Best Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software

How Many Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software Products Does G2 Track?

Total Products under this Category: 147

Category Stats (Aug 2026)

  • Average Rating: 4.26/5 (↑0.01 vs Jul 2026) The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings
  • Top Trending Product: Smartbuild PF (+1.33%) - Among all products in this category, Smartbuild PF recorded the largest rating increase compared to last month

Last updated: August 01, 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
  • 6,700+ Authentic Reviews
  • 147+ 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.

G2 Grid® for Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software

G2 Grid® for Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software plotting products by satisfaction and market presence

Highlighted products: AutoCAD, Revit, Revizto, SketchUp, Navisworks, Edificius, Trimble Connect, and SolidWorks Electrical 3D.

Underlying data: [Grid® JSON](https://www.g2.com/categories/building-design-and-building-information-modeling-bim/grids.json?focus%5B%5D=autocad&focus%5B%5D=revit&focus%5B%5D=revizto&focus%5B%5D=sketchup&focus%5B%5D=navisworks&focus%5B%5D=edificius&focus%5B%5D=trimble-connect&focus%5B%5D=solidworks-electrical-3d)

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AutoCAD

Redefine how you create with Autodesk® AutoCAD®. Autodesk AI empowers you to reimagine your creative process in AutoCAD, delivering advanced automation and meaningful performance enhancements that help you design faster and work smarter. Intelligent features reduce repetitive tasks and surface actionable insights, so you can spend more time creating with precision and confidence. Use natural, conversational interactions to ask questions, check standards unique to your team, and quickly validate designs against established workflows. Securely managed data supports informed decision making and helps turn ideas into high quality results more efficiently. A truly collaborative design experience brings teams together through Forma Data Management. Purpose built cloud storage makes it easy to save, manage, and access project files while supporting collaborative design processes. Multiple users can add markups to a single drawing on desktop or web with Multi-user Markup, improving transparency and reducing errors. Checkout transforms collaborative drafting by allowing contributors to work on specific geometry, submit edits for review, and merge changes smoothly by eliminating manual collation and file conflicts. Your data and intellectual property remain secure and governed, giving you confidence across every stage of design. Optimize productivity with seven specialized toolsets, including Electrical, Mechanical, and Plant 3D. Automate routine tasks with AutoLISP, tailor workflows to your discipline, and extend AutoCAD through APIs and thousands of apps on the Autodesk App Store.

Average Rating: 4.4/5.0

Total Reviews: 1,841

How Do G2 Users Rate AutoCAD?

  • Quality of Support: 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 8.2/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 8.8/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 7.1/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind AutoCAD?

  • Seller: Autodesk
  • Company Website:
  • Year Founded: 1982
  • HQ Location: San Francisco
  • Twitter: @autodesk
    273,215 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    15,352 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: Architect, Designer
  • Top Industries: Architecture & Planning, Civil Engineering
  • Company Size: 46% Small, 34% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About AutoCAD?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users find AutoCAD's ease of use essential for drafting and designing, enhancing both productivity and precision.
  • Users value the ease of drafting in AutoCAD, enabling efficient 2D and 3D designs for various projects.
  • Users value the precision and professional standards of AutoCAD, enhancing their drafting and design experiences significantly.
  • Users appreciate the precision and reliability of AutoCAD for both 2D drafting and basic 3D design projects.
  • Users value AutoCAD for its detailed engineering drawings, which enhance precision and professional standards in design work.
Cons
  • Users find the high subscription cost of AutoCAD burdensome, especially for students and small businesses.
  • Users highlight the steep learning curve of AutoCAD, making it challenging for beginners to learn quickly.
  • Users express frustration over the high cost of AutoCAD licenses, complicating access for individuals and small businesses.
  • Users find the difficult learning curve of AutoCAD overwhelming, especially due to numerous complex commands for beginners.
  • Users report that AutoCAD has high hardware requirements, causing slow performance and leading to lost work on complex projects.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of AutoCAD?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About AutoCAD?

Revit

Autodesk® Revit® software is built for Building Information Modeling (BIM), helping professionals design, build, and maintain higher-quality, more energy-efficient buildings. Using the information-rich models created with Autodesk Revit software, architects, engineers, and construction firms can collaborate to make more-informed decisions earlier in the design process to deliver projects more efficiently. Any design changes made in Revit models are automatically updated throughout the model, keeping designs and documentation coordinated and more reliable. Autodesk Revit includes features for architectural design, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing, structural engineering, and construction, providing a comprehensive solution for the entire building project team. Revit pricing starts at $290.00 per month, per user. Revit does offer a free trial. Flexible subscription options available. Talk to sales at: Call: (818) 639-7755

Average Rating: 4.6/5.0

Total Reviews: 921

How Do G2 Users Rate Revit?

  • Quality of Support: 7.8/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 8.1/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 8.6/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 6.0/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Revit?

  • Seller: Autodesk
  • Company Website:
  • Year Founded: 1982
  • HQ Location: San Francisco
  • Twitter: @autodesk
    273,215 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    15,352 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: BIM Manager, Architect
  • Top Industries: Architecture & Planning, Construction
  • Company Size: 42% Medium, 39% Small

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Revit?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users value the real-time collaboration in Revit, enhancing teamwork and streamlining project timelines effectively.
  • Users value Revit's exceptional 3D modeling capabilities for accurate, efficient, and coordinated architectural design projects.
  • Users find Revit incredibly easy to use, with seamless collaboration and intuitive design for all project types.
  • Users appreciate the BIM-based workflow of Revit, enhancing collaboration and automating design updates seamlessly.
  • Users value Revit's BIM-based workflow, enhancing accuracy and efficiency with automatically updated 3D models and coordinated designs.
Cons
  • Users often face compatibility challenges with Revit, impacting collaboration and project efficiency across software versions.
  • Users experience performance issues with Revit, particularly with larger projects and collaboration, impacting overall efficiency.
  • Users often experience slow performance with Revit, especially when working with complex models, impacting their productivity.
  • Users note that Revit can be expensive, particularly for those using multiple Autodesk software programs.
  • Users warn about the high hardware requirements of Revit, which can lead to instability and performance issues.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Revit?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Revit?

Revizto

Revizto is revolutionizing collaboration across the AECO industry. Helping architects, engineers, contractors, and owners deliver projects on time and on budget, without risk or waste. Revizto enables the people behind the world’s most important structures to do their best work. We connect architects, engineers, contractors, and owners through one shared 2D and 3D environment across the entire building lifecycle. By uniting teams from concept through completion, Revizto drives maximum collaboration, clarity, and results. Designed for professionals across the AECO industry, Revizto serves as a centralized Collaboration Hub where all project stakeholders can communicate, coordinate, and resolve issues in real time. The platform is especially powerful for large-scale, complex projects where alignment across multiple disciplines is critical. From airports and hospitals to data centers and other critical infrastructure, Revizto helps teams stay connected and informed, ensuring everyone is working from the same source of truth. Revizto’s intuitive interface allows users to visualize and interact with coordinated 2D sheets and 3D models in real time, making it easier to identify clashes, track issues, and resolve risks early in the design and construction process. Automated clash detection and robust issue tracking enable teams to assign responsibilities, monitor progress, and maintain accountability. This reduces rework, delays, and costly errors later in the project lifecycle. Built on a gaming engine, Revizto’s technology is purposefully engineered to withstand construction’s toughest conditions and most complex projects. The platform is fast, stable, and reliable, working seamlessly wherever teams need it, whether in the office or on site, across desktop, tablet, or mobile devices. As a cloud-based solution, Revizto ensures that every stakeholder has access to the most up-to-date project information, regardless of location. This flexibility supports today’s increasingly distributed teams while maintaining data integrity, security, and project continuity. Trusted by leading firms including Jacobs, AECOM, AtkinsRéalis, Skanska, and Stantec, Revizto is redefining how the built world collaborates. Backed by Summit Partners and headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, with team members across the globe, Revizto continues to transform the way critical infrastructure is designed and delivered, building a world that is made to last.

Average Rating: 4.6/5.0

Total Reviews: 258

How Do G2 Users Rate Revizto?

  • Quality of Support: 8.6/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 5.6/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 5.8/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 4.9/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Revizto?

  • Seller: Revizto
  • Company Website:
  • Year Founded: 2010
  • HQ Location: Lausanne, Switzerland
  • Twitter: @REVIZTO
    9,157 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    222 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: BIM Manager, VDC Manager
  • Top Industries: Construction, Architecture & Planning
  • Company Size: 48% Medium, 31% Large

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Revizto?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users appreciate the ease of use of Revizto, facilitating efficient collaboration and streamlined BIM workflow management.
  • Users appreciate Revizto for its centralized communication, streamlining collaboration and enhancing project workflow efficiency.
  • Users appreciate the centralized communication and seamless integration features of Revizto, enhancing their workflow efficiency.
  • Users value the flexible issue management of Revizto, enabling dynamic workflows and efficient conflict resolution across teams.
  • Users enjoy the seamless team collaboration in Revizto, enabling efficient coordination and real-time issue tracking across projects.
Cons
  • Users express concerns about missing API features and limitations that hinder data integration and functionality.
  • Users indicate a lack of features in Revizto, particularly regarding project bridging and integration with other platforms.
  • Users experience slow processing with Revizto, noting delays in opening files and navigating between views.
  • Users find the markup tools inadequate and desire more powerful features for efficient project collaboration.
  • Users face functionality issues in Revizto, including complicated clash reports and limitations on section tools.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Revizto?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Revizto?

SketchUp

SketchUp helps architects and designers turn their ideas into reality with simple, powerful 3D modeling software. Whether your design is massive or miniature, we'll be with you every step of the way. Sketch it, share your vision, refine concepts, and bring them into the real world. Owned by Trimble Inc., an entrepreneurial company focused on leveraging technology to change how the world works, SketchUp is intuitive and interoperable. From the ability to create stunning renderings, to powerful sharing and presentation tools, it's easy to see why professionals trust SketchUp to build their ideas.

Average Rating: 4.5/5.0

Total Reviews: 1,299

How Do G2 Users Rate SketchUp?

  • Quality of Support: 8.1/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 7.9/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 8.5/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 6.1/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind SketchUp?

  • Seller: Trimble
  • Year Founded: 1978
  • HQ Location: Sunnyvale, CA
  • Twitter: @TrimbleCorpNews
    12,061 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    10,997 employees on LinkedIn®
  • Ownership: NASDAQ

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: Architect, Designer
  • Top Industries: Architecture & Planning, Design
  • Company Size: 75% Small, 18% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About SketchUp?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users appreciate the ease of use in SketchUp, enabling quick and intuitive 3D modeling without a steep learning curve.
  • Users love SketchUp for its intuitive ease of use, enabling quick model creation with natural-feeling tools.
  • Users find SketchUp to be extremely easy to learn, allowing quick model creation with intuitive tools.
  • Users love SketchUp for its intuitive design, making 3D modeling quick and accessible without a steep learning curve.
  • Users appreciate the ease of use in SketchUp, allowing quick and intuitive creation of 3D models.
Cons
  • Users criticize the poor rendering quality of SketchUp, hindering detailed and professional-grade modeling efforts.
  • Users find SketchUp to be expensive, with many essential features locked behind paid plugins and subscription fees.
  • Users find limited rendering capabilities in SketchUp frustrating for detailed work, especially in professional and complex projects.
  • Users face plugin issues with SketchUp, as essential features often require costly third-party extensions for advanced work.
  • Users find SketchUp's poor rendering limits its utility for detailed CAD work and sophisticated projects, requiring additional plugins.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of SketchUp?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About SketchUp?

Navisworks

Autodesk Navisworks is a comprehensive project review and coordination software designed to enhance Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows. It enables construction and design teams to integrate, analyze, and visualize complex 3D models, facilitating improved project delivery and collaboration. Key Features and Functionality: - Model Integration: Combine design and construction data into a single, federated model, allowing for a holistic project view. - Clash Detection: Identify and resolve clashes and interferences before construction begins, reducing on-site issues and rework. - 4D and 5D Simulation: Animate and interact with model objects to simulate construction schedules (4D) and cost analysis (5D), aiding in project planning and management. - Quantification: Extract material quantities from 2D or 3D designs, facilitating accurate cost estimation and resource planning. - Collaboration Tools: Integrate with Autodesk Construction Cloud to keep project teams connected, enabling issue tracking and resolution within the model environment. Primary Value and User Solutions: Navisworks addresses the challenges of coordinating multidisciplinary design data by providing a unified platform for model aggregation and analysis. By detecting potential issues early through clash detection and simulation, it minimizes costly construction delays and rework. The software's integration capabilities enhance team collaboration, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned throughout the project lifecycle. Ultimately, Navisworks improves project predictability, efficiency, and overall quality.

Average Rating: 4.5/5.0

Total Reviews: 187

How Do G2 Users Rate Navisworks?

  • Quality of Support: 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 8.0/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 4.6/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Navisworks?

  • Seller: Autodesk
  • Year Founded: 1982
  • HQ Location: San Francisco
  • Twitter: @autodesk
    273,215 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    15,352 employees on LinkedIn®
  • Ownership: NASDAQ:ADSK

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: BIM Engineer, Senior Engineer
  • Top Industries: Construction, Civil Engineering
  • Company Size: 50% Medium, 28% Large

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Navisworks?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users value the effective collaboration features of Navisworks, enabling clear coordination and manageable project workflows.
  • Users find Navisworks extremely easy to use, enhancing coordination and clash detection throughout their projects seamlessly.
  • Users appreciate the effective clash detection in Navisworks, enhancing coordination and management of complex 3D models.
  • Users value the incredible BIM integration of Navisworks, enabling seamless connection and clash detection within BIM ecosystems.
  • Users appreciate the ease of access with Navisworks, benefiting from a free version for field team model reviews.
Cons
  • Users struggle with difficult navigation in Navisworks, finding the controls clunky and the process frustrating, especially with large models.
  • Users find the learning curve steep due to an outdated interface and complex navigation, hindering new user experience.
  • Users experience slow processing with Navisworks, especially when handling large files and multiple disciplines, causing frustration.
  • Users find the difficult learning curve of Autodesk Navisworks challenging, especially with its unintuitive interface for beginners.
  • Users face inaccuracy issues in Navisworks, with confusion from overlapping NWC files and missing part information.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Navisworks?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Navisworks?

Edificius

Edificius is a professional 3D BIM building design software for architects, engineers, and AEC professionals, combining architectural modeling, landscape design, MEP systems, documentation, cost estimation, and advanced visualization in a single platform. It streamlines the design workflow, reduces errors, and enhances collaboration across disciplines. Core Capabilities Integrated 3D/BIM Design: Generate fully coordinated plans, 3D models, sections, elevations, construction details, and project documentation from a single source model. Architecture & Renovation: Parametric modeling of new and existing buildings, automatically updating all views when changes are made. Interoperability: Supports DWG/DXF, IFC (buildingSMART-certified), SketchUp®, Blender®, Rhino/Grasshopper®. Interior & Landscape Design: Design interiors, gardens, outdoor spaces, and terrain using imported maps or point clouds. MEP & Historic Building Design: Model mechanical, electrical, plumbing systems, and historic buildings (HBIM), ensuring spatial coordination and regulatory compliance. Automatic BOQs & Cost Estimation: Dynamic bills of quantities and cost estimates that update as the project evolves. Real-Time Rendering & VR: Integrated photorealistic rendering and immersive virtual reality walkthroughs for client presentations and design validation. AI Architecture Generator – usBIM.codesign AI AI-Powered Design: Transform sketches, 3D models, or photos into professional architectural ideas and photorealistic renderings in seconds. Intelligent Enrichment: Automatically add furniture, lighting, and finishes while preserving existing spatial elements. Customizable Styles: Experiment with modern, classic, minimalist, industrial, or other design styles and adapt them to client preferences. Virtual Staging & Collaboration: Generate immersive, staged environments for marketing or client review and share them online for interactive feedback. Seamless Integration: Works directly with Edificius and other CAD/BIM software, allowing AI-driven concept exploration without a steep learning curve. Why Professionals Choose Edificius Edificius offers an all-in-one BIM and AI design platform that accelerates workflows, enhances creativity, reduces costs, and improves client communication. By combining integrated BIM, real-time rendering, virtual reality, and AI-assisted architecture generation, Edificius empowers AEC professionals to deliver accurate, visually compelling, and innovative projects efficiently.

Average Rating: 4.4/5.0

Total Reviews: 65

How Do G2 Users Rate Edificius?

  • Quality of Support: 9.1/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 8.1/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 9.1/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 7.5/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Edificius?

  • Seller: ACCA Software
  • Year Founded: 1989
  • HQ Location: Bagnoli Irpino, IT
  • Twitter: @ACCAsoftware
    2,088 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    170 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

  • Top Industries: Architecture & Planning, Civil Engineering
  • Company Size: 32% Small, 3% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Edificius?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users highlight the ease of use of Edificius, praising its user-friendly interface and efficient presentation tools.
  • Users praise the simplicity and speed of Edificius, delivering high-quality drawings with professional precision.
  • Users love the real-time rendering feature of Edificius, simplifying presentations and enhancing client understanding quickly.
  • Users highlight the intuitive interface of Edificius, making complex architectural modeling efficient and seamless.
  • Users highlight the comprehensive BIM integration of Edificius, enhancing workflow with intuitive tools and fantastic support.
Cons
  • Users find 3D modeling challenging with Edificius, citing difficulties with roofs and a lack of intuitive controls.
  • Users find the missing features in Edificius, such as r-bim and quick access tools, limiting their experience.
  • Users experience sluggish performance and stability issues with Edificius, making it less appealing compared to competitors.
  • Users find the data loss issue frustrating due to incompatible versions preventing 3D objects from opening.
  • Users find difficult navigation in Edificius, particularly when working with roof designs and floor level assignments.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Edificius?

Trimble Connect

Trimble Connect is an open, cloud-based common data environment (CDE) and collaboration solution for global commercial building, civil construction, and geospatial firms. It provides value across the entire construction project lifecycle, from design teams finding fewer clashes and faster reviews to fabricators having constructible models and smoother coordination. Trimble Connect allows teams to: -Store, organize, and manage version-controlled files across teams. -View, inspect, and overlay over 60 industry file formats—including 2D drawings, 3D models, and point clouds. -Automate clash detection before construction begins in the field. -Assign tasks that tie specific action items directly to 3D model elements. -Link office software with field hardware for real-time data sync and accurate layout verification. Trimble Connect is built for the way you work, with web, desktop, and mobile availability. You can use the tools you know with our hundreds of integrations and open APIs. Permissions, audit logs, and compliance-ready governance allow you to stay in control and keep your data secure. Trimble Connect is a platform your business can rely on today--and grow with tomorrow. -Work from one source of truth → Less confusion, more confidence across your teams. -Reduce costly risk → Fewer errors, rework, and delays eating into your margins. -Decide faster, with confidence → Real-time access to the right models and data. -Stay future-ready → A platform that connects today’s projects with tomorrow’s digital twins and constructible workflows. Join the thousands of companies that trust Trimble Connect to power their projects. With over 24 million projects already created, we're the proven solution for planning, building, and delivering excellence.

Average Rating: 4.4/5.0

Total Reviews: 55

How Do G2 Users Rate Trimble Connect?

  • Quality of Support: 8.2/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 7.6/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 8.2/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 8.9/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Trimble Connect?

  • Seller: Trimble
  • Year Founded: 1978
  • HQ Location: Sunnyvale, CA
  • Twitter: @TrimbleCorpNews
    12,061 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    10,997 employees on LinkedIn®
  • Ownership: NASDAQ

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: Architect
  • Top Industries: Construction, Civil Engineering
  • Company Size: 49% Small, 38% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Trimble Connect?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users love the ease of use of Trimble Connect, enjoying its simple navigation and straightforward setup for all team members.
  • Users appreciate the seamless integration of Trimble Connect, enhancing organization and collaboration across project teams and tasks.
  • Users value the centralized cloud storage of Trimble Connect for effective BIM coordination and easy access to project data.
  • Users value the cross-platform connectivity of Trimble Connect, streamlining project information across all systems.
  • Users value the easy collaboration Trimble Connect offers, enhancing project organization and communication across teams.
Cons
  • Users find Trimble Connect lacking features like advanced clash detection and smoother third-party integrations for better usability.
  • Users face a learning curve with Trimble Connect, necessitating training for effective use of the platform.
  • Users struggle with the limited design capabilities and face issues accessing field data in Trimble Connect.
  • Users experience slow performance with large models, impacting efficiency and requiring additional time for onboarding and setup.
  • Users find the price to be high, especially for small contractors, despite appreciating the platform's quality.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Trimble Connect?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Trimble Connect?

Revit LT

Experience intuitive Building Information Modeling (BIM) with Revit LT™ software. Produce high-quality 3D architectural designs and documentation using BIM software that uses a coordinated, model-based environment.

Average Rating: 4.0/5.0

Total Reviews: 43

How Do G2 Users Rate Revit LT?

  • Quality of Support: 7.5/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 8.4/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 8.2/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Revit LT?

  • Seller: Autodesk
  • Year Founded: 1982
  • HQ Location: San Francisco
  • Twitter: @autodesk
    273,215 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    15,352 employees on LinkedIn®
  • Ownership: NASDAQ:ADSK

Who Uses This Product?

  • Top Industries: Architecture & Planning, Construction
  • Company Size: 43% Small, 32% Medium

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Revit LT?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Revit LT?

SolidWorks Electrical 3D

SOLIDWORKS Electrical 3D is a comprehensive software solution that seamlessly integrates 2D electrical schematics with 3D mechanical models, facilitating real-time, bidirectional collaboration between electrical and mechanical design teams. This integration enables designers to accurately place electrical components within the 3D model, automatically route wires, cables, and harnesses, and determine optimal lengths, all while maintaining synchronization between design and documentation. By bridging the gap between electrical and mechanical design, SOLIDWORKS Electrical 3D enhances accuracy, reduces errors, and accelerates the product development process. Key Features and Functionality: - Electrical Design in 3D CAD: Integrate 2D electrical schematics into 3D models, allowing for precise placement and routing of electrical components within the mechanical design. - Multi-wire Auto-routing: Utilize advanced routing technology to automate the routing of wires, cables, and harnesses, adhering to design rules and segregation requirements. - Real-time Collaboration: Enable multiple users to work concurrently on the same project with synchronized data, fostering efficient collaboration between electrical and mechanical teams. - Design Planning and Visualization: Create virtual "design-in-place" electrical systems, simplifying harness development and reducing errors through accurate 3D visualization. - 3D Electrical Cabinet Design: Design and layout electrical cabinets in 3D, ensuring component fit and compliance with design constraints, while generating detailed manufacturing documentation. Primary Value and Problem Solving: SOLIDWORKS Electrical 3D addresses the challenges of integrating electrical and mechanical designs by providing a unified platform that ensures consistency and accuracy across disciplines. It eliminates the need for manual updates and reduces the risk of errors associated with disconnected design processes. By automating routine tasks and enabling real-time collaboration, the software significantly shortens development cycles, reduces the need for physical prototypes, and accelerates time-to-market. This leads to cost savings, improved product quality, and enhanced innovation capabilities for design teams.

Average Rating: 4.4/5.0

Total Reviews: 32

How Do G2 Users Rate SolidWorks Electrical 3D?

  • Quality of Support: 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 8.8/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 9.2/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind SolidWorks Electrical 3D?

  • Seller: Dassault Systemes
  • Year Founded: 1981
  • HQ Location: Velizy-Villacoublay
  • Twitter: @Dassault3DS
    74,082 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    27,414 employees on LinkedIn®
  • Ownership: EPA: DSY.PA

Who Uses This Product?

  • Top Industries: Electrical/Electronic Manufacturing
  • Company Size: 39% Medium, 39% Small

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About SolidWorks Electrical 3D?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users value the seamless BIM integration of SolidWorks Electrical 3D, enhancing collaboration and reducing errors in design.
  • Users value the seamless collaboration in SolidWorks Electrical 3D that enhances design accuracy and efficiency.
  • Users value the easy integrations of SolidWorks Electrical 3D, enhancing efficiency in electrical and mechanical design collaboration.
  • Users appreciate the intuitive interface of SolidWorks Electrical 3D, enhancing design validation and easing collaboration between teams.
  • Users admire the seamless integration of SolidWorks Electrical 3D, enhancing accuracy and efficiency in design processes.
Cons
  • Users find the high hardware requirements of SolidWorks Electrical 3D can slow down performance with large projects.
  • Users often face a challenging learning curve with SolidWorks Electrical 3D, especially during initial setup and configuration.
  • Users find the licensing costs of SolidWorks Electrical 3D to be high, especially for small and medium teams.
  • Users find the limited customization options frustrating, especially when trying to manage components efficiently.
  • Users experience slow performance with SolidWorks Electrical 3D, particularly during large assemblies or complex projects.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of SolidWorks Electrical 3D?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About SolidWorks Electrical 3D?

Archicad

Archicad is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software platform developed by Graphisoft. It’s designed for architects, designers, engineers, and other AEC professionals. Archicad is available natively on both Windows and macOS, empowering professionals to design, model, visualize, document, and collaborate on projects of any size—from initial concept through construction. Archicad is ideal for architects, designers, engineers, and other AEC professionals who want to streamline building design, modeling, documentation, collaboration, and visualization using BIM workflows. - Archicad is widely adopted by architectural firms, solo practitioners, construction professionals, and BIM managers seeking efficient design processes and reliable project coordination.​ - Students and educators also benefit from Archicad’s free educational licensing for learning and teaching BIM principles.​ Whether working independently or as part of a team, Archicad supports projects of all sizes and stages—from initial concept development through construction, making it a preferred solution for anyone looking to excel in digital building design. Archicad provides a comprehensive suite of architectural and MEP toolsets: - Parametric building elements: Wall, Slab, Roof, Column, and Beam tools automatically adjust and maintain relationships between building components for seamless design updates.​ - Intelligent objects: Easily customizable Doors, Windows, Stairs, Railings, and Curtain Walls support advanced modeling and design flexibility.​ - Structural modeling: Native tools for modeling and analyzing load-bearing elements, plus real-time updating and automatic creation of a Structural Analytical Model for coordination with engineers.​ - MEP feature set: Design, model, and document mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems using built-in parametric objects, clash detection, and unified collaboration workflows.​ Archicad’s integrated environment enables architects and engineers to collaborate, with automatic documentation and seamless transitions from concept to construction. Archicad enables efficient team collaboration using BIMcloud: - Real-time teamwork: Multiple users can work on the same model simultaneously, with changes synchronized automatically and version management handled in the cloud.​ - Conflict reduction: Automated sync and smart notifications help minimize conflicts and version issues during design development.​ - Distributed collaboration: BIMcloud connects teams across offices and disciplines, supporting both internal and cross-company workflows.​ This setup streamlines project delivery and ensures all team members stay up-to-date throughout every project stage.

Average Rating: 4.6/5.0

Total Reviews: 287

How Do G2 Users Rate Archicad?

  • Quality of Support: 8.3/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 7.5/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 8.8/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 6.0/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Archicad?

  • Seller: GRAPHISOFT
  • Company Website:
  • Year Founded: 1982
  • HQ Location: Budapest, Hungary
  • Twitter: @GRAPHISOFT
    8,630 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    913 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: Architect, Principal
  • Top Industries: Architecture & Planning, Construction
  • Company Size: 86% Small, 11% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Archicad?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users find Archicad's ease of use remarkable, enabling quick learning and efficient project delivery for their teams.
  • Users highlight the versatility and speed of Archicad for 3D modeling, ensuring efficient project completion.
  • Users appreciate ArchiCAD for its diverse and customizable features, which enhance project delivery and ease of learning.
  • Users value the design efficiency of Archicad, streamlining project phases and enhancing productivity significantly.
  • Users find Archicad's intuitive tools enable quick learning and efficient project delivery across diverse workflows.
Cons
  • Users note significant missing features in Archicad, impacting usability and integration of existing tools and elements.
  • Users frequently face library issues with outdated objects and cumbersome project development that hinder their workflow.
  • Users express concerns about the limited library, feeling it lacks modern, user-friendly options and necessary updates.
  • Users find Archicad's limited modeling capabilities a challenge, requiring creativity and workaround for complex projects.
  • Users find the tools inadequate, requiring improvements for efficiency and better performance in complex projects.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Archicad?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Archicad?

AutoCAD Plant 3D

AutoCAD® P&ID software helps designers and engineers quickly create and edit P&IDs with familiar AutoCAD in-context editing tools.

Average Rating: 4.5/5.0

Total Reviews: 40

How Do G2 Users Rate AutoCAD Plant 3D?

  • Quality of Support: 8.7/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 8.5/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 8.6/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind AutoCAD Plant 3D?

  • Seller: Autodesk
  • Year Founded: 1982
  • HQ Location: San Francisco
  • Twitter: @autodesk
    273,215 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    15,352 employees on LinkedIn®
  • Ownership: NASDAQ:ADSK

Who Uses This Product?

  • Top Industries: Oil & Energy, Construction
  • Company Size: 40% Medium, 35% Small

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About AutoCAD Plant 3D?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users value the customization capabilities of AutoCAD Plant 3D, enhancing accuracy and adherence to standards in their designs.
  • Users value the design development capabilities of AutoCAD Plant 3D, enhancing accuracy and customizability in their projects.
  • Users value the excellent and friendly tool for P&ID creation, especially for oil and gas piping layouts.
  • Users praise the excellent layout design of AutoCAD Plant 3D, especially for P&ID creation in oil and gas.
  • Users find that AutoCAD Plant 3D significantly enhances efficiency through its easy modeling capabilities for piping systems.
Cons
  • Users note that the missing features in AutoCAD Plant 3D require additional software for complete design validation.
  • Users find that 3D modeling issues limit the functionality of AutoCAD Plant 3D, requiring additional software for validation.
  • Users experience high memory usage with AutoCAD Plant 3D, leading to slow layout generation and performance issues.
  • Users experience slow processing in AutoCAD Plant 3D, leading to increased layout generation time and high memory usage.
  • Users find software bugs in AutoCAD Plant 3D create challenges, particularly with object enablers being tricky to manage.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of AutoCAD Plant 3D?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About AutoCAD Plant 3D?

Vectorworks Architect

Built to showcase your skill and creativity, Vectorworks Architect allows you to sketch, model, and document in a fully integrated workflow with the world’s most design-centric BIM solution. With superior 2D graphics, 3D modeling, and visualization tools, Architect is built to deliver absolute creative expression and maximum efficiency.

Average Rating: 4.3/5.0

Total Reviews: 233

How Do G2 Users Rate Vectorworks Architect?

  • Quality of Support: 8.5/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 7.8/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Vectorworks Architect?

  • Seller: Vectorworks, Inc.
  • Company Website:
  • Year Founded: 1985
  • HQ Location: Columbia, Maryland
  • Twitter: @Vectorworks
    10,997 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    322 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: Owner, President
  • Top Industries: Architecture & Planning, Design
  • Company Size: 83% Small, 9% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Vectorworks Architect?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users appreciate the ease of use of Vectorworks Architect, facilitating intuitive design and seamless setup for projects.
  • Users value the intuitive design tools of Vectorworks Architect, appreciating its capabilities for both 2D and 3D modeling.
  • Users applaud the exceptional drawing capabilities of Vectorworks Architect, noting its intuitive design and graphic quality.
  • Users find Vectorworks Architect to be intuitive and easy to use, especially for smaller projects, enhancing their creative process.
  • Users appreciate the excellent client support from Vectorworks Architect, with quick resolutions to licensing issues.
Cons
  • Users find 3D modeling issues in Vectorworks Architect, citing difficulties with tools and inconsistencies in updates.
  • Users find the difficult learning curve of Vectorworks Architect challenging due to its non-intuitive design and poor instructions.
  • Users find the limited features of Vectorworks Architect frustrating, especially concerning customization and file management.
  • Users experience a steep learning curve with Vectorworks Architect due to confusing menus and complex functionalities.
  • Users report that update issues cause problems with drawings and frequent bugs, making upgrades frustrating.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Vectorworks Architect?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Vectorworks Architect?

STAAD.Pro

Perform comprehensive analysis and design for any size or type of structure faster than ever before using the new STAAD.Pro CONNECT Edition. Simplify your BIM workflow by using a physical model in STAAD.Pro that is automatically converted into the analytical model for your structural analysis. Share synchronized models with confidence for multi-discipline team collaboration and, most importantly, deliver safe, cost-effective designs. Because every firm has different needs, there are three flexible STAAD.Pro options: • STAAD.Pro – The most basic STAAD option including FEM analysis and physical modeling • STAAD.Pro Advanced – Adds faster, more advanced and complex analysis • Structural Enterprise WorkSuite – The most popular structural applications in a single a cost-effective license Confidently design steel, concrete, timber, aluminum, and cold-formed steel structures anywhere in the world using over 90 included international design codes, regardless of which STAAD option you choose. • Automatically convert your physical model into an analytical model to streamline your workflow. • Improve multi-discipline team collaboration through broad interoperability with Bentley desktop and cloud and mobile applications like OpenBuildings Designer, AutoPIPE, Revit, and Tekla. • Optimize concrete and steel BIM workflows with the full integration of physical members and surfaces. • Run many design alternatives in parallel with STAAD’s cloud services and view the results in clear, graphical side-by-side comparisons. • Design for high-seismic regions or everyday conditions, using Finite Element analysis. • View and edit models of any size from mobile devices.

Average Rating: 4.4/5.0

Total Reviews: 72

How Do G2 Users Rate STAAD.Pro?

  • Quality of Support: 8.4/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 8.8/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 8.0/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 3.3/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind STAAD.Pro?

  • Seller: Bentley Systems
  • Year Founded: 1984
  • HQ Location: Exton, PA
  • Twitter: @BentleySystems
    17,564 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    5,621 employees on LinkedIn®
  • Ownership: NASDAQ: BSY

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: Structural Engineer
  • Top Industries: Civil Engineering, Construction
  • Company Size: 56% Small, 35% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About STAAD.Pro?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users praise the user-friendly interface of STAAD.Pro, making complex structural design quick and efficient.
  • Users appreciate the user-friendly graphical modeling of STAAD.Pro, which simplifies complex structural design tasks efficiently.
  • Users value the ease of access in STAAD.Pro, with a user-friendly interface and straightforward installation process.
  • Users value the user-friendly graphical modeling of STAAD.Pro, which simplifies complex structural design tasks.
  • Users find the ease of learning with STAAD.Pro allows for quick and effective design control and intervention.
Cons
  • Users find the inaccuracy in interpreting plate results challenging, suggesting the need for improved viewing options.
  • Users feel that STAAD.Pro suffers from poor interface design, noting it needs a more modern and intuitive layout.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of STAAD.Pro?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About STAAD.Pro?

Civil 3D

Autodesk® Civil 3D® software is a civil engineering design and documentation solution that supports Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows on civil infrastructure projects, including roads and highways, rail, site development, airports, and water. Civil 3D helps civil infrastructure professionals improve project delivery, reduce risk, errors, and omissions, and respond faster to project changes. Additionally, users can streamline time-consuming tasks such as corridor design, (road and rail), intersection design, parcel layout, site grading, and piping design with specific tools and customizable design standards.  Civil 3D pricing starts at $275.00 per month, per user. Civil 3D does offer a free trial. Flexible subscription options available. Talk to sales at: (818) 797-9909

Average Rating: 4.4/5.0

Total Reviews: 290

How Do G2 Users Rate Civil 3D?

  • Quality of Support: 7.4/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 8.3/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 8.8/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 5.6/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Civil 3D?

  • Seller: Autodesk
  • Company Website:
  • Year Founded: 1982
  • HQ Location: San Francisco
  • Twitter: @autodesk
    273,215 Twitter followers
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    15,352 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

  • Who Uses This: Civil Engineer, Project Manager
  • Top Industries: Civil Engineering, Construction
  • Company Size: 43% Medium, 31% Small

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Civil 3D?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users praise the exceptional design capabilities of Civil 3D, highlighting its unlimited functions for civil works.
  • Users appreciate the customizable tools of Civil 3D, enhancing speed and accuracy in civil engineering projects.
  • Users value the versatility of Civil 3D, leveraging dynamic modeling and precision for accurate construction documentation.
  • Users value the customizable designs and tools in Civil 3D, enhancing efficiency in civil engineering projects.
  • Users value the road design and feature line modelling functions of Civil 3D for their efficiency and effectiveness.
Cons
  • Users often experience data loss issues with Civil 3D, particularly when handling multiple files or large projects.
  • Users face performance issues with large files in Civil 3D, causing slowdowns and workflow disruptions on less powerful devices.
  • Users face performance issues with Civil 3D, particularly when working on large projects, causing slowdowns and crashes.
  • Users face slow performance with Civil 3D, particularly with large files, impacting productivity and work efficiency.
  • Users report that app stability issues arise when using multiple grading tools, causing Civil 3D to crash frequently.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Civil 3D?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Civil 3D?

Catenda Hub

What is Catenda Hub? Catenda Hub is a cloud-based Common Data Environment (CDE) and BIM collaboration platform that allows AECO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations) professionals to manage project data, 3D models, and communication within a unified interface. The software serves as a central repository for all project-related information, facilitating structured data exchange between architects, engineers, contractors, and asset owners. By utilizing a browser-based environment, the platform enables stakeholders to access, visualize, and coordinate complex building information models (BIM) without requiring specialized local hardware. The solution is primarily used for design coordination, construction management, and the handover of digital assets to facility management. Key Capabilities and Frameworks OpenBIM Standards Support: The platform is built on open standards, including IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) for model data and BCF (BIM Collaboration Format) for issue management, ensuring interoperability between different software vendors. ISO19650 Compliance: It provides tools for advanced document control, including versioning and approval workflows, to support information management standards throughout the asset lifecycle. Integrated Issue Tracking: Users can identify, assign, and monitor project discrepancies directly within the 3D model environment, creating an auditable trail of communication. Centralized Document Management: The system hosts 2D drawings, 3D models, and supporting documentation in a single location to ensure all participants work from the most recent information. Cross-Platform Accessibility: As a web-based solution, it allows for real-time data access across desktop and mobile devices, bridging the gap between office-based design teams and site-based construction crews. Catenda Hub functions as a bridge between various technical disciplines, allowing for the federation of multiple models into a single view. This consolidation helps project teams identify spatial conflicts and coordination gaps during the pre-construction phase. Additionally, the platform’s API-first approach allows for integration with other industry-standard tools, authoring and validation software, and various cloud storage providers, to maintain a continuous data flow across the project lifecycle. By structuring communication through BCF, the software replaces disconnected email chains with actionable, location-based data points, which improves the speed of decision-making and project transparency.

Average Rating: 4.4/5.0

Total Reviews: 29

How Do G2 Users Rate Catenda Hub?

  • Quality of Support: 9.0/10 (Category avg: 8.3/10)
  • Sequence Steps: 4.0/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • Editing: 2.8/10 (Category avg: 7.9/10)
  • AI Text Summarization: 0.7/10 (Category avg: 7.1/10)

Who Is the Company Behind Catenda Hub?

  • Seller: Catenda
  • Company Website:
  • Year Founded: 2009
  • HQ Location: Oslo, NO
  • LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
    45 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

  • Top Industries: Construction, Architecture & Planning
  • Company Size: 45% Small, 42% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About Catenda Hub?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros
  • Users appreciate the ease of use of Catenda Hub, finding its interface intuitive and implementation straightforward.
  • Users value the user-friendly interface and integrated features of Catenda Hub, enhancing collaboration and communication.
  • Users value the real-time collaboration of Catenda Hub, enabling instant feedback and seamless communication across projects.
  • Users value the quick and helpful customer support of Catenda Hub, enhancing their overall experience and satisfaction.
  • Users value the user-friendly interface of Catenda Hub, enhancing navigation and overall experience significantly.
Cons
  • Users find Catenda Hub not intuitive with excessive options, complicating construction site follow-up and user experience.
  • Users find Catenda Hub's pricing expensive for small projects, especially when compared to simpler tools.
  • Users find the missing features, like a QR-code maker, limit the functionality of Catenda Hub.
  • Users find the poor interface design of Catenda Hub makes it difficult to navigate and utilize effectively.
  • Users experience slow performance with large models on Catenda Hub, impacting their overall workflow efficiency.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of Catenda Hub?

What Are G2 Users Discussing About Catenda Hub?

Daniel Rivera
DR
Researched and written by Daniel Rivera
Updated October 3, 2024

Building Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) Topics

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Learn More About Building Design and Building Information Modeling (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: 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: 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