I have spent years working for large/medium sized offices and have always used Microstation. Last year I made the move and started my own office, specialising in private resi and small projects such as restaurants, cafes, shops etc. Continuing with Microstation was the obvious choice in terms of speed and efficiency as an experienced user.
Then the bills arrived! I knew it was a more expensive option but have now started comparing the costs.
Microstation Powerdraft is around £150/month on their subscription option. If I move to Autocad LT, it will come down to £35/month, less than a quarter of the cost.
Given I have just started out, every penny does count and this would be a massive saving. However, the question is; is it easy to transfer. I work by myself and have no support, team or colleagues to ask if I get stuck. Missing a deadline or not being able to produce drawings for a meeting would have a big impact to me. So should i make the switch and what are others doing, in similar situations?
I am only really considering Autocad LT or Vectorworks, as these are the leaders here in the UK.
I have never used Autocad, but have used Vectorworks about 15 years ago. I found it very clunky and fiddly, particularly when working in teams. However I have seen some drawings recently, that were much better graphically than the the more engineering style drawings I have seen produced on Microstation.
Thanks,
T23
tekton23
Apr 6, 15 3:30 am
......and not really looking at Revit at this stage, as no need for BIM currently. The majority of my work is 2d plans, easy to use 3d would be a nice to have option.
,,,,
Apr 6, 15 8:24 am
You might consider Datacad. It is cheaper and easier to learn than AutoCAD. A lot of small offices in the States use it.
JLC-1
Apr 6, 15 12:07 pm
draftsight, you can try a free version
tekton23
Apr 6, 15 12:09 pm
Quite keen on sticking with either Autocad or Vectorworks, as they are mainstream and so well supported. The price tag for both are fine.
Is the transition from Microstation difficult? Is one prefferable to the other in terms of graphics, 3d modelling or otherwise?
SpatialSojourner
Apr 6, 15 12:20 pm
I had experience with AutoCAD before my current firm's Microstation and the transition wasn't too difficult. (I much prefer AutoCAD for most things). For 3D modeling, I would assume SketchUp would be the go to (free) but you'd probably need to get the Pro ($590 maybe on sale during Christmas time) to import the CADS and make things go a lot quicker. That gives you a year support, with updates. Then you can just use the Pro when you need to import the CADs and use the most current Make as the everyday modeler.
Scott Deisher
Apr 6, 15 12:59 pm
I've worked in all three a decent amount over the past 3 years- two summer internships in microstation, some autocad work during school, and now at a small residential firm using vectorworks. I would highly recommend you take another look at vectorworks. Graphically, I've found it loads better than microstation and autocad. The support for vectorworks is great too, I would assume even better in the UK since it's a leader over there. Since you've used it before, you're used to the classes/design layers/sheet layers hierarchy already anyway. If you ever decide to transition into BIM you won't have to change software, and as a sole proprietor if you need an intern they can use it on a mac or a pc. It seems much more catered to residential design than either microstation or autocad.
tekton23
Apr 7, 15 5:27 am
Yes, certainly interested in Vectorworks. Pricewise it is a little more than Autocad LT, but with the added option of 3d it could be worth it. Has the user friendliness of Vectorworks improved?
Any thoughts on which would be easier to pick-up and best in the long run?
proto
Apr 8, 15 11:46 am
i used vectorworks for a few years. i liked it fine, but i found better compatibility with various consultants by switching to autocad, ymmv
gruen
Apr 10, 15 1:41 pm
I've been eyeing draftsite and nanocad as replacements for autocad. Both are autocad clones that are pretty much AutoCAD v 2007ish in terms of functionality. That's *almost* good enough for me.
Nanocad has a free version and draftsite is hard to tell if it's free or paid for commercial stuff.
Both have paid options that are cheaper than AutoCAD LT and probably have a bit better functionality than ACAD LT - because I think one or both of them can run lisps.
Neither one does dynamic blocks or annotative text and dimensions. These functions are pretty critical to my work, and the only thing that's kept me from making the jump.
As I look ahead to having an employee I need to get serious about this.
I've been weighing making the plunge into REVIT - which also means doing commercial projects that want REVIT.
So far, only a few of my projects (mostly residential) would see serious productivity gains from REVIT and the cost isn't worth it yet.
It's a business decision. What do I want the firm to be? How much do I charge? How much time can I save vs costs?
Honestly, if I keep going doing residential and small commercial as a sole proprietor, draftsite or nanocad are good enough and the price is right. Since they are Autocad clones, there's almost no learning curve for an autocad user.
and both do DWG native.
archanonymous
Apr 10, 15 7:01 pm
Rhino.
It does all the 2D stuff that AutoCad does, plus it can't be beat for modeling custom assemblies and details. You don't need the headaches of Revit, and you need more than just basic AutoCad functionality. Plus it is less than $500, has tons of free plug-ins (including ones for BIM-lite) lots of rendering plug-ins to choose from. Most students and interns will know it (and be good at it unlike Revit).
If you are feeling frisky, you can learn Grasshopper in a weekend and be able to lay out studs, rafters, joists, etc, calc areas, volume, energy modeling, sun angles, acoustic properties, daylighting, generate schedules, take-offs, excel estimates, and more, all almost as quickly as in Revit.
And if you want you can make really crazy blobby shit if you are into that kind of thing.
jcrarch
Apr 11, 15 5:45 pm
Why not look for into ArchiCAD? I also do small, 3000 sf residential here in New Mexico. It does all the 2D plans and elevations right from the BIMx model. When clients come to the office they can sit right next to me at the computer while I walk them through the 3D model. I can change and move anything instantly for them. When they leave they have a good understanding of the house we will build them. Also, you can give them a BIMx model they can take home to investigate further on their own laptop. Works for me!
seattle architect
Apr 13, 15 7:46 pm
as owner of an architectural practice in seattle, i can share that we use Revit Architecture Suite but it is very expensive and if you are mainly using it for residential architectural design, it is too robust for what you need. i would, as others have suggested recommend ArchiCAD or Vector works so that you get the 3d component. 2d drafting is archaic. my two cents.
null pointer
Apr 13, 15 8:12 pm
I run a small side thing that, at any point, could become a full-time gig. It's mostly residential work. What does my package look like?
AutoCAD LT / Revit LT - I've yet to use Revit LT, but I'm planning on doing my next project with it. AutoCAD LT is just what I need for now, but if this gets big and I can start moving into flat-fee services rather than exorbitant hourly rates that still put me under the competition (just because I carry no dead weight), I'll sub into AutoCAD just for the sake of having tcount. Anyways, it's 70 bucks a month including taxes. Less than an hour's worth of billing.
Rhino3D + Maxwell - Not expensive. Impresses the crap out of clients.
I get Creative Suite when required. I have Photoshop and Indesign this month because I had to do a small set of renderings for a client and needed to post-process them. 70 bucks. Cancelled already. If I need them again, I'll sub again.
In all sincerity, if you can't afford this sort of suite, you're probably undercharging your customers. Software was an initial hit on my bottom line - I took on a small project just to fund Rhino + Maxwell, but over time, it really becomes a non-issue.
Kevin Moquin
Apr 14, 15 10:13 am
Chief Architect is designed for the sole practitioner doing custom residential and light commercial projects. Don't bother with 2D cad applications. As a sole practitioner you will benefit from the productivity boost with an object oriented or bim software.
null pointer
Apr 14, 15 10:14 am
At 2.7k, you might as well just spend 1.7 and get Revit LT Suite.
The price point for Chief Architect is pretty stupid.
toosaturated
Apr 14, 15 10:22 am
Revit LT is pretty affordable and can pretty much future-proof you since that's the direction the industry is going. If you do get into bigger projects you can always upgrade to the full version if you need it.
tekton23
Apr 14, 15 11:04 am
HI,
I am super grateful for all your replies. I hadn't realised there were so many options out there.
Given all the considerations I will almost certainly be going with Autocad LT + Sketchup to start with.
Why? Well, firstly I'd like to stick with a fairly mainstream software to start with a) for the support and online guidance b) if I ever have to find work (temping might be required during quiet periods and c) if I employ someone it is more likely I can find someone suitable.
So this narrows it down to Autocad/Revit, Vectorworks or Archicad. Vectorworks appears to have some transfer issues with other software, it is not particularly cheap or available by subscription.
Archicad is a real unknown to me and not hugely popular here compared to the other software, from what I can see - it is priced around £56/month which is ok, but not quite as low as Autocad - however the option does include 3d which looks good. I am still looking at this.
Autocad LT is the real favourite. Price is a big draw at £29/month and it can be upgraded to include Revit LT at £48/month. When starting out, it is all about keeping overheads down (sensibly). Anything other than the £140/month for Microstation PD will be a big welcome.
So, Archicad v. Autocad LT (+Sketchup) is one easier to learn than the other?
I am slightly worried about down-time if I have a deadline coming up. So will probably have to keep my Microstation license for 2 months as a back-up.
T23
gruen
Apr 14, 15 2:01 pm
Question:
I am considering making the jump to RevitLT. I've used full version Revit in the past and wonder how crippled RevitLT is. My projects are small enough that I do not need to workshare, so that's not an issue.
archanonymous
Apr 14, 15 8:49 pm
Free 2D CAD software that is easily as good as AutoCAD. (AutoCAD is built on top of this software kernel)
Software is the architects primary design tool and it's a tool you will use for the rest of your career. The more you use the software and the more projects you complete the more proficient you become with the tool, the more productive you become, the more services you can offer, the more types of projects you can work on, and the more money you can make. Yes, making money matters and you can make more money than the average architect as long as you are astute about the business aspect. Do NOT be so focused on the initial acquisition cost as software is an investment in your business and future. You must think in terms of value and what you are getting for your money, in addition to the quality of the software, the support you will receive from the software company, customer service, the user community, etc. is very important. Many don't know you can finance software, most software companies offer monthly payment options and some with no interest, finance charges, or doc fees - same as cash. Shop for bargains at car dealerships or clothing stores but not when it comes to design software, your business, and livelihood. A good software program will have many import and export options in multiple file formats in both 2D and 3D, some are interoperable with others and some are not. Look at each program and think about how the software can grow with you and where the company and program will be in 5 or 10 years and where you want to be. Don't just download trials and think you can magically learn how to use software you haven't used before. Contact a human being with the company for demos, training, productivity tips and tricks, guidance, etc. Go on LinkedIN to the software's groups and ask questions. Ask for help, be proactive, and don't just read info on websites and watch videos. All architects and designers think the software they use is the best, the best software is the one you choose after doing your research. As for price, think of it this way: You want to saw some wood and you will be sawing wood for years to come. You can buy a $10 hand saw at a department store, a $25 saw at a hardware store, a $50 or $100 saw at a specialty tool store, a $250 power mitre saw, a $500 compound mitre saw, a $1500 sliding dual compound power mitre saw, or you can special order a custom designed combination table/mitre saw from a woodworking shop equipment distributor for $5000.00.
SpatialSojourner
Apr 16, 15 11:15 am
That's all good from a theoretical standpoint but I think discussing the more finite points of a particular software is very valid. Yeah, things can be imported and exported but quality and investment in time of moving a model/drawing from one to another is a major issue. Also, most firms have a revolving door for the main computer drawing muscle so having a ubiquitous software is a marketable item when searching for the best talent. I do agree on the hand saw vs a chainsaw when discussing CAD vs BIM. As an intern architect, I will definitely weight a place that mainly uses Revit/ArchiCAD ahead of a firm that mainly uses CAD when debating where I want to work even if I prefer the CAD firm's work a tad bit more. And meh, I can download a trial and get comfortable with it without human guidance - Google has never let me down - but that's just me and I think a majority of recent grads, some others probably need the human guidance.
toosaturated
Apr 16, 15 2:23 pm
@Gruen There's a few things that is missing from the full version. You should download the free trial and see for yourself. Most noticeably is the collaboration aspect. I noticed that some massing tools are also missing.
tekton23
Apr 16, 15 2:28 pm
I have just started the trial version of Autocad LT, someway to go in terms of learning it - but what a huge difference! I feel like I have come out of a Microstation coma. Microstation feels so antiquated!
gruen
Apr 16, 15 4:34 pm
I do feel you should use the best software you can afford. I'd really like to get onto REVIT - but so many of my projects are so small that REVIT would be overkill - might take more time to build the model than to to just CAD it up.
I'll probably bite the bullet and pay my $505 for a year of REVIT LT and ACAD LT. My main concern isn't the money, it's the time I'll need to invest to get REVIT up and running. I'll probably do it once I get over this hump of work - 7 active projects in design and documentation and 3 in permitting and construction and probably 3 or 4 more getting ready to hit for construction. And it's just little old me. I'd hire someone but I don't have the time to hire!?! LOL.
Clayton Taylor
Apr 19, 15 7:01 am
Hi tekton23,
Firstly congratulations in making the BIG jump in starting out on your own, scary & exciting times ahead. I did the same thing back in 1991 (UK) & perhaps went through the same decision taking about CAD software, albeit back then not such a vast market.
Going self employed I didn't have any real restrictions on what software to use (apart from costs) in terms of using software just to fit-in so to speak. Furthermore I didn't have any experience either of CAD software. Drawing board days when I was workng for high street practices, 30-odd years ago..!!!
So I needed:-
Software that was easily self taught.
Architecturally bais.
Instant help on hand.
Competitive pricing.
I also thought it had to have some standing for UK construction, but to my surprise I came across a little known company in the US called DataCAD. It was an instant hit with me & fitted all points 1 to 4 with ease. They're still in business after all this time with regular updates. If you can't get help direct from the company, (unlikely) then there are two massive forums of users that you will get help from within a few hours or less, this part is outstanding.
Over the years I've looked at other software & couldn't ever understand why any budding architectural CADDer would use plain AutoCAD or the LT version at this eye-watering price when you don't get any architectural power tools.
DC assumes your drawing plans from the get-go with walls, single or cavity etc with auto insertion/cut-out & mend of doors/windows etc to name a few.
Times have changed I agree & every man-&-his-dog are talking up BIM related CAD. To assist in this direction, I also use SketchUP Pro, with some architectural add-on extensions, mainly for 3D architectural visuals or model extraction for 2D plans & elevations as easier to use than DC & addictive. I also use SU & DC together, great for complex cut roof construction plans.
I've also purchased STI SPIRIT, a turbo charged version of DC & found a high-end BIM software called Edificius, it compares its' self to Revit, Archicad, Allplan, AutoCAD and Vectorworks, from what I've seen on it's website, it does seem to be that & pricing you won't.....well believe.
Some links to all the above & related items for your assistance:-
HI,
I have spent years working for large/medium sized offices and have always used Microstation. Last year I made the move and started my own office, specialising in private resi and small projects such as restaurants, cafes, shops etc. Continuing with Microstation was the obvious choice in terms of speed and efficiency as an experienced user.
Then the bills arrived! I knew it was a more expensive option but have now started comparing the costs.
Microstation Powerdraft is around £150/month on their subscription option. If I move to Autocad LT, it will come down to £35/month, less than a quarter of the cost.
Given I have just started out, every penny does count and this would be a massive saving. However, the question is; is it easy to transfer. I work by myself and have no support, team or colleagues to ask if I get stuck. Missing a deadline or not being able to produce drawings for a meeting would have a big impact to me. So should i make the switch and what are others doing, in similar situations?
I am only really considering Autocad LT or Vectorworks, as these are the leaders here in the UK.
I have never used Autocad, but have used Vectorworks about 15 years ago. I found it very clunky and fiddly, particularly when working in teams. However I have seen some drawings recently, that were much better graphically than the the more engineering style drawings I have seen produced on Microstation.
Thanks,
T23
......and not really looking at Revit at this stage, as no need for BIM currently. The majority of my work is 2d plans, easy to use 3d would be a nice to have option.
You might consider Datacad. It is cheaper and easier to learn than AutoCAD. A lot of small offices in the States use it.
draftsight, you can try a free version
Quite keen on sticking with either Autocad or Vectorworks, as they are mainstream and so well supported. The price tag for both are fine.
Is the transition from Microstation difficult? Is one prefferable to the other in terms of graphics, 3d modelling or otherwise?
I had experience with AutoCAD before my current firm's Microstation and the transition wasn't too difficult. (I much prefer AutoCAD for most things). For 3D modeling, I would assume SketchUp would be the go to (free) but you'd probably need to get the Pro ($590 maybe on sale during Christmas time) to import the CADS and make things go a lot quicker. That gives you a year support, with updates. Then you can just use the Pro when you need to import the CADs and use the most current Make as the everyday modeler.
I've worked in all three a decent amount over the past 3 years- two summer internships in microstation, some autocad work during school, and now at a small residential firm using vectorworks. I would highly recommend you take another look at vectorworks. Graphically, I've found it loads better than microstation and autocad. The support for vectorworks is great too, I would assume even better in the UK since it's a leader over there. Since you've used it before, you're used to the classes/design layers/sheet layers hierarchy already anyway. If you ever decide to transition into BIM you won't have to change software, and as a sole proprietor if you need an intern they can use it on a mac or a pc. It seems much more catered to residential design than either microstation or autocad.
Yes, certainly interested in Vectorworks. Pricewise it is a little more than Autocad LT, but with the added option of 3d it could be worth it. Has the user friendliness of Vectorworks improved?
Any thoughts on which would be easier to pick-up and best in the long run?
i used vectorworks for a few years. i liked it fine, but i found better compatibility with various consultants by switching to autocad, ymmv
I've been eyeing draftsite and nanocad as replacements for autocad. Both are autocad clones that are pretty much AutoCAD v 2007ish in terms of functionality. That's *almost* good enough for me.
Nanocad has a free version and draftsite is hard to tell if it's free or paid for commercial stuff.
Both have paid options that are cheaper than AutoCAD LT and probably have a bit better functionality than ACAD LT - because I think one or both of them can run lisps.
Neither one does dynamic blocks or annotative text and dimensions. These functions are pretty critical to my work, and the only thing that's kept me from making the jump.
As I look ahead to having an employee I need to get serious about this.
I've been weighing making the plunge into REVIT - which also means doing commercial projects that want REVIT.
So far, only a few of my projects (mostly residential) would see serious productivity gains from REVIT and the cost isn't worth it yet.
It's a business decision. What do I want the firm to be? How much do I charge? How much time can I save vs costs?
Honestly, if I keep going doing residential and small commercial as a sole proprietor, draftsite or nanocad are good enough and the price is right. Since they are Autocad clones, there's almost no learning curve for an autocad user.
and both do DWG native.
Rhino.
It does all the 2D stuff that AutoCad does, plus it can't be beat for modeling custom assemblies and details. You don't need the headaches of Revit, and you need more than just basic AutoCad functionality. Plus it is less than $500, has tons of free plug-ins (including ones for BIM-lite) lots of rendering plug-ins to choose from. Most students and interns will know it (and be good at it unlike Revit).
If you are feeling frisky, you can learn Grasshopper in a weekend and be able to lay out studs, rafters, joists, etc, calc areas, volume, energy modeling, sun angles, acoustic properties, daylighting, generate schedules, take-offs, excel estimates, and more, all almost as quickly as in Revit.
And if you want you can make really crazy blobby shit if you are into that kind of thing.
Why not look for into ArchiCAD? I also do small, 3000 sf residential here in New Mexico. It does all the 2D plans and elevations right from the BIMx model. When clients come to the office they can sit right next to me at the computer while I walk them through the 3D model. I can change and move anything instantly for them. When they leave they have a good understanding of the house we will build them. Also, you can give them a BIMx model they can take home to investigate further on their own laptop. Works for me!
as owner of an architectural practice in seattle, i can share that we use Revit Architecture Suite but it is very expensive and if you are mainly using it for residential architectural design, it is too robust for what you need. i would, as others have suggested recommend ArchiCAD or Vector works so that you get the 3d component. 2d drafting is archaic. my two cents.
I run a small side thing that, at any point, could become a full-time gig. It's mostly residential work. What does my package look like?
AutoCAD LT / Revit LT - I've yet to use Revit LT, but I'm planning on doing my next project with it. AutoCAD LT is just what I need for now, but if this gets big and I can start moving into flat-fee services rather than exorbitant hourly rates that still put me under the competition (just because I carry no dead weight), I'll sub into AutoCAD just for the sake of having tcount. Anyways, it's 70 bucks a month including taxes. Less than an hour's worth of billing.
Rhino3D + Maxwell - Not expensive. Impresses the crap out of clients.
I get Creative Suite when required. I have Photoshop and Indesign this month because I had to do a small set of renderings for a client and needed to post-process them. 70 bucks. Cancelled already. If I need them again, I'll sub again.
In all sincerity, if you can't afford this sort of suite, you're probably undercharging your customers. Software was an initial hit on my bottom line - I took on a small project just to fund Rhino + Maxwell, but over time, it really becomes a non-issue.
Chief Architect is designed for the sole practitioner doing custom residential and light commercial projects. Don't bother with 2D cad applications. As a sole practitioner you will benefit from the productivity boost with an object oriented or bim software.
At 2.7k, you might as well just spend 1.7 and get Revit LT Suite.
The price point for Chief Architect is pretty stupid.
Revit LT is pretty affordable and can pretty much future-proof you since that's the direction the industry is going. If you do get into bigger projects you can always upgrade to the full version if you need it.
HI,
I am super grateful for all your replies. I hadn't realised there were so many options out there.
Given all the considerations I will almost certainly be going with Autocad LT + Sketchup to start with.
Why? Well, firstly I'd like to stick with a fairly mainstream software to start with a) for the support and online guidance b) if I ever have to find work (temping might be required during quiet periods and c) if I employ someone it is more likely I can find someone suitable.
So this narrows it down to Autocad/Revit, Vectorworks or Archicad. Vectorworks appears to have some transfer issues with other software, it is not particularly cheap or available by subscription.
Archicad is a real unknown to me and not hugely popular here compared to the other software, from what I can see - it is priced around £56/month which is ok, but not quite as low as Autocad - however the option does include 3d which looks good. I am still looking at this.
Autocad LT is the real favourite. Price is a big draw at £29/month and it can be upgraded to include Revit LT at £48/month. When starting out, it is all about keeping overheads down (sensibly). Anything other than the £140/month for Microstation PD will be a big welcome.
So, Archicad v. Autocad LT (+Sketchup) is one easier to learn than the other?
I am slightly worried about down-time if I have a deadline coming up. So will probably have to keep my Microstation license for 2 months as a back-up.
T23
Question:
I am considering making the jump to RevitLT. I've used full version Revit in the past and wonder how crippled RevitLT is. My projects are small enough that I do not need to workshare, so that's not an issue.
Free 2D CAD software that is easily as good as AutoCAD. (AutoCAD is built on top of this software kernel)
https://www.3ds.com/products-services/draftsight-cad-software/
Software is the architects primary design tool and it's a tool you will use for the rest of your career. The more you use the software and the more projects you complete the more proficient you become with the tool, the more productive you become, the more services you can offer, the more types of projects you can work on, and the more money you can make. Yes, making money matters and you can make more money than the average architect as long as you are astute about the business aspect. Do NOT be so focused on the initial acquisition cost as software is an investment in your business and future. You must think in terms of value and what you are getting for your money, in addition to the quality of the software, the support you will receive from the software company, customer service, the user community, etc. is very important. Many don't know you can finance software, most software companies offer monthly payment options and some with no interest, finance charges, or doc fees - same as cash. Shop for bargains at car dealerships or clothing stores but not when it comes to design software, your business, and livelihood. A good software program will have many import and export options in multiple file formats in both 2D and 3D, some are interoperable with others and some are not. Look at each program and think about how the software can grow with you and where the company and program will be in 5 or 10 years and where you want to be. Don't just download trials and think you can magically learn how to use software you haven't used before. Contact a human being with the company for demos, training, productivity tips and tricks, guidance, etc. Go on LinkedIN to the software's groups and ask questions. Ask for help, be proactive, and don't just read info on websites and watch videos. All architects and designers think the software they use is the best, the best software is the one you choose after doing your research. As for price, think of it this way: You want to saw some wood and you will be sawing wood for years to come. You can buy a $10 hand saw at a department store, a $25 saw at a hardware store, a $50 or $100 saw at a specialty tool store, a $250 power mitre saw, a $500 compound mitre saw, a $1500 sliding dual compound power mitre saw, or you can special order a custom designed combination table/mitre saw from a woodworking shop equipment distributor for $5000.00.
That's all good from a theoretical standpoint but I think discussing the more finite points of a particular software is very valid. Yeah, things can be imported and exported but quality and investment in time of moving a model/drawing from one to another is a major issue. Also, most firms have a revolving door for the main computer drawing muscle so having a ubiquitous software is a marketable item when searching for the best talent. I do agree on the hand saw vs a chainsaw when discussing CAD vs BIM. As an intern architect, I will definitely weight a place that mainly uses Revit/ArchiCAD ahead of a firm that mainly uses CAD when debating where I want to work even if I prefer the CAD firm's work a tad bit more. And meh, I can download a trial and get comfortable with it without human guidance - Google has never let me down - but that's just me and I think a majority of recent grads, some others probably need the human guidance.
@Gruen There's a few things that is missing from the full version. You should download the free trial and see for yourself. Most noticeably is the collaboration aspect. I noticed that some massing tools are also missing.
I have just started the trial version of Autocad LT, someway to go in terms of learning it - but what a huge difference! I feel like I have come out of a Microstation coma. Microstation feels so antiquated!
I do feel you should use the best software you can afford. I'd really like to get onto REVIT - but so many of my projects are so small that REVIT would be overkill - might take more time to build the model than to to just CAD it up.
I'll probably bite the bullet and pay my $505 for a year of REVIT LT and ACAD LT. My main concern isn't the money, it's the time I'll need to invest to get REVIT up and running. I'll probably do it once I get over this hump of work - 7 active projects in design and documentation and 3 in permitting and construction and probably 3 or 4 more getting ready to hit for construction. And it's just little old me. I'd hire someone but I don't have the time to hire!?! LOL.
Hi tekton23,
Firstly congratulations in making the BIG jump in starting out on your own, scary & exciting times ahead. I did the same thing back in 1991 (UK) & perhaps went through the same decision taking about CAD software, albeit back then not such a vast market.
Going self employed I didn't have any real restrictions on what software to use (apart from costs) in terms of using software just to fit-in so to speak. Furthermore I didn't have any experience either of CAD software. Drawing board days when I was workng for high street practices, 30-odd years ago..!!!
So I needed:-
I also thought it had to have some standing for UK construction, but to my surprise I came across a little known company in the US called DataCAD. It was an instant hit with me & fitted all points 1 to 4 with ease. They're still in business after all this time with regular updates. If you can't get help direct from the company, (unlikely) then there are two massive forums of users that you will get help from within a few hours or less, this part is outstanding.
Over the years I've looked at other software & couldn't ever understand why any budding architectural CADDer would use plain AutoCAD or the LT version at this eye-watering price when you don't get any architectural power tools.
DC assumes your drawing plans from the get-go with walls, single or cavity etc with auto insertion/cut-out & mend of doors/windows etc to name a few.
Times have changed I agree & every man-&-his-dog are talking up BIM related CAD. To assist in this direction, I also use SketchUP Pro, with some architectural add-on extensions, mainly for 3D architectural visuals or model extraction for 2D plans & elevations as easier to use than DC & addictive. I also use SU & DC together, great for complex cut roof construction plans.
I've also purchased STI SPIRIT, a turbo charged version of DC & found a high-end BIM software called Edificius, it compares its' self to Revit, Archicad, Allplan, AutoCAD and Vectorworks, from what I've seen on it's website, it does seem to be that & pricing you won't.....well believe.
Some links to all the above & related items for your assistance:-
http://www.datacad.com
http://www.sketchup.com/3Dfor/architecture
http://www.sketchup4architect.com/index.htm
http://www.softtech.com
https://www.youtube.com/user/MrCADCHANNEL
http://www.accasoftware.com
https://www.g2crowd.com/categories/building-design-and-building-information-modeling-bim
Over & out,
Clayton