies and efficiencies.

Features

How can I set requirements for Covid-19 planning of interior spaces?

We have developed a covid space planner tool and we currently are working with clients on specific projects. If you have any inquiries and like to get in touch to learn more we would be happy to assist you further.

Other questions

Are BIM and CAD the same?

No. CAD is for drafting

Are you trying to replace designers?

automate processes

Can DBF combine retail and transit programming in transport hubs?

Yes. DBF validates mixed-use programs

Can DBF compare multiple 15-minute city scenarios?

Yes. DBF generates and scores multiple development scenarios against 15-minute city KPIs simultaneously

Can DBF compare multiple EV site candidates simultaneously?

Yes. DBF runs parallel feasibility analysis across multiple candidate sites

Can DBF export data to BIM or IFC file formats through its middleware

DBF integrates seamlessly with BIM software via our proprietary middleware

Can DBF handle phased masterplan development?

Yes. DBF models phasing scenarios

Can DBF identify development opportunities in existing urban areas?

Yes. DBF scores parcels by development potential

Can DBF integrate with existing GIS workflows?

Yes. DBF integrates multi-source GIS and geospatial data into a unified feasibility workflow alongside BIM and CAD outputs.

Can DBF integrate with Revit for data center projects?

Yes. DBF produces BIM-ready validated layouts that connect directly to Revit and ArchiCAD for detailed data center design.

Can DBF Mass integrate with our existing BIM or project management tools?

Yes

Can DBF model financial viability for mixed-use developments?

Yes. DBF integrates GFA-based financial viability analysis into program scenario testing

Can DBF model infection control zoning in hospital planning?

Yes. DBF validates infection control zone configurations

Can DBF model multi-system interactions in smart city planning?

Yes. DBF models interactions between transport

Can DBF model patient flow for outpatient and diagnostic medical centers?

Yes. DBF simulates patient appointment flows

Can DBF model peak passenger flow scenarios?

Yes. DBF simulates peak demand

Can DBF plan for automation in logistics centers?

Yes. DBF tests automation zone configurations and validates spatial requirements for AS/RS

Can DBF plan for EV production ramp-up and future model flexibility?

Yes. DBF tests scalability scenarios for production volume growth and designs flexible layouts that accommodate future EV model changeovers.

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Can DBF plan for future automation in fulfillment centers?

Yes. DBF designs scalable automation zones and validates spatial requirements for AS/RS

Can DBF plan for future EV technology upgrades on existing sites?

Yes. DBF designs scalable layouts that accommodate future charger technology upgrades and capacity increases with minimal infrastructure change.

Can DBF plan for laboratory flexibility and future reprogramming?

Yes. DBF tests flexible structural grids and service distribution configurations that enable research spaces to be reprogrammed with minimal disruption.

Can DBF plan for laboratory flexibility and future reprogramming?Yes. DBF tests flexible structural grids and service distribution configurations that enable research spaces to be reprogrammed with minimal disruption.

Yes. DBF tests flexible structural grids and service distribution configurations that enable research spaces to be reprogrammed with minimal disruption.

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Can DBF plan for long-term airport capacity growth?

Yes. DBF models phased airport expansion scenarios

Can DBF plan for mixed tenures in compact city developments?

Yes. DBF models mixed-tenure programs

Can DBF plan for phased fleet electrification programs?

Yes. DBF models phased electrification from pilot fleets to full conversion

Can DBF plan for phased innovation center development?

Yes. DBF tests scalability and phasing scenarios

Can DBF plan for specialist manufacturing infrastructure requirements?

Yes. DBF models specialist infrastructure demands

Can DBF plan multi-typology laboratory buildings?

Yes. DBF manages complex buildings with multiple lab types

Can DBF plan network-level vertiport coverage for UAM operators?

Yes. DBF runs multi-site feasibility comparison for vertiport networks

Can DBF plan tech campus phasing for company growth?

Yes. DBF models multi-phase campus development

Can DBF support dock repurposing projects?

Yes. DBF models legacy dock sites and generates mixed-use or logistics repurposing scenarios

Can DBF validate platform capacity for future rail service growth?

Yes. DBF tests platform capacity scenarios for current and projected future service frequencies

Can I download an information package?

Can I have a free trial?

working on the product and believe in what we do. Sign-up for our early access program to see for yourself.

Can I import 3D files?

terrain

Can I rely on DBF Mass's results for regulatory approval or permitting processes?

DBF Mass is designed to support your design process with area calculations and feasibility analysis. While we've taken utmost care in accuracy

Can I rely on MPlot's results for regulatory approval or permitting processes?

MPlot is designed to support your planning process with analytics and insights. While we've taken utmost care in accuracy

Can I request a new feature?

and our team will assist you promptly.

Can I use AI to design a building?

AI is a powerful design tool that assists architects in generating design options and exploring possibilities for buildings and other projects. It minimizes costs and automates repetitive tasks but doesn’t replace the architect’s expertise and creativity.

Can I work with a teammate on a Project?

Yes

Can MPlot integrate with our existing BIM or project management tools?

Yes

Do you offer demos or free trials?

Yes! We're currently offering personalized 30-minute demos where you can see MPlot in action and test it with your own project data. Book your demo using the link above.

Do you offer demos or free trials?

Yes! We're currently offering personalized 30-minute demos where you can see DBF Mass in action and test it with your own project data. We also offer a 14-day free trial with full platform access. Book your demo using the link above. 

Do you sell a standalone licence?

Do you sell perpetual licenses?

Does DBF integrate renewable energy and battery storage into depot planning?

Yes. DBF can model on-site generation and storage alongside grid connection demand

Does DBF Mass generate unit layouts and parking?

Currently

Does DBF Mass work in real-time while I design or do I need to generate options separately?

The analytics dashboard and 3D visualization update in real-time as you make changes to massing

Does DBF produce planning-authority outputs?

DBF generates KPI reports

Does DBF provide custom software development services?

features

Does DBF work for both new developments and retrofit projects?

DBF supports both greenfield and brownfield analysis

Does DBF work for regional-scale land use analysis?

DBF supports analysis at multiple scales

Does the AI work in real-time while I design or do I need to generate scenarios separately?

MPlot provides both options. The analytics dashboard updates in real-time as you make changes. The AI scenario generation creates multiple layout options when you're ready to explore alternatives. Future updates will include more real-time AI assistance during design.

How accurate are the analytics and calculations in DBF Mass?

DBF Mass's area calculations are based on industry-standard GFA formulas and building geometry. We've worked closely with architecture professionals to ensure accuracy. All calculations are transparent and update in real-time. We recommend reviewing outputs with your team before final submissions. 

How accurate are the analytics and calculations in MPlot?

MPlot's analytics are based on standard planning metrics and formulas. We've worked closely with planning professionals to ensure accuracy. All calculations are transparent and can be verified. We recommend reviewing outputs with your team before final submissions. 

How accurate is AI-based land use prediction?

DBF's predictions are based on multi-source validated datasets and scenario modeling

How accurate is the Data?

All our data is geolocated and relates directly to your site and building or urban district. We overlay a range of different data sets so our customers don’t need to worry about bringing in data such as climate and context

How are you using Machine Learning?

enhancing design precision. Explore innovative techniques with DBF for optimized designs.

How can BIM facilitate structural analysis?

DBF’s BIM analysis software provides accurate 3D models

How can I share a project with a customer or a teammate that doesn't have an account?

You can share the compare page URL. You can also work together in our virtual collaborative environment called DBF-XD.

How do I know my network didn’t signup with your product?

How do you create a concept in architectural design?

following unique philosophies and styles. Dive into the essence of design philosophy in innovative concepts.

How do you create a concept in architectural design?

following unique philosophies and styles. Dive into the essence of design philosophy in innovative concepts.

How do you create a sustainable building?

To create a sustainable building

How do you generate viable designs using AI?

feasible architectural concepts.

How does DBF balance density and liveability in compact city planning?

DBF tests hundreds of density and program combinations simultaneously

How does DBF calculate 15-minute city metrics?

DBF runs isochrone network analysis

How does DBF differ from standard GIS platforms for smart city planning?

DBF adds AI scenario generation and multi-system KPI validation on top of spatial data

How does DBF differ from traditional masterplanning tools?

DBF generates multiple validated scenarios in parallel rather than designing one at a time

How does DBF handle complex lab adjacency requirements?

DBF validates adjacency relationships between all program types

How does DBF handle environmental constraints in port planning?

DBF integrates GIS environmental data including flood zones

How does DBF handle evolving UAM regulatory requirements?

DBF's parametric constraints can be updated as UAM regulatory standards develop

How does DBF help Project Leads on city development projects?

DBF generates multiple city development scenarios from requirements data

How does DBF help with data center capacity planning?

DBF creates multiple capacity scenarios from power and cooling inputs

How does DBF integrate regulatory standards into laboratory planning?

DBF incorporates regulatory and safety requirements as planning constraints

How does DBF integrate urban network data into transport hub planning?

DBF imports GIS and mobility network data to validate site accessibility

How does DBF Mass compare to other tools?

vs. Autodesk Forma: More flexible massing controls

How does DBF model EV charging demand?

DBF integrates catchment and mobility data to model utilization projections

How does DBF model EV production flow in factory planning?

DBF simulates production flow across multiple factory configurations

How does DBF model peak charging demand for fleet depots?

DBF models simultaneous charging demand peaks across all vehicle types

How does DBF model peak passenger flow in airport terminal planning?

DBF simulates peak demand across multiple terminal configurations

How does DBF model peak passenger flow in railway station planning?

DBF simulates peak demand across platform

How does DBF optimize logistics flow in facility design?

DBF simulates operational flow across multiple layout configurations

How does DBF optimize throughput in fulfillment center planning?

DBF models operational flow across multiple layout configurations

How does DBF validate clinical program adjacencies in medical centers?

DBF uses clinical relationship matrices to test all departmental and specialty adjacency requirements

How does DBF validate containment requirements in research labs?

DBF models containment zones

How does DBF validate hospital departmental adjacencies?

DBF uses clinical relationship matrices to test all departmental adjacency requirements

How does DBF validate MEP infrastructure for laboratories?

DBF models MEP demand from program inputs

How does DBF validate production flow in complex factory planning?

DBF simulates multi-stage production flow across layout scenarios

How does DBF validate vertical zoning in mixed-use complexes?

DBF tests vertical use stacking configurations against structural

How does DBF validate workplace program adjacencies in tech campus planning?

DBF models adjacency relationships between all workplace and amenity types

How does DBF's usage-based pricing work?

ensuring cost-effectiveness. How does DBF's usage-based pricing work? Learn here.

How does Digital Blue Foam analyze sustainability?

precise and up-to-date

How does the Generate Function work?

The generate button takes in large amounts of data and from there starts to create options on the location you have selected using our tool. We assist you to produce building designs based on your input and create a range of options that you can easily compare using our compare overview page. The generate function takes into account your targets and design guidelines

How does the tool meet multiple objectives and targets?

Using multi-objective optimization

How early in a project can DBF be used?

DBF is developed for pre-design use — from initial site identification through program validation and early massing

How is my project data secured?

we provide dedicated encrypted servers and databases.

How is generative AI design used in architecture?

Generative AI in architecture simplifies the design process by analyzing constraints automatically including space

How long does it take to learn Digital Blue Foam?

By designing the best user experience

How much time does Digital Blue Foam save?

A recent survey of our current customers shows savings of at least 1 week on a 2-3 week project duration. This is a typical feasibility study for the majority of customers

How to design a building?

flowing back and forth to cover every aspect. Generative design offers efficiency amidst the design industry's challenges.

Is DBF suitable for aerospace and semiconductor manufacturing facility planning?

DBF is designed for the most complex manufacturing typologies

Is DBF suitable for both new station and station upgrade projects?

DBF supports greenfield station planning and upgrade projects

Is DBF suitable for both new terminal and airport expansion projects?

DBF supports greenfield terminal planning and capacity expansion projects

Is DBF suitable for both new-build hospitals and refurbishment projects?

DBF supports both new-build and brownfield/refurbishment hospital planning

Is DBF suitable for gigafactory-scale EV manufacturing planning?

DBF is designed for large

Is DBF suitable for government smart city programs?

DBF is used by government agencies and municipal planners for smart city feasibility

Is DBF suitable for hyperscale data center planning?

DBF is designed for mission-critical

Is DBF suitable for integrated airport-vertiport planning?

DBF supports vertiport integration with existing airport terminals

Is DBF suitable for interdisciplinary research facility planning?

DBF handles complex mixed research environments

Is DBF suitable for large-scale regional distribution centers?

DBF is designed for complex

Is DBF suitable for large-scale technology company headquarters planning?

DBF is designed for complex

Is DBF suitable for life science innovation campuses?

DBF is designed for complex facility types including life science

Is DBF suitable for mixed-use schemes with complex planning requirements?

DBF produces spatial analysis and comparison outputs formatted for planning authority review

Is DBF suitable for multi-shed fulfillment campus planning?

DBF handles single-facility and multi-shed campus configurations

Is DBF suitable for specialist clinical facility planning?

DBF supports specialist medical facilities including oncology centers

Is DBF suitable for urban infill and brownfield compact city projects?

DBF supports brownfield

Is generative design the future?

Generative design is the future of design. It quickly analyses the requirements and constraints and gives us several different options to choose from. It reduces the amount of time and effort of designers by a lot. Generative design software allows designers to generate designs and complete tasks in periods that would be humanly impossible when using more traditional software. The amount of design options generative design software can produce is truly mind-boggling. Ultimately

Is there any AI for architecture design?

Digital Blue Foam (DBF) comes with integrated AI-powered generative design tools for architectures that use machine learning to deliver data-driven results. Other than DBF

What about regulatory compliance checking?

DBF Mass includes parametric setback and offset controls to test zoning compliance scenarios. For automated compliance checking (shadow casting

What are some examples of generative design?

Generative design is being highly used in many fields of design. Especially in product design and now even in the AEC industry. It quickly analyses the requirements and constraints and gives us several different options to choose from. There are many examples to be listed. Architect Zaha Hadid revolutionized generative design by actually bringing great designs into form. One of the most outstanding examples is Haider Aliyev Center. Daiwa House Industry’s Urban Housing by Daiwa house industry in Japan uses generative design to create great living spaces in the very compact area provided. Autodesk buildings in Toronto are also included in the most excellent examples of generative design in architecture. Works of Alessandro Zomparelli and Layth Mahdi are just two of the most creative generative designers. They create products

What are the differences between BIM and CAD?

CAD focuses on 2D/3D drafting

What are the performance requirements of my computer?

You can use any reasonable laptop and will be able to create your own design in minutes. Digital Blue Foam is currently optimized for the chrome browser. For large scale urban projects

What are the stages of site planning

“The art of arranging structures on the land and shaping the spaces between; an art linked to architecture

What data sources are used by DBF?

satellite imagery

What does a building design do?

in a nutshell

What does a site analysis include?

Whenever building design or urban design processes start

What happens when local regulations change? How does MPlot stay current?

MPlot provides tools and analytics based on common planning standards. For jurisdiction-specific compliance

What is 15-minute city planning software?

Software that validates walkability

What is a sustainable city?

A sustainable city is an urban area designed to balance economic growth

What is AI masterplanning software?

AI masterplanning software generates multiple feasible land use and density scenarios from project requirements

What is airport planning software?

Software that generates and validates airport terminal layouts

What is BIM Architecture software?

BIM architecture software helps architects and engineers create

What is building design?

Building design is the science of planning and executing a design to physically combine all the features an occupiable building must-have. It involves taking the ideas and requirements of clients as a challenge

What is city development planning software?

Software that automates urban growth feasibility by validating land use

What is compact city planning software?

Software that generates and validates high-density

What is complex factory planning software?

Software that generates and validates complex manufacturing facility layouts

What is data center design software?

Software that generates and validates data center floor plans

What is EV factory planning software?

Software that generates and validates EV manufacturing facility layouts

What is EV site planning software?

Software that validates EV charging site feasibility

What is fleet electrification facility planning software?

Software that generates and validates depot electrification scenarios

What is fulfillment center design software?

Software that generates and validates warehouse and fulfillment center layouts

What is generative design used for?

Generative design is an iterative design process that helps us explore more design options in lesser time. By modifying the design parameters in an increasingly refined feedback loop

What is generative design?

designers

What is GIS and spatial analysis?

GIS (Geographic Information System) is a technology that collects

What is hospital planning software?

Software that validates hospital layouts

What is innovation center planning software?

Software that generates and validates program layouts for mixed-use innovation facilities

What is land use prediction software?

Software that models how land use across a region will change over time

What is logistics center design software?

Software that generates and validates logistics facility layouts

What is medical center planning software?

Software that generates and validates medical facility layouts

What is mixed-use complex planning software?

Software that generates and validates mixed-use program scenarios

What is port design software?

Software that validates port layouts

What is railway station design software?

Software that generates and validates railway station layouts

What is research lab planning software?

Software that generates and validates research laboratory layouts

What is site planning in urban planning?

built environment

What is site planning?

Whenever building design or urban design processes start

What is smart city planning software?

Software that integrates urban data systems and validates smart city scenarios

What is sustainability in building construction?

Sustainability in building construction involves designing and constructing structures that minimize environmental impact

What is sustainability in building design?

Sustainability in building design is how efficiently the building saves resources while being built and in operation. A building is designed as per functional and aesthetic requirements. Still

What is sustainability in urban planning?

Sustainability in urban planning means designing cities and communities with a balance of environmental

What is sustainable building engineering?

Sustainable building engineering applies engineering principles to create energy-efficient

What is sustainable urban planning?

Urban planning places all the features

What is tech campus planning software?

Software that generates and validates technology campus layouts

What is the difference between green building and sustainable building?

Green Building focuses on environmentally friendly construction methods

What is the difference between urban design and urban planning?

Urban Design is the designing of the physical features of a town or a city. It mainly deals with designing features that a city has to provide

What is the importance of urban planning?

Urban planning is zoning and laying out all the features in a city or town. It is a systematic approach to planning places or zones in a city so that everyone can easily access what they require. It is a necessary process that let cities grow sustainably. It is essential as it has a significant role in the development of a city in all aspects. It organizes cities

What is the most sustainable city in the US?

San Francisco

What is the role of urban design?

Urban design is a process and an outcome of designing physical places where people live. The role of urban design is to be a medium or to create a space where people can easily be attracted and engaged in activities as a society. The design can be a cultural or social identity

What is transport hub planning software?

Software that generates and validates interchange layouts

What is urban design?

Urban design is the designing of the physical features of a town or a city. It mainly deals with designing features that a city has to provide

What is urban planning?

Urban planning is placing all the features

What is vertiport planning software?

Software that generates and validates vertiport layout scenarios

What laboratory types does DBF support?

DBF supports wet labs

What makes a good urban design?

An urban design aims to foster togetherness; thus

What measures does DBF take to secure our data?

including encryption

What scale of project is Digital Blue Foam suited for?

check out our user-achievements.

What types of ports can DBF support?

DBF supports container terminals

What’s the difference between spatial and geospatial analytics?

Spatial analytics is a broader term that generally encompasses space and location

Why is spatial visualization important?

Spatial visualization transforms complex location-based data into interactive maps and models so you can analyze patterns

Sales & Inquiries

Reach out to us for all your product-related queries and sales inquiries. Our dedicated team is here to assist you in finding the perfect solutions for your needs. Whether you're looking for information on our offerings, pricing details, partnership, or custom solutions, we're ready to provide you with prompt and accurate responses to help you make informed decisions.

Investor Relations

For any investor-related queries or information, our Investor Inquiries channel is here to help. Whether you're interested in our financial performance, investment opportunities, or strategic direction, our team is here to provide the information you need. We value our investor relationships and strive for transparency in our communications. Please feel free to reach out.

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Media & Press

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