# What is the best way to use sketchup in other software programs?

Ideally, computer-aided design software should be as intuitive as drawing with pen and paper. SketchUp Pro is one of the easiest programs to navigate on our CAD software list. Instead of lists of features, large icons indicate tools which makes them fast and easy to find. Features like the setup manager also make working with SketchUp Pro more convenient. SketchUp Pro does have a command line, but as with most CAD software, the command line is not the most user-friendly feature, as it requires you to know and use specific command functions, although it does have macro recordings.

##### Post Metadata
- Posted at: over 6 years ago
- Author title: Draftsman at WYS and Associates(architectural)
- Net upvotes: 1


## Comments
### Comment 1

Hey,
So my work requires me to export Sketch Up files in other software domains. I generally consult the BIMDeX company for exporting the files from Sketch Up to Solidworks, Rhino, Revit and so on without losing any data. You can visit them: 
https://www.bimdex.com/sketchup-to-revit-export.php
https://www.bimdex.com/sketchup-to-solidworks-exporter.php
https://www.bimdex.com/sketchup-to-rhino-export.php

Thank You.

##### Comment Metadata
- Posted at: about 5 years ago



### Comment 2

Depends what you mean by "use". If you're looking to import a SKP (Sketchup) file and work it in another program, it depends what the other program is. IFC seems to be the industry standard file extension for crossing software and platforms. I don't use Autocad but have had luck importing SKP files into Vectorworks but also, if the Sketchup designer has saved/exported the SKP file as an IFC I can also import the model with much more information associated. 
If you're looking to import other models INTO Sketchup and work from there, Sketchup has a fairly clear list of imports under the File dropdown.
Lastly, if you want to manage a project with Trimble, (Sketchup's parent company) Trimble Connect is the way to go. I'm just getting into this and having success.
Hope this helps, if not, maybe clarify what you're after.

##### Comment Metadata
- Posted at: over 6 years ago
- Author title: Architectural Draftsman at Kinsol Timber Systems




## Related Product
[SketchUp](https://www.g2.com/products/sketchup/reviews)

## Related Category
[3D Modeling](https://www.g2.com/categories/3d-modeling)

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