Building design and building information modeling (BIM) software includes computer-aided design (CAD software) products used commonly within the architecture and construction industries. Many of these products offer tools and libraries specifically targeted toward architectural design and construction, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) and building information modeling (BIM). BIM software offers a model-based process for designing and managing buildings and infrastructures, going beyond construction drawings to generate a digital representation of the functional properties of a facility. Other products in this category may be used for a range of CAD purposes beyond architectural design, but their rankings within this grid focus exclusively on their use as a tool in building design.
To qualify for inclusion in the Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) category, a product must:
- Provide 2D or 3D computer-aided design tools specifically targeted for architectural design and construction
- Include collaboration functionality that allows multiple team members to work on the same project model at the same time
- Offer tools to optimize building performance with performance data and advanced analysis engines
For more information about general-purpose CAD products, which include a broad range of 2D and 3D drafting and modeling tools, see our General-Purpose CAD software category. For additional information about product and machine design tools, see our Product and Machine Design software category, and for more information about civil engineering design products, see our Civil Engineering Design software category.
