# Best Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software - Page 3

  *By [Daniel Rivera](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/daniel-rivera)*

   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](https://www.g2.com/categories/general-purpose-cad) category. For additional information about product and machine design tools, see our [Product and Machine Design software](https://www.g2.com/categories/product-and-machine-design) category, and for more information about civil engineering design products, see our [Civil Engineering Design software](https://www.g2.com/categories/civil-engineering-design) category.




  
## How Many Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software Products Does G2 Track?
**Total Products under this Category:** 140

### Category Stats (May 2026)
- **Average Rating**: 4.24/5
- **New Reviews This Quarter**: 33
- **Buyer Segments**: Small-Business 40% │ Mid-Market 40% │ Enterprise 20%
- **Top Trending Product**: Newforma Konekt (+0.031)
*Last updated: May 18, 2026*

  
## How Does G2 Rank Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software Products?

**Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:**

- 30 Analysts and Data Experts
- 6,600+ Authentic Reviews
- 140+ Products
- Unbiased Rankings

G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category.

  
## Which Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software Is Best for Your Use Case?

- **Leader:** [Revit](https://www.g2.com/products/revit/reviews)
- **Highest Performer:** [Catenda Hub](https://www.g2.com/products/catenda-hub/reviews)
- **Easiest to Use:** [AutoCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews)
- **Top Trending:** [cmBuilder.io](https://www.g2.com/products/cmbuilder-io/reviews)
- **Best Free Software:** [AutoCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/autocad/reviews)

  
---

**Sponsored**

### Higharc

Higharc was founded in 2018 and is based in Durham, North Carolina. Higharc is a residential homebuilding technology company focused on transforming the home design, sales and building process. The company employs a diverse team of experts across the United States, South America and Europe, in architecture, construction and software development, all working together to modernize the homebuilding process. Higharc partners with homebuilders to deliver a comprehensive home design platform utilizing 3D modeling and generative design, real-time cost estimation and an immersive online sales experience for homebuyers. The user-friendly interface allows for easy customization and instant modifications, making the design process accessible and efficient for users. Higharc's web based platform simplifies the home design, sales and construction workflow by providing a single source of truth at the beginning of the building process and seamlessly transferring data and updates across the organization. Builders benefit from streamlined workflows, improved accuracy and faster go to market timelines.



[Visit website](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bad_program%5D=ppc&secure%5Bad_slot%5D=category_product_list&secure%5Bcategory_id%5D=292&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_id%5D=292&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bmedium%5D=sponsored&secure%5Bplacement_reason%5D=page_category&secure%5Bplacement_resource_ids%5D%5B%5D=292&secure%5Bprioritized%5D=false&secure%5Bproduct_id%5D=1323997&secure%5Bresource_id%5D=292&secure%5Bresource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bsource_type%5D=category_page&secure%5Bsource_url%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.g2.com%2Fcategories%2Fbuilding-design-and-building-information-modeling-bim&secure%5Btoken%5D=2a0b87a46b08842ca9f6e6f71a99b24009d339b2d29770f7c81879fb1f957af8&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.higharc.com&secure%5Burl_type%5D=company_website)

---

  ## What Are the Top-Rated Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software Products in 2026?
### 1. [Octave Facets Electrical (Intergraph Smart Electrical)](https://www.g2.com/products/octave-facets-electrical-intergraph-smart-electrical/reviews)
  Octave Facets Electrical (formerly Smart Electrical) is a task-specific, rules-driven solution for designing and maintaining safe, reliable power distribution systems across the full plant lifecycle. Built for both engineering companies and plant owners, it covers everything from initial load identification through to plant startup — helping teams deliver complex electrical projects with greater speed, accuracy and confidence. Unlike traditional CAD or spreadsheet-based tools, Facets Electrical is data-centric by design. It maintains a single source of truth for all electrical data, including load lists, cables and equipment, ensuring accuracy and consistency across every discipline and project stage. A built-in rules engine validates designs against engineering standards and safety requirements as teams work, reducing errors before they become costly issues. Automation is central to how Facets Electrical speeds up delivery. Routine tasks like cable sizing, diagram creation and batch processes are handled automatically, freeing engineering teams to focus on higher-value work and reducing overall project hours. Integrated change tracking and audit trails provide full visibility into every revision, supporting compliance and making handover and reporting straightforward. For teams working across multiple locations, global work-sharing tools enable seamless collaboration without compromising data integrity. Facets Electrical also integrates with Octave's broader engineering ecosystem, including Forte 3D (formerly Smart 3D) for cable routing and Facets Instrumentation (formerly Smart Instrumentation) for I/O interfaces, creating a connected workflow from schematic design through to 3D modeling and operations.


  **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 2
**How Do G2 Users Rate Octave Facets Electrical (Intergraph Smart Electrical)?**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind Octave Facets Electrical (Intergraph Smart Electrical)?**

- **Seller:** [Octave](https://www.g2.com/sellers/octave-9e5a428c-f303-4735-9417-dff1ef5736d4)
- **HQ Location:** Madison, US
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/octaveintelligence/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Enterprise


### 2. [Spirit](https://www.g2.com/products/spirit/reviews)
  High performance architectural CAD


  **Average Rating:** 3.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 2
**How Do G2 Users Rate Spirit?**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
- **AI Text Summarization:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.0/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind Spirit?**

- **Seller:** [SofTech Group](https://www.g2.com/sellers/softech-group)
- **Year Founded:** 2016
- **HQ Location:** Lowell, US
- **Twitter:** @softtechDE (106 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/softech-group-inc./ (8 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 3. [Trimble FieldLink](https://www.g2.com/products/trimble-fieldlink/reviews)
  Trimble Field Link is the definitive construction layout solution, increases productivity and accuracy in the field, reduces rework, and provides easy-to-use, task-based workflows.


  **Average Rating:** 4.3/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 2
**How Do G2 Users Rate Trimble FieldLink?**

- **Quality of Support:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 3.3/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 1.7/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
- **AI Text Summarization:** 1.7/10 (Category avg: 7.0/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind Trimble FieldLink?**

- **Seller:** [Trimble](https://www.g2.com/sellers/trimble)
- **Year Founded:** 1978
- **HQ Location:** Sunnyvale, CA
- **Twitter:** @TrimbleCorpNews (12,058 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5160/ (10,636 employees on LinkedIn®)
- **Ownership:** NASDAQ

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Mid-Market


### 4. [Trimble Field Link Office](https://www.g2.com/products/trimble-field-link-office/reviews)
  Trimble Field Link Office is a tool to prepare and check layout data for the field, improving accuracy and productivity.


  **Average Rating:** 3.3/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 2
**How Do G2 Users Rate Trimble Field Link Office?**

- **Quality of Support:** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 7.5/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
- **AI Text Summarization:** 9.2/10 (Category avg: 7.0/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind Trimble Field Link Office?**

- **Seller:** [Trimble](https://www.g2.com/sellers/trimble)
- **Year Founded:** 1978
- **HQ Location:** Sunnyvale, CA
- **Twitter:** @TrimbleCorpNews (12,058 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/5160/ (10,636 employees on LinkedIn®)
- **Ownership:** NASDAQ

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


#### What Are Trimble Field Link Office's Pros and Cons?

**Pros:**

- Drawing (1 reviews)
- Realistic Rendering (1 reviews)


### 5. [Vertex BD](https://www.g2.com/products/vertex-bd/reviews)
  Vertex BD is a professional BIM software for wood and cold-formed steel framing that automates your design and manufacturing processes. Vertex BD software executes many of the repetitive, time-consuming tasks that slow down your work. It automates the process of generating accurate architectural drawings sets, panel fabrication drawings, structural layouts, cut lists, material reports and manufacturing data, all from the BIM model.


  **Average Rating:** 2.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 2
**How Do G2 Users Rate Vertex BD?**

- **Quality of Support:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind Vertex BD?**

- **Seller:** [Vertex Systems Group](https://www.g2.com/sellers/vertex-systems-group)
- **Year Founded:** 1977
- **HQ Location:** Tampere, FI
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/vertex-systems-oy/ (102 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 6. [WIZZCAD](https://www.g2.com/products/wizzcad/reviews)
  WIZZCAD accompagne les acteurs de la construction dans leur transformation digitale afin de les aider à construire des projets de qualité, en toute sécurité, dans le respect des délais et du budget. La solution SaaS BIM-Native WIZZCAD permet de digitaliser les processus métier tout au long du cycle de vie des bâtiments, des travaux publics et infrastructures industrielles à travers une plate-forme collaborative unique afin de gérer la conception, la réalisation et l’exploitation de projets de construction en 2D ou 3D.


  **Average Rating:** 2.8/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 2
**How Do G2 Users Rate WIZZCAD?**

- **Quality of Support:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **AI Text Summarization:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.0/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind WIZZCAD?**

- **Seller:** [WIZZCAD](https://www.g2.com/sellers/wizzcad)
- **Year Founded:** 2013
- **HQ Location:** Paris, FR
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/wizzcad (21 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Mid-Market


### 7. [3D Repo](https://www.g2.com/products/3d-repo/reviews)
  3D Repo’s SafetiBase allows users to identify and mark up issues and potential hazards with the model before construction, making construction safer


  **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate 3D Repo?**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
- **AI Text Summarization:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.0/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind 3D Repo?**

- **Seller:** [3D Repo](https://www.g2.com/sellers/3d-repo)
- **Year Founded:** 2014
- **HQ Location:** London, GB
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/3d-repo/ (12 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 200% Small-Business


### 8. [ArCADia BIM](https://www.g2.com/products/arcadia-bim/reviews)
  ArCADia BIM 12 ArCADia BIM is software that utilizes many solutions that considerably accelerate the design process for the construction industry. By using objects such as doors or windows and multilayer walls, the user can very quickly create CAD drawings, without losing anything from the full compatibility of their project with the DWG format. This is the first Polish software that allows the designer to work in accordance with BIM technology in the construction industry. The ArCADia programs bring to an end Autodesk's monopoly in the CAD market, ending unjustified overpricing and proving that a program with high quality and functionality can be available at an extremely competitive price. ArCADia BIM Software features : • Object-oriented architectural design support BIM technology. • Architectural elements that are ready-made: windows, doors, multilayer walls, stairs, columns, bases, chimneys. • Ability to compare and merge documents. • Entering floors automatically, as well as additional support for the design of Teriva ceilings. • The drawing of flat and spatial technical documentation and its saving to the native DWG format that is characteristic of most CAD applications. • Working on layered drawings with options to use blocks, external references, raster backdrops and groups. • By using Cartesian and polar coordinates, characteristic points and tracking it allows for precise drawing • Working on a real-world model with options of printing at any scale on a specified paper sheet. • Lists generation. • IFC format support. The option allowing the exchange of design data between programs. • Floating window for input of data at cursor. • Creating a 3D CAD project from ArCADia’s objects ( pipes, cables, walls, etc.) • New ancillary options located in a special group and simply reachable from the toolbar on the left. • New options for area, length and perimeter measuring. • The program screen is separated into tabs in which drawings are displayed sequentially. • Working on layers. • Explorer of the Project manager. • Properties panel that is docked. • Tool palettes display. • Toolbar dedicated for Express tools. • Lisp programming language interpreter. • Option for loading overlays of SDS and IRX. • Basic tools for 2D and 3D drawing creation. • Capacity to open ACIS solids and fully edit them (Spatial Technology Inc. format). ACIS solids import and export in SAT format. Only available in ArCADia PLUS. • Opportunity to fully modify and edit all drawn element properties. • Symbol library entry and definition, blocks, simple and complex texts (SHX and TrueType fonts). • Extra editor for multiline text. • New word editor functions: text fitting, columns, scaling, auto numbering, borders rotation and entering text along the arc, etc. • Element assigned dimensioning: angular and linear, option of define your own styles. • Automatic measurement of field and distance, coordinate setting. • New choices for construction lines. • An extensive selection of hatch patterns. New hatch definition as well as a window for gradient fill. • 3D objects (primitives) New types - Facet Modeler (ODA surface modeler) with basic editing functionality. • Ability to create photorealistic renderings and visualizations. • Shading in real time and drawing in hidden line mode. • Possibility to open ACIS solids (without the option to create and fully edit). • DWF, DGN and DAE formats support. • Export of STL files. • Ortho drawing functions, polar tracking, auxiliary grid. • Snap point extended recognition (ESNAP), e.g. - end points, center and line intersections. • Modification of ribbons (tabs and panels), the top menu, toolbars, keyboard shortcuts and the command status bar. • Printing parameter setting for precise printing. Option of creating a viewport that is non-rectangular in the paper space


  **Average Rating:** 2.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate ArCADia BIM?**

- **Quality of Support:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind ArCADia BIM?**

- **Seller:** [ArCADiasoft](https://www.g2.com/sellers/arcadiasoft)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 9. [ArCADia BIM](https://www.g2.com/products/arcadiasoft-arcadia-bim/reviews)
  Intended for architects and all who shape and create building forms. ArCADia-ARCHITECTURE contains specialized architectural functions and options to accelerate the creation of documentation, including: automatic cross-sections, automatic dimensioning or lists creation. Thanks to the BIM technology used, the designer creating the architectural design automatically receives a digital model of the building. Because to that, the design process can be controlled on the interactive 3D preview at all times. arcadiabimsystem.com


  **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate ArCADia BIM?**

- **Quality of Support:** 3.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 5.0/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind ArCADia BIM?**

- **Seller:** [ArCADiasoft](https://www.g2.com/sellers/arcadiasoft)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Enterprise


### 10. [Arris Architect Studio](https://www.g2.com/products/arris-architect-studio/reviews)
  Arris Architect Studio is a CAD solution that is designed as a solution for designing and producing architecture by managing your 3D modeling capabilities, models, and more.


  **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate Arris Architect Studio?**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind Arris Architect Studio?**

- **Seller:** [Sigma Design](https://www.g2.com/sellers/sigma-design)
- **HQ Location:** Indianapolis, US
- **LinkedIn® Page:** http://www.linkedin.com/company/complete-cad-solutions (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Enterprise


### 11. [BIMmTool](https://www.g2.com/products/bimmtool/reviews)
  BIMm Solutions (Building Information Modeling measurement Solutions) GmbH has developed measurement solutions for creating as-built documentation in Archicad since 2011. It develops BIMmTool, an add-on that revolutionizes the use of point clouds in Archicad. It can import an unlimited number of laser scans and displays them in high resolution in the BIMmNavigator. BIMmTool offers automatic "easy-to-model" functions: the fast and effective creation of as-built documentation from the point cloud was never easier. BIMmTool helps you compare the point cloud with the model directly in Archicad: you can use the point clouds as a control and documentation tool even during the construction phase. The story- or cluster-based point cloud management makes it easier to handle even large point clouds. You can use Archicad's model view options to adjust the resolution of the point clouds in each view individually. BIMmNavigator works without a license; you can use Archicad as a point cloud viewer and share your as-built models, including point clouds, with other Archicad users. With the BIMmTool Pro version, you can generate orthophotos for easier modeling and printing of the point clouds and run delta analysis to detect deformations. BIMm goes beyond as-built documentation. It brings the Scan-to-BIM workflow to your fingertips and ensures the transformation of point clouds into high-quality BIM models. Architects, engineers, and contractors can use point clouds in their everyday Archicad BIM modeling and take advantage of the added value of point cloud technology in as-built modeling, construction documentation, and project management. They remain in full control during the construction phase by comparing their BIM models with the point clouds captured on site. BIMmTool makes Archicad a point cloud viewer, point cloud manager, and point cloud modeling tool. Whether new construction, renovation, refurbishment, or remodeling, BIM and measurement walk hand in hand. We have the solution!


  **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate BIMmTool?**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind BIMmTool?**

- **Seller:** [BIMm Solutions](https://www.g2.com/sellers/bimm-solutions)
- **Year Founded:** 2011
- **HQ Location:** Sontheim an der Brenz, DE
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://linkedin.com/company/bimm-solutions-gmbh (5 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 12. [bimspot.io](https://www.g2.com/products/bimspot-io/reviews)
  We drive digital innovation to give our customers a holistic but focused understanding of buildings to create the best future we can imagine.


  **Average Rating:** 3.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**Who Is the Company Behind bimspot.io?**

- **Seller:** [bimspot](https://www.g2.com/sellers/bimspot)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 13. [CADCabin Home Design Software](https://www.g2.com/products/cadcabin-home-design-software/reviews)
  House Design Software for Real estates, Architects, Interior Design companies, Construction Companies and Home Renovation companies. Easy to use software to draw floor plans for your clients. If you own a real estate company, the software allows you to create 3D walkthroughs and 3D representation on the property in minutes. You can also import floor plans in image, PDF or CAD format, and convert them to 2D / 3D models in minutes. With comprehensive documentation, anyone, without any prior knowledge of CAD, can draw floor plans for properties, developments, and houses.


  **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate CADCabin Home Design Software?**

- **Quality of Support:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind CADCabin Home Design Software?**

- **Seller:** [CAD Cabin](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cad-cabin)
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/No-Linkedin-Presence-Added-Intentionally-By-DataOps (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 14. [CADISON](https://www.g2.com/products/cadison/reviews)
  CADISON is a solution provides the flexibility to customize workflows, object models and catalogs to one's own company standards and automatically generate reports, BOM, MTOs, Isometrics and 2D GA drawings to improve project execution efficiency. It also has built-in revision control and project coordination capabilities.


  **Average Rating:** 2.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate CADISON?**

- **Quality of Support:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind CADISON?**

- **Seller:** [Neilsoft Solutions](https://www.g2.com/sellers/neilsoft-solutions)
- **Year Founded:** 1993
- **HQ Location:** Pune, IN
- **Twitter:** @neilsoftenggsol (502 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/6460928 (18 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Enterprise


### 15. [DataMesh FactVerse](https://www.g2.com/products/datamesh-factverse/reviews)
  DataMesh is a pioneering technology company specializing in industrial metaverse platforms that integrate digital twins, extended reality , artificial intelligence , and the Internet of Things . Their flagship platform, FactVerse, empowers enterprises to digitize factory management, optimize production processes, and enhance operational efficiency. By overlaying digital twin models onto real-world scenarios using AR/VR technologies, DataMesh enables intuitive equipment understanding, remote collaboration, and immersive training experiences, thereby boosting both efficiency and safety. Key Features and Functionality: - Digital Twin Integration: Creates virtual replicas of physical assets to monitor and simulate real-world conditions. - Extended Reality Applications: Utilizes AR/VR technologies to overlay digital information onto physical environments, enhancing training and operational processes. - AI and IoT Connectivity: Leverages AI and IoT to collect and analyze data, providing actionable insights for decision-making. - Remote Collaboration Tools: Facilitates real-time collaboration among teams, regardless of location, through immersive virtual environments. - Training and Simulation Modules: Offers realistic, risk-free training scenarios for operators, reducing equipment wear and minimizing safety risks. Primary Value and Solutions: DataMesh addresses the challenges of digital transformation in industrial sectors by providing a comprehensive platform that bridges the gap between physical and digital worlds. Their solutions enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, and reduce costs associated with training and maintenance. By enabling intuitive understanding of complex equipment and processes, DataMesh empowers frontline workers and decision-makers to make informed choices, ultimately driving innovation and productivity within organizations.


  **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate DataMesh FactVerse?**

- **Quality of Support:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
- **AI Text Summarization:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.0/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind DataMesh FactVerse?**

- **Seller:** [DataMesh](https://www.g2.com/sellers/datamesh)
- **Year Founded:** 2014
- **HQ Location:** Singapore, SG
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/datamesh (31 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 16. [Design Tools](https://www.g2.com/products/design-tools/reviews)
  Design Tools is a software solution that helps design decks, fences, garages, sheds, kitchens and more with tools to help you design plus drawings and parts lists using materials and construction methods.


  **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate Design Tools?**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind Design Tools?**

- **Seller:** [The Luxwood](https://www.g2.com/sellers/the-luxwood)
- **Year Founded:** 1992
- **HQ Location:** Barrie, CA
- **LinkedIn® Page:** http://www.linkedin.com/company/luxwood-software (4 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


#### What Are Design Tools's Pros and Cons?

**Pros:**

- Customization (1 reviews)
- Tools (1 reviews)

**Cons:**

- 3D Modeling Issues (1 reviews)
- Difficulty with Curves (1 reviews)

### 17. [dRofus](https://www.g2.com/products/drofus/reviews)
  dRofus is a unique planning, data management and BIM collaboration tool that provides all stakeholders with extensive workflow support and access to building information throughout the building lifecycle. Unlike any other planning tool in the market, dRofus was developed directly on behalf of public building owners. Capturing client requirements (EIR), validating design solutions (BIM) against client requirements, management of public standards and equipment planning are core features in the software. dRofus has strong ArchiCAD, Revit and IFC integration with bi-directional data sync capabilities. Our customers are realizing the following benefits on their projects: • Increased efficiency by 300% in validating project requirements against design solutions. • Reduced risk through real-time monitoring and reporting of design changes. • Time savings of hundreds of hours per project with our “One-click” project reports. • Confirming room design requirements takes minutes instead of hours. • Quicker, more accurate decision making through shared access to project information. Model data from each discipline is captured, together with planning data, non-geometric data and documents in a centralized database accessible to all project stakeholders via the dRofus desktop client and dRofus Web. Typically stakeholders produce data using different software programs, that have different data schemas, with different filetypes, distributed across multiple servers, located in multiple different locations - and often this data is not re-usable by others. This is why dRofus has become an essential tool for BIM projects - we consolidate disparate data sets and convert them into project information, insight and intelligence accessible to all project stakeholders.


  **Average Rating:** 2.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate dRofus?**

- **Quality of Support:** 3.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 1.7/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 1.7/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind dRofus?**

- **Seller:** [dRofus](https://www.g2.com/sellers/drofus)
- **Year Founded:** 1996
- **HQ Location:** Oslo, NO
- **Twitter:** @dRofus (1,467 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/drofus (49 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 18. [facadetool](https://www.g2.com/products/facadetool/reviews)
  facadetool turns a single facade photograph into a clean, perspective-corrected elevation drawing ready for CAD and BIM, in minutes rather than hours. Upload any facade photo from the street, a site visit, or an archive. The pipeline automatically rectifies perspective, segments architectural elements, reconstructcts occluded lines, and removes transient objects like people, cars, and trees. Download as DXF or PNG, with optional real-world scaling via a single reference dimension. Architects, heritage teams, facade engineers, surveyors, contractors, and students use facadetool across early-stage design studies, measured surveys, refurbishment documentation, shop drawings, competition submissions, and quantity take-offs. The output is a near-orthographic elevation with snap-clean vector lines that opens directly in Rhino, AutoCAD, Revit, and more. Fully browser-based with no plugins or installations required. Manual elevation drafting from photographs is slow, inconsistent, and expensive. facadetool standardizes output quality and saves hours per drawing, whether you are documenting a historic facade or preparing a refurbishment package under deadline. Built by architects, for architects.


  **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate facadetool?**

- **Quality of Support:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind facadetool?**

- **Seller:** [facadetool](https://www.g2.com/sellers/facadetool)
- **Year Founded:** 2025
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/facadetool/ (1 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 19. [Giraffe](https://www.g2.com/products/giraffe/reviews)
  Giraffe is the platform for urban analytics. Connect people, projects, and data. Quick and Precise: Follow your instincts. Draw a massing in position in seconds. Smart and connected: Easily manage your assumptions and define custom metrics. Instant Analysis: As you sketch, Giraffe shows you up-to-date yields to assess your design. Collaborate Seamlessly: Work together in real time. See your team’s updates instantly. Supercharged workflows: Generative drawing tools automate tedious tasks.


  **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**Who Is the Company Behind Giraffe?**

- **Seller:** [Giraffe](https://www.g2.com/sellers/giraffe)
- **Year Founded:** 2017
- **HQ Location:** Sydney, AU
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/giraffebuild/ (17 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


#### What Are Giraffe's Pros and Cons?

**Pros:**

- Ease of Use (1 reviews)
- Visualization (1 reviews)
- Workflow Efficiency (1 reviews)


### 20. [GoRPM](https://www.g2.com/products/gorpm/reviews)
  The GoRPM® (Geospatial Real Property Management) Enterprise Software Solution empowers organizations to collect, integrate and analyze real property, assets and facilities data to produce insightful business intelligence and make smarter decisions. GoRPM is a comprehensive strategic planning solution used to aggregate and analyze all types of real property and facilities data. Examples include: • Real Property Inventory • Space Management • Operations & Maintenance • Facility Assessments • Capital Planning • Project Management • Risk Management • Sustainability As of 11/2018, R&K Solutions' Enterprise Geospatial Real Property Management (GoRPM) Software as a Service has achieved the "In Process" status with the U.S. Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP), the final step before GORPM receives the final FedRAMP Authorization. GoRPM can be found on the FedRAMP Marketplace.


  **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate GoRPM?**

- **Quality of Support:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
- **AI Text Summarization:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.0/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind GoRPM?**

- **Seller:** [R&K Solutions](https://www.g2.com/sellers/r-k-solutions)
- **Year Founded:** 1984
- **HQ Location:** Roanoke, US
- **Twitter:** @RandKsolutions (28 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/randk-solutions-inc (95 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 21. [Ideate Software](https://www.g2.com/products/ideate-software/reviews)
  Ideate Software—a set of comprehensive data management tools—solutions that fill the gaps you face and overcome the obstacles you encounter. Your customer requests lead directly to frequent point releases. You gain access to the most advanced Revit tech experts, and you manage BIM projects with more speed, accuracy and convenience than was ever possible before.


  **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1
**How Do G2 Users Rate Ideate Software?**

- **Quality of Support:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
- **Sequence Steps:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.8/10)
- **Editing:** 10.0/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind Ideate Software?**

- **Seller:** [Ideate Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/ideate-software)
- **Year Founded:** 2009
- **HQ Location:** N/A
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://linkedin.com/company/ideate-software (25 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 22. [Infurnia Architecture Design Software](https://www.g2.com/products/infurnia-architecture-design-software/reviews)
  Infurnia is the world’s most powerful cloud-native architecture software made for professional users. Infurnia provides a very easy to use & intuitive user interface for architects to design any kind of project. Infurnia covers all facets of creating a project. From architectural floor plans to 3D elevation design to rendering to BOQ generation. From modular furniture design to complete interior design. A powerful 3D kernel is included in the software to facilitate custom shapes & geometries. Unique Features - Collaboration - Infurnia has built-in tools that allow architects to easily share their work with their customers & collaborate with them in real-time. Architects can also collaborate with each other. Integration & Extension - Infurnia can easily be integrated with other customer systems like CRMs, workflow management tools, project management tools, etc through APIs. Centralized Management - Because of being cloud-based, Infurnia offers a centralized admin dashboard that can be used to manage catalogs, prices, user accounts, etc.


  **Average Rating:** 4.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**Who Is the Company Behind Infurnia Architecture Design Software?**

- **Seller:** [Infurnia Technologies](https://www.g2.com/sellers/infurnia-technologies)
- **Year Founded:** 2014
- **HQ Location:** Bengaluru, IN
- **Twitter:** @Infurnia (91 Twitter followers)
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/infurnia/ (37 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 23. [PlansXpress](https://www.g2.com/products/plansxpress/reviews)
  Quickly and EASILY draw professional building plans, elevations and 3D models with PlansXpress.


  **Average Rating:** 3.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**Who Is the Company Behind PlansXpress?**

- **Seller:** [HBXL Building Software](https://www.g2.com/sellers/hbxl-building-software)
- **Year Founded:** 2000
- **HQ Location:** Stoke Gifford, GB
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/hbxl (18 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Small-Business


### 24. [Rayon](https://www.g2.com/products/rayon/reviews)
  Rayon is a collaborative space design software made for professionals working on floor plans every day. It is a web-based tool that supports various file formats, including DWG, DXF, PDF, and image files. It boasts a variety of use cases for the creative minds of the architectural industry including floor planning, mood boarding and the redlining of drawings. Rayon enables users to draw walls, add doors, annotate floor plans, and to store and reuse furniture blocks. Users can generate PDFs of finalised floor plans, calculate square footage, and create tables.


  **Average Rating:** 4.5/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 2
**How Do G2 Users Rate Rayon?**

- **Quality of Support:** 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)

**Who Is the Company Behind Rayon?**

- **Seller:** [Rayon Design](https://www.g2.com/sellers/rayon-design)
- **Year Founded:** 2021
- **HQ Location:** Paris, FR
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/rayon-app/ (31 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 50% Enterprise, 50% Mid-Market


### 25. [SAFI Structural Analysis and Design Software](https://www.g2.com/products/safi-structural-analysis-and-design-software/reviews)
  Safi 3D is a structural analysis software designed with a user interface that provides structural calculators and design applications to help you manage your structure designs.


  **Average Rating:** 5.0/5.0
  **Total Reviews:** 1

**Who Is the Company Behind SAFI Structural Analysis and Design Software?**

- **Seller:** [Safi](https://www.g2.com/sellers/safi)
- **Year Founded:** 1986
- **HQ Location:** Toronto, CA
- **LinkedIn® Page:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/safi-quality-software-inc/ (5 employees on LinkedIn®)

**Who Uses This Product?**
  - **Company Size:** 100% Enterprise


#### What Are SAFI Structural Analysis and Design Software's Pros and Cons?

**Pros:**

- Realistic Rendering (1 reviews)

**Cons:**

- High Hardware Requirements (1 reviews)
- Slow Loading (1 reviews)


    ## What Is Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software?
  [CAD Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/cad)
  ## What Software Categories Are Similar to Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software?
    - [Urban Planning and Design Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/urban-planning-and-design)
    - [Autodesk Construction Cloud Integration Partners](https://www.g2.com/categories/autodesk-construction-cloud-integration-partners)
    - [Architectural Rendering Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/architectural-rendering)

  
---

## How Do You Choose the Right Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software?

### What You Should Know About BIM Software

### What is Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software?

Before building information modeling (BIM) software became common, designing buildings and other structures was dependent on 2D drawings. Various departments would have to pass these drawings back and forth between each other. A BIM tool allows users to generate and manage digital representations of the characteristics and functions of building structures. In addition, BIM software provides information such as spatial relationships, light analysis, and geographic information. This process can also break down the actual building parts to piece together how they fit into one structure. These elements can include walls, columns, windows, doors, stairs, and more.

This data can be extracted, networked to, or exchanged to facilitate decision making regarding the specific building or structure the user is designing. For example, a user can manipulate this information to understand these elements’ behavior before building construction begins.

The attributes within these elements can perform actions as specific as automatically selecting and ordering new materials, along with providing cost estimates. The data within BIM tools helps extract various views from a model of a building, and these images are always consistent.

With BIM software, users can increase productivity and efficiency in creating 2D and 3D drawings and models, easily alter designs, improve accuracy, precision, and control in drafting and design, and detect and avoid conflicts to reduce rework. The software also helps to enable communication and collaboration between designers and with clients.

**What Does BIM Stand For?**

BIM stands for building information modeling,the process of creating and managing information and data for a built environment. Since it can take years to build a structure, it takes lots of data and information to make it become a reality. BIM helps users manage all of the design and construction information and collaborate with stakeholders in order to finish the project more efficiently. ** **

### What are the Common Features of Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software?

BIM technology offers several features to support the design and building of large structures. Most tools support a multidiscipline design process for a number of different types of structures. Not all products will contain the same feature sets, but the following are common examples across many BIM solutions:

**Collaboration** : Projects that require BIM solutions have many different moving parts with multiple stakeholders, so frequent communication is a must. Every BIM tool should have a feature that enables collaborative workflows among teams.. Collaboration features may include functionality such as real-time notifications and cross-platform communications.

**Visualize:** Since BIM tools give users the ability to design their structure in 3D, a BIM platform will likely have the ability to visualize outside elements such as how sunlight will hit a building or how energy efficient the building is, and detect any potential clashes in the system or structure. This knowledge ensures the structure created runs at peak performance.

**Sequence steps** : Each phase of the construction project is planned out with models and even submodels. BIM software enables users to sequence out these steps with the specific materials and crews needed for every individual phase of the process. Some BIM tools even allow users to animate the steps of the building process.

**Document storage or data management** : When it comes to the design and construction of a building or large structure, different teams will contribute various documents to the project. This might include drawings, customer requirements, phasing plans, and more. BIM solutions should be able to store all this information within the platform and allow multiple users to access it.

**Cloud rendering** : Cloud rendering helps produce realistic 3D visualizations of a building without integrating any special rendering hardware.

**Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) fabrication detailing**: A number of BIM products offer MEP fabrication detailing—the ability to create an intricate model of whichever MEP system needs to be integrated into the building. Users can specify the fabrication configuration and load services needed, and should be able to create the model.

**Import or export 2D sheets** : As 3D designing is becoming the standard, it may become increasingly difficult to design in 2D. However, some BIM solutions offer the option to import or export 2D sheets into the platform, so that users can design as needed and potentially update these 2D designs to 3D.

### What are the Benefits of Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software?

BIM solutions have completely changed the way buildings are designed. The introduction of software into this process gives users a number of benefits that manual design cannot offer.

**Design quickly:** Before BIM software, the building design process involved a lot of manual drawings. These solutions enable designers to draft up a BIM model far quicker than by hand. Digital models also include more information than what is in a drawing set. Ultimately, by facilitating a quicker design process, BIM software saves firms money and labor.

**Design anywhere:** The majority of BIM solutions are cloud based, which means that users have access to a project's details from any device. Multiple project members can sign on from any location as well.

**Avoid clashes** : BIM software can detect clashing elements, such as electrical conduits or ductwork that run into a beam. Repairing the damage from clashes can be very costly. BIM tools have the ability to identify potential issues before they happen.

**Capture reality** : One of the foremost advantages of this software is BIM’s ability to accurately capture reality. BIM solutions can integrate with tools that offer mapping and provide precise images of the earth. Users then have the option to include aerial imagery and digital elevation with the models of their buildings. They can even include laser scans of existing site infrastructure.

**Reduce building design errors** : As BIM software takes away manual design, it also takes away a significant amount of human error. These tools help identify problems early on in the design and building processes.

**Improve collaboration across the organization** : Sharing digital information modeling for buildings is far easier than passing drawing sets back and forth between colleagues. The cloud-based model of many BIM solutions also means that colleagues working on different parts of the design and building process can access BIM models anywhere, at any time. As many colleagues as needed can review and mark up the model before the building is erected.

**Simulate and visualize elements of a building** : BIM software has visualization capabilities to assess how certain elements can impact a building, such as sunlight during different seasons or the structure’s energy performance. These solutions apply rules based on physics to provide guidance for engineers and other team members involved in building the structure.

**Sequence the steps of the building process** : Constructing a building is an incredibly detailed process. Each part of this progression is a sequence of steps, materials, and building crews. BIM technology can animate this entire process, facilitate all of these steps, and deliver a path to the end result.

**Give a perfect presentation of a building:** It’s important clients get a preview of the building being designed. BIM software enables communication of the project scope, steps, and outcome. And as BIM can render images in 3D, businesses can give clients the most realistic view of the building possible.

### Who Uses Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software?

BIM is geared toward those designing buildings. However, many distinct roles contribute to the design and construction of these buildings, from planning internal systems to the outside structure of the building. BIM software can benefit those in a variety of career fields.

**Infrastructure** : BIM isn’t just for constructing buildings. It can be used to create large structures, such as bridges and ports. BIM can be used in these instances the same way it is for constructing buildings, namely integrating the plan, design, build, and phases of a project. BIM in infrastructure projects can ensure that any large structure is resilient to external circumstances, such as weather, before being constructed.

**BIM construction** : BIM software is commonly used in the construction industry. These solutions facilitate collaboration within any team involved in the process and the ability to gather aerial views of the building structure. Laying the groundwork digitally, BIM in the construction industry ultimately gives a more productive worksite.

**MEP** : BIM software offers a suite of tools to help those in the MEP industry design and estimate mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems quickly and accurately. These platforms reduce risk and waste, driving better MEP fabrication. BIM solutions also assist in the installation process to ensure these systems fit seamlessly with the rest of the structure they are a part of.

**Plant design** : BIM solutions allow users to design intelligent structures and create piping and instrumentation diagrams that will support factory operations. Whether the plant being designed specializes in water treatment, food and beverage, or oil and gas, a BIM tool should have the functionality to create designs in any of these disciplines.

**Structural engineering** : Another common use for BIM software is by structural engineers. Users in this field utilize BIM tools to improve the structure of buildings to ensure they are as strong and resilient as possible. Structural engineers can streamline workflows to connect design to detailing, minimize errors, and improve the quality of the building structure before it is constructed.

**Architecture** : BIM solutions allow architects to bring their most creative ideas to life by providing support throughout their whole design process. BIM solutions provide tools that maintain model fidelity at every stage of the architectural design process. This means that insight can be gained early on in this process to meet clients’ requirements to deliver the project they need.

#### Software Related to Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software

A few vertical industry software solutions revolving around functions such as building, design, and installation should work in conjunction with BIM technology. While some individual products may not integrate with one another, the end goal of these software categories is very similar.

[Construction management software](https://www.g2.com/categories/construction-management): This software allows users to oversee offsite construction crews and follow along with their progress. Along with managing the project, other features may include punch lists, time tracking, expense management, and more. Some construction management tools may already offer BIM capabilities. But for those solutions that don’t offer those functionalities, BIM should be able to fill in the gaps.

[Architecture software](https://www.g2.com/categories/architecture): These tools assist architects in visualizing, creating, and viewing building design documents. Architecture software can also help schedule, plan, and execute construction drawings for a project, with the collection of 2D design tools this type of software typically offers. BIM solutions can enhance the offerings of this software due to its 3D modeling capabilities and integrations. Some architecture software solutions may offer these 3D functionalities, but for those that don’t, BIM visualization provides the ability to generate more complex designs.

### Challenges with Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software

BIM software solutions can come with their own set of challenges. Some of the most common issues and challenges buyers may run into are:

**Incompatibility with construction partners:** BIM is not the universal standard in the construction industry yet, and a number of other tools can be used to create building models. There is a possibility that contractors may not utilize BIM software to create buildings and therefore won’t be able to use the models.

**Lack of expertise** : BIM is a relatively new technology that is developing quickly. So, there are a limited number of BIM software experts. Implementing a BIM solution on a project might require investment in additional training and support.

**Legal ramifications** : It is currently unclear where the ownership of BIM data falls. Whether it needs to be protected through copyright laws is also yet to be determined. When someone other than the original creator of a model contributes to the work, licensing issues may come up. As there are many people involved in the design and construction of a building or large structure, this can potentially cause issues.

**Cost** : Moving to BIM software is not a cheap task. Not only do buyers have to pay for the tool itself, but they will likely need to invest in training or consulting. It will likely pay off in the long run, but the upfront cost may be a hit to the firm initially, especially if the business is small.

### Which Companies Should Buy Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software?

Building information modeling software mainly serves the industries of architecture, engineering and construction. These are the industries that most commonly work on building the physical environment and as such, must collaborate with lots of data to go from conception to construction. While these are the most common fields that utilize BIM, below we will explore the types of companies within these fields that should pursue BIM software:

**Large and mid-market architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) businesses:**  The most common adopters of BIM software are large and mid-market AEC businesses. These are generally businesses with 1000+ employees that have multiple teams involved in the planning, design and execution of constructing buildings. These companies generally have the budget to purchase plenty of licenses for their workers, and this allows them to have multiple collaborators involved in one project.

### How to Buy Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software

#### Requirements Gathering (RFI/RFP) for Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software

Requirements gathering for BIM software is critical to ensure that the business is implementing a product that meets all of their needs. To do so, businesses must evaluate their critical needs. For example, some businesses may view strong rendering features as a necessity, while other businesses may be more focused on collaboration features. 

#### Compare Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software Products

**Create a long list**

Long lists are created by eliminating software options that do not provide critical functionality. To make a long list for BIM software, a buyer should look at the following functionalities and price and deem which products provide the necessary functionality:

- Collaboration and work sharing capabilities
- File interoperability 
- Rendering features
- Document storage
- Strong general computer-aided design (CAD) capabilities
- Drawing tools
- Project and task management
- Collision detection
- Sequence steps 
- MEP fabrication detailing

**Create a short list**

Once a buyer has narrowed down their list from the following functionality above, it’s then important to get even more specific requirements. Below are some of the even more critical features to take into consideration:

**File interoperability:** Having files that support a wide range of exchange formats might be something that is critical to project collaboration and sharing. File interoperability gives customers the freedom to switch from one product to another while keeping the data intact after the transfer. An example might be if a team regularly exchanges data with plant design solutions or transfers data to production. If a company is working with multiple file types then this will be important to consider.

**Specific CAD capabilities:** If a company works in the fields of MEP, then it’s important to choose a BIM product that allows for MEP fabrication detailing, HVAC design, electrical design, etc. Likewise, for companies in the construction or structural engineering sector, it will be important to find a BIM product that offers specific features that cater to a particular industry.

**Conduct demos**

Demos are one of the most important stages in the buying journey. This allows a buyer to sit through an actual product demo and see if the product matches all of the requirements. To make sure the demo runs smoothly, users must ensure that the vendor has all of the requirements beforehand so they can showcase their features properly. Some of the use cases that a business should ask the vendor to showcase are:

**Workflows:** The most critical feature to showcase is workflow functionality. How does the solution offer better workflow management for BIM projects? Can users share projects easily? Are there simple functions for content management? This is critical as this is the core requirement for purchasing BIM software.

**Ease of file sharing:** During a demo, it’s important to get the seller to showcase file sharing capabilities. Vendors may claim they have simple file sharing that can translate files over from one software to another, but having them showcase these abilities and the overall ease of file transfer will ensure that these are strong capabilities.

#### Selection of Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software

**Choose a selection team**

BIM software is going to most often be used by project designers as well as managers who oversee these teams of project designers. Job roles that should be included in the selection process are project designer, BIM manager, model manager, content creation specialist, discipline BIM coordinators, and other project specific roles.

**Negotiation**

When negotiating during the purchasing stage, it is advisable to always start small in terms of licenses and functionality. Licenses will always be the biggest cost within any purchase, and oftentimes, companies purchase additional licenses or features in a product that they don’t necessarily need. During this negotiation, vendors will try to convince buyers that they can offer discounts on more functionality or licenses if they buy in bulk, but most businesses don’t need this. If businesses end up needing a few more licenses down the road, they can always add as need be. 

In addition to this, the selection team should always strive to have implementation and ongoing support fees included in the cost. BIM software is not easy to learn. Before purchasing, buyers must ensure that the vendor offers regular training or even online training options to help new users onboard quickly. This way, if any ongoing support is needed, businesses can always contact their customer success or support representative.

**Final decision**

After the negotiation stage is conducted, the final decision requires buy-in from everyone on the selection team. It’s important to ensure that all requirements are met and the final decision is supported by all stakeholders.

### What Does Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software Cost?

There are a variety of factors that will play into both the upfront and ongoing cost of BIM software. For upfront costs, a business needs to pay for setup, any custom integrations, and training. Additionally, there is the consideration of what level of functionality or which tier the buyer would like to purchase. Some BIM software will charge more based on the number of features purchased.

The ongoing cost is the subscription cost to actually use the software. Many BIM software options are usually run on a subscription model which means users need to pay a monthly or yearly rate to use the software. The subscription model is generally set up as a per-user model and will ultimately be the biggest cost. As stated previously, to limit the upfront cost, it’s important to pay for a limited number of licenses right away as buyers still need to figure out if the software will ultimately be the best choice for their company. In terms of hard numbers, there is BIM software for as little as $80 per user on a monthly basis, whereas some go up to $350 per user per month.

#### Return on Investment (ROI) 

Below is the breakdown of the estimated time to ROI according to the BIM product review data on G2 as of May 4, 2021:

- 32% of buyers see an ROI in 6 months or less
- 30% of buyers see an ROI in 7-12 months
- 9 % of buyers see an ROI in 13-24 months
- 8% of buyers see an ROI from 24-36 months
- 4% of buyers see an ROI in 48+ months 
- 12% of buyers haven’t realized a full payback yet

### Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software Trends

**AR, VR, and BIM:** AR and VR has already begun to seep into the installation field, and for good reason. VR gives users the ability to study extensive 3D models in a whole new way. As AR merges the real world with a virtual environment, users can test to see how a piece fits into the whole of a building, and anticipate clashes early. These capabilities are already huge advantages to BIM users, as they allow users to see their designs from a fresh perspective. They will become more of an asset as AR and VR continues to develop rapidly.

**Internet of things (IoT) and BIM:** Intelligent objects are becoming increasingly more common in homes—so much so that it is expected that IoT will completely change the way that installers and modelers work. BIM tools can house data on IoT applications within the structure being built and make sure it is entirely up to date. This means that designing the building can be done with ready-to-deliver products that come straight to the building site.

**4D, 5D, and 6D BIM:** While many BIM users have been transitioning to 3D platforms, 4D, 5D, and 6D are already on their way. 4D BIM models provide a visualization of the construction schedule. 5D and 6D BIM add costs and materials to existing 3D BIM models. These new versions of BIM will also add details such as aesthetics, thermal properties, and acoustics to maximize a user’s ROI.

**3D printing and BIM:** 3D printing has been making big moves in the construction industry, showing great potential for creating incredibly accurate building elements quickly with minimal waste. BIM and 3D printing are a perfect match as prototypes can be made with BIM software and then passed along to a construction crew.