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Top 4 Architecture Software Products

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Dmitriy Shelepin
Top 4 Architecture Software Products

Whether you are a beginner, a student, a team manager or a professional architect, you must be looking for a good software solution. Even if you worked with design software before, you might feel the need for an upgrade. Below we review top 4 architecture software products that can help you go forward with your projects.

1. AutoCAD (by Autodesk)

This software with a solid reputation allows you to design virtually anything you want. The platform offers 2D and 3D designs.

Pros:

  • Easy to use, has a low learning curve
  • Widely used. Most companies work with AutoCAD files.
  • Has a variety of additional and trusted components such as RevitWorks Revit libraries
  • A huge variety of features suitable for both newbies and professional architects
  • Complex designs can be easily simplified
  • Autodesk updates the software on a regular basis

Cons:

  • The program needs a powerful computer to run smoothly. Anything outdated might cause the software to freeze and crash
  • Comes with a hefty price tag

2. SktechUp Pro (by Trimble)

This program offers simple 3D architecture designs. Its intuitive interface makes this CAD software easier to use than most of the programs you can find on the market today. This is a great option for beginners.

Pros:

  • Intuitive interface/layout and easy installation
  • Timble is constantly updating the software and adding new features
  • The price tag is moderate
  • Sufficient tech and community support
  • Toolbars are always available on screen
  • Various plugins make are available to improve the design
  • Solid solution for 3D design

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have some important components, such as House Wizard.
  • Not a good choice for BIM
  • The program may crash when the projects become overly complex

3. Praesto AE (by Base Builders)

This is a great software for professional designers, especially engineers. It provides integral features such as job tracking, invoicing, project management, and more.

Pros:

  • Good and responsive technical support team
  • While the program has a certain learning curve, it’s logical to use
  • Suitable for both small and large architect firms
  • Fast and easy installation
  • Time tracking feature is useful for team managers
  • Offers real time cash flow forecast
  • Works on Windows, Mac OS, and iOS devices.
  • Fast data import

Cons:

  • The interface is not intuitive
  • May be slow depending on the hardware

4. ArchiCAD (by Graphisoft)

ArchiCAD became the first BIM software for architects back in the 1980’s and it’s still holding its own in the 21st century. It offers such innovations as mobile apps for BIM visualization and other useful features.

Pros:

  • Intuitive interface (a certain learning curve is present)
  • Clear instructions and helpful tech support service
  • Suitable for complex structure designs
  • Easy to understand for experienced architect program users. Others may need tutorials and training guides
  • Links different views in 2D and 3D

Cons:

  • The professional package comes with a hefty price tag
  • Powerful computer required to create large and complex projects
  • May not be suitable for beginners
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Dmitriy Shelepin
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