Creative ITC launches VCDPod for graphics-heavy AEC projects
Creative ITC has announced the launch of its Virtual Cloud Desktop Pod (VCDPod), a new virtual desktop solution developed specifically for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector's most demanding computing requirements.
Purpose-built desktops
The VCDPod has been designed for resource-intensive design and visualisation tasks. It supports a range of CPU- and GPU-intensive applications used in the AEC industry such as Enscape, Rhino, Lumion, TwinMotion, Maya, CREO, and 3ds Max. These applications are known to place significant demands on computing infrastructure, often necessitating frequent upgrades to traditional CAD workstations, which can become cost-prohibitive as firms look to scale.
According to Creative ITC, the VCDPod offers users a flexible and secure cloud-based environment capable of delivering the high levels of performance associated with top-tier, in-office workstation setups. Users are able to access high-powered computing resources from a dedicated laptop, thin client, or iPad. The solution employs a single-tenant model, providing dedicated access for each user and supporting multi-screen configurations without image degradation. This aims to ensure that even complex and graphics-intensive projects can be handled remotely with reliable performance.
The company's client base includes organisations such as Atkins Realis, Foster + Partners, and BAM. These firms work in areas where the ability to manage complex workflows and access remote computing resources is essential for global project delivery and collaboration.
Addressing sector challenges
Creative ITC said the launch of VCDPod reflects the ongoing need within the AEC sector to address increasing IT demands while keeping costs manageable and supporting hybrid work practices. By providing scalable computing power in the cloud, the VCDPod aims to reduce the dependency on costly physical upgrades and maintenance of local machines.
John Dawson, Director, Creative ITC, said, "With competition in RFPs fiercer than ever and client expectations continuing to rise, architecture firms are under pressure to deliver more innovative, immersive designs – faster and more efficiently. VCDPod is a direct response to that market demand, offering next-level performance for the most graphics-intensive workflows. And to help architecture firms stay focused on higher value work, we're also removing the burden of managing complex IT environments. It's about empowering architects to do what they do best – design and innovate."
The new solution will operate alongside the company's pre-existing managed virtual desktop infrastructure, known as VDIPod. This allows architecture practices and AEC firms to integrate both VCDPod and VDIPod solutions within the same environment, enabling them to tailor cloud deployments and scale flexibly according to their evolving requirements.
Key features
VCDPod's primary features include single-tenant, dedicated access to high-performance computing, support for multi-screen workstations with no loss in image quality, and the ability to rapidly scale resources without the need for upgrades to workstations or VDI profiles. The system also offers secure local storage to help organisations meet compliance, data sovereignty, and data protection obligations.
Additionally, Creative ITC provides full management of the solution, including round-the-clock technical support from AEC specialists. The company highlighted transparent pricing structures, real-time usage monitoring, and a focus on delivering return on investment as further benefits of the VCDPod for the sector.
Market backdrop
The increased use of high-performance applications in architecture and engineering has placed new demands on IT infrastructure within the sector. At the same time, firms have sought greater flexibility in how teams work and collaborate, with many shifting toward hybrid and remote working models. Solutions like VCDPod respond to these trends by combining secure, scalable access to computing resources with managed IT support designed for industry-specific requirements.
