G2

Regina W.

Inside Sales Representative

Small-Business (50 or fewer emp.)

8/11/2021

"Great Way to Learn Residential Architecture"

4/5

What do you like best about Chief Architect Premier?

1. Perpetual license. I own my software/designs. So many companies are going to subscription-based software, and I couldn't justify spending thousands of dollars only to lose my work if I didn't renew my subscription. I would prefer to own it and pay to update it as necessary; Especially since I'm only doing residential design to build my own homes.

2. Designing in CA is fun! It's a rewarding creative outlet. I spend time every day working on my designs. I can make them as minimal or as elaborate as my heart desires.

3. The software has, directly and indirectly, expanded my understanding of construction principles and vocabulary. If I don't understand a word or option in the program, I simply research it. I've learned so much since I started using the program!

4. It's a pretty robust software program and it can do A LOT! Here is what I believe are Chief Architect's best features: Automatically build roofing and framing layers; Print real, usable architectural drawings which may be used by general contractors; Watermark, so the user may copywrite their work; Incredible library of materials; Allows the user to update their plan in both 2D and 3D; Home may be uploaded to their website and viewed by those the user gives permission. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

What do you dislike about Chief Architect Premier?

Could be more user-friendly by designing it so common adjustments are relatively simple.

For example:

Allowing users to change wall heights at the wall level

Make it easier to raise/lower floors

Create attic space as a useable room based on truss style

Make it easier to raise or lower the terrain for walk-outs

I like that I can upload my home to their website but I wish the allowable file size wasn't so small. I found it to be very disappointing when I wanted to share a large home design (6000sq feet, including garage) with friends to get their feedback.

That said, I still feel Chief Architect Premier was worth the money and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a comprehensive design program. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.

What problems is Chief Architect Premier solving and how is that benefiting you?

- Chief Architect Premier allows me to have control of our build. The designs, materials lists, and planning tools will give me the tools I need to effectively communicate and oversee our project.

- I'm learning a lot about residentail design and construction while working in the program.

- It challenges and relaxes me. It's truly one of my favorite things! Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.