At Scan2CAD, though, we are all about convenience. As a leading conversion software, Scan2CAD supports automated and fast vectorization. This means that when working with a raster file, you do not have to import floor plans to Vectorworks with the aim of converting the file to a vector using Vectorworks. Instead, you can use Scan2CAD, which will automatically complete the conversions, meaning when you finally import the floor plan to Vectorworks, the drawing will be editable – you will not need to trace over the outline. 

In this article, we will focus our attention on how to import floor plans to Vectorworks. Specifically, we will detail how you can use Scan2CAD to convert drawings saved using raster file formats such as JPEG, PNG, TIF, BMP, and PDF. By following the process we’ll outline later, you can rest assured that you will not have to use the Trace Bitmap command. Instead, you will just import the floor plan to Vectorworks, and voila! The drawing will be editable right off the bat. But first, let’s understand what is Vectorworks and its shortcomings during vectorization.

Everything You Need to Know About Vectorworks

Vectorworks is a cross-platform CAD and BIM software for architects, engineers, designers, and entertainment professionals. Created and sold by Vectorworks, Inc., the software offers purpose-built tools and features for each category of users packaged as industry-specific products. These products include:

• Vectorworks Architect for Architects – it includes BIM as well as a suite of intuitive 2D and 3D design tools

Vectorworks Architect Interface on MacOS (source)

• Vectorworks Landmark for Landscape Designers – it offers a wide range of GIS & planning, site design & reporting, creative modeling, planting & hardscapes tools

Vectorworks Landmark Interface on Windows (source)

• Vectorworks Spotlight for the Entertainment Industry – it avails drafting and modeling tools, lighting devices and setups, realistic visualizations, and more; this package is also suitable for interior design professionals
• Vectorworks Fundamentals – it is the company’s basic design software package offering 2D drafting or 3D modeling tools
• The Vectorworks Design Suite combines the capabilities of Architect, Landmark, and Spotlight. 

As a cross-platform software, Vectorworks is available for both macOS and Windows. The most recent version, Vectorworks 2022, works well with macOS 10.15 (Catalina), macOS 11 (Big Sur), and macOS 12 (Monterey). It also works with Windows 10 and 11. Click here for a full breakdown of the system requirements.

According to Vectorworks, Inc., over 685,000 designers use its technology. However, keeping in mind that the company also develops other design software such as Vision, Braceworks, and ConnectCAD, the exact figure specific to the Vectorworks software is not immediately available. That said, an industry report notes that the Vectorworks software enjoys a 0.02% market share in the computer-aided design and engineering segments.

About the Developer

Vectorworks, Inc. started out in 1985 as Graphsoft, later rebranding to Diehl Graphsoft, Inc. following a 1996 trademark lawsuit involving Graphisoft, the developers of ArchiCAD. The rebranding, which was to be implemented by early 1997, aimed to create a discernible distinction between the two companies. At that time, Diehl Graphsoft’s intellectual property was a CAD program known as MiniCAD. The company was later renamed MiniCAD as Vectorworks in the late 1990s.

In 2000, Nemetschek Group acquired Vectorworks, Inc. and has since grown the software as a result of feedback from customers. Over the years, the developers of the Vectorworks software have built a storied reputation that crowns its decorated history. 

For instance, the company boasts having created one of the first CAD programs, one of the first to introduce building information modeling (BIM) capabilities, one of the first cross-platform CAD software, the most successful CAD software for macOS, and more. 

But as we had alluded to earlier, these attributes pale in comparison to Scan2CAD when it comes to vectorization capabilities. 

Vectorworks’ Vectorization Deficiencies

While the Vectorworks developers have included the Trace Bitmap command, the tool is less effective. Indeed, it automatically traces over the image, but you still have to manually trace over the newly created vector outline. This is because the command only creates snap endpoints meant to act as a guide when manually tracing over. The logic is that by using the snap endpoints, you will not have to guesstimate the beginning or end of lines in the drawing, as would be the case had the endpoints not been present.

But while the Trace Bitmap command might promote accuracy, it may not be convenient. First, the automatic tracing takes anywhere between a few seconds to hours. When you add the fact that you still have to manually trace over the outline using the endpoint guide, you can easily see that the software will unnecessarily take up more of your time. Secondly, the command only works with image files. Thus, you cannot import floor plans to Vectorworks that are saved as PDF files.

These two reasons point to the need for third-party vectorization software. Such a program is designed for convenience and completes the conversion in just a short time. And as an industry-leading conversion software, Scan2CAD offers these capabilities exactly. In fact, Scan2CAD completes the vectorization in less than 5 seconds regardless of the complexity of the raster drawing.

How to Import Floor Plans to Vectorworks

In this regard, if you wish to import floor plans to Vectorworks that are stored as raster file formats – JPEG, PNG, TIF, BMP, and PDF – we recommend that you first use Scan2CAD to convert the raster plans to vector. This approach eliminates the need for the inefficient Trace Bitmap command. Here’s how you can go about using Scan2CAD.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Import Floor Plans to Vectorworks

1. Launch Scan2CAD and import the raster file containing the floor plan. Notably, unlike Vectorworks, which only lets you import image-based floor plans, Scan2CAD enables you to import both image files and PDFs.
2. A drawing stored as a raster file normally comprises pixels. It is created by taking a picture of or scanning a physical print of the drawing. This implies that the quality of the image depends on the resolution of the scanner or the camera. Suppose the resolution is not up to par. In that case, the drawing will have some ‘impurities.’ To eliminate these ‘impurities,’ which could exist in the form of thin lines, speckles & holes, and jugged edges, Scan2CAD lets you clean the image before converting it. Simply click the Clean raster image button. Then, on the resulting Clean raster image window, check the Threshold (black & white) box to convert the lines to black and white. Also, and depending on the quality of your drawing, choose the various options under the Clean Image section. Then, click OK.
3. Click the Convert raster image button. On the resulting window, select the vectorization preset – a floor plan is an architectural drawing, meaning you will have to use the Architectural preset. Next, you have several options from which to choose, depending on the nature of your drawing:

1.   If your floor plan only has geometric objects, i.e., lines, curves, circles, or arcs, choose the Vectorize option
2.  If the raster file you wish to convert only contains text, click the OCR option.
3.  Choose the Vectorize and OCR option if your floor plan has both geometric and text-based objects. The OCR tab will appear; click on it and set the maximum character size by choosing Select from Image. Also, ensure you have checked the appropriate box under the Character Rotation section – if your drawing has angular and/or vertical text, tick the boxes accordingly.

Available Options on Scan2CAD

Next, click Run, letting Scan2CAD vectorize the floor plan in order to create a preview of the final product. It is worth noting that while this step takes anywhere between a few minutes and hours on Vectorworks, Scan2CAD completes the vectorization in less than 5 seconds regardless of the complexity of the floorplan. Importantly, the preview lets you edit the floor plan by tweaking the vectorization settings.

If satisfied with the preview, click OK.

4. Click Export, and on the resulting window, key in the file name as well as the file format. As you finally intend to import the floor plan to Vectorworks, which supports either DWG or DXF file formats, select any of these options in the dropdown menu. Next, click Save.

5.  Finally, a DXF/DWG Export Options window pops up. Your Vectorworks workspace may have a white or black background. As such, check the Convert black vectors to white box if your Vectorworks has a black background, else leave the box unticked. 

DXF/DWG Export Options Window

6. Import the floor plan to Vectorworks. This time, as you will establish, the file will be editable. Additionally, you will not have to manually trace over the drawing’s outline, as would have been the case had you used Vectorworks’ Trace Bitmap command. In short, Scan2CAD greatly simplifies the process and adds an unmatched level of convenience.

Video Tutorial: How to Import Floor Plans to Vectorworks

Parting Shot

Vectorworks boasts being one of the first CAD programs, one of the first 3D modeling software applications, and the first cross-platform CAD application. However, despite this repute, its Trace Bitmap command, which is designed to vectorize raster images, still requires manual input. Unfortunately, this negatively impacts convenience and takes up unnecessary time, especially considering that the conversion could take hours. 

Fortunately, you can work around this problem using Scan2CAD. A leading conversion software, Scan2CAD lets you convert both raster images and PDFs – not just images, as is the case with Vectorworks. Once you have vectorized the drawing, you can import the floor plan to Vectorworks. In sum, Scan2CAD promotes convenience as well as fast vectorization. Try Scan2CAD for free today to enjoy this and other benefits.

With its plethora of features, it is no surprise that Vectorworks products are the go-to CAD solutions for professionals across numerous industries. However, with great functionality comes great investment. While Vectorworks is one of the best on the market, there are many that would consider it a bit expensive. The most basic package, Vectorworks Fundamentals, costs a one-time fee of $2,300, with yearly upgrades costing at least $805. Check out our “how much does Vectorworks cost?” article for more. At these prices, Vectorworks is inaccessible to many CAD users. Therefore, the question, “Can I get Vectorworks for free?” is very valid. Fortunately, the short form answer to this question is yes.

Vectorworks can be used to design entire buildings and landscapes (source)

In this article, we will be exploring the ways by which you can lay your hands on Vectorworks for free. Keep in mind that while these ways allow you to enjoy Vectorworks to an extent, they do not grant perpetual, unrestricted access. We will also be going through some ways by which you should definitely not get Vectorworks for free.

Vectorworks Free Trial

As most software makers do, Vectorworks Inc. offers a free trial version of their software for 30 days. This is to allow intending users to get a complete feel of the products before making a commitment. To get a free trial, you simply have to apply for it on the free trial page. You will be required to input your info and contact details, after which you will receive a 5-minute phone consultation from representatives of Vectorworks. During the call, you will be provided with a unique serial number and instructions on how to get started with your free trial.

During the 30-day period, you are granted unrestricted access to the full range of Vectorworks’s features, after which access will be withdrawn. You will have to pay to continue using the software. This method of getting Vectorworks for free only makes sense for one-off projects.

Vectorworks Academic Programs

If you are in education, whether as a student looking to develop designs for class, an educator teaching design, or an administrator looking to get design software for your school, then you are in great luck. Through their academic program, Vectorworks Inc. offers students and professors in select global markets free individual copies of Vectorworks Designer. Also known as Vectorworks Design Suite, this product includes all the features of Architect, Landmark, and Spotlight and ordinarily costs $4,300.00 (without maintenance) and $5,246.00 (with maintenance) for a perpetual license. (However, Vectorworks will ditch the perpetual license model in favor of the subscription model starting January 1, 2023.) As long as you can prove that you are in education, you will be granted free access to the product.

Vectorworks Inc. also offers their entire product line, including Vectorworks Designer, Vision, Braceworks, and ConnectCAD, absolutely free, in the form of a full lab donation. This offer is available to accredited institutions with technology courses.

In addition to these, Vectorworks Inc. also offers graduates in architecture, landscape, or entertainment an opportunity to kickstart their careers with their Student2Pro program. While this program does not get qualified users Vectorworks for free, it provides them with a whopping 40% discount on all the other products except Braceworks and ConnectCAD.

Vectorworks Alternatives

Vectorworks is preferred by many for its high functionality. However, if none of the explored methods of getting the software for free works for you, you may want to consider some affordable Vectorworks alternatives.

There are numerous CAD programs on the market, and so it can be challenging to search out the ones that can adequately replace Vectorworks for your project. To help you with this problem, we have compiled a list of Top Vectorworks alternatives that are either free or cost a fraction of what Vectorworks does. 

How Not to Get Vectorworks for Free

You may have heard about a “smart and easy” way of getting Vectorworks for free by downloading a cracked version of the software. We strongly advise against this as there are numerous repercussions. To begin with, when you download a crack, you are exposing your computer to a host of malware. Nothing is free in the long run, and you may end up paying for the crack with your personal information or with a damaged system.

Cracks are an avenue for malware (source)

Also, cracked versions are never the same as the original as they are bound to lack a lot of additional features. Furthermore, when you download a crack, you are basically stealing from the developers who took countless hours to create the software. If you don’t mind reaping off others’ hard work, you should mind breaking the law.

In addition to all the disadvantages of downloading a crack, the act is also illegal and can land you in some serious trouble. In summary, it is never worth the risk.

Although Windows PCs are still the standard for most CAD users, it is undeniable that a big chunk of offices and homes use MacOS. So it’s understandable how some might find it intimidating to start using CAD software when there are plenty of these types of programs that are straight up incompatible with MacOS. The industry is changing and developing, however, and we see more and more support for MacOS CAD programs. If you’re a Mac user and are thinking about venturing into the world of Computer Aided Design, we’ve compiled all the information about the topic to help you figure out the best way to move forward.

Best Mac Computers for CAD

Apple’s Lineup of Mac Computers/Products (source)

Let’s take a look at some of the Apple machines that are out there.

1. MacBook Pro

Previously, there were three variants of the MacBook Pro, distinguishable by the size of the display: the smaller 13-inch, the intermediate 14.2-inch, and the larger 16.2-inch. But Apple has since done away with the 13-inch MacBook Pro and refreshed the two remaining variants with new Apple Silicon chips.

If you’re looking to purchase the 14.2-inch model, you can configure it with a 10-core M4 (with integrated 10-core GPU), a 12-core or 14-core M4 Pro (with integrated 16-core or 20-core GPU), or a 14-core or 16-core M4 Max (with integrated 32-core or 40-core GPU). The larger 16.2-inch model is powered by the M2 Pro or M2 Max chips.

Apple states that the M4’s 10-core CPU is up to 1.8x faster than M1, while its 10-core GPU is up to 2x faster than M1. But it may not be sufficient to handle more demanding workloads during rendering, for instance; which is why you can configure your MacBook Pro with the M4 Pro or M4 Max chips.

The MacBook Pro with M4 and M4 Pro can support two external displays on top of the built-in display, while the MacBook Pro with M4 Max can support up to four. This support is thanks to the computer’s three Thunderbolt 4 or 5 ports as well as a HDMI port. But you can still make do with the built-in Liquid Retina XDR display that offers 1,600 nits of peak HDR brightness and up to 1,000 nits of brightness for SDR content. This means the display is bright enough to enable you to work outside.

Another feature that boosts off-site work is the battery life. The M4 family of chips delivers high power efficiency and promises up to 24 hours of battery life, according to Apple. So, you can comfortably work off-site without worrying about disruptions that come with a short battery life.

2. iMac

The latest release of the 24-inch iMac was unveiled in 2024. Like the previous-generation M1-powered iMac (released in 2021), the latest release sports a modern, refreshing, and svelte shape that resulted from a complete design overhaul. It nonetheless continues Apple’s tradition of the ‘all-in-one’ computer that combines the display and computing power in the same chassis and cover.

Under the hood, the 24-inch computer is powered by an 8-core or 10-core CPU and an integrated 8-core or 10-core GPU, depending on how you configure it. You can also configure the computer with 16GB, 24GB, or 32GB of unified memory (RAM) and up to 2TB of SSD storage.

Compared to the iMac with M1, the 2024 iMac with M4 is up to 1.7 times faster for daily productivity and 2.1x faster for demanding workflows like CAD design and photo editing. This is a considerable improvement over even the early-generation Intel-powered 21.5-inch iMac, considering the iMac with M1 itself boasted up to 85% faster CPU performanceand up to 2x faster GPU performance than the 21.5-inch iMac. Combined, its features and extra performance make the 2024 iMac ideal for intense workloads, including CAD software-based rendering and design.

While the keyboard and mouse are not built into the chassis, Apple sells the Magic Mouse and Magic Keyboard with every iMac purchase. In addition, you can choose to purchase the Magic Trackpad as an extra. Unfortunately, this option will require you to fork out $50 more. Other extras include buying a Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad ($80).

3. Mac Mini

Described as the “best portable workstation Mac” by a renowned tech YouTuber, the latest Mac Mini does pack a punch within a small form factor. It’s also affordable, with the base version coming in at $599.00. The new Mac Mini, unveiled in 2024, is powered by the M4 or M4 Pro. It is “more mighty, more mini,” claimed Apple. It’s less than half the size of the previous model, measuring just five by five inches.

Yet, the Mac Mini with M4 delivers up to 2.2x faster GPU performance and up to 1.8x faster CPU performance over the previous generation M1-powered model. The Mac Mini with M4 Pro boasts up to 2x GPU performance over the M4’s GPU and has what Apple claims to be the “world’s fastest CPU core with lightning-fast single-threaded performance.” Accordingly, the Mac Mini with M4 Pro is ideal for running CAD software applications like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Inventor, just to mention a few, which are single-threaded applications.

The Mac Mini sports various ports, including two front-facing USB-C ports and a headphone jack. It also features three Thunderbolt 4 or 5 ports, an Ethernet port, and an HDMI port on the back. Through these ports, the Mac Mini with M4 can support up to two 6K displays and up to one 5K display. The Mac Mini with M4 Pro can support up to three 6K displays. You nonetheless have to purchase these displays as well as other peripherals (a mouse and a keyboard) separately.

4. Mac Studio

The latest iteration of the Mac Studio, unveiled in June 2023, features the M2 Max and the M2 Ultra chips. (According to Apple, M2 Ultra delivers twice the capabilities and performance of the M2 Max.) The 2023 Mac Studio replaced the previous-generation Mac Studio, which was powered by the M1 Max and the M1 Ultra. Apple claims the 2023 Mac Studio delivers “a huge boost in performance and enhanced connectivity in its stunningly compact design.”

The company further claims that the M2 Ultra-powered 2023 Mac Studio is up to 3x faster than the M1 Ultra-powered Mac Studio. The M2 Max-powered Mac Studio is up to 50% faster than the previous-generation Mac Studio with M1 Max.

In terms of connectivity, the 2023 Mac Studio features a higher-bandwidth HDMI, Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, four Thunderbolt 4 powers, a 10Gb Ethernet port, two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, and an SD card slot. In addition to these built-in ports, you can configure your Mac Studio with up to 8TB SSD storage and up to 96GB of unified memory (for the Mac Studio with M2 Max) or up to 192GB of unified memory (for the Max Studio with M2 Ultra).

Apple also introduced the Studio Display, designed to act as the Mac Studio’s display. You can choose between a Studio Display with a tilt-adjustable stand or a Studio Display with a tilt- and height-adjustable stand.

5. Mac Pro

The Mac Pro is the most expensive device in the Mac lineup. With a starting price of $6,999.00, this workstation is designed for professionals and business owners. After all, this price tag is difficult to justify if there isn’t a direct return on investment. And that can only happen if used in a business or work setting.

Until June 2023, the Mac Pro was the only remnant of the previous Intel-powered dispensation. While the company had refreshed the other products by powering them with its M-series chips, the Mac Pro still sported an Intel Xeon W processor and AMD Radeon Pro GPU. However, Apple unveiled the Mac Pro, featuring the M2 Ultra. This unveiling completed the Mac transition to Apple silicon. According to the company, the M2 Ultra-powered Mac Pro is up to 3x faster than the Intel-based model.

The computer can be configured with unified memory of up to 192GB and 800GB/s of bandwidth, enabling it to accomplish things that weren’t possible before. The high RAM allows the computer to handle large CAD files and render complex scenes with a lot of geometry and textures.

The 2023 Mac Pro boasts unmatched connectivity with eight built-in Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, three USB-A ports, 2 HDMI ports, a headphone jack, and two 10Gb Ethernet ports. It also features seven PCIe expansion slots, allowing users to customize the computer with digital signal processing (DSP) cards and serial digital interface (SDI) I/O cards.

Apple notes that the Mac Pro delivers groundbreaking performance and takes “the most demanding workflows to the next level.” In this regard, this computer can be useful for designers who work on complex design projects and need high computing power to process their designs without crashing or disruptions.

It is worth bearing in mind that you also have to purchase a display, mouse, and keyboard alongside your Mac Mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro. You can opt for the peripheral devices Apple sells, including the Apple Studio Display. Alternatively, you can consider looking at the best mouse for CAD, the best display for CAD, and the best keyboard for CAD.

Considerations when Choosing Mac Products for CAD

If you are considering buying an Mac product, it is important to take several factors into account. These include:

1. Price
2. Upgradability
3. CAD software that can run on MacOS
4. Portability 

1. Price

The price of Mac products dictate the features of the device. Looking at the different Mac products, we can segment them into  mid-range, high-end, and budget buy categories. However, we have not discussed in our list Apple’s budget laptop, the MacBook Air, as it does not have active cooling for the powerful M1 or M2 chip. So using it for intensive workloads as is the case when using CAD software will likely make it overheat. Generally, however, and looking at the hardware requirements of different CAD software, the different Mac products in our list are pretty capable of running CAD applications. 

2. Upgradability

The biggest con that Apple’s computers have is their upgradability. Apple prides itself on its great design, but almost doesn’t trust its consumers to have the know-how to tailor-fit their personal machines to their own needs. Upgrades and modifications made after the sale are almost needlessly difficult for most MacOS computers. So be sure to do your research and figure out what technical specifications best suit your CAD needs before you buy a Mac, because you’re more or less stuck with your choices until you purchase a new machine.

3. Portability

As an engineer, designer, or architect, you will agree with me that your work may require you to leave your office in order to conduct some field work. This is where portability comes in handy. You can more easily and conveniently carry a MacBook laptop as opposed to the bulky Mac Pro or other Mac devices that need to be plugged in to function.

4. CAD software that can run on MacOS

Also, seeing as most software developers consider the PC to be the default machine for CAD users, there are a few programs out there that just straight up don’t have a Mac port. Autodesk’s Inventor, for example, can only run on Windows. The issue is compounded by the migration towards Apple SOC. The worsened situation stems from the fact that you can no longer partition the SSD to also run Windows, a workaround you could previously use.

That said, let’s take a look at some CAD software that you can run on you Mac.

CAD Software for Mac

1. Autodesk Product Collection

Autodesk doesn’t offer just a single piece of software; it actually has a whole suite of different design programs for CAD users with different needs and drafting requirements. It’s first on the list since it has one of the most widely-used set of CAD products in the market.

AutoCAD is a clear-cut CAD program that can handle most standard vector file formats and is primarily used for 2D technical drawings but can also handle 3D information. For those in the building and construction industry, Autodesk’s Revit is a solid BIM program that can fit most if not all design and drafting needs. Do note that Autodesk is primarily PC-based, so there are also a bunch of programs that you won’t be able to use on your Mac by default. Other Autodesk products that are available for Mac include Inventor and Civil3D.

Autodesk AutoCAD on Mac (source)

2. SketchUp

SketchUp is a modeling program catered to be an intuitive 3D solution for most design, manufacturing, and product-making necessities. It makes it to this list because it’s one of the most intuitive pieces of software out there and is great for beginners just getting into CAD and 3D modeling. SketchUp has three plans available: SketchUp Free, SketchUp Shop, SketchUp Pro. The SketchUp Free and SketchUp Shop offerings are both web-based, with Free being unpaid and Shop having unlimited cloud storage and access to all uploaded models on SketchUp Warehouse. SketchUp Pro is usable as a stand-alone desktop app and has all the features available for the software.

3. ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD is an architectural design suite that was actually originally designed for the Apple Macintosh back in 1982 by Hungarian company Graphisoft. It’s supposedly the first example of Building Information Modeling or BIM. It was also one of the first CAD programs that were readily available and usable at a commercial level, being usable on personal computers.

ArchiCAD offers a bunch of different packages that offer both 2D drafting and 3D modeling capabilities as well as all functionality that comes with BIM technology. With its variety of tools and technical settings, it may not have the easiest learning curve. But any ArchiCAD veteran will tell you just how useful the programs are and make it worth the time spent mastering it.

4. Vectorworks

Vectorworks is a flexible and versatile desktop app that offers 2D drafting, 3D modeling, BIM capabilities, and photo-realistic visual rendering in a neat, intuitive package. We talk about Vectorworks a lot in our blogs and as it is also available for the Mac, it’s only right we include it on this list. Mainly used in European markets and now owned by German company Nemetschek, Vectorworks was originally developed back in 1985, just three after the launch of AutoCAD. It has three main software packages: Vectorworks Architect, Vectorworks Landmark, Vectorworks Spotlight, and Vectorworks Fundamentals.

5. Free Software (Freeware)

If you find the prospect of paid CAD software a bit too daunting as a beginner, you’ll be glad to find that there are plenty of free-to-use CAD programs out there for the Mac.

1. LibreCAD is an open-source option that offers high-end features such as snap-to-grid functionality, layers, text, dimensioning, and many more.
2. FreeCAD is another interesting pick since it’s a fully-realized 3D parametric modeling program for mechanical engineers and product designers.
3. Blender is also an amazingly intuitive open-source 3D modeling program that focuses on the detailed and artistic side of 3D rendering and modeling.

There are a bunch more free programs out there including limited or trial versions of the paid programs we’ve listed here.

6. Scan2CAD

For more advanced CAD users who have set up a workflow of translating sketches or scanned copies of drawings or plans into workable vector CAD files, Scan2CAD is the perfect conversion solution. The program is primarily used to convert both raster and vector files into CAD-standard vector formats that CAD and modeling programs will be able to recognize and edit.

Some CAD software will have their own raster-to-vector conversion functionality, but none have as much control and precision over the conversion settings than Scan2CAD does. Its main purpose is to cut down the time needed to translate source materials into workable, draftable vector lines and it does its job extremely well.

For a detailed discussion, check out our comprehensive article on the 14 top CAD packages for Mac.

Conclusion

Asking if MacOS computers are good for CAD programs is a bit vague. Like most other technical queries, it all boils down to two things – what specific technical specifications do you already have or are planning to get and what are your needs as a CAD-user? In the end, as long as you do your research, be wise about what your machine can and can’t do, and try to be ingenious about finding workarounds for certain roadblocks, any MacOS machine can handle what you need.

That said, the various Mac products in our list are perfectly capable of running CAD software. To summarize their value proposition, we have made the following list:

• Best budget Mac product for CAD: Mac Mini
• Best mid-range Mac product for CAD: Mac Studio
• Best high-end Mac product for CAD: Mac Pro
• Best portable Mac product for CAD: MacBook Pro
• Best all-in-one Mac product for CAD: 24-inch iMac

As a response, several CAD companies are handling the situation as best as they can and are facilitating fast-tracked distributions of their remote and cloud-based licenses. In this article, we’re listing some guides to avail of the more prominent home-use software licenses available out there.

But first, let’s get some preliminary factors out of the way first. Before we can think about securing licenses for our work-from-home setups, we need to first consider the following:

1. VPN – a VPN, abbreviated from Virtual Private Network, is a way to essentially turn your projected IP address online into that of a secure server. It basically makes your computer think that it’s in a different location. It’s useful for privacy issues and for remaining anonymous online, but it’s also utilized in allowing IP-based software licenses normally used on work desktops to run on home-based machines for remote working setups. There are plenty of resources that can help you figure out the best VPN service for you.

2. License types – Each CAD program has a different set of licenses depending on their intended market, but what you should really worry about are the more restrictive proprietary licenses. We’ll be listing down the license types that permit users to work at home during the COVID-19 lockdown, but if you’re looking for a more permissive solution, there are a bunch of free-to-use CAD software that you can download and use for the time being.

3. Hardware – Home-use software licenses are moot when the computer you’re working on can’t handle the programs you want to use. Always be sure to check the program’s minimum requirements and if they have “light” versions that you can use in case your home desktop or laptop just won’t cut it.

Autodesk

Autodesk company logo Source

Autodesk has one of the more extensive online resource centers even among the companies we’ll be listing down today, so it would be relatively easy to handle the intricacies of securing a home-use license.

Autodesk has something called ‘home use rights’ that lets users install Autodesk products at home for business, personal, educational, and training purposes. Autodesk has an extensive list of the products that are eligible for home use, but all you need to know is that in general, network-only products as well as educational and NFR (Not For Resale) products don’t have home use rights.

Multi-user access vs. Single-user access

If your product runs on a network license with multi-user access or a maintenance plan, you have to request a license from the server. Otherwise, you’ll have to borrow an Autodesk license. Note that only the administrators on eligible accounts can request licenses and they can only request one home-use license per subscription regardless of the number of users who are sharing that subscription.

On the other hand, products with single-user access don’t need a home-use license to be installed on any home-based work setup. It’s simply a matter of installing the software on the home computer and using the subscription’s existing serial number to activate and sign in into the user’s Autodesk account. Only one instance of the software can be running at any given time, so try to keep that in mind when using the product.

Solidworks

Dassault Systèmes’ Solidworks Source

Dassault Systèmes is working with their resellers to make sure their users would still effectively be able to use Solidworks even despite office closures due to COVID-19. This becomes especially easy with the company’s 3DEXPERIENCE platform that makes use of cloud collaboration to run their products.

To figure out how to let Solidworks run from your home computer, the first step would be to find out what license type your software subscription has. Run the software and access the main menu. From there, click on ‘Help’ > ‘About Solidworks’ > ‘Show Serial Number to see your serial number. If your serial number starts with 0000, 0001, 9000 or 9001, this indicates that you have a commercial standalone license. If it starts with 0010 or 9010, you have a SolidNetwork License (SNL). Acquiring a home-use license for these two license types are slightly different.

Standalone vs. SolidNetwork License

For standalone licenses, there are two options:

1. First, you can go through a method called ‘Deactivation’ and then reactivate the license on your home computer.

2. The other option is to use ‘Online Licensing’ which would require a user to go through user login rather than associating their license to a specific machine.

For an SNL, there are two options:

1. You could ask your IT department to setup VPN connection that you can check out your license through. This will let you access your office license from home but will slightly be slower during launch since it’s going through a VPN connection.

2. You could ask to borrow a Solidworks license for 30 days. You could also opt for other term licensing options if you need to use the program for more than 30 days.

ArchiCAD

Graphisoft’s ArchiCAD Source

ArchiCAD’s answers to the work-from-home setup are various options for acquiring temporary licenses that let users access their products from home.

In addition to that, Graphisoft has also released an informative video to help their users adjust to remote working, ensure continued work efficiency, and discuss software solutions for better online collaboration:

Emergency licenses and BIMCloud

Graphisoft offers temporary 30-day ArchiCAD emergency licenses to assist users who need to work from home. Emergency licenses are eligible to any user who has an active license for ArchiCAD 17 or newer, and ARCHIPLUS membership, a stable internet connection, and an emergency license activation code.

Alternatively, ArchiCAD has BIMCloud, a cloud-based software solution to facilitate remote team collaboration among ArchiCAD users. Temporary free 60-day BIMCloud emergency licenses are available on Graphisoft’s website.

Vectorworks

Vectorworks logo Source

Vectorworks has really focused on free online courses and training to assist any users who might find it difficult to adjust to the status quo brought about by the pandemic. They’ve compiled most of their resources online and are constantly updating these as new information becomes available.

E Series licenses and free courses

Vectorworks has given every user one additional E Series license activation to help their customers work from home better. They’ve also mentioned that users can contact their local Vectorworks’ partner or reseller for help and for access to a temporary 30-day license.

Additionally, all of Vectorworks’ Core & Intermediate Concepts courses, which are normally only reserved for Service Select members, are now being offered for free. You can even avail of free Vectorworks virtual training until June 30.

Stories we followed this month include the call of Autodesk’s CEO to use technology in designing products that are beneficial to society and generate better job opportunities; how architecture and landscape firm [delacourt] [van beek] used Marionette to design Van Goghplein, a plaza displaying a portrait of Vincent Van Gogh with an artful layout of interlocking bricks; and how a research group at Manchester University discovered a pioneering application of X-ray imaging technology for woven textile composites.

Other stories you will read about in this edition include the use of CT scans and 3D printing to ‘give voice’ to a mummified priest; robots and smart manufacturing taking centerstage at an event in Anaheim this month; and the announcement of the closure of the School of Architecture at Taliesin.

Enjoy this edition of Coffee Break News, and have a great month ahead!

Autodesk CEO calls for more efficient use of technology for better jobs, products

Autodesk CEO Andrew Anagnost, in a recent speech at Autodesk University in Las Vegas, acknowledged that technology can be both a positive and negative force, and companies must use it to manufacture better products, focus on sustainability, and generate better jobs with higher security for the growing population of the world.

“Because, although technology can be a positive force, there are forces pulling us in other directions. On the one hand, we know that a growing population is inevitable – as is a world with more automation – because so much more is needed. But at the same time, we fear there will be less jobs and less of our planet’s scarce resources,” Anagnost said.

He added that the growing middle class of the world is driving demand, and companies must recognize this and realize their responsibility. “Whatever your definition, the fact that 4 billion people enjoy mobility and prosperity is enormously good news. But with this increasing prosperity comes increasing demand: For more housing; hotels; more automobiles; and more airplanes. We know that more is inevitable. As we make more things for more people, we also know that we create more potential for negative impact. Making all we need with less harm to the planet and people is a reality that we all need to face up to.”

Anagnost also realizes that the challenge is great, but the opportunities are also there for the taking. “First, we have the opportunity to better use the world’s energy and materials. Using less is part of it, but it’s also about better: more renewable energy and more circular materials. Better is also about the health and resilience of the entire population, that means designing products without harmful materials that compromise our safety, or using supply chains that compromise people, it means designing buildings that prioritize health and well-being, and designing cities that are resilient in the face of climate change.”

Marionette in Vectorworks Used For Artistic Design

Architecture and landscape firm [delacourt] [van beek] utilized Marionette in Vectorworks to design Van Goghplein, a town plaza in the Netherlands with a prominent display featuring a portrait of Vincent Van Gogh using a layout of interlocking bricks.

In this video by Vectorworks profiling the firm, [delacourt] [van beek] founder Ton Vanbeek explains how they used Vectorworks for the ambitious project.

Composites Research Leads to Adoption in Aerospace Weaving

A research group at Manchester University postulated that X-ray imaging technology could be used for high-specification composite materials particularly in woven textiles. This is based on work that was published in the Journal of Composites Science and Technology where researchers showed a detailed picture of the evolution of damage in braided textile composites.

Textile composites are utilized for creating lightweight damage-tolerant structures, but the lack of adequate design and material performance data has hindered their adoption in the high-value manufacturing industry. However, the research group showed real-time data and 3D imaging processes detailing how carbon fiber composite tubes handle structural loading.

This offers great potential in designing and utilizing braided textile composites for aerospace and automotive drive shafts, sporting and hobby equipment, and other uses. Professor Phil Withers, chief scientist at the Henry Royce Institute, said, “In-situ X-ray imaging has allowed us to shed light on the 3D nature of the initiation and propagation of damage mechanisms in composite tubes for the first time.”

Other stories we followed this month:

• CT scans and 3D printing are being used to recreate the voice of Nesyamun, a 3000-year-old mummified priest.

• The ATX and D&M shows are taking place in Anaheim, California this February, and robotics and smart manufacturing are on display in the events.

• The famed School of Architecture at Taliesin is shutting its doors after 88 years of existence, after talks with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation to keep the school open bogged down.

One thing that makes life much more efficient when using the software is the utilization of ready-made objects. It’s akin to groups in Sketchup or families in Revit – Vectorworks objects cut the time out of detailing generic objects like wall types or placeholder furniture.

Now, the different Vectorworks packages already come with a large library of objects you can use. However, what happens if you just want that specific 3-panel accordion door and you just can’t seem to find it anywhere. Do you model it yourself? No need for that because we here at Scan2CAD have you covered.

Here are 13 websites that have free Vectorworks objects you can download. You’ll see some options in the list that are specifically for Vectorworks, but also some websites that offer 3D CAD blocks or downloadable SketchUp models that can readily be imported into Vectorworks.

Sketchfab

Sketchup website Source

Sketchfab is a community-driven repository for 3D models. It’s geared towards 3D model creators and those looking to download 3D models. Membership is required for you to upload and download 3D models. Now, the site has free and paid membership options, with lots of extra goodies available for those with the premium membership, but there are plenty of downloads that you can get for free if you’re on a budget.

Sketchfab was the brainchild of Alban Denoyel, Cédric Pinson, and Pierre-Antoine Passet from France. Their inception of this site back in 2012 was the result of their collective frustration on the lack of online venues for 3D modelers to submit and display their work.

Modlar

Modlar website Source 

Modlar is marketed as a site geared towards connecting architects and product suppliers. As a way for that to happen, the site hosts tons of manufacturer-supplied 3D models and objects that architects can choose to download and import into their BIM software. As such, it’s a great place to get 3D models and Vectorworks objects when you have a specific brand or supplier in mind.

It was founded by architecture and construction professionals who understand the difficulty of specifying and finding building product suppliers firsthand. Their aim was to create an online platform that modernizes product discovery. So not only do they have information and available models for thousands of building products, but the site also features up-to-date industry news and interviews to help keep designer visitors of the site informed and in the know.

NBS National BIM Library

NBS Library website Source 

The NBS National BIM Library is one of the top BIM model libraries in the UK, with thousands of available BIM objects. The online library has all a Vectorworks modeler would need – from generic BIM objects to manufacturer-specific products. An added bonus would be that all of the objects found on the site meet NBS BIM Object standards.

The NBS – National Building Specification – is a UK-based design and engineering specification system used in architecture and other building professions to describe and specify building materials, standards, and quality of work. It was launched back in 1973 and used by thousands of offices in the UK. From its inception until mid-2018, NBS was owned by the Royal Institute of British Architects but has since been sold to the private equity arm of Lloyds Bank.  

BIMobject

BIMobject website. Source: siderval.it 

BIMobject is one of the world’s biggest digital clouds of BIM objects. The site attempts to link architects and building product manufacturers through CAD and BIM objects. It’s used globally from small-scale interior retrofits to large-scale civil construction projects. The site’s stakeholders include designers, architects, engineers, construction professionals, manufacturers and suppliers, and governments.

BIMobject’s main draw is its business model as a technology company that makes building materials readily digitally available through BIMobject Cloud, its cloud-based platform. It has tons of features that really help users find exactly what they need for their projects. And all of this is available for free.

Total Real

Total Real website Source 

Total Real is a website that focuses mainly on photorealistic visualizations and models, with galleries of different works they’ve done for various designers. In essence, they’re an architectural visualization service that specializes in architectural and interior renderings. In the past seven years, Total Real has taken in clients such as Zaha Hadid, Norman Foster, and Mario Botta.

Although they do mainly specialize in architectural visualization, they do have an entire section of free 3D models that site visitors can download. So if you’re feeling like you want a Vectorworks object made by some world-class 3D modelers, take a look at Total Real.

Vector Depot

Vector Depot website Source 

Vector Depot is a unique entry in this list in that it’s the only entry that is dedicated to specifically Vectorworks items. They market themselves as a site for sharing things online that would be helpful in Vectorworks. So that includes drawings, hatches, symbols, and even plug-ins. It’s mainly community and user-driven so any and all new content will come from visitors of the site who are willing to share their resources and files to other Vectorworks users who visit the site.

A neat little bonus that the site markets is a CE (Continuing Education) compliance app for Architects and Engineers available on the iPhone.

Syncronia

Syncronia website Source 

Syncronia is a place to download 3D models, BIM objects, and various libraries of materials, surfaces, catalogs, and specifications. It’s mainly an Autodesk-affiliated website though, so you won’t be finding Vectorworks-specific files for download here. It is, however, a breeze to import Autodesk CAD, BIM, and 3D model files into Vectorworks, so it’s still worth a look. Users will find the filter-rich search functions particularly useful when trying to pinpoint specific products. You can choose to search in terms of product categories, manufacturers, file types, and specific keywords.

ARCAT

Arcat website Source

ARCAT is a website that offers some of the most extensive up-to-date collections and libraries of CAD and BIM files and specifications available online. All of the specifications found on the site are available in multiple formats to suit anyone’s needs. Its CAD and BIM libraries contain thousands of unique details in various formats as well. The site values user-friendliness, file and specification completeness and diversity, and design efficiency.

The site started as a desktop reference with manufacturer listings and catalogs. It was set up in 1991 by Rick and Leslie Jannott and was known as the Big Red Book. It’s come a long way in the past quarter of a century and is now a reputable and popular website.

ArchiUp

ArchiUp website Source 

ArchiUp is a free online database of BIM objects, models, textures, and projects made available digitally for effective and efficient design work. The site has almost 60,000 free BIM/CAD files for download. It launched in 2014 and was geared towards providing free international service for design and construction professionals. ArchiUp has 10,000 market-available products showcased on their site with their corresponding BIM/CAD files, textures, and specifications. All the BIM and CAD files of products are fully downloadable and the contact information of the manufacturers is also provided in case users would want to contact them directly.

3D Warehouse

3D Warehouse website Source 

Here’s an entry in the list that does not have Vectorworks objects per se, but has an extensive collection of 3D models that can readily be imported into Vectorworks should the need arise. 

SketchUp’s 3D Warehouse houses one of the most active 3D modeling communities found on the internet and as such, has some of the wildest and most random uploads you can find anywhere online. Sure you’ll find models of some of the most well-known architectural works of the past century here, but you’ll also find random models of Stormtrooper helmets or 3D models of bell peppers. If you’re looking for some hard, niche 3D models, 3D Warehouse might just have what other sites just don’t.

GrabCAD

GrabCAD website Source 

GrabCAD has a large online community of construction, engineering, and design professionals as well as product manufacturers and STEM students that collaborate and share information and files with each other. Other than file sharing and an open online forum, GrabCAD also has venues for design challenges and guided education.

CADdetails

CADdetails website Source 

Although not specifically for Vectorworks objects, CADdetails is a great online resource for Vectorworks-importable 3D  CAD files. The site was founded in 1997 and has since then grown into a leading online provider for manufacturer-specific information and specifications on products, CAD files, and BIM models. Like the other libraries on this list, the website aims to provide innovative products and construction materials to architects and designers seeking them. All the files and models on the website are certified to be accurate, up-to-date, and in many different usable formats.

BiblioCAD

BiblioCAD website Source 

BiblioCAD is marketed as the future of BIM and CAD digital sharing. The site focuses on a target audience built around these four disciplines: architecture, design, engineering, and construction. The site advocates innovation and the use of new products and materials through the use of an extensive and diverse library of available files and information.

The website is accessible through membership only, although it does give users the option to go for either a premium paid account or a free one. There are certain files only available to premium members as well as there being download limits to both premium and free members, with free members have a lower maximum number of downloads per day.

Vectorworks isn’t as popular of a CAD solution as some of the bigger names out there, but in terms of versatility, functionality, and user experience, it’s one of the best CAD-BIM programs available in the market. It offers specific solutions for various industries including architecture, landscape architecture, and stage design. Vectorworks also prides itself on being a company that always seeks to expand its user-base by constantly looking into new markets and seeing how their program can best help more professionals.

Initially, the company started as Graphsoft, Inc. back in 1985. Not long after, the company decided to change its name to Diehl Graphsoft after its founder, Richard Diehl, to lessen brand confusion with another BIM/CAD company called Graphisoft. When the company first started, it was working on the then-new Macintosh line of machines and they developed their first program – MiniCAD. But the company would go through a final name change in the 1990s due to a move to Windows and from then on would be known as Vectorworks.

Vectorworks would see another major milestone in its timeline as a company in 2000 with its acquisition by the German company Nemetschek. Their new parent company, which at the time already had a hefty array of 40 branches in its network of acquired companies all over Europe, had never before invested in a company from the United States. Nemetschek decided to diversify its acquisitions with Vectorworks – a testament to how much faith they had put in the company.

Since then, Vectorworks has not let that faith down but continues to be the pioneers in CAD and BIM technologies as well as cross-platform interactions. This was also the time when Vectorworks decided to broaden their reach from predominantly architecture and architecture-related professions to other niche industries. This proved to be a genius move on their part with a worldwide user base of 650,000 and more design professionals using their products.

What the company may lack in its number of users compared to other big BIM and CAD programs, it more than makes up for in amazing customer and user experiences and great functionality. It stands to be one of the few programs out there that can seamlessly integrate GIS and urban planning data into BIM models. It offers similarly innovative tools for architecture, landscape, and entertainment stage designs, making it one of the most flexible BIM solutions available. It boasts being the most popular BIM software in the UK and other countries around the globe.

Vectorworks Rendering of Orkdalsveien 88 Apartments by MNPro AS. Source

Importing into Vectorworks

Most Vectorworks workflows will start with 2D plans which will then get translated into 3D BIM models. Most of the time, these 2D plans will be created within Vectorworks, but for those times where there is a designed floor plan to work off of or if it’s a renovation project, 2D plans will sometimes be imported from external files or software.

Often, users will be provided with a soft copy of these external floor plans, usually in PDF format. The problem lies in the editability of a PDF file. We’ll be discussing in a bit the difference between vector and raster images in PDF files, but for now, suffice it to say that not all PDFs are created equal. And although Vectorworks has amazing functionality for imported PDF files, it can only go so far.

About PDF

PDF files are not the easiest files to edit. It’s notorious for being a fast, reliable format to use when you’re trying to convey information that can’t easily be altered. It can be opened by any web browser and accurately convey graphical and text information with ease. However, PDF’s will primarily only be editable by Adobe products.

Other programs will be able to handle PDF files but mainly only if the information on a PDF file is vector data. Raster images in PDF files, for them to be readily editable, have to first be converted into vector images. Of course, users can try to do so manually, especially in the case of floor plans or blueprints, but that is by no means the easiest or most efficient way to do it.

If you’re looking to import a PDF file into Vectorworks and edit it right away, you can only do so with vector-based PDF files. But what exactly are vector files and how are they different from raster files?

Raster vs. Vector

Vector images compared to raster images. Source

The two main image formats that you’ll be dealing with when importing PDF files into Vectorworks are raster and vector images. Since PDF files can include one or both of these two file types, it’s important to note the key differences between the two and to figure out why, more often than not, vector files are preferred.

Raster images, also known as bitmap images, are files comprised of grouped pixels that are arranged to form a coherent image. These images will have varying resolutions depending on the number of pixels used to create the image, with lower resolutions having fewer pixels and therefore less definition. Common raster image file types include JPEG, PNG, BMP, and TIF.

Vector images are created using mathematical formulas and numeric values that are read and converted by programs into viewable images. As opposed to a bunch of black pixels grouped together to form a circle in a raster image, a vector version of that image will instead be comprised of data that describe the circle’s line thickness, radius, and line color. Since these types of images are made up of formulas and not pixels, their resolution won’t be an issue. And since they’re made of formulas, they will be that much easier to work with on CAD and BIM programs like Vectorworks.

PDF’s are useful read-only files in that they can handle both types of images. Usually, you’ll get a raster image of a plan if it’s a PDF that came from a physical scanning process of a hard copy of a plan. When it’s a PDF that came out of a digitally plotting a plan straight from a CAD or BIM software, you’ll most likely be getting a vector image.

The useful thing with Vectorworks is that it will automatically detect the vector objects in a PDF file and turn them editable and easy to work within the program. It doesn’t do the same for raster images in PDFs however, and you will inevitably be stuck with tracing the information on raster images with the modeling tools in Vectorworks. But there are ways to easily convert raster objects into editable vector elements.

Converting outside of Vectorworks

Different online services are available for 3D conversion when it comes to turning raster objects into vector ones. Most of these services do come with a catch, though. More often than not you’ll get output that’s of lower quality than you’d expect. If you do find an online service that has good quality output, you’ll probably be stuck with something like a watermark. And most if not all of these online conversion services will require you to send in your files through email, which poses a big threat to privacy and security if you’re working with sensitive information. 

It’s up to you when it comes to weighing your options with these kinds of risk factors. If you’re working with simple conversion files, then it’s probably not going to be too much of an issue if you do decide to go with these online conversion services. But if you’re looking for something a bit more secure and consistent when it comes to quality, you’re much better off with professional conversion software such as Scan2CAD. 

Scan2CAD is one of the leading conversion solutions when it comes to dealing with raster images that need to be turned into vector files. It can readily handle PDF files as well as a bunch of other common file formats that need to be converted first before they can be used effectively on Vectorworks.

Scan2CAD boasts intuitive conversion workflows, comprehensive and versatile conversion settings, and clean and efficiency OCR capabilities. It’s truly the best choice out there for CAD work and image conversion.

Opening PDF files on Vectorworks

When it comes to importing a PDF file into Vectorworks, the process is fast and easy.

The command “Import PDF” puts PDF files into a Vectorworks workspace as a fully independent Page object that can be used to display all kinds of graphics. In the case of PDF plans that serve as the basis for a Vectorworks model, users will want to import this PDF on a plan view and make sure that the scale of the PDF is right.

The workflow is as follows:

1. Click on File – Import – Import PDF
2. Navigate to the location of the PDF file you want to import and open it up.
3. An Import PDF dialog box will open. Tweak the settings until you’re satisfied.
4. Click on Import to create a PDF Page object that becomes an independent object when imported in the Vectorworks file.
5. If need be, edit the size, location, or rotation of your imported PDF file by clicking on Modify – Rotate – Rotate or clicking on the rotate tool. You can also optionally edit the scale of the PDF by clicking on Modify – Scale Objects.
6. Although Vectorworks can edit vector objects in PDFs using Snap to Geometry functions, this isn’t turned on by default. Be sure to enable that if you’re working with vector PDF files.
7. If need be, edit your imported and referenced PDF file using its default application (e.g. Adobe Acrobat) by doing one of the following:
   1. On the PDF file in the Navigation palette, right-click the file and select Open
   2. While selecting the PDF file in the Navigation palette, select open on the Navigation menu
   3. On the PDF page in the drawing space, right-click the file and select Open

Over the years, several advancements have been made in the CAD industry. Hundreds of powerful CAD software that are capable of highly complex designs and 3D modeling, now exist. However, certain packages are leading the way in terms of functionality and capabilities.

In light of this, we at Scan2CAD have compiled a list of the top 10 3D modeling software available today. In this article, we will be going through their features, capabilities, compatibility, supported file types, and other features that make them stand above the rest. Note that while some of these software programs have 2D drafting capabilities, we will only be considering their 3D modeling capabilities. That being said, let’s proceed to the list.

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD 3D modeling (Source)

AutoCAD is a highly functional 2D and 3D CAD modeling software by Autodesk – the most popular and prestigious CAD software developer. While this software was first released in 1982 as a 2D drafting software, several advancements over the years have seen AutoCAD grow to include powerful features that cater to the modeling needs of numerous industries. Although it is marketed as a single package, AutoCAD comes with many industry-specific toolsets that can be, themselves, considered as individual products. These toolsets, their features, and their capabilities are as follows.

AutoCAD classic comes with the familiar AutoCAD interface, which allows users to create 2D drafts, produce 3D models, and annotate models in 2D.

AutoCAD Architecture, as the name implies, is a toolset for the architecture industry. It contains features for the production and documentation of architectural designs and the creation of building models.

AutoCAD Mechanical is developed for DFM (Design For Manufacturing). It is used for creating, modifying, and documenting mechanical models.

AutoCAD Plant 3D allows you to model very detailed plants with complex pipe routes and numerous machinery.

Other toolsets are AutoCAD electrical and AutoCAD MEP.

• Operating system: Windows, Mac
• File formats: DWG, DFX
• Interested? Check out our AutoCAD pricing.

2. Inventor

Inventor 3D modeling (Source)

Also known as Autodesk Inventor Professional, Inventor is a 3D mechanical modeling CAD software for all things product design and engineering. In line with its name, Inventor Professional comes with professional-grade tools for all your 3D mechanical design needs. These tools can be classified into product design, modeling, simulation, visualization, and collaboration. With these tools, you can easily create and edit individual 3D models, couple several parts to form an assembly, and produce detailed drawings for manufacturing. Inventor’s modeling tools also enable you to design complex sheet metal parts, build pipe and tube routes, and integrate electronics your mechanical models.

The simulation tools allow you to analyze the behavior of your model under real-life conditions of stress and applied forces.

Finally, to help you properly visualize and study tour model, Inventor includes powerful visualization and rendering tools.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: IPT, IAM, IDW, DWG
• Interested? Check out our Inventor pricing.

3. Solidworks

Solidworks 3D modeling (Source)

Solidworks is our first entry from Dassault systems, one of Autodesk’s major rivals. It is a solid modeling CAD and analysis software. Its equally impressive lineup of highly advanced modeling features makes it a worthy adversary of Inventor. Whether you are modeling an individual component, or an assembly comprising of numerous parts, Solidworks has the right features that enable you to do it. However, Solidworks didn’t earn its place on this list through its design features alone. The software has powerful simulation tools that allow you to carry out the following analysis on your model. These include high cycle fatigue, computational fluid dynamics, and endurance under stress.

Furthermore, visualization and rendering tools allow you to turn your models into animations and high-quality images. Other features of Solidworks include technical communication, electrical design, 2D CAD, product data management, and communication. Some of these features are available as add-ons.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: SLDDRW, SLDPRT, SLDASM
• Interested? Check out our Solidworks pricing.

4. Vectorworks

Vectorworks 3D modeling (Source)

Vectorworks is a multipurpose 2D drafting and 3D modeling software that caters to numerous industries. It consists of several fully functional, individual products for a variety of industries. These industries include mechanical engineering, entertainment, civil engineering, architecture, landscaping, manufacturing, and stage management. The different Vectorworks products with 3D modeling capabilities and their respective industries are as follows.

Vectorworks Fundamental is a 2D/3D modeling and documentation software that enables you to sketch, model, and analyze. Despite its name, there is absolutely nothing fundamental about this product. Its capabilities include solid modeling, simulation, and coordination.

Vectorworks Architect is used to create 3D architectural models using a suite of intuitive tools and an integrated BIM workflow.

Vectorworks Landmark is dedicated to landscape design and planning.

Other Vectorworks products are Vectorworks Spotlight, Vectorworks Designer, and Vectorworks Braceworks.

• Operating system: Windows, Mac
• File formats: Vectorworks supported file formats
• Interested? Check out our Vectorworks pricing.

5. Solid Edge

Solid Edge 3D modeling (Source)

Developed by Siemens PLM Software, Solid Edge is a 2D drafting and solid modeling CAD software package for mechanical and electrical design, and product development. The software combines the flexibility and control of parametric modeling with the speed and simplicity of direct modeling. Solid Edge boasts of a complete set of features required for product development.  One of these features, mechanical and electrical design, is used for creating solid models, detailed drawings, sheet metal parts, and top-down assembly. Other features are simulation, data management, manufacturing, and technical publications.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: PAR, ASM, DFT, DTFF, CMP_XML, STL, IGES, DXF, DWG, STEP
• Interested? Check out our Solid Edge pricing.

6. Onshape

Onshape 3D modeling (Source)

Onshape is a mechanical-focused CAD software package that is capable of handling all aspects of product development. It is one of the two software packages on our list that are delivered through a SAAS model, online. This cancels out the need for downloads, installation, or upgrades as the latest version is always available through web browsers. Onshape focuses primarily on mechanical CAD, and it boasts of an impressive lineup of 3D modeling features. These features enable you to create complex solids, build detailed assemblies, and exchange files. Also, Onshape includes standard content libraries.

• Operating system: Windows, IOS, Android, Linus, OSX
• File formats: PDF, MP4, PNG, JPEG, SVG, GIF, TXT, MD
• Interested? Check out our Onshape pricing.

7. Fusion 360

Fusion 360 3D modeling (Source)

Another powerful entry on our list from Autodesk is Fusion 360. This is a fully integrated CAD, CAM, and CAE modeling software. Fusion 360 eliminates disconnected product development processes as it combines design, manufacturing, and engineering into a single package. The CAD features of Fusion 360 can be grouped into the following. 3D design/modeling, generative design, and simulation. Other features are documentation, collaboration, and manufacturing.

Fusion 360 allows you to create very complex individual or multi-component systems, using both geometric and parametric-based approaches. Its powerful simulation features include shape optimization, modal frequency, event simulation, and static stress analysis.

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• File formats: Fusion 360 file formats
• Interested? Check out Fusion 360.

8. Revit

Revit 3D modeling (Source)

Revit is a multipurpose BIM software package that is dedicated to architectural, civil engineering, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineering, landscape, and structural designs. This professional software is a complete package for all building and construction design needs. It enables design experts in these fields to design and model 3D structures while annotating with 2D. In addition, Revit’s 4D BIM tools give users the ability to not only track the chronological advancements of a project but also to envision the duration of any stage of a structure’s life cycle.

No matter how complex the infrastructure or building that you ate modeling is, Revit had the tools to help you design, analyze, and simulate your model. Its features can be classified into architectural design, structural engineering and fabrication, MEP engineering and fabrication, and construction.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: RVT, RFA, RTE, RFT, and others
• Interested? Check out our Revit pricing.

9. CATIA

Catia 3D modeling (Source)

CATIA is a multi-Industry 3D modeling software package. It is the second entry on our list from Dassault Systems. Similar to Vectorworks, Catia has a number of products that handle different fields of 3D modeling.

3DEXPERIENCE CATIA is the main product for all design and engineering activities. It enables you to create various types of 3D parts and assembly for a wide range of engineering processes.  The tools of this product are classified as construction, design/styling, engineering, and systems engineering.

With CATIA V5, users can carry out mechanical design, shape design & styling, product synthesis, equipment & systems Engineering, analysis, and machining.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: CATDRAWING, CATPART, CATPRODUCT, DLV, CGR, MODEL
• Interested? Check out CATIA.

10. Creo

Creo 3D modeling (Source)

Creo is a 3D CAD, CAM, and CAE software solution for product design and development. This software allows users to design and create their products. It has an amazing variety of tools, capabilities, and features to effectively take your products from a simple concept to a detailed digital prototype. Creo’s features can be classified into modeling and design, simulation and analysis, augmented reality, smart connected design, additive manufacturing, and model-based design.

• Operating system: Windows
• File formats: Creo file formats
• Interested? Check out Creo.

This month, some stories that tickled our fancy include these proposed alternatives for keeping buildings cool aside from airconditioning; a new Reverb VR headset from HP geared towards CAD engineers; and Vectorworks’ acquisition of ConnectCAD. Other happenings we thought you should not miss include this survey indicating that employees would rather be replaced by robots than real people; the widespread use of 3D printing technology in the US military establishment; and how waste material is being converted to jet fuel on Humber Estuary.

There’s a lot to cover, so let’s get started!

Innovations in cooling buildings

Air-conditioning accounts for 10% of the world’s energy consumption, and in 2016 contributed to about 1045 metric tons of CO2 emissions worldwide. According to the International Energy Agency, by 2050 air-conditioning will reach 37% of the global total energy demand. Because of this, architects and engineers are coming up with various creative ways to keep buildings cool while reducing the need for air-conditioning. 

Popular building materials used nowadays because of their heat-insulation properties include stone, earth, and concrete. These dense materials have excellent thermal conductivity properties (for passive cooling), thermal lag (slowing down the transmission of heat), lower redistribution of heat or reflectivity, and higher volumetric heat capacity. Projects that have successfully utilized these materials include Santorini’s Summer Cave House by Kapsimalis Architects and A-cero’s Concrete House II. 

Also becoming popular is the use of green roofs, which provide shade, reduce heat from the air, lessen temperature, and also provide aesthetic appeal. Structures that utilize green roofs include the California Academy of Sciences (designed by Renzo Piano), Nanyang School of Art (designed by CPG), and Villa Bio (a project of Enric Ruiz-Geli). 

Could HP’s Reverb become a common tool for the CAD Engineer?

A new VR headset from HP, the HP Reverb, is being geared towards professionals with deeper pockets and with more demands on comfort as well as high definition sound. The HP Reverb has a $600 price tag, and it even has an enterprise version that will set you back $649. The HP Reverb is being pitted against other mainstream VR headsets: the Samsung Odyssey and the HTC Vive Pro. 

The Reverb features specs that edge out competitors: 2160×2160 resolution per eye, 114-degree field of view, 2.89-inch LCD displays over OLED, squircle-shaped view, asymmetrical Fresnel lenses, and a display of 24 to 25 pixels per degree. 

The HP Reverb also features built-in headphones, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and Bluetooth in-headset for convenient pairing. The $600 consumer version is sold with a machine-washable foam facepiece, while the $649 enterprise version has a leather facepiece. 

The initial rollout of the HP Reverb ran into some stocking and display issues, but the problems have since been resolved and HP has assured its customers that the VR headset should be available at the HP website and through their retail partners. 

Vectorworks acquires ConnectCAD

Design and BIM software solutions provider Vectorworks has acquired connectCAD, a systems design solution that caters mostly to the AV industry. connectCAD has been available since 2009 as a plugin for Vectorworks software, with functions for designing broadcast, AV, IT and lighting networks, and other connected systems. 

Vectorworks CEO Dr. Biplab Sarkar said, “connectCAD has been a great partner product for Vectorworks over the years and has gradually built a product for Vectorworks that creates a powerful, yet intuitive interface for generating audiovisual system designs and reports. In response to the growing audio needs for our customers, connectCAD was an obvious choice because it’s a high-quality product that naturally extends our AV capabilities for our users.”

With the acquisition, connectCAD’s Founder, Managing Director, and Programmer for tools Conrad Preen will commit to at least two years with Vectorworks in order to continue developing connectCAD. Top priority will be the conversion of Vectorscript tools and commands to C++ utilizing Vectorworks SDK in order to enhance the connectCAD plugin’s performance. 

Vectorworks CEO Sarkar added, “The driving force for the acquisition was to get our foot in the door of the AV installation market. This will help us not only better serve those that do AV installations, but also those involved with broadcast and systems designs. The capabilities of the Vectorworks Spotlight product—plus the capabilities we’ve added in other new modules and acquisitions—has helped us to evolve our product offering into one that is built to be a total design and production solution for the entertainment industry.”

Here are some more stories worth checking out this month:

• According to a study by the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and Rotterdam’s Erasmus University, most employees from Europe and North America would much rather be replaced in their own jobs by robots rather than other employees.
• The United States military has been actively embracing the potential of 3D printing or additive manufacturing, especially as the technology offers a powerful and efficient method of manufacturing. 
• A consortium which includes Shell and British Airways is building Europe’s very first waste-to-jet-fuel plant on the Humber Estuary, with the goal of converting up to half a million tons of household and commercial waste to jet fuel every year. 

Introduction to Vectorworks

History

Vectorworks was initially developed by the company also named Vectorworks back in 1985. The company was acquired and is now owned by the Nemetschek Group, a global vender for software targeted at architects, engineers, and designers. Incidentally, it’s the same group that owns ArchiCAD so these two products have close relations. Vectorworks the company is famous for its award-winning software and has been creating CAD software for the design and construction industry for more than 30 years now. Vectorworks the program is one of the top-selling design software in the world. 

Vectorworks has continually refined and developed their software over the years, taking in new advancements in technology into account just as much as they do their own users’ input. It was also one of the pioneers of BIM software, way before the term “BIM” had even begun to be used.

Functionality

When it comes to how the program functions, we should tackle the different product packages that Vectorworks offers to its users: Vectorworks  Architect, Vectorworks Landmark, Vectorworks Entertainment, Vectorworks Fundamentals, and Vectorworks Designer. As they are all different versions of the same product, the interface of the different packages are more or less the same; there are just certain tools and functionalities that are added or removed to make the experience more geared towards its intended use.

Vectorworks Architect is the suite to use if you’re working with architectural building and architectural space design. The program covers the entirety of the architectural design process, from initial conceptual sketches and schematics to the fully-integrated and detailed BIM models ready for plotting and execution. The neat thing about the program is its unique way of giving the user precise drafting and drawing tools and options while giving them the freedom and flexibility to creatively express their ideas non-restrictively. 

Vectorworks Landmark would be what you need if you’re looking to get into designing landscapes and outdoor areas. This software suite from Vectorworks has all the design and drafting tools you’ll need for landscaping and landscape architecture. You have site-design, complete GIS, site planning, topography irrigation, as well as comprehensive graphic and presentation features.

Vectorworks also has a suite that’s created to specifically help set designers in the live entertainment industry. Vectorworks Spotlight is a program suite designed for the modeling and digital simulation of curated sets for live events. These include light design as well as sound design.

Now while the other program packages are specialized, one can opt for a more basic and entry-level version of their software with Vectorworks Fundamentals. For starting designers or the occasional hobbyist that needs a program that offers NURBS surface tools and 3D modeling capabilities, this is the go-to program.

If you want to get a version of the program that offers all the features of the aforementioned packages, you can go for Vectorworks Designer.

If you notice, there’s a common theme with these Vectorworks suites. The program doesn’t just stop at providing the basic tools needed for drafting, it’s developed its technology to make sure all these specialized packages are comprehensive and holistic enough to take you from sketch to final model as efficiently and creatively as you’d like.

User base

Vectorworks has consistently been praised for its responsiveness to user feedback and customer reception. Most of the features found in its different specialized suites come from carefully analyzing and acting on what it has gathered from users. The company even offers training seminars and different self-study options online to help their market better understand how to efficiently use Vectorworks.

Right now, around 650,000 designers all around the world use Vectorworks. Vectorworks Architects currently the most popular BIM solution in the UK. In New York and Sweden too, we have architectural firms like GKV Architects using it as well as the Royal Swedish Opera.

Introduction to ArchiCAD

History

ArchiCAD is the flagship BIM and CAD software application for both Windows and Mac systems of Graphisoft from Hungary, a subsidiary of the Nemetschek group. Its primary use is in the architectural design industry but is also popular in the fields of engineering, urban planning, construction, and interior design.

The program was first launched in 1984 but had been in development 2 years prior exclusively for the Apple Macintosh. In 9817, it launched its “Virtual Building” concept that was the precursor to modern-day BIM software. As such, some believe that it was the first official program to employ BIM technology. It was also the first program to fully integrate both 2D and 3D geometry and store a previously unheard of amount of data in its 3D models.

Functionality

The basic features and capabilities of the software as a BIM program include the following:

–        Working with parametric objects – ArchiCAD allows users to work with “smart objects” , parametric elements with data. This was what cemented its place as an industry standard and helped developed its “Virtual Building” concept back in the 1980s.

–        2D and 3D CAD/modeling capabilities – The software employs varied tools for drafting and makes accurate and detailed technical drawings as well as 3D models possible.

–        Rendering and Visualization – the program has integrated rendering capabilities that let users have accurate and photo-realistic depictions of their designs for presentation purposes. Users can also opt to use the program to compile and compose materials for printing.

–        Collaborative features – ArchiCAD comes with collaboration-friendly add-ons and capabilities making it easier for groups to work on the same project from different locations.

–        Data interchange – ArchiCAD can import and export different file types and formats, from standard DWG and DXF files to even BCF files. ArchiCAD can also export its models to BIMx format, a standard file type that’s viewable on different BIMx-capable platforms.

User base

ArchiCAD is one of the first programs to employ the utilization of both 2D and 3D geometry. As such, its user base has been growing for a few decades now. As of today, it has over 120,000 users, a ways away from Vectorworks’ 650,000 users, but what it lacks in quantity, it makes up for in quality. ArchiCAD is the go-to BIM program for many world-famous design and architectural firms. Among them are the following:

• TILLBERG DESIGN of SWEDEN
• Studio Pacific in Wellington, New Zealand
• Penoyre & Prasad Architects, UK
• ASTOC Architects and Planners GmbH, Germany
• Amersfoort Buyten, Netherlands
• Aziz Tayob Architects, South Africa
• Bergstreme Developments
• Earthworld Architects

Vectorworks vs ArchiCAD

Now it’s time to compare these two products side-by-side. For the purposes of this comparison, we’ll be using Vectorworks Architect since it’s the most similar to ArchiCAD when it comes to the user base. The table below compares some of the key features of Vectorworks Architect and ArchiCAD.

In the end, choosing between the two of these programs will come down to what kind of work you will be doing and what interface you’re comfortable with. As mentioned before, ArchiCAD is most similar to Vectorworks Architect, so if you’re looking to do work that has to do with landscape design, set design, and other specialized design fields, you would do well to check out Vectorworks’ other suites. As far as architectural design goes, we’ve laid out the pros and cons of both these industry-leading software, so consider your options and go with what feels right to you.

As useful and intuitive as it is though, some might find that the cost of Vectorworks programs might be a little beyond their budget. Luckily, there are a lot of alternative programs that won’t break the bank as badly.

In this article, we’ll be discussing our top 5 affordable Vectorworks alternatives. We’ll factor in usability, costs, and overall capabilities for each program.

Vectorworks Pricing

We’ve already delved deep into Vectorworks pricing. As much as Vectorworks offers to its users, we really do have to take into consideration how much the program costs. There are various distributors and official resellers stationed around the globe. But based on prices we’ve procured from a reseller, you’ll be looking at $190-$262 a month for monthly subscriptions, $1900-$2620 per year for yearly subscriptions, and $2,045-$3,733 for single purchase licenses.

Network licenses are also offered with pricing that depends on the number of users, and there are also maintenance fees that come with optional upkeep packages that can be availed by users. Taking all of this into consideration, I think most of us will agree that Vectorworks isn’t exactly the cheapest program on the market.

It’s worth noting that Vectorworks does offer a 30-day free trial to those who might want to try using the program first before purchasing. For students and educators, they also offer free educational versions provided those that avail of it can prove their status as a student or teacher. Vectorworks also has a discounted pricing option for recent graduates to help ease them into the working world.

But even with all that, there are other software solutions that offer similar functionalities to Vectorworks that are more affordable. As for which one of these you should consider purchasing, it mostly depends on what you use Vectorworks for. We’ll be discussing all of these below.

1. Draft It Architectural Software

Drawing In Draft It (Source)

Overview

Draft It Architectural Software is a robust and intuitive 2D CAD program for architectural users and construction industry professionals. This program’s main market is designers, architects, interior designers, real estate agents, and building construction professionals. The software has tons of functionality and useful tools for drafting but tries to stick to the fundamentals to keep things streamlined, efficient, and most importantly, affordable. The program boasts the latest design and CAD technologies, to speed up the drafting process without giving up drawing accuracy or precision.

Features of the program include intuitive wall-drawing tools and a vast array of all the essential symbols for architectural drafting. If you need to get a better view of your drafted plans, Draft It has an automatic 3D model viewer tool that lets users view rotatable 3D models created from the plans drafted on Draft It. The 3D viewer has all the standard functionalities – users can zoom in and out of the model, use the mouse to pan around and see the model from all possible angles. It also has tools to seamlessly incorporate furniture layouts onto interior floor plans, add lighting, electrical, and plumbing fixtures, and create detailed reflected ceiling plans for all your interior design needs.

And as if the affordable one-time purchase fee for the program isn’t enough, Draft It Architectural Software also guarantees affordable lifetime updates, to keep its users up-to-date with the latest improvements to the software while making sure no one has to break the bank while doing so.

An alternative to Vectorworks if:

…You mainly utilize Vectorworks for architectural uses and would like a program that has the same capacity to create detailed floor plans and drawings for construction and permit uses

Fact file

2. Easy Blue Print

A floorplan in Easy Blue Print (Source)

Overview

Easy Blue Print is a program specifically created to generate floor plans without the complexities that usually come with it. This kind of program is perfect for professionals looking to create plans for real estate companies, to facilitate the marketing of modular commercial projects, for basic school projects, or for quick remodels of house and office layouts. This program is for users who need something done fast and in a simple manner.

An alternative to Vectorworks if:

…You’re looking for a quick and no-fuss way to generate accurate and easily presentable floor plans or detail drawings. Best used by real estate agents or those looking to create advertising or print media using floor plans.

Fact file

3. Cedreo

Drawing in Cedreo (Source)

Overview

Cedreo is a web-based application for the design of home layouts and the production of presentable 3D models. The web app and the customer support that comes with it helps users create professional drawings and ready-to-present 3D renders of houses.

The program also has built-in features to help with the tracking and organizing of both ongoing projects as well as client lists. Cedreo also comes with different project management tools to help you keep track of everything.

The process is as simple as creating the floor plan on the web app, sending it over to the Cedreo team for 3D modeling and getting back rendered HD pictures of the house in sometimes even less than an hour.

All-in-all, this program is reliable when it comes to quick and presentable 3D renderings of proposed house layouts.

An alternative to Vectorworks if:

…You’re looking for a quick and easy way to generate presentable 3D house models to clients but don’t have the time to learn how to use new programs for rendering and 3D model generation.

Fact file

4. ArCADia-Architecture

A 2D drawing and 3D Rendering in ArCADia (Source)

Overview

ArCADia-Architecture is a specific module of the ArCADIA BIM system. With the program, users can create professional-grade architectural documents, drawings, and models. This module of the program is specifically intended for architects and architectural professionals, but there are other modules such as those for gas and heating, electrical and telecommunication, and other engineering industries.

ArCADia-Architecture specifically has architecture-centric tools and functions to streamline the generation of design drawings. These tools include automatic creation of cross sections, dimensions, and building element lists and tables. Like with all BIM software, ArCADia BIM automatically creates a 3D model while users set up the plans and elevation drawings. Every element and drawing is parametric and attribute-controlled.

ArCADia-Architecture is an expansion that supplements the capabilities of the basic ArCADia BIM program with architectural tools. This means that a number of the options available in this module a module will also be available in the basic versions of the program, namely ArCADia BIM, ArCADia BIM Plus, and ArCADia BIM LT.

Alternative to Vectorworks if

…You’re looking for full-on BIM-capable architecture software that has as much functionality as Vectorworks but is more affordable.

Fact file

5. Sketchup

A 3D model of a house and garden in Sketchup (Source)

SketchUP a 3D and CAD program that is intuitive and user-friendly. One of the more well-known applications in the industry, the software is known to help users create 3D models of interiors, architectural projects, landscape designs, and even full urban-scale building models. It specializes in ease-of-use supported by state-of-the-art and powerful modeling technology.

The program has built-in lighting and shadow effects, texture and material editors, layer management, and even walk-through and animation tools. Users will also find a very helpful online repository of user-submitted 3D models in Trimble’s 3D warehouse.

All said; the program itself is more of a CAD and 3D modeling program than it is BIM software. Don’t expect instant generation of walls, rooms, and building elements, although there are multiple sources of plug-ins that could aid in the creation of those.

Using the program is easy due to the customizability of the program’s menus, tabs, and palettes. Users can personalize what is shown and hidden and where the different menus and buttons are docked. One can even opt to personalize shortcut keys and modeling tools.

In short, the program has a user interface that is dead simple and easy to understand but has an underlying technological sophistication that keeps it on par with many of the industry’s top CAD and modeling software. This is perfect for beginners and seasoned professionals alike.

An alternative to Vectorworks if:

…You’re looking for a fully customizable, intuitive, and simple-to-use 3D modeler for construction and design works.

Fact file

Today, however, Vectorworks has one of the best-selling, cross-platform, CAD product lines.  The company currently produces an impressive amount of powerful software packages for the engineering, construction, entertainment, landscape design, and architecture industries. In this article, we will be exploring every one of these packages. We will discuss their industries, their capabilities, their key features, and the differences between them.

Vectorworks Products

Vectorworks Fundamentals

Vectorworks Fundamentals is 2D/3D Modeling and documentation software. Unlike several other Vectorworks products, Fundamentals is a generic design software package. This means that it is not industry-specific. However, do not let its name, “Fundamentals” fool you. Although the application is a sort of gateway to more specialized design options, it has an array of cutting-edge features that simplify your design process. Vectorworks fundamentals capabilities include precision drawing and illustration, surface and solids modeling, reports and coordination, and rendering and customization.

These features allow you to easily draw, design and document your design with high accuracy. Being unrestricted by strict parameters and presets, these features offer such flexibility that your design is only limited by your imagination. The report and coordination capabilities automatically generate reports on your design. You can easily carry out real-life scenarios and cost analysis on each design element in real-time. In addition, you can import/export files directly to AutoCAD, Photoshop, Cinema 4D, and Rhino; customize your application to suit your application; and create power presentations of your model. Doesn’t sound so fundamental anymore, does it?

Vectorworks Architect

Sketch, draw, and, model in a fully integrated BIM (Building Information Modeling) workflow. As the name implies, Vectorworks Architect is a BIM integrated modeling package, specialized to cater for the architecture industry. This application was created for architectural, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineering, construction, and structural engineering designs.

Thanks to its precision drawing features, users of Vectorworks Architect can draft, draw, automate tasks using keynote tools, and create. The modeling features allow you to easily design components of a building using a hybrid of 3D modeling and 2D drafting. This hybrid design capability is absent in Fundamentals. Another important feature that makes Vectorworks Architecture specialized is its 4D BIM capabilities.

Vectorworks Landmark

Vectorworks Landmark is another specialized product of Vectorworks, for everything landscaping and Landscape Design. From small sites to packs to complete towns, Vectorworks allows urban planners and landscape professionals to create and analyze complex landscapes using its powerful array of features. These features include a GIS (Geographic information system) and planning which allow you to collect, analyze, handle, store, and present Geographic or spatial data.  Site design and reporting features which are an advanced form of Vectorworks Architect’s modeling and site modeling features are present in Vectorworks landmark, alongside planting and hardscapes, irrigation, and stormwater management. In addition, your final Landscape design can be presented using power graphics and presentation features. Vectorworks landmark also has BIM capabilities.

Vectorworks Spotlight

Lights, camera, action! Vectorworks Spotlight is an excellent all-in-one design, documentation, and production package for the entertainment industry. It is often referred to as the industry standard for entertainment. Using this powerful software package, designers can create stage structures, stage lighting, overhead stage rigging, and graphical controls for movies, concerts, stadiums, etc. Once the designs are complete, the models of the physical structures are exported to Vectorworks Braceworks for analysis while the lighting arrangements are exported to Vectorworks Vision for pre-visualization. Spotlight also has great presentation tools such as Renderworks which allow you to create amazing 3D visuals of your designs.

Vectorworks Vision

Vectorworks Vision is a pre-visualization and control software seamlessly integrated with Spotlight to enable production professionals to visualize their design in rendered 3D views. After creating a model on Spotlight, it is exported to Vision, where you can pre-visualize, program, and cue your show. The actual movements of physical lights and light panels during events are controlled using Vision. Simply put, you create the design using Spotlight, and actualize the design using Vision.

Vectorworks Designer

Looking for an all in one package that encompasses all major Vectorworks products? Look no further than Vectorworks Designer. This product is the perfect package for the designer who needs it all.  Vectorworks Designer is a cost-effective combination of Vectorworks Fundamentals, Architect, Spotlight, and Landmark in a single intuitive package. Using this package, you can create and document designs; sketch, draw, and model in a fully integrated BIM workflow; landscape; and create and design stage lighting and rigging.

Vectorworks Braceworks

Unlike its counterparts, Vectorworks Braceworks isn’t a standalone software package. Rather, it is an add-on entertainment rigging analysis module for Vectorworks Spotlight and Designer. This package provides rigging, production, and design professionals with a convenient way to analyze the behavior of structures under loading. In order to ensure maximum safety during events, most temporary structures set up have to receive a green light from structural engineers.  

With Vectorworks Braceworks, you can rest assured that your rigging is completely safe and in compliance with engineering codes and standards. Braceworks allows you to analyze 3D structural systems; carry out static and FEM (Final Element Method) analysis with graphically displayed results; generate detailed reports on calculations automatically, and export files to share information easily.

Vectorworks Service Select

Vectorworks Service Select is an annual subscription maintenance package for users of Vectorworks, bought as an optional addition to a regular package. Subscribing to this package unlocks a plethora of additional benefits including best pricing, VIP access to downloads, immediate upgrade of new product releases, priority technical support, access to on-demand learning tutorials, on-demand licensing, and access to a premium level of storage and benefits on Vectorworks Cloud Service.

Vectorworks Cloud Service

This is a free service offered to all Vectorworks users. With a free Vectorworks Cloud Service (VCS) account, users receive 2GB of cloud storage which can be upgraded to 20GB by subscribing to Vectorworks Select Service. Users of the cloud service can save, access, view, and share files anywhere, anytime, and on any compatible device. All your data is securely stored on the Vectorworks cloud. You can create and maintain your cloud library from your device using the VCS web portal, the VCS desktop app, or the VCS nomad Mobile App.

Comparative analysis of Vectorworks products

All prices are in $USD.

Vectorworks partner products

In addition to its main products, Vectorworks has partner products in conjunction with other companies. These products aim to maximize your efficiency in Vectorworks software.

connectCAD

This is a Software add-on by connectCAD limited that allows you to design and monitor cables in connected systems. It is used in audio-visual, broadcast, IT, and lighting all over the world.

Lightwright® 6

Lightwright is an important tool by John McKernon software for handling lighting design paperwork

Lumion LiveSync

Experience the Power of Real-time Rendering with Lumion LiveSync by Lumion

Modelo

Modelo is a Vectorworks plug-in by Modelo Inc. that enables designers and architects to upload their 3D files directly into Modelo’s browser-based 3D presentation and collaboration tool.

Producers Pack 3

Landru Design’s Producers Pack 3 is a suite of tools used to create Hybrid models of elements integral to the planning and production of live events, performances, and large-scale presentations.

Savvy Subscription Series 2019

The Savvy Subscription Series by Joshua Benghiat Lighting Design is a single license for all Savvy plug-ins for use with Vectorworks 2019.

VectorMEP

VectorMEP is a practical assortment of MEP engineering dedicated plug-ins by Hippocode for Vectorworks software.

With the different options available today, which computer-aided design software is the best tool to turn your ideas to reality? In this article, we will compare two popular BIM programs: Revit and Vectorworks. In the first part of this post, we will explore their history, functions, and uses.

In the second part, we will compare the different features, prices, operating system requirements and support options to help you understand whether Revit or Vectorworks is the best solution for you.

What is Vectorworks?

History

Vectorworks’ first incarnation was named MiniCAD. MiniCAD was released by Diehl Graphsoft (not to be confused with Graphisoft, makers of ArchiCAD) in the mid 1980s. It was the first CAD software available on macOS and became the best selling hit for designers and engineers.

Other the years, MiniCAD evolved into Vectorworks (now owned by the Nemetschek Group) which became a powerhouse in both Computer Aided Design (CAD) software and Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology. As the leading program in its class, Vectorworks was one of the first CAD software to explore and introduce BIM capabilities, even before the word “BIM” was mainstream.

What it does

The infographic shows Vectorworks’ main features subcategorized into 4 namely Architect, Landmark, Fundamentals and Entertainment. Each feature is further subdivided into its capabilities.

Vectorworks breaks down their product offering by the core use-cases of their customers. The Vectorworks product you would use would depend on your industry.  For example, Vectorworks Spotlight is a solution for the design and production of large scale entertainment performances. Vectorworks Landmark is intended for architectural landscape design and GIS planning. And Vectorworks Fundamentals offers users the ability to sketch products, build models and create an analysis of them.

If you are comparing Vectorworks to Revit, the most relevant comparable product would be Vectorworks Architect.

Vectorworks Architect is geared towards 2D drafting and 3D modeling and, much like Revit, it offers full BIM capabilities.

Vectorworks Architect is certainly one of the leading BIM solutions in the market and it is the flagship product offered by Vectorworks. Vectorworks Architect offers an impressive range of features to facilitate every part of the architectural design process from drafting and 3D modeling to BIM and graphic renderings.

Who uses it?

As of 2019, more than 650,000 users rely on Vectorworks technology. From award-winning artists, notable architects, renowned landscape architects, experienced entertainment designers, creative product designers and more. Vectorworks is continually diversifying their services globally by offering the product in 11 languages.  

What is Revit?

History

In October of 1997, Leonid Raiz and Irwin Jungreis founded Charles River Software with the goal of bringing the power of parametric modeling to the building industry. The company grew bigger with the help of prominent venture capitalists and in 1999 they hired Dave Lemont as CEO and recruit board members Jon Hirschtick, founder of SolidWorks, and Arol Wolford, founder of CMD Group.

In 2000, the company was renamed Revit Technology Corporation and released Revit 1. Five more versions were soon released after. In 2002, Autodesk purchased Revit Technology Corporation for US$133 million. The venture allowed more research, development, and improvement of the software. Several versions were released since 2004. The most notable is the 2006 release of Revit Building which was later renamed Revit Architecture.

What it does

The infographic illustrates Revit’s main features broken down into 5 categories namely Architecture, Structural, MEP, Fundamentals, and Construction. Each feature is further subdivided into its key capabilities.

Revit is a multidisciplinary BIM software suitable for architectural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, electronics and communications projects, structural and construction coordination and documentation.

Unlike Vectorworks, Revit is not divided into multiple product offerings. However, Autodesk categorized the features of Revit by the industries that use the software. This division of features is visualized in the above infographic.

Much like Vectorworks, Revit offers a range of features for each aspect of the design process. From parametric modeling and architectural modeling to schedules and material take offs.

AutoDesk has made team collaboration an essential feature of this software. Contributors from multiple disciplines can share one centralized file with task delegation, communication, team scheduling and more.

Of course, by choosing Revit as your BIM solution you might also have access to other useful AutoDesk products such as BIM 360, a centralized solution for design collaboration, construction coordination and communication. 

Who uses it

Architects, landscape architects, structural designers, mechanics, plumbers, and electrical consultants can collaborate efficiently with Revit.

As you would expect, Revit is utilized by the leading global AEC companies such as Atkins, Stantec, HDR Inc, Skanska and many more.

Due to Revit’s focus on enabling the full construction process, from design to production, Revit is tightly integrated into not just the CAD operator’s day-to-day activities but also potentially site coordinators, project managers, and other such team members.

Vectorworks vs Revit

In this second part, we highlighted important considerations to help you decide which software is best for your needs.

So which aspects of the BIM software are most important to you? If team collaboration across the full project is important to your workflow Revit has an advantage over Vectorworks.  Revit offers flexibility for professionals in different fields to communicate until construction is complete.

Vectorworks is very flexible in terms of the variety of supported devices (Mac and Windows are both compatible). Vectorworks learning curve is subjectively much less steep than Revit and the software is also comparatively cheaper than Revit. The lower per-user price would be especially advantageous if you were required multiple user licenses.

Both Revit and Vectorworks have a wealth of add-ons or plugins available which can be used to expand the functionality of the software to meet more specific needs.  The differences in the support and training offered between the two solutions are negligible.

As always we would recommend getting hands-on experience with both solutions to test which is best for your specific needs. Download the Vectorworks free trial and the Revit free trial (both free for 30 days) and test the software with a project similar to your usual work.

If you’re considering other CAD software options, you might benefit from our other popular comparisons: Solidworks vs Fusion 360, AutoCAD vs Solidworks and AutoCAD vs Draftsight.

Editior’s note: This article was contributed to by Nicole Sarmiento. Infographics by Nicole Sarmiento.

For most people looking to purchase Vectorworks, the official Vectorworks website of the application is the first port of call. However, going through the website (if you are located outside the United States), you would discover that there is hardly any information on how much Vectorworks products cost or where to buy them. This is because, in international markets, Vectorworks can only be purchased through authorized official resellers, and for good reason. Considering the number of Vectorworks packages available, Vectorworks Inc. believes that before buying a package, you should have a personal discussion with the reseller about your industry, your business, what you intend to do with Vectorworks, and your budget. The reseller may also provide information on license or subscription purchase.

Using all this information, the reseller then recommends the most suitable Vectorworks product and license option to you. Another advantage of purchasing from official resellers is the option to buy in local currency. In addition to this, a local official reseller is available to provide you with customer service if you experience any issues with your application. Note that not all resellers are officially recognized by Vectorworks. To find official resellers near you, you can either go to the Vectorworks website’s “find a reseller” page or check out their recommended online resellers.

Vectorworks Products

Before proceeding to explore their cost, it’s important for us to know the different Vectorworks products. The following are some of these products. 

1. Vectorworks Architect

Vectorworks Architect is a BIM solution for all design phases, from pre-design and schematic design development to detailed design development and construction documentation. This tool allows architects to enjoy the benefits of BIM within a software environment that promotes creative expression. With Vectorworks Architect, for example, you can freely sketch your ideas and subsequently convert them into models and documentation with a spate of precision drafting capabilities and ‘the most flexible’ 3D modeling engine powered by SIEMENS Parasolid.

Additionally, and in keeping up with the needs of BIM, which is anchored in information, Vectorworks Architect makes quantification and analysis of information easy, starting from the schematic design phase. Specifically, it allows you to analyze energy efficiency, calculate costs, automate schedules, and run “what if” scenarios, enabling them to optimize and maximize all the design elements.

The program facilitates collaboration. It achieves this by supporting the export and import of files from the likes of Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Cinema4D, and Photoshop. It also supports openBIM, a collaborative process, and Industry Foundational Classes (IFC), a data format that facilitates the lossless exchange of information models.

Vectorworks Architect also enables you to produce line drawings and 3D presentations. It also supports myriad technologies, including virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), photogrammetry, 360-degree panorama, and point cloud.

2. Vectorworks Landmark

Vectorworks Landmark is a BIM solution billed as the ultimate product for landscape design. It links all drawings, models, details, and schedules. This product, therefore, makes it easy for you to easily make universal changes; a change made in one of these areas is reflected everywhere, meaning users do not spend a lot of time manually modifying the different parts of the drawing.

Furthermore, it automatically generates schedules and reports. It also calculates construction costs, material takeoffs, and terrain analysis for drainage, slope, and cuts/fills. Like Vectorworks Architect, Vectorworks Landmark facilitates collaboration thanks to its support for IFC and openBIM. It also supports direct links with software such as Cinema4D, Rhino, Photoshop, Lumion, Revit, SketchUp, and AutoCAD.

The Vectorworks Landmark product is specifically designed for the following applications:

• Geographic Information System (GIS) and planning
• Site design and reporting
• Irrigation
• Planting, hardscapes, and general landscape architecture
• Creative landscape modeling
• Graphics and presentation

3. Vectorworks Spotlight

Vectorworks Spotlight is designed for the entertainment industry. It is meant for anyone undertaking exhibit, event, film, scenic, or lighting design. Thanks to its precision drafting capabilities, Vectorworks Spotlight allows you to sketch your design ideas. Subsequently, powered by SIEMENS Parasolid, you can undertake 3D modeling. The software further supports documentation.

You can rely on the software’s huge Resource Library throughout the design and modeling phases. This repository contains scenic, video, audio, lighting, and rigging manufacturer content.

Vectorworks Spotlight allows you to import design and technical production information from anywhere. In addition, its project-sharing capabilities enable team members to work on the same file concurrently. They can then communicate through the mobile viewing tool and share ideas via Vectorworks Cloud Services.

Furthermore, you can include the Vectorworks Braceworks Add-on, which adds analysis capabilities. This enables rigging, production, and rigging professionals to analyze the performance of temporary structures under different loads, such as lights, speakers, and more. Finally, you can also add Vectorworks Vision to Spotlight. This integration allows you to design creatively and efficiently in addition to affording you the power to virtually visualize your shows.

Generally, Vectorworks Spotlight is used for:

• Precision drawing
• Creative modeling
• Analysis with Braceworks
• Graphics and presentation
• Visualization with Vision
• Reporting and documentation

4. Vectorworks Fundamentals

Vectorworks Fundamentals is a design, modeling, and documentation software. You can use the software’s precision drafting tools to freely sketch 2D designs; utilizing SIEMENS Parasolid, a flexible 3D modeling engine, you can also undertake 3D modeling. Additionally, Vectorworks Fundamentals contains tools that increase the efficiency of your workflow. For instance, it automatically generates reports from your designs. It allows you to run “what if” scenarios, automate schedules, and calculate the costs of different aspects of the actual design project. This way, the software allows you to maximize each design element.

Like all other Vectorworks products, Vectorworks Fundamentals offers import and export capabilities. It also supports other CAD and design software, including AutoCAD, Rhino, Photoshop, and Cinema 4D. And to top these capabilities off, this application allows you to solve specific design problems through customization. You can use a robust Application Programming Interface (API) and software development kit (SDK) to add extra functionalities. You can also create Python scripts to automate routine tasks or create custom tools.

Designing and modeling are one thing. However, to show these designs and models to clients or partners, you must create a presentation. For this reason, Vectorworks Fundamentals offers a suite of illustration and rendering tools (in addition to drawing tools) that allow you to generate outstanding 3D presentations.

Vectorworks Fundamentals is used for design processes that include:

• Precision drawing
• Illustration
• Surface and solids modeling
• Rendering
• Customization
• Reporting

5. Vectorworks Design Suite

Also referred to as Vectorworks Designer by some resellers, the Vectorworks Design Suite combines the capabilities of the Architect, Fundamentals, Spotlight, and Landmark products in a single software interface. It, therefore, comes in handy in cross-disciplinary projects that require you and other members of your team to make use of the disparate features and capabilities of the different Vectorworks products.

As a suite of different products, Vectorworks Design Suite promotes cost savings. For instance, the price tag of a single-seat perpetual license for the product (with maintenance) costs $5,246.00 (refer to the table below), while the monthly subscription costs $198.00. In comparison, the cumulative cost of the single-seat perpetual licenses for Architect, Fundamentals, Spotlight, and Landmark products will set you back $14,884.00. If you opt for the monthly subscription mode, you will have to fork out $567.00 every month. Against this backdrop, Vectorworks Design Suite is a cheaper but more powerful alternative.

6. Vectorworks Vision

Vectorworks Vision is a Previz software that allows you to share your design vision. (Previz is a web-based platform that enables creative teams to share and publish their 3D models and experiences for the purpose of review.) This tool supports seamless integration with Vectorworks Spotlight, allowing you to visualize the designs you have created in Spotlight in 3D renders that are viewable in Vision.

With Vectorworks Vision, you can previsualize what your designed rig can do. It offers numerous customizable and comprehensive fixtures, including colors, shutters, lenses, and gobos. It is these features that make the previsualization of the 3D renders a breeze. In addition to the previsualization, Vision allows you to cue your show. It lets you work with a console of your choice, helping you preprogram your show even before you can physically construct the stage.

7. Braceworks

Braceworks is an add-on module for Vectorworks Spotlight and Vectorworks Design Suite. It is an analytics tool that ensures the show proceeds safely. Braceworks achieves this by enabling design, production, and rigging professionals to assess the performance and structural capabilities of temporary rigs and platforms under load. Specifically, the module conducts static and finite element modeling (FEM) analyses as well as the analysis of complete 3D structural systems. In this way, it helps ensure safety and compliance with engineering standards and codes such as Eurocodes.

Developed in partnership with DeerSoft GmbH, Braceworks helps professionals to produce load and structure calculations for sign-off by structural engineers. Along with the analysis aspect, this one-of-a-kind module also provides documentation and reports that capture all the calculations. Vectorworks, however, absolves itself of any liability regarding the safety of the rigs analyzed using Braceworks. It notes that the software user is solely responsible for the use of the product and the completeness and accuracy of the analysis and design results.

8. ConnectCAD

ConnectCAD is an add-on module available with Vectorworks Design Suite or Vectorworks Spotlight. It is a signal flow add-on that helps you generate reports on the movement of sound. It also enables you to create schematic diagrams representing how to make devices as well as how to make connections between them. The schematics show how the devices, sockets, and circuits that make up equipment are connected to form a system.

Vectorworks License/Subscription Options

Each Vectorworks product can be acquired through one of the following options.

1. Single-seat License

This is a one-off purchase license for a single user. Although the license is perpetual, you have the option to buy upgrades and yearly maintenance service.

Single-seat licenses can be divided into E series and B series. E series licenses are activated online. Once you purchase an E series license, you would be provided with a download link and a serial number via email. Although you can download the license on two of your computers, you can only use the software on one device at a time. This type of license does not require an internet connection to function. However, you need to connect to the Internet at least once every 30 days in order to maintain your license active status.

B series licenses, on the other hand, are dongle-activated. You can activate and use the application without an internet connection, although any updates to the software require a connection. Your dongle must be plugged into your computer for you to use the software. This is because B-series licenses have workstation-based dongle protection.

However, starting January 1, 2023, Vectorworks will be ditching the perpetual license model in favor of the subscription-based model. As part of this new pricing strategy, the company intends to offer an option to transition customers’ existing perpetual licenses to annual subscriptions at discounted prices for the first year.

2. Maintenance

Maintenance, also known as Vectorworks Select Service may be purchased as an optional addition to a license. It offers you certain benefits such as free upgrades, discounts on training, free access to tutorials, free premium support, and access to an expanded version of Vectorworks cloud service. Vectorworks select service is subscription-based and has to be purchased yearly. It is only available for professional perpetual licenses. It is also only available in certain countries.

The Select Service offering is free to all subscribers (both monthly and annual). However, it is available as an extra for perpetual license holders, who must the perpetual license with maintenance option. Those who do not wish to purchase this service can instead select the perpetual license without maintenance option. 

3. Upgrades

If you have a 2020 Vectorworks product and you wish to transition to a more recent version (2023), it is neither cost-effective nor reasonable to buy a brand-new product. This is where upgrades come in. They allow you to simply transition from your existing version to a more recent version at a lower cost. Upgrades also allow you to switch between certain Vectorworks products. Note that prices differ according to the year of the upgrade. For example, an upgrade from Vectorworks Architect 2020 to Vectorworks Architect 2023 costs $2,475.00. Similarly, upgrading from the Vectorworks Architect 2021 to the Vectorworks Architects 2023 version costs $1,650.00, while transitioning from using Vectorworks Architect 2022 to Vectorworks Architect 2023, through an upgrade, will set you back $1,155.00.

4. Network License

Vectorworks network license is a multiple-seat license. This means that multiple users can install and use the software at a time. Also known as G Series licenses, these licenses have server-based dongle protection. You don’t need to connect to the internet to use the connection. However, the dongle has to be plugged into a central server connecting to all the devices using the software package.

Moreover, do note that the cost of a network license is based on the number of users who will use the product. This is because the price of a network license for one user is the same as the price of one ordinary perpetual license. So, if you are to purchase a network license for 3 users, for example, you would have to multiply the cost of one perpetual license by three. 

5. Subscriptions

Vectorworks Inc. offers monthly and annual subscriptions. A monthly subscription will automatically renew every month unless you cancel it up to four days before the renewal date. This subscription is best for short-term needs.  An annual subscription, on the other hand, is more suited to somewhat long-term projects. It will stay active for 12 months with automatic renewal occurring at the end of this period. As with monthly subscription, you can cancel your yearly subscription four days before the renewal date. For a yearly subscription, you pay for 10 months and get two months free. Note that subscription plans are not available in all countries. Check the Vectorworks Select Service page to find out if your country offers the service.

6. Student2Pro License

Student2Pro licenses are discounted licenses for recent graduates. To purchase this license, you must provide school-supplied proof that you graduated with a design-based degree within the past 36 months. You must submit transcripts or a diploma  showing the degree completion and graduation date. A Student2Pro license does not mean reduced features of your preferred product. Rather, it is simply Vectorworks incorporated’s way of welcoming you into the Vectorworks fold. Vectorworks does this by providing a 40% discount on its professional software. However, this discount does not apply on the purchase of Braceworks.

According to the company, the Student2Pro license offers several advantages, including the following:

• It saves money
• It allows the budding professionals to get free software upgrades, new content libraries, priority support, training, and friendly pricing on Vectorworks Service Select
• Water-mark free files and the ability to convert student projects to watermark-free files at no extra cost

Vectorworks Pricing

Having understood the different Vectorworks products and Vectorworks license /subscription options, we will now go into the pricing. The table below shows the different Vectorworks products and their license options. Braceworks and ConnectCAD, on the other hand, are add-ons for Vectorworks Spotlight and Vectorworks Design Suite, hence they are bundled together with the ‘mother’ software.

These prices were acquired from Vectorworks website for the US market as well as authorized resellers for the US market (including Novedge). All prices are in $USD. 

Vectorworks Perpetual License Pricing

Vectorworks currently offers its customers the option to purchase perpetual licenses until December 30, 2022. The perpetual license prices are summarised in the table below.

Vectorworks Subscription Pricing

Vectorworks Upgrades Pricing

Vectorworks also offers upgrades to more recent versions for a lower price. The table below shows the costs of upgrading to 2023 from 2020, 2021, and 2022 for select Vectorworks products. The table also includes the cost of upgrading from Vectorworks Fundamentals 2023 to Vectorworks Architect 2023, Vectorworks Landmark 2023, Vectorworks Spotlight 2023, and Vectorworks Design Suite 2023.

Given the hundreds of dollars you have to spend on the different upgrades, what do you get following that spending? What new features have been introduced with the release of Vectorworks 2023 products? Vectorworks has reimagined and reengineered its products to help you save time. This has resulted in the following updates:

1. User experience: The reengineering has resulted in updates to the user experience, with the 2023 products taking up 80% less memory when calculating and processing section viewports. This change enables you to generate section viewpoints 6x times faster when using Vectorworks 2023 than previous Vectorworks products. Additionally, the 2023 products boast improvements to the cloud and mobile 3D viewers as well as better cloud presentations. Vectorworks 2023 users, who are members of large teams, will also enjoy shared network workflow efficiencies. The Resource Library has also been updated to enable you to find all your symbols, textures, text styles, and other content much more easily.
2. Improved window and door object creation and a new graphic legend tool in Vectorworks Architect 2023
3. New site modifier modes in Vectorworks Landmark 2023
4. Improved interoperability with the introduction of new Revit import tools and options, translation of additional Revit object types, and a new BIM Collaboration Format (BCF) web palette to help you manage and model changes with cloud-based tools
5. Improvements to Vectorworks Spotlight and ConnectCAD, including faster cable configuration and planning, more efficient and effective cable and device management options, easier selection and editing of objects from the Power Planning Panel, and more
6. New shaded rendering options

Vectorworks License Discounts

Vectorworks can be bought in bundles at reduced prices. The bundles available vary by reseller. A bundle may be two separate licenses such as a single license and maintenance, for a particular product. It may also be two different products.

Resellers may also offer periodic discounts to customers. Furthermore, Vectorworks offers free student versions of their software packages to students.

Are There Alternatives to Vectorworks?

Having gone through the pricing of Vectorworks’ products, recall that this is a cost consideration. In this vein, you may wish to consider Vectorworks alternatives.

Because Vectorworks has various products, there is no single fully integrated alternative to all the products. However, each product has its own industry rival.

• AutoCAD could be a suitable alternative to Vectorworks Fundamental and in part an alternative to Vectorworks Architect
• Revit is a BIM software that rivals both Vectorworks Architect and Vectorworks Landscape. For a breakdown of how Vectorworks and Revit compare, consider checking out our comparison article: Vectorworks vs. Revit.
• Draftsight and ArchiCAD are also strong industry rivals of Vectorworks

If you’re unsure how Vectorworks stacks up against the competition you can visit our popular comparisons of AutoCAD vs Vectorworks, AutoCAD vs Draftsight and Solidworks vs Fusion 360.

Due to the complex algorithms that go with creating BIM models, design flexibility and the creation of freeform building typologies isn’t the priority for most BIM software. The amazing thing about Vectorworks products is that it goes against the norm and lets users freely work with their model in a flexible and highly intuitive manner. Parametric design limitations and programmed presets no longer limit the type of building designers can create using Vectorworks.

Before we continue, it is worth noting that Vectorworks has a bunch of different packages. The four main ones would be: Architect, Landmark, Entertainment, Fundamentals. The user interface and workflow of the programs are similar, just more suited to their specialties than the others. Vectorworks Architect would be the software to use for building an indoor space design. Vectorworks Landmark would be for landscape planning and design. Vectorworks also caters to the entertainment industry with Vectorworks Spotlight, a program for set, stage, lights, and sound design for live performances. Lastly, for industrial design and other miscellaneous projects, Vectorworks Fundamentals is the go-to program. For the purposes of this article, we’ll be using Vectorworks Architect as the program of choice.

About Vectorworks

Vectorworks, the company, is an owned subsidiary of the Nemetschek Group, an international vendor of software for designers, engineers, and the construction industry. The company is world renowned for its design software and has been creating CAD software for the design and construction industry since 1985. The award-winning product line that Vectorworks has produced, also named Vectorworks, is one of the top selling programs in the world. The line includes Vectorworks Architect, Vectorworks Landmark, Vectorworks Spotlight, and Vectorworks Fundamentals.

 has a large impact in the CAD industry, with its high standard for its software and products, the quality of which comes from continuous refinement and redevelopment based on user input. Additionally, Vectorworks was one of the very first companies to develop BIM-capable software, even before the term “BIM” had started being used.

Vectorworks is especially known for its devotion to being responsive to its users’ and customers’ needs. The company conducts several training seminars and self-teaching options to help their users understand how to utilize their programs better.

Currently, more than 650,000 architects, engineers, and designers utilize Vectorworks software. From the architectural field to landscape design and product design, the Vectorworks line of programs can be used to create any CAD or BIM reliant output.

As a program, it features several capabilities. Vectorworks provides a set of 2D and 3D design and presentation tools suitable for use in any phase of a design process. Users of the program can sketch ideas and then translate those sketches into lines, arcs, polygons, and digital geometry. The program’s true strength lies in its intuitive and user-friendly BIM capabilities, at it is arguably the best product to use when looking for software that has good BIM features but still retains the flexibility and creativity of simpler 3D modeling programs.

Vectorworks Shortcuts

Vectorworks 2019 has something that can make the use of the program a whole lot easier – Keyboard Shortcuts. Almost all of these shortcuts can be customized based on personal preferences. The following list has the default shortcuts for all types of workspaces.

Let’s jump into the list. Be warned, this list is big so feel free to use the table of contents at the top of this post to jump to the section you need.

Basic Tools Palette

Building Shell Tool Set

3D Modeling Tool Set

Visualization Tool Set

Dims/Notes Tool Set

File Menu

Edit Menu

View Menu

Modify Menu

Model Menu

AEC Menu

Spotlight Menu

Tools Menu

Text Menu

Window Menu

Cycle Through Modes on Tool Bar

Miscellaneous Keys

Toggle Snapping Palette Settings

Arrow Key Shortcuts

Esc

Cancel the current operation

Miscellaneous Key Shortcuts

Standard Views

Worksheet Key Functions

Vectorworks Keyboard Shortcuts Final Notes

You’ll find that there are mastering this complete list of keyboard shortcuts will cut your production time with Vectorworks by a sizable amount. Try customizing them and figuring out the best configuration of keys for yourself and your workflow. Utilizing these with mouse controls and program commands is the key to using Vectorworks  to its fullest potential.

What is AutoCAD?

History

If there’s any software in the AEC sector that needs no prior introduction, it’s AutoCAD. Its ubiquity today, however, comes as a direct result of its disruptive impact upon its initial release. It might seem almost impossible to imagine today, but, before AutoCAD, there was no commercially available CAD software built for use on PCs.

AutoCAD immediately changed the game. In the years following its 1982 launch, it rose to become the world’s most popular design software. It remains amongst CAD’s giants to this day, with each new release awaited with anticipation by AutoCAD’s multi-million-strong user base.

Of course, AutoCAD hasn’t stayed at the top by standing still. Autodesk, the manufacturers of AutoCAD, have made major updates to the software over the years, with the once-2D software now at ease in 3D. AutoCAD 2019 saw the launch of the first AutoCAD web app, with the first cloud-based version of the software. Check out our brief history of AutoCAD for full details.

Functionality

When discussing what AutoCAD can do, it’s important to think of it not as a standalone program, but instead as a multidisciplinary software suite. This has never been more true than since the launch of AutoCAD 2019, which brought together what were once separate “specialized toolsets” into a single license. This means that AutoCAD today now includes:

• Architecture
• Mechanical
• Electrical
• MEP
• Plant 3D
• Map 3D
• Raster Design

First created exclusively for 2D design, AutoCAD is still the first port of call for many users looking for a CAD solution specifically for drafting in two dimensions. Don’t overlook AutoCAD’s 3D functionality, though. While it may not quite match the capabilities of pure 3D CAD programs such as SolidWorks in this department, it still has plenty to offer, with solid, surface and mesh modelling features. Rendering tools, meanwhile, mean that you can create realistic 3D models—ideal for technical communication.

User base

Image source: milestone.ac.in

While you may think that its relative paucity of 3D features holds it back, AutoCAD’s status as king of 2D drafting mean that it still attracts users across the world. After all, we’ve already touched upon the varied sectors AutoCAD caters for—so, it should come as no surprise to learn that there are a huge number of careers that require proficiency in AutoCAD.

As you may expect, the AEC sector has been a particularly strong source of AutoCAD users, with specialized features for both architecture and various branches of engineering. There’s also Plant 3D, a solution for piping designers, as well as Map 3D, which focuses on GIS applications.

AutoCAD pricing is far from the cheapest on the market, with a year’s subscription setting you back over $1,500. Nonetheless, plenty of businesses around the world still depend on the program for their drafting and design needs. Plenty of competitors, though, are snapping at the heels of this behemoth. It’s time to take a look at another key player in the CAD field: Vectorworks.

What is Vectorworks?

History

Though Vectorworks may not be able to match AutoCAD in terms of immediate name recognition, its history is almost as long. Just three years after the launch of AutoCAD came the arrival of Graphsoft, the company which would go on to become Vectorworks. While AutoCAD focused on IBM PCs, Graphsoft initially released their software for Apple Macintosh.

It wasn’t until the late 90s that Graphsoft would switch operating systems—with a move to Windows accompanied by the company finally assuming the name we know today: Vectorworks. Owned by German firm Nemetschek since 2000, the company has established itself as a major player in BIM, particularly in European markets.

Today, Vectorworks offers a range of solutions covering sectors as diverse as architecture, entertainment design and urban planning. It’s no wonder, then, that hundreds of thousands of users turning to the company’s specialized software suites. Let’s take a look at exactly what they can do.

Functionality

While AutoCAD has recently moved to integrate tools for a range of industries into a single software suite, Vectorworks continues to offer a number of different products. Exploring what Vectorworks can do, therefore, means diving into each of them individually.

Vectorworks Architect promises to cover the entire design process “from sketch to BIM”. On the way, you’ll see how the program combines the creative freedom with precision drawing tools. The program’s flexible approach is complemented by its analysis tools, which maximize efficiency and allow teams to make smarter decisions from the very earliest phases of a building’s design.

Landscape designers, meanwhile, will want to check out Vectorworks Landmark. This suite is a one-stop-shop containing practically every tool you could possibly need as a landscape professional. GIS, planning, site design, irrigation, graphics and presentation features: they’re all here.

You’ll be able to detect a common theme here. Vectorworks isn’t satisfied in providing just some of the tools you’ll need to complete a project—they focus on comprehensive suites that help you take your design from start to finish. The same approach applies to Spotlight, a suite for entertainment and production design.

While almost every Vectorworks product is highly specialized, its Fundamentals package stands apart. This entry-level offering doesn’t include the complex tools you’ll find in some of the more sector-specific Vectorworks suites, but still offers advanced NURBS surface tools and Parasolid-based 3D modeling.

Want to get all the aforementioned features in a single product? Vectorworks has your back! Vectorworks Designer builds on what Fundamentals offers, then brings in the tools offered by Architect, Spotlight and Landmark.

User base

Focusing on specific sectors has allowed Vectorworks to carve itself out some important niches. The architecture industry in the U.K., for example, has enthusiastically embraced Vectorworks Architect—in fact, the suite stands as the most popular BIM solution in the country.

Vectorworks doesn’t only have fans across the pond, though. Architectural firms the world over are turning to the software’s innovative range of features, from GKV Architects in New York through to the Royal Swedish Opera. All in all, there are now over 650,000 Vectorworks users worldwide.

AutoCAD vs Vectorworks

Want a handy side-by-side comparison of these two CAD giants? Take a look at our table below to compare some of the key features of AutoCAD and Vectorworks.

With both companies aiming squarely for the architecture market, there’s plenty to consider for users in this field looking to invest in new software. AutoCAD has long been known for the standard of its 2D drafting tools—after all, there’s a reason companies around the world continue to turn to Autodesk’s flagship product, which is approaching the four-decade mark. However, companies looking for a single suite offering a holistic approach to design would be well served by checking out Vectorworks, too.

Interested in comparing some more popular CAD software? Visit our guides to AutoCAD vs SolidWorks and AutoCAD vs DraftSight.

In this article, we’ll explore what Vectorworks 2019 brings to the table. We’ll look at the the new capabilities and features offered by the many industry-specific Vectorworks products.

Table of Contents

• Vectorworks 2019
  • Simplified workflows
  • Enhanced modeling process
  • Exceptional quality and speed
  • Advanced site design
  • Unmatched experiences
• New feature matrix

Vectorworks 2019

The entire premise of Vectorworks 2019 is centered around faster workflows and overall improved software performance. With new features and capabilities, Vectorworks hopes to make everyday tasks that much easier to accomplish for users, no matter which add-on they’re working with. They certainly didn’t disappoint. Let’s take a look at what’s on offer…

Simplified workflows

Image source: Vectorworks

New enhancements now enable users to seamlessly collaborate with others and to streamline workflows. With the aim of speeding up productivity, Vectorworks 2019 has added BIM data sets to all architectural symbols, making it easier for users to exchange BIM data. It also means you can reliably export your building models to IFC and COBie standards. And that’s just the beginning of improvements to the BIM workflow! Vectorworks has further streamlined the handover from BIM to operations by enabling users to edit BIM models and have their COBie worksheets update automatically, or vice versa. 

When it comes to simplifying workflows, detail is key. With Vectorworks 2019, users can create 2D drawings from 3D and BIM models. Users can then control the level of detail that symbols and plug-in objects display, so that it draws precisely as they want in plan, elevation and section views. Speaking of section drawings, there’s now a new default display for section attributes. With a new context-sensitive right-click menu, users can then generate sections directly from section elevation markers. 

Intent on improving collaborative workflows, Vectorworks has pushed for updates to the Teigha BIM library. This means that users can now batch import Revit Families, making it easier to convert building objects from Revit models to Vectorworks models. If you frequently flit between the two software packages, this update will make it easier for you to migrate your data. Vectorworks has further simplified user workflows by enabling users to create concept layouts with image effects. Instead of exporting designs to image editors like Photoshop, you can use new image effects to prepare your presentations in the same software you used for your designs.

Enhanced modeling process

Image source: Vectorworks

Vectorworks 2019 comes with more capabilities to allow users to optimize their modeling processes. It doesn’t matter how big or small your projects are, enhancements to modeling functionalities enable you to save time and produce incredible results. For starters, Vectorworks boasts of point cloud enhancements. Working with point clouds has never been faster, particularly with the import of PLY point cloud files. 

Control and freedom are key to creating the bets projects, which is why Vectorworks has expanded its support of object catalog styles to further architectural elements. By controlling your objects by catalog style, you can quickly edit architectural object data and save time with material specifications. Users are given even more freedom when working with sections, elevations and presentations through new clip cube options—giving them the ability to use clip cube on sheet layer viewports in a rendered view or style. 

The modeling process can now be sped up, with changes to subdivision iterations. More specifically, with new settings to the edit subdivision tool that allows users to see how subdivisions will look with one to five being performed. The latest improvements to modeling non-horizontal ceilings and floors also increase modeling accuracy with space volumes, areas and calculations. Vectorworks has long since prided itself on its suite of space planning tools, and the 2019 update has only further improved upon it—allowing for better management with usage type, color and class.

Exceptional quality and speed 

Image source: Vectorworks

In design, time is of the essence—which is why Vectorworks 2019 comes with multiple core support for the Vectorworks Graphics Module. Additionally, Vectorworks will be able to take advantage of all available CPU cores. Users can also work faster with the graphics module on sheet layers, optimized for use with advanced GPUs. This means that there are no longer performance differences between panning and zooming in a sheet or design layer.

If you work frequently on large projects, you probably dread navigating between layers and classes. It can be an absolute nightmare trying to find anything. Fortunately, new navigation and filtering capabilities enable users to find what they need with keyword searches or filters for specific properties. If you’re working with multiple projects in a single file, you can also take advantage of simpler title block management.

Collaboration is now a much speedier process with Vectorworks 2019’s improvements to DWG imports and exports. The latest changes bring about a faster import process that doesn’t require manual effort to rename files. As a blog that takes file management very seriously, we’re pleased to see the new purge option. It enables users to delete unused layers for a cleaner import. Of course, it’s not just about speed when working in large groups, it’s also about protecting your files. With project sharing diagnostics, Vectorworks puts safeguards in place to prevent accidental deletions when multiple users have administrator privileges.

Advanced site design

Image source: Vectorworks

For many a year, landscape designers had to deal with having to manually calculate whether their projects could accommodate the turning of a vehicle. With vehicle access being such an important aspect to any project, it was an unavoidable task. Vectorworks 2019 has now made it a thing of the past. With the new AutoTURN Online browser, landscapers can upload designs, enact simulations and export results back to their projects.

Another issue that many designers have had to deal with is moving from their chosen CAD/BIM package to a specialized add-on in order to run site analyses. With Vectorworks 2019, users can perform site model sculpting on both geometry and intelligent site models—thus, streamlining site modeling with 3D sculpting.

Vectorworks has long since been renowned for its foliage tools and enhanced plant tags—changing the game of landscape design entirely. New updates enable users to save time with plant data sources. Instead of spending hours scouring through the plant database, you can use the Choose Plant Data Source command to look at specific catalogs. You can then work with plant palettes of your choosing. Creating planting plans has also never been easier, with the latest updates providing improvements to plant preference dialog boxes. Not only does this make the planting workflow more straightforward—and easier for new users—it also maintains the advanced functionality preferred by longtime users.

Unmatched experiences

Image source: Vectorworks

It’s not all about Architect, Landmark and Designer users, of course. Vectorworks 2019 has also brought about higher capabilities for those working in the entertainment industries—more specifically, for Spotlight, Braceworks and Vision users.

Spotlight users can now easily place fixtures and model in 3D from the get-go. And with improvements to the Spotlight menu—specifically to stage decks and commands—users can take advantage of better snapping and 3D behaviors. Users are given additional control over how they want to display 3D labels for lights. They can also—due to improvements to the lighting instrument tool—specify the desired fixtures mode and auto-numbering preferences. And that’s not all. Spotlight users can also get their hands on the My Virtual Rig (MVR) import/export file format, making it easier to conduct your Previz with Vision.

And now onto the changes for Braceworks users. The 2019 edition has placed a greater emphasis on analyses and simulations. The introduction of the Braceworks heat map gives users the ability to pinpoint issues early on—looking at how rigs are performing and how stresses are rendered in 3D. A new suite of tools also enables users to create and calculate bridles, concentrating on reaction and deflection forces with the Braceworks engine. There’s also a realm of new truss features. The Replace Truss feature enables users to swap out trusses with alternate ones in their inventory, all the while maintaining the design. Braceworks also now supports most common types of trusses, orientations and connections.

Finally, we move onto Vision users. Vision 2019 brings up to 7x faster performance with real-time rendering at a higher frame rate. Users can even save and recall renderings in a Vision document. Allowing for better accessibility, Vectorworks has now enabled users to enjoy the freedom of a dongle-free Vision license. With an internet-based protection license, you can access Vision anywhere, anytime.

Vectorworks 2019 new feature matrix

We’ve only really looked at the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the new capabilities and features offered with Vectorworks 2019. You can get a more in-depth look by checking out the Vectorworks 2019 brochure. Alternatively, check out our table summary below.

Interested in the latest product releases? Check out our coverage of the SolidWorks 2019 launch. 

Our latest guide covers all the major BIM software packages out there—looking at top features, product descriptions and even prices.

Which BIM software should I use?

As with most software—whether it’s CAD, CAM or CNC—your choice of BIM software almost always depends on two main factors: what type of budget you have and what kind of capabilities you need. If you’re only interested in testing the waters and seeing what BIM is capable of, you might opt for BIM freeware. If, however, you’re looking for something with more functionality, you’re more likely to need the pricier software.

Fortunately, if you’re already a CAD user, you might already have the software needed for BIM capabilities. Most CAD software nowadays comes with BIM capabilities and add-ons—so you get a two-in-one deal. We’ve previously spoken about which architecture software you should use, which briefly delves into BIM. Here, however, we’re going to look specifically at the top BIM software packages you should be taking advantage of—if you’ve got the budget! 

Revit

Image source: Non-Stop Learning

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $2,200/year
• Interested? Check out the free trial!

If you’re a Scan2CAD regular, it’s unlikely that you haven’t yet encountered Revit. One of the most popular software packages from CAD giant Autodesk, Revit is a software for BIM which includes architectural design, MEP and structural engineering and construction. With Revit, you can use an intelligent model-based process to plan, design, construct and manage your buildings and infrastructure. It doesn’t matter which discipline you’re working with—architects, engineers and construction professionals can work in a single platform. A great advantage of this is that the risk of miscommunication or errors, for example, is much lower. Capabilities for specific disciplines include: 

• Architects: generate floor plans, levels, sections, 3D views and renderings. You’ll also get cost estimates and analysis to optimize building performance during the design process. 
• Structural engineers: using an advanced BIM environment, it’s possible to create detailed reinforcement designs and shop drawing documentation. Additionally, engineers can conduct structural analysis while you create the physical model in Revit. 
• MEP engineers: conduct simulations and interference detection before you move to construction. Model for MEP fabrication using tools that automate the fabrication model layout. 
• Construction professionals: reuse design intent models in order to make planning and preconstruction decisions earlier. It’s possible to improve communication by using Revit models to coordinate information. 

It’s also possible to subscribe to Collaboration for Revit to gain access to BIM 360 team—an integrated, cloud-based web service that gives teams access to project data. This means everyone’s working on the same page. It also minimizes the need for in-person meetings which often tend to slow down the design and production process. 

Of course, Revit is just one of the many Autodesk products that come with BIM capabilities.

Others include: 

• AutoCAD Civil 3D: supports BIM for enhanced civil engineering design and construction documentation. 
• InfraWorks: supports connected BIM processes and consequently allows designers and engineers to plan and design infrastructure projects in a real-world context. 
• Navisworks: enables AEC professionals to holistically review integrated models and data in order to better control project outcomes. 

ARCHICAD

Image source: Graphisoft

• Operating system: Windows, Mac
• Price: Unspecified
• Interested? Check out the free trial!

Developed by Graphisoft, ARCHICAD is regarded by some as the first real implementation of BIM. Indeed, Graphisoft was one of the founders of the Open BIM concept—supporting 3D BIM data exchange between different design disciplines on open-source platforms. The software enables architects to take advantage of seamless design and collaboration—from the very first sketch through to a building’s full lifecycle. 

Design in BIM couldn’t be made easier with ARCHICAD. The software comes with a range of innovative tool sets to create models and automatically generate elevations, sections and schedules. And with its bi-directional connection, it’s also possible to use Grasshopper with ARCHICAD. One of the biggest advantages to the software has to be its ability to store large amounts of information within 3D models. Indeed, ARCHICAD effectively uses all the RAM your computer has. It further improves BIM performance with its Predictive Background Processing feature. This makes use of unused computer capacity by anticipating what you might do next and preparing for it in the background.

Presentations, of course, are also an important aspect to any project. Whether you want stills, animations or interactive models, ARCHICAD has you covered. With MAXON’s CineRender, you can create photo-realistic renderings. Meanwhile, you can also take advantage of fully-interactive design presentation packages that run on mobile devices with BIMx.

Vectorworks Architect

Image source: gfxspeak

• Operating system: Windows, Mac
• Price: $2,945
• Interested? Check out the free trial!

Designed with BIM at the heart of its design process, Vectorworks Architect is a great choice for many in the AEC sector. The software allows designers to conceptualize ideas, edit and analyze their models all while generating drawings and schedules. Essentially, it gives users the ability to refine every construction detail throughout a building’s lifecycle, whilst streamlining costs.

With “superior documentation”, Vectorworks Architect enables designers to take advantage of a broader range of drafting and annotation tools than other BIM applications. You can use your BIM model as the focal point to create custom schedules and construction documents—supporting any changes you make throughout your entire design process. Much like Revit’s Collaboration functionality, Vectorworks Architect offers a multiuser environment. Project Sharing enables architects, interior designers and others to unify their workflows and work on the same project simultaneously.

And with robust import and export capabilities—with industry standard file formats like IFC, for example—you can easily move your BIM models through different industry packages. Not sure how it measures up compared to other BIM software? Vectorworks offers additional capabilities not found in either Revit or ARCHICAD:

• Full suite of 2D drafting tools
• NURBS modeling
• Integrated graphical scripting
• Extensive import/export options
• Site Information Modeling (SIM) and design

Allplan Architecture and Engineering

Image source: Detail

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: Unspecified
• Interested? Check out the free trial!

Developed by Nemetschek, Allplan has two main industry packages: Architecture and Engineering. We’ll start with the first package. Allplan Architecture is a BIM solution for architects, enabling them to produce detailed design drawings and unparalleled information quality. You can opt to work either completely in 3D or in a combination of 2D and 3D. You can build virtually before in reality—therefore finding errors and conflicting elements as early as possible. This enables you to avoid costly delays in construction. As with Vectorworks Architect, Allplan comes with MAXON’s CineRender integrated to enable you to create high-quality visualizations. 

Allplan Engineering is a solution for the entire BIM process for civil and structural engineering, structural detailers and contractors. With it, you can easily, for example, compress schedules, compile up-to-date documents and create high-quality visualizations for every step of the way. Allplan also gives users reliable and traceable quantities and costs. Using your BIM model, you can quantify determinations and bending schedules not to mention structural calculations. And with associative views, all changes you make are carried out at once and automatically transferred to all drawings. Thus, reducing errors and saving you more time. 

Both packages also come with a direct connection to the cloud-based BIM platform Allplan Bimplus. And with Allplan Share, you can directly collaborate with teams around the world with the same Allplan data. IFC import and export also ensures secure data exchange between teams and collaborators. 

MicroStation

Image source: Jerry Flynn

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $5,234
• Interested? Check out the free trial!

Developed by Bentley Systems, MicroStation is a CAD software package with extensive BIM capabilities. With 3D parametric modeling capabilities, MicroStation can be used in a number of disciplines to create BIM-ready models. It’s a universal modeling application which enables large project teams to work on the same project. Everything from paper plots to reports to PDFs remain in sync with your design model whilst it’s still in progress. 

MicroStation and Bentley’s other BIM software applications are built on the same comprehensive modeling platform. This means you can progress your MicroStation work into discipline-specific workflows with Bentley’s BIM applications. You can also enforce standards throughout the design process, such as applying templates to control geometry and data standards. As we’ve mentioned in CAD file management, this can be an unquestionably vital part of design. Additionally, it also offers: 

• Automated deliverables: from drawing sheets to schedules to models to realistic visualizations and so on. 
• Reality modeling: reality meshes, images, GIS data, DWG files, external data sources and much more. 
• Intrinsic geo-coordination: ensures your BIM models are created in precise geographic and geometric context. 
• Functional components: allows users to take advantage of 2D and 3D constraints so they can accurately capture and model design intent. 
• Hypermodeling: create a rich 3D experience with annotated documentation—vital for team projects and presentations. 

BricsCAD BIM

Image source: Bricsys Blog

• Operating system: Windows, Mac, Linux
• Price: $1,760 (BricsCAD Platinum + BIM)
• Interested? Check out the free trial!

This isn’t the first time we’ve mentioned BricsCAD on the Scan2CAD blog. One of our top 5 picks for affordable AutoCAD alternatives, BricsCAD is a 2D and 3D modeler which comes with a similar interface to the popular AutoCAD. We’re looking here, however, at the add-on module offered by Bricsys: BricsCAD BIM. Be aware that if you want to use these BIM capabilities, you will need BricsCAD Platinum. 

BricsCAD BIM comes with an advanced 3D modeler with IFC certified BIM functionality. With it, all the building elements you create—from windows to doors to columns—are automatically classified. This is enabled with the Structural Modeling toolset which recognizes linear solids and automatically classifies them as columns, railings, ducts and more. You can also attach specific information to each element—from layer names to rendering definitions to specific building materials. It’s also possible to analyze alignments and connections between your building elements. As a result, you spend less time searching for issues and more time perfecting your models. 

As you build your models, 2D sections are automatically generated so everything is kept in sync with your final construction document set. This makes it even easier to find everything you need once you’re ready to head to the construction stage. Finally, with its enhanced BIM functions, it’s also possible to create and manage building and infrastructure faster and more economically—advantageous no matter how small or big your project is. 

Want to stay updated on all the latest CAD, CAM and CNC news? Keep an eye on Scan2CAD’s blog!

Your choice of architecture software depends entirely on your specific needs—ranging from 2D design to 3D modeling to BIM to rendering. In our latest guide, we’ll cover a variety of software packages that you may wish to invest in.

Which Software Should I Use?

The aim of this article is to help you navigate through all of the many software choices you have out there—and believe us, there’s a lot to choose from. At risk of sounding cliché, your choice of software does ultimately depend on what you’re using it for and what kind of functionality you need. You have to decide whether you need to invest in 2D CAD, 3D CAD, BIM or even rendering software.

Some people use only one software package for their entire workflow and others like to use a combination to produce the best possible output. To help you along your way, we’ve separated software into the following categories: 2D, 3D, BIM and rendering software.

2D Architecture Software

Nowadays, most popular architectural CAD software offers both 2D and 3D capabilities. Despite this, we’re going to look at a couple of 2D packages for architects who don’t necessarily need 3D capabilities. Everything starts with a plan, no matter what kind of building you’re creating. Before you even think about a 3D model, you first have to create a 2D plan. With 2D CAD, it’s possible to create plans, elevations and much more. Architectural firms, however, will eventually move towards 3D CAD and BIM, which we’ll discuss further below.

1. AutoCAD LT

Image source: Autodesk

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $65.00/month, $515.00/year, and $1,545.00/3 years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Everything always comes back to the CAD giant Autodesk. AutoCAD is one of the most dominant players in the CAD industry. We are, of course, focusing here on the LT version. AutoCAD LT is a lower-cost version of AutoCAD with reduced capabilities and functionality. While possibly not the software of choice for professional architects, it’s perfect as an entry level CAD package. It’s also great for those working on a budget or not looking for 3D capabilities.

AutoCAD LT allows users to design and draft in 2D—great for floor plans and the first steps of the design process in any architecture design. It also comes with a variety of features to speed up your design process, from a customizable user interface and tool palettes to the ever-popular command line feature. It might be limited compared to AutoCAD, but there’s still plenty to take advantage of—such as dimension tools, transparency options and cross hatching. Unlike AutoCAD, LT doesn’t have support for 3D modeling or any customization with LISP, VBA or ARX. You could view AutoCAD LT as a sort of stepping stone to 3D software—which we’ll delve into further below.

2. DraftSight

Image source: soft32

• Operating system: Mac, Windows, Fedora, Ubuntu
• Price: $299.00/year (DraftSight Pro), $599.00/year (DraftSight Premium)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

If you’re a Scan2CAD blog regular, you’ll undoubtedly be familiar with DraftSight. Developed by Dassault Systèmes, DraftSight is a 2D design and drafting software package. With it, you can create, edit and share 2D drawings. A freemium product, DraftSight comes in three different packages: Free, Professional, Premium, and Enterprise. 

If you’re serious about your architecture, you should almost definitely fork out for the professional version. With it, users are able to access online community support and an extensive list of learning resources. Additionally, you can access the toolbox—a mechanical symbol library and mechanical annotation add-on, not to mention the design library which provides a location for user-defined elements such as blocks. As you’d imagine, these types of features are very useful when it comes architecture. With DraftSight, uses can also access, create and edit both DWG and DXF files. This wide compatibility comes in handy when collaborating with teams.

Honorable Mentions

• LibreCAD 
• NanoCAD

2D and 3D Architecture Software

Once you’ve got the preliminary stages of 2D drafting and design sorted, the next step is 3D modeling. Of course, you could quite easily skip 2D software completely and go for software that offers both 2D and 3D capabilities. As you’d imagine, 3D CAD has a lot to offer architects. With it, you can expect incredible precision when designing and modeling in 3D. Another benefit is that it offers rendering, which enables you to show clients photorealistic renderings of your models. The learning curve, of course, is far steeper for 3D software—it is something you’ll need to eventually grasp, however, if you’re working in architecture.

1. AutoCAD Architecture

Image source: Majenta Solutions

• Operating system: Mac, Windows, Linux
• Price: $250/month, $2,030/year, $6,085/3 years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

We’ve already discussed AutoCAD LT, but instead of jumping straight to plain-old AutoCAD, it’s much more relevant to discuss Autodesk’s industry-specific AutoCAD Architecture. Created specifically for architects, AutoCAD Architecture enables users to design in both 2D and 3D. Previously, AutoCAD architecture used to be sold separately. But not anymore. Today, it is included when you purchase a subscription of AutoCAD. It is now packaged as a toolset within AutoCAD. That said, you can useNo matter what type of architectural design you have, you can bring it to life with solid, surface and mesh modeling tools. It even comes with increased 3D functionality to include architecture-specific objects like walls, doors and windows. When you’re designing a building, for example, you’ll probably have a 2D floor plan and a 3D model. Here, you’ll be able to switch between different views of your models with just a click of your mouse. You’ll also be able to automatically generate sections, elevations, floor plans, and ceiling grids. Additionally, the Architecture toolset enables you to access a library of more than 8,800 architectural components.

Of course, it’s not just about the design capabilities that makes AutoCAD Architecture such a popular choice for architects—it’s also about the documentation and simulation. Instead of waiting until you’re at the construction stage to discover design mistakes, you can find them earlier with simulations. As you’d imagine, the learning curve for AutoCAD Architecture can be steep if you’re not familiar with Autodesk software. Let’s face it though, most CAD users have tried out AutoCAD at some point! If you’re looking for a helping hand, why not check out how to learn AutoCAD in 1 hour?

2. Chief Architect

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $229.00/month, $1,995.00/year
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

A more commercial pick, Chief Architect is a 3D architectural home design software package for builders, interior designers, architects and hobbyists. Cited as the most popular product for residential home design, Chief Architect offers users a relatively easy learning curve. This is predominantly due to the fact that it’s marketed to both professionals and enthusiasts. Using it, you can design both large scale and home design projects. Arguably, this differentiates it from AutoCAD immensely—there’s no need to stress too much about getting to grips with it. 

Using intelligent building tools, Chief Architect enables users to create a 3D model of their structure—it even automatically generates building systems of the home. These smart building tools also make for an intuitive user interface. Got to show off your projects to a client or team member? You can make use of Chief Architect’s 360° panorama renderings. By making use of automated tools, you can enjoy easier home design and remodeling. So, if you’re looking for a software package that simplifies home design, Chief Architect might be your new favorite.

3. TurboCAD

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $99.99 (TurboCAD Designer), $299.99 (TurboCAD Deluxe), $999.99 (TurboCAD Pro) and $1,499.99 (TurboCAD Platinum)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

A choice for advanced drafters, TurboCAD comes in different packages. We’re going to concentrate on Pro Platinum, as it comes with more capabilities for architects looking to do more with their designs. It’s a powerful 2D and 3D CAD package that gives architects access to an extensive drafting palette, ACIS solid modeling and premium photorealistic rendering—coming in handy when you want to give clients an idea of what to expect from the final model. It comes with a rather simplistic interface which almost seems like AutoCAD—useful if you’re familiar with Autodesk software.

Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg with TurboCAD. It also comes with advanced architectural and mechanical toolsets. The house wizard tool, for example, makes creating room-by-room floor plans an automated process—you can add objects like closets, decking and garages. You don’t even need to worry about internal doors—they’re automatically created when the house is generated. And that’s not all. TurboCAD comes with 500 pre-made floor plans, extensive libraries of objects and even settings to change details like lighting and shadowing. If you’re more of a general consumer, there’s always TurboFloorPlan 3D. Marketed as a solution for those with no knowledge of CAD, it’s used to create your dream home interior and exterior. You can start with a home template and then change it to your liking with drag-and-drop features—it couldn’t be easier!

Honorable Mentions…

• BricsCAD 
• ProgeCAD

BIM Software

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a growing field of interest in the CAD industry, which is why so many developers have begun to incorporate it into their software. Using it, it’s possible to integrate workflows and create large databases that store all the information you need to know about your models—from floor plans to materials to costs. This integrated workflow allows for full collaboration across the board. It also speeds up the entire design and construction process. Of course, it can be far more costly than your standard 3D software and it has an incredibly steep learning curve. Whether you need it or not depends entirely on the size of your project and your budget.

1. ArchiCAD

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price*: $360/month (ArchiCAD Solo), $400/month (ArchiCAD Collaborate), $2,500/year (ArchiCAD Solo), $2,810/year (ArchiCAD Collaborate), $7,587/3 years (AutoCAD Collaborate)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

*Prices vary from country to country, with the listed prices being for the US version of ArchiCAD

Developed by Graphisoft—a subsidiary of Nemetschek—ArchiCAD is a BIM CAD software package dedicated entirely to architecture. Each of its capabilities and functions offer solutions for all aspects of aesthetics and engineering during the design process of a building. With ArchiCAD, you can produce building plans, sections, elevations and construction details. The stair tool now simplifies the creation of stairs—evaluating thousands of design options and offering users the most optimal stair designs. Meanwhile, innovations like the railing tool can also be used to create associative railings for stairs, slabs, walls, roofs or meshes in a single click.

Cited as the first commercial BIM product for personal computers, ArchiCAD certainly stands at the top of the list for architecture software. With BIM capabilities, users can now store large amounts of information for their 3D models—exporting to BIM X also allows you to view your designs in a VR headset. You can compile aspects like types of materials, overhead costs and much more. Additionally, coordination between architects and engineers becomes much more streamlined when you can view everything you need to know about the design in a single interface. And let’s not forget CineRender—giving users the ability to create high quality photorealistic renderings.

2. Revit

Image source: DLT

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $365.00/month, $2,910.00/year, $8,730.00/3 years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Well, we just can’t stay away from Autodesk software! While you might think it a bit redundant to add yet another Autodesk software package to the mix, it’s almost impossible to talk about architecture software without mentioning Revit. A giant in the architecture industry, Revit enables users to create 2D construction designs and documents, 3D models and renderings. Focusing on complete, unified models, Revit enables users to create in both 3D and 4D—from the external and internal structure to real-life information for each drawing element.

It’s also possible to streamline tasks in Revit—you can automate certain processes in order to speed up the design process. Another capability that speeds up an architect’s process is the ability to automatically update all models with recent changes, including plans and elevations. This means you spend less time having to redraw elements and it makes coordination between different design stages that much simpler. You can even centrally share models so numerous groups can work on the same design—streamlining collaboration across teams. Revit’s workflow is designed specifically for designs that will be constructed in real life. Learning the basics of Revit can be a good start if you want to know more about this software.

3. Vectorworks Architect

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $153.00/month, $1,530.00/year
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

A new favorite at Scan2CAD, Vectorworks might not be as much of a household name as AutoCAD, but it’s certainly a front-runner in the CAD industry. Designed for construction engineers, Vectorworks Architect provides full BIM functionality alongside 2D/3D modeling. Using flexible parametric objects, architects can create virtual prototypes of designs with as much or as little detail as they’d like. Developed by Nemetschek, Architect puts BIM at the center of its design process. With it, architects can look at costs, refine construction aspects and increase production. It’s even possible to generate interactive schedules whilst editing and analyzing your structure.

Vectorworks Architect also comes with subdivision surface modeling, NURBS modeling, full rendering and cloud-based storage for sharing. This means you can share ideas with anyone across the world. Its Project Sharing add-on enables teams to unify their workflows—so architects and engineers are all the same page, working on the same file simultaneously. Renderworks also allows users to produce photorealistic renderings with specific materials and shadows.

4. Allplan Architecture

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $435.00/month (Allplan Professional), 3,484.00/year (Allplan Professional), $588.00/month (Allplan Ultimate), $4704.00/year (Allplan Ultimate)
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Just like you can’t escape Autodesk, it seems like we can’t escape Nemetschek. Also developed by Nemetschek, Allplan Architecture is an object-oriented 3D design software package. So, what makes it popular with architects? Like Vectorworks, Allplan puts a large emphasis on BIM in order to simplify decision-making processes for architects. With an optimized and advanced IFC4 data export, there’s even better data transfer in BIM projects—you can share all kinds of BIM model data including freeform geometry. And with Option Allplan Share, architects can take advantage of direct collaboration with partners around the world with the same data.

And that’s just the start of the BIM capabilities—Allplan Bimplus can be used to handle the exchange of thousands of pieces of information in BIM projects. You can centrally define information and use it in different systems throughout the entire lifecycle of a building. Enough about BIM—what else is there? The actionbar is an especially great tool for architects, structuring tools according to function, e.g., modeling, drafting and visualization tools. And with CineRender from MAXON, it’s possible to use physical rendering to achieve more realistic results.

Honorable Mentions…

• MicroStation
• Digital Project

Presentation and Rendering Software

Throughout the entire design process in architecture, there’s a constant need for presentation drawings and renderings. It’s not enough to have 2D designs or 3D models, you also need to be able to show clients and team members exactly what your designs will look like upon completion. As such, with each step of the way, you’ll need to present your design—showing concept art, building walkthroughs and final model presentations. Of course, a lot of CAD software nowadays comes with rendering capabilities or add-ons—thus, you might not necessarily need to fork out for rendering software separately.

1. SketchUp

Image source: SketchUp

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $49.99/month, $349.00/year
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

One of the most intuitive design software packages you’ll ever come across, SketchUp has a nice and easy learning curve—so you don’t necessarily have to be a CAD expert to get to grips with it. On the surface, SketchUp is used for its 3D modeling capabilities. While it’s possible to create full architectural structures with SketchUp, it doesn’t offer the same functionality as software like Allplan and Revit. It can, however, be used to give clients a walkthrough of your designs. It even allows for integration with external CAD programs.

While limited on the surface for rendering, you can add the Maxwell plug-in to create photorealistic renderings and advanced material assignments. SketchUp comes with a community-uploaded object library to take advantage of—not to mention a range of extensions and plugins to take your designs to the next level. It’s also ideal for creating scaled and accurate 2D drawings.

2. 3ds Max

Image source: Autodesk Area

• Operating system: Windows
• Price: $245.00/month, $1,945.00/year, $5,830/3 years
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Yet another product developed by Autodesk, 3ds Max is predominantly used within the video game industry. It’s also a great choice for visualization capabilities in architecture. A little bit more expensive than SketchUp, 3ds Max is for architects who want to take their renderings to the next level. With it, you can create immersive 3D architectural visualization structures and scenes.

It’s not just great for rendering, however; it also comes with modeling capabilities and a flexible plugin architecture. It’s also possible to take your 3D visualizations and develop architectural VR experiences. If you’re a Revit user, you’ll be pleased to hear that you can use 3ds Max with it. You can model your design in Revit and use 3ds Max to add the finer details—preserving model geometry, lights and metadata from Revit projects.

3. Rhino3D

Image source: YouTube

• Operating system: Mac, Windows
• Price: $995.00
• Interested? Try out the free trial!

Rhino3D is a 3D graphics and CAD software that makes use of the NURBS model. A free form surface modeler, Rhino is used across a wide variety of industries—from industrial design to product design to architecture. You might be wondering why we didn’t place it in 3D software. It’s quite simple, really—most of the 3D software we’ve mentioned allows you to design your model and then take it to the real world. With Rhino3D, however, you won’t be able to create with the same level of precision or bring it straight to construction.

Rhino3D offers users a staggering amount of choice and capability—which is why we chose it as an affordable AutoCAD alternative—yet its flexibility does work against itself. Without the ability to create solid models, you’re not going to be able to create models with the level of precision you need in professional architecture. That’s not to say that Rhino shouldn’t be used—it’s certainly a great choice as a presentation tool.

Honorable Mentions…

• Maya
• Photoshop
• Illustrator

Hand Drawing…

Despite what you might think in our era of non-stop technological progress, there’s still a need for hand drawing in architecture. Hand drawing isn’t an obsolete method—architects around the world are still drafting their concepts and designs by hand. Why? It’s a traditional method that most architects use either by habit or by preference. Sometimes it’s faster to draft by hand and other times it just adds a more authentic touch.

But can hand drawing coexist with CAD? The answer’s easy enough—yes, it can. It’s simple enough to use hand drawings in CAD software. All you have to do is scan your drawings and convert them to a vector file format so that you can edit them in CAD. How exactly can you do this? With none other than Scan2CAD! A market-leading CAD/CAM and CNC conversion software, Scan2CAD enables users to convert designs quickly using a suite of specialized tools.

Using shape recognition and vectorization algorithms, Scan2CAD can easily convert your paper drawings to a vector file format ready for use in CAD software of your choosing. Interested? Convert as many hand drawings as you’d like in Scan2CAD’s free 14-day trial.

Want to stay updated on all the latest CAD, CAM and CNC news? Keep a close eye on Scan2CAD’s blog and news section. 

Scan2CAD’s latest guide covers the best tips and tricks for Vectorworks—including advice on managing workspaces, customizing shortcuts and creating your own drawing templates. We’ve even included a few top resources for you to take advantage of.

Summary of Vectorworks

Vectorworks is a cross-platform CAD and BIM software developed by Nemetschek Vectorworks Inc. Used internationally, it was one of the first CAD programs and the first cross-platform CAD application. It was also one of the first companies to start introducing BIM capabilities to its software. Vectorworks is used across the AEC and entertainment industries—a strong competitor to software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks.

With Vectorworks, users can create 2D and 3D designs and models. It comes with parametric features and photo-realistic renderings that bring designs to life. Additionally, BIM capabilities enable users to conceptualize designs, analyze projects and generate schedules to refine construction details. It’s designed to run on Windows and Mac OS X. As with developers like Autodesk, Vectorworks offers different packages—or suites—all tailored with features to suit different industries:

• Architect
• Landmark
• Spotlight
• Designer
• Fundamentals

There’s a lot more to Vectorworks than meets the eye. Not encountered it yet? That’s fine—check out our article on everything you need to know about Vectorworks.

Vectorworks basics

We can’t exactly go straight into tips and tricks for Vectorworks if you haven’t first gotten to grips with the very basics. After all, you need a bit of a foundation before you start looking at advanced capabilities. So, where do you start? Scan2CAD’s way ahead of you, which is why we’ve got a handy guide to learning Vectorworks basics in 1 hour—helping you get to grips with the user interface and much more. Not enough for you? You could always check out Vectorworks’ very own basics guide featuring tips on:

• User Interface: looking at aspects like the drawing area and the view bar.
• Palettes and workspaces: showing users how to customize their workspace.
• Mouse Interaction: covering basic user interaction and selecting objects.
• Navigation and views: how to switch between standard views and use pan.
• Object types: looking at the various types of objects available.

Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg with the basics. There’s so much to do with Vectorworks that you need to give yourself time to get fully acquainted with it. Fortunately, Vectorworks offers beginners—and experts—a lot of help in the way of getting started guides.

Vectorworks community

Whether you’re using Vectorworks as a hobbyist or looking to incorporate it into your business, it’s certainly worthwhile joining the Vectorworks community. Why? The Vectorworks community gives you access to a large number of resources that you can look to whenever you’ve got questions or issues. You can make use of message boards to talk to other users—ideal for when you’ve got technical issues.

There’s even a Vectorworks User Group community which is great for helping you learn how to use Vectorworks more efficiently. You can network with designers and Vectorworks users in your area, so no question goes unanswered. Looking for a job? Vectorworks even has its own job board featuring employment opportunities at Vectorworks, internships and positions offered by users.

And for those looking to stay updated on all things Vectorworks-related—which we definitely suggest—there are a number of mailing lists for you to join. This enables you to receive all press releases as soon as they’re announced. There’s even a latest news section so you can look at press releases, recent blog articles, case studies and product reviews.

Commands and shortcuts 101

The next step to becoming a Vectorworks expert is definitely getting to grips with commands and shortcuts. By using them, you can easily cut your design process in half—speeding up your productivity immensely. You might choose to learn commands after you’ve figured out the basics and designed your first model. Or, you might learn how to use commands at the same time as everything else.

Interestingly, Vectorworks doesn’t come with a command line, which might come as a surprise for AutoCAD and SolidWorks users. Fortunately, it does come with a wide variety of keyboard shortcuts for most of its tools. Typical shortcuts look like:

• Rectangle: 4
• Rounded rectangle: Alt+4
• Triangle: Shift+T
• Mirror: =
• Chamfer: Alt+7

Take a look at the full list of Vectorworks shortcuts here. Fancy customizing your own shortcuts? Keep on reading to see how you can customize menu, tool palette and tool set commands and much more.

From newbie to expert: customization

One of main things that tends to set CAD beginners and experts apart is the use of customized workspaces, shortcuts and tool palettes. If you know how to shape your CAD interface to better suit your own preferences and needs, you can speed up your workflow dramatically.

Managing workspaces

You can manage your workspaces in a number of ways. To manage all available workspaces, select Tools > Workspaces > Workspaces. If you’re only looking to make changes to your current workspace, head to Tools > Workspaces > Edit Current Workspace. Alternatively, you can click Customize from the utility menu of a tool set or tool palette.

You can then make changes to menus, commands, tool palettes and more for all available workspaces. We’re going to look at modifying menus and commands and tool palettes—as you’ll see below.

Menus

If you want to customize your workspace to better suit your needs and preferences, you might want to first start by customizing your menus. Simply head to the Workspace Editor dialog box by heading to Tools > Workspaces > Menu. On the left-hand side of the box, you’ll see all available commands grouped by category. On the right-hand side, you’ll see all the menus and commands currently assigned to your workspace.

• Add a new menu or sub-menu: simply click the New Menu command from the commands list and drag it to the position of your choosing in the Menus list. Click the item to assign it a name.
• Add a command to a menu: click the plus sign on the left-hand side to expand the commands list. Select your command and click-drag it to the desired position in the Menus list.
• Change menu name: select the menu from the Menus list and type the desired name.
• Shortcut modifications: you can assign or change the keys used for shortcuts to access a menu command. Select the command, select a shortcut key combination and click in the field to press the desired key.
• Delete an item: select the item and press the Delete key.

When you’re happy with your selections, click OK to save.

Tool palettes and tool sets

Much like customizing your menus, Vectorworks couldn’t make it any easier to alter your tool palettes and tool sets to your liking. Simply head to Tools > Workspaces > Workspaces to manage all available workspaces, then Customize. Alternatively, you can edit a tool set directly by clicking Customize from the tool palette utility menu.

Once you’re there, click on the Tools tab. The dialog box that pops up will show all tools available on the left-hand side, all grouped by category, e.g., 2D tools, bearings, detailing and so on. The right-hand side of the box displays the tool palettes, tool sets and other tools that are assigned to your workspace.

• Add a new tool palette: simply click-drag the New Tool Palette command from the Create list to the Palettes list—you can then rename as desired.
• Add a new tool set: click-drag the New Tool Set command from the Create list to the Palettes list and rename.
• To add a tool or category to a tool set: click the plus sign to expand the list of tools, click-drag the tool from the Tools list to the desired position in the Palettes list.
• Shortcut keys: as with menu shortcuts, simply select a tool and select a shortcut key combination. If the key’s already in use, a message displays and you’ll have to change it.
• Delete an item: select the item in the Palettes list and press the Delete key.

Of course, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. You can also modify context menus, special shortcuts and initial palette positions and settings. Once you’re happy with your changes, click OK to save everything and close the Workspace Editor dialog box.

Creating drawing templates

If you’re looking to get started on a new drawing quickly, you might find it easier to create custom templates—or use standard templates. These templates can contain aspects like layers, classes, sheet borders and settings for attributes or units. When you open a template, Vectorworks then copies it to create a new file. This means you don’t need to worry about your master template being overwritten.

To create a template, open a new file. You can then set up the file with your desired preferences. Select File > Document Settings > Document Preferences. Here, the Document Preferences dialog box will open.

Image source: archoncad

You can then click each tab in the box to set your specific preferences, including:

• Display tab: including parameters like black and white only, use layer colors, adjust flipped text and drop shadows.
• Dimensions tab: set preferences like associate dimensions, auto associate, dimension standard and dimension slash.
• Resolution tab: set resolution preferences like rotated text display, bitmap display, design layer raster rendering DPI.
• Plane mode tab: including parameters like screen plane only, working plane only and screen plane or working plane.
• Plan shadows tab: set shadow settings like offset units, fill style, opacity, use class opacity, show shadow under canopy.

Once you’re happy with your preferences select File > Save As Template to save your new drawing template. To use the template at any point, head to File > New > Use Document Template, then select your new template from the list.

Manage your standards

While it might appear obvious at first, we always think it’s worth mentioning standards and naming conventions. When you’re working with CAD and BIM, you’re almost definitely going to have dozens of files and templates at hand. So, if you don’t set standards and naming conventions, things are going to get confusing very quickly.

Make things easier for yourself in the long run—set up naming conventions the moment you start working in Vectorworks. Run with a certain style and make sure you stick with it for all of your files and drawing templates. If you don’t mind a bit of confusion in your life, then by all means, keep it spontaneous. If you’re working in a team, however, you will almost definitely need to use a standard naming convention—you don’t want people getting confused over which file they’re revising.

Looking for more advice? Head on over to our CAD file management tips.

Top resources

We always like to include a section on top resources to take advantage of. Why? It’s the best way to truly immerse yourself into your chosen software. In this case, there are plenty of top Vectorworks resources to enjoy—all in the name of helping you become a true Vectorworks expert.

To start, you can’t go wrong with checking out all the official Vectorworks channels. Keeping an eye on the latest software releases, updated guides and news will help you stay engaged with Vectorworks.

• Getting Started
• Planet Vectorworks Blog
• Latest News
• Vectorworks YouTube

Not enough? Don’t worry: there are plenty of other blogs and resources to take advantage of. Not only do they cover aspects like the latest product changes, they also cover beginner tips and even video tutorials if you’re a more hands-on learner.

• CAD Digest
• Lynda
• Cadalyst
• ArchonCAD

Not a Vectorworks user? That’s fine—we have a range of tips and tricks for AutoCAD, SolidWorks and DraftSight users too. If you’d like to stay updated on all things CAD-related, just keep an eye on Scan2CAD’s blog.