Revit enables users to create parametrically (3D) models, generate documentation, view and annotate elements of the 3D model in 2D, and edit the designs. Notably, the software automatically updates all existing versions once you edit the design. It also provides specialized tools for different professionals, a characteristic that has given it a lead in the BIM space. In fact, and according to a 2020 survey by UK-based NBS’s 10th Annual BIM Report, Revit holds a 50% market share, beating the likes of Graphisoft’s ArchiCAD (16%), AutoCAD (13%), and Vectorworks (4%).

Five Commonly Used Design Tools (source)

Despite all its features and industry-leading capabilities that have endeared it to half of BIM software users, Revit falls short as regards importing raster drawings. Indeed, it lets you import floor plans to Revit but does not allow you to manipulate this drawing as-is unless you first manually trace over the outline. But this is a time-consuming exercise plagued with issues such as inaccuracies. 

For these reasons, it is more convenient to convert the raster drawing to a vector format before you can import the floor plan to Revit. And this article focuses on exactly this: how to import floor plans to Revit using Scan2CAD. But first, what makes Revit stand out in a sea of numerous competing products?

About Autodesk Revit

Revit was initially launched in 2000 by Massachusetts, United States-headquartered Charles River Software (CRS), a development company founded in 1997. CRS was later renamed Revit Technology Corporation in 2000 and subsequently acquired by Autodesk two years later. 

The acquisition, completed for a cash-based consideration of $133 million (about $210.1 million presently, adjusted for inflation), helped Autodesk reach new customers as well as expand its building industry business. At the time, the then company CEO and Chairman Carol Bartz commented that Revit would offer the best drafting and model-based design capabilities on the market. Indeed, Carol’s prediction has been fulfilled, with the software commanding an unbeatable lead in the BIM space. 

Revit is now part of a family of powerful software under the Autodesk umbrella. These applications fall into different categories, including computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), BIM, computer-aided engineering (CAE), and computer graphics.

Revit Features

This lead is pegged on a number of elements, according to user reviews. First, Revit offers design collaboration among different professional disciplines. It is also user-friendly, easy to learn/adapt, and provides a myriad of dependable modeling tools. From a features perspective, Revit offers the following powerful 3D modeling and 2D design tools and capabilities: 

•  Visualization and rendering
• Annotation
• Parametric elements such as windows, doors, and walls
• Architectural and structural steel modeling
• Ability to produce design alternatives depending on your objectives and constraints
• Interoperability with commonly used CAD formats
• Form-making (creating a site-specific profile, form, and sketch studies), and more

Revit also promotes collaboration by supporting:

• Scheduling with the use of tables
• Worksharing, which automatically saves, syncs, and updates any changes, creating an up-to-date centrally shared model
• Cloud rendering

And as stated earlier, Revit also offers discipline-specific features and capabilities for architects, structural engineers, MEP professionals, designers (computational design users), and construction professionals. In addition, Revit also lets you import raster files such as PDFs and images, but with a caveat. 

Revit Shortcomings

A drawing saved as a raster file and subsequently imported into Revit only serves two functions. First, it is meant to enable you to trace over the outline of the drawing. Second, you can also use it as a reference to create a 3D model. 

This means that Revit does not support vectorization, a process that automatically traces over a raster drawing’s outline to create a vector drawing. To accomplish this, you either have to manually trace over the outline, which, as stated, is highly time-consuming and may introduce inaccuracies and inconsistencies. 

Alternatively, you can use vectorization software such as Scan2CAD. A leading conversion software, Scan2CAD enables you to convert the raster file (PDF or image) into a vector format that you can then import into and edit on Revit. This means that once the vectorization and importation are complete, you can directly manipulate the drawing using Revit. You no longer have to trace over the outline manually or use it as a reference.

In this regard, Scan2CAD promotes convenience and accuracy. And in fact, it also lets you import images into Revit. In this article, however, we’ll specifically focus on how to import floor plans to Revit. In particular, we will highlight the steps on how to convert the raster floor plan to a vector format before you can import it to Revit. So, let’s get into it.

How to Import Floor Plans to Revit

As a reliable intermediary, Scan2CAD offers features and capabilities that Revit does not provide. Most notably, it enables you to clean a raster drawing and subsequently vectorize it. Simply put, Scan2CAD facilitates any effort to import floor plans to Revit. And here’s how it achieves this feat.

Video Tutorial: How to Import Floor Plans to Revit

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

1. Launch Scan2CAD and import the raster floor plan you intend to vectorize. Scan2CAD opens the drawing regardless of whether it is saved as a PDF or image. It is worth noting that you can verify the characteristics of the raster drawing by simply zooming in on a section of the floor plan. For example, if you observe that the lines comprise pixels, then you are dealing with a raster floor plan. In this case, the quality of the lines will deteriorate the more you zoom in on the drawing.
2. Next, click the Clean raster image button. On the resultant pop-up window, you can make a few changes depending on the quality of your raster drawing. For instance, if Scan2CAD has not already grayed out the Threshold black & white text, that means your drawing is not in black and white. In this regard, check the box to convert the lines and text therein to black and white. You can also play around with the threshold scale. Scan2CAD also lets you Remove speckles & holes, Thicken lines, or Smooth. Finally, and when satisfied with the changes, click OK.
3. Click the Convert raster image button, which prompts a Convert Raster Image window to be displayed. This window lets you choose the appropriate vectorization preset as well as the vectorization option. Regarding the latter, you can select Vectorize, OCR, or Vectorize and OCR. If your drawing only contains geometric objects, choose the first option. But if it features both geometric and text-based objects, go with the last option. Selecting Vectorize and OCR creates a new OCR tab that allows you to set the maximum character size as well as include settings that best fit your drawing. For instance, if your floor plan has either vertically or angularly oriented text, this tab enables you to toggle these options accordingly. Once you are done with selecting the suitable options, click on Run.
4. Scan2CAD will generate a vector preview of the vector floor plan with which you can make the necessary changes. Finally, click OK. 
5. The next step entails saving the converted drawing. To accomplish this, simply click on Export and, on the resultant window, input the file name and select the desired file format. Then, click Save.
6. On the resultant DXF/DWG Export Options window, ensure the Convert black vectors to the white box is unselected. This is because Revit’s workspace usually features a white background (interface). Finally, click OK.

Revit Interface (source)

7. Import the converted floor plan into Revit to enjoy the BIM software’s numerous capabilities. 

Scan2CAD Download

If you have ever traced over an imported floor plan or image using Revit’s drawing tools, you will agree with us that the process is cumbersome. And given that raster drawings do not have object snap capabilities, you are likely to misrepresent the actual length/dimensions of the geometric objects. Fortunately, you can bypass these issues using Scan2CAD. To enjoy the myriad vectorization capabilities that Scan2CAD offers, download the software for free to begin your 14-day free trial.  

Conclusion

Scan2CAD is a leading conversion software that supports automatic vectorization, thereby offering convenience, speed, and accuracy. In addition to this capability, Scan2CAD also enables you to clean up the raster image, thus guaranteeing a smooth conversion experience. Overall, Scan2CAD offers capabilities not available on Revit. It, therefore, acts as an intermediary whenever you wish to import floor plans to Revit. To enjoy this and other capabilities and features, simply download Scan2CAD and begin your 14-day free trial.

Most architects, landscape architects, mechanical engineers, plumbing engineers, electrical engineers, and structural engineers would prefer having a CAD application that can support almost everything since all these fields depend on each other during projects. For example, an electrical engineer will use architectural, civil, mechanical, plumbing, and structural drawings to produce his or her electrical drawings to ensure that the drawings do not conflict.

By being all-in-one CAD programs, BricsCAD and Revit provide drafters, engineers, and architects with all the available options for drawing or opening any drawing they get from the team during projects. But there are a few differences between the two programs that we shall look at in this post.

BricsCAD

Figure 1. Building Modeling was done using BricsCAD BIM (source)

BricsCAD is an all-in-one CAD program for drawing .DWG files ranging from 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and mechanical designs to Building Information Modelling (BIM).

It offers cost-effective and multi-platform CAD solutions for Linux, macOS, and Windows.

There are different BricsCAD editions tailored for different functionalities. These editions include:

• BricsCAD Shape 
• BricsCAD 30-day Free Trial Download
• BricsCAD Lite
• BricsCAD Pro
• BricsCAD BIM
• BricsCAD Mechanical
• BricsCAD Ultimate

The BricsCAD Ultimate combines the functionalities of all the other BricsCAD editions.

What can BricsCAD do?

As indicated in the above section BricsCAD is an all-in-one CAD application meaning it can be used to do any computer-aided design task. One just has to choose the right BricsCAD edition depending on the tasks he or she wants to undertake.

In a nutshell, BricCAD can perform the following:

• Viewing and managing DWG CAD drawings
• 2D drafting
• Annotation
• 3D modeling
• Parametric modeling
• Documentation
• Data Extraction
• File import and export in different formats
• Printing and plotting
• Rendering

Who can use BricsCAD?

BricsCAD is a CAD program that can be used by anyone looking for a computer-aided design program. They just have to choose the right BricsCAD edition depending on their field or the tasks they want to undertake.

If one does not have enough funds to subscribe for the BricsCAD Ultimate, which combines all the functionalities into one application, then he or she can choose an edition that best suits the tasks he or she wants to undertake. 

If you are a mechanical engineer, designer, or CAD drafter looking to just produce some 2D drawings, you can use the BricsCAD Shape which is free. You could also opt for the BricsCAD Lite, which requires a subscription and offers more functionalities than the BricsCAD shape.

If you are a mechanical engineer, designer, or CAD drafter looking to produce 3D models, you could subscribe for the BricsCAD mechanical or BricsCAD Pro depending on your budget.

Figure 2. A Mechanical assembly is done using BricsCAD mechanical (source)

Structural engineers, civil engineers, and architects can use the BricaCAD BIM which allows them to draw and model building structures.

Revit 

Figure 3. An Architectural drawing was done using Revit (source)

Autodesk Revit, commonly referred to as just Revit, is a Building Information modeling (BIM) CAD software. 

There is also a lighter version called Revit LT, which is more cost-effective compared to Revit though with reduced functionalities.

The original version was developed by Charles River Software, which was founded in 1997. Later on, in 2000, the company was renamed Revit Technology Corporation before being acquired by Autodesk in 2002.

What can Autodesk Revit do?

Revit is a fully developed BIM CAD program. It is 4D BIM capable and it has added tools for planning and tracking the various stages of the building process from conceptualization, construction to maintenance or demolition.

It allows users to design a building together with its structure and components in 2D and then go ahead and do 3D modeling and annotation.

In a nutshell, Autodesk Revit can be used for the following in BIM:

• 2D drafting
• 3D modeling
• Parametric Modeling. 
• Automation.
• Collaboration
• Coordination
• Scheduling
• Energy Analysis
• Rendering Presentation.
• Construction Documentation

If you choose to go for the Revit LT, it does not have several functionalities like work sharing (collaboration), analysis, and in-product rendering.

Who can use Revit?

As a building information modeling (BIM) CAD software, Autodesk Revit can be used by landscape architects, structural engineers, architects, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, plumbing (MEP) engineers, as well as civil construction companies.

It is a good choice for all those involved with building construction or civil construction.

BricsCAD vs Revit

Below is a comparison table of BricsCAD vs Revit to help engineers, architects, and CAD drafters in selecting the right software between the two depending on their functionalities.

Conclusion

The above BricsCAD vs Revit CAD software comparison should help you identify the best CAD software between the two depending on what you want to draw or model.

Besides the tasks that you want to undertake, you should also consider the subscription fees, the availability of a free trial, and the functionalities offered by the free trial.

In a nutshell, just to assist you to choose between the two, BricsCAD has different editions that can be used for different fields including mechanical engineering, civil engineering, structural engineering, electrical engineering, and architecture. On the other hand, Revit is solely designed for BIM CAD operations and would not be a good choice for a mechanical engineer looking to design complex mechanical assemblies.

One of the major players in the BIM software industry, Revit gives its users the freedom to design a building model in 3D, view and annotate aspects of the model in 2D with standard CAD drafting tools, and access and edit comprehensive and live building model information in the form of schedules and tabulated databases. The software’s holistic approach to building design also includes the building’s structures, various engineering components, and even the planning and tracking of the building’s lifecycle – from design conception to construction by phases and even continued maintenance or planned demolition.

Seasoned users of the software will attest to its usefulness. Revit is amazingly efficient in the design, drafting, and modeling of construction projects. And with any CAD and BIM design workflows, there will always be a need to use reference images as the starting off point of the process. As such, it’s important to touch upon exactly how to import images into Revit.

Autodesk Revit user interface Source

The importing process isn’t complicated per se, but it is tricky to figure out how to import the image and then convert it into a usable, editable Revit file. More so, it’s hard to plan out the most effective and efficient way to go about all that.

Most users will opt to import the image and then draft or trace right over it – the manual conversion method. This process takes time and effort to do, which is especially true for large, complex images such as complicated floor plans or detailed elevations. For those looking to save a few hours of labor, automatic conversion software would be the way to go. In this article, we’ll go through all the most efficient ways to import images into Revit and make them usable for modeling.

Video Tutorial: Converting an image for Revit

In this tutorial, we use Scan2CAD to convert an image for Revit.

If you’d prefer a deeper look into the process of converting images to Revit you can keep reading…

Image types for Revit

Let’s do a quick run-through of image types before we get into the details of image importing in Revit. There are raster images and vector images. We’ll be focusing on raster images in this blog since it’s by far the more complex image to convert and use on Revit.

Raster images, otherwise known as bitmap images, are files made of clustered, colored pixels. The typical raster file formats are the well-known JPG, PNG, GIF, TIFF, and BMP file formats. Vector files will have images that are made of formulas converted into images. PDF files can also have raster images but that file format is unique such that it can contain both raster and vector elements.

As opposed to pixels that will be restricted by the file’s resolution, vector images will have the same quality regardless of scale or zoom level. In fact, the standard CAD file formats such as DWG and DXF are all examples of vector files. As such, Revit can readily read and handle these CAD-standard vector file formats.

The goal of image conversion for Revit is to take any raster image and turn it into a vector file that can readily be used on Revit.

How do you import raster images into Revit?

As mentioned before, when importing images into Revit, you can choose either to convert the image into a Revit model manually or choose to use an automatic conversion program.

Option 1: Manual trace

Raster image in Revit Source

Manual tracing is the tried and true method of encoding a raster file or image scan into a CAD and modeling program. It can be fairly accurate and it lets users have an intimate understanding of the model they’re building. However, the process is undeniably tedious and could last from hours to days of work depending on the complexity of the original image.

1. Navigate to the view plane in the Revit file that you want to insert the image into, i.e. if you’re working with an image of a site plan, navigate to the floor plan or site plan view on the same reference plane as the image.

2. While on the Contextual bar for the Insert tab on the Ribbon bar, click on Image. A window will open up – navigate and select the image that you want to insert. Place the image on the view plane.

3. Work on checking the scale of the inserted image. Use a Model Line to trace over a part of the image with a known measurement; while using the Model Line tool, you’ll see the exact current measurement of the building element. With some quick math, you’ll find that the current scale of the image will be the known measurement divided by the current measurement. 

4. With the calculated scale value in mind, click on the image and locate and click on the Scale tool up in the Contextual bar. The button looks like a smaller black square inside a larger blue square. Set the Numerical scale at the number calculated from the last step.

5. From there, use the Revit tools you know and love to trace over now correctly-scaled image.

Option 2: Conversion software

Vector file in Revit Source

Revit isn’t a program that has a built-in raster-to-vector conversion tool. A great third-party option for this is Scan2CAD. Scan2CAD is a conversion program that readily deals with all standard raster and vector files and can produce all the industry-standard vector file formats at the user’s discretion. Automatic conversion software is the way to go if the tedium and labor of manual tracing can’t be afforded.

1. Open up the raster image to be converted on Scan2CAD. Make it suitable for conversion by cleaning it up with edits first. The Clean Image button at the top left has the Threshold option to turn the image black and white. Additionally, there are other tools in the Clean Image menu that can help with cleaning up the image.

2. For any other minor edits such as erasing leftover speckles or connecting disjointed lines, the editing tools at the left of the Scan2CAD interface are versatile and easy to use.

3. After the edits are made, the Convert Raster Image button next to the Clean Image button will open up a dialog box for vector conversion settings. Play around with the settings to your discretion and click on Run to generate a preview. Once the preview is satisfactory, click on OK to run the conversion.

4. At this point, the same editing tools to do minor edits to the initial raster image can also be used for the converted vector image.

5. The last step is to click on File > Save As > Vector. Find the destination folder you want to save the converted vector in, choose a name and file format (DWG and DXF work best for Revit), and save.

6. Follow all the steps detailed in the manual tracing method but choose Link CAD instead of Image under the Insert bar.

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, which method of image importing works best will depend on the users and the circumstances. But since conversion technology has become more and more advanced, accuracy has become less of an issue and automated conversion will almost always be the fastest and most efficient way to go about importing and converting images into Revit.

This is where Scan2CAD comes in – the program is perfect for handling any files and images you may want to use on Revit.

In this article, we are going to provide you with a comprehensive explanation of ArchiCAD vs. Revit, two BIM software packages. A concise history of the programs would first be given, then their different features and users. Finally, we will be giving a comparative analysis of the applications based on their features, users, operating system compatibilities, licensing options, and so on. 

ArchiCAD

The evolution of the software ArchiCAD began in 1982 when it was created for Apple Macintosh. It was then launched in 1987 by a Hungarian software company, Graphisoft using Graphisoft’s virtual building concept. ArchiCAD is the first execution of BIM (Building Information Modeling) and also the one of the first CAD software capable of creating two and three-dimensional geometry on a personal computer. ArchiCAD’s capacity to store huge amounts of data within a 3D model was considered revolutionary. Since its launch, there have been various releases of ArchiCAD versions almost every year with different modifications. ArchiCAD 23, the latest version, was released in 2019. ArchiCAD has grown into a more refined software allowing users to be more intuitive with their designs. 

What does ArchiCAD do?

ArchiCAD is an industry-acclaimed architectural BIM software used by Architects, Drafters, and Interior designers for architectural 2D and 3D designs. It helps users to create virtual buildings using structural parts like windows, slabs, rods, doors, walls, and others. You can virtually create models of exactly how you want the building and its surroundings to look. The software is compatible with Microsoft Windows, Mac OSX, and mobile devices (android and iOS) and is available in 27 different languages. 

ArchiCAD has various features which are divided into design, visualization and rendering, collaboration, and data management. 

Design 

ArchiCAD has different tools that facilitate users to create models faster and with more detail. You can work with a 2D or 3D representation on your screen. Although the database stores your data in three-dimension, you can easily generate your plans, elevations, and sections from the virtual building. The program also allows the importation and exportation of the DXF, DWG, and IFC and BCF file formats. It also allows you to upload your 3D models and their 2D drawings to BIMx, enabling you to view them at any time on your mobile or computer devices.  

Visualization and rendering

This ArchiCAD feature has helped users transform their models into high-quality photo-realistic pictures and videos. With this feature, design decisions and client presentations are made easy as they are allowed to see how the model and its environment would appear in real life. 

Collaboration 

This capability enables several team members to work on a building model simultaneously. This is made possible by the BIM cloud as edits made on the model by the members are synchronized with the cloud, helping them see the changes in real-time and design simultaneously over the team leader’s network. The collaboration feature helps your team work on models from anywhere in the world.

Who uses ArchiCAD?

ArchiCAD comes with various capabilities that ease the design process and make teamwork possible. It covers the aesthetics and technical design of a building. It is widely used by Architects, Drafters Engineers, and Designers (landscape or interior). Some companies that use ArchiCAD are RIBA Enterprise, Retail Food Group Limited, Treeline, Root Incorporated, USA, and many others. 

Revit

The journey of Revit started on October 31,1997 when Charles Rivers Software was founded by Irwin Jungreis and Leonid Raiz who were, at that time, developers of PTC’s Pro/Engineer software for Mechanical Design. The software was renamed Revit in January 2000 and thereafter Revit 1 was released. In 2002, Autodesk, makers of AutoCAD, bought Revit Technology Corporation for 133 million US dollars. This purchase led to intensive research, development, and improvement of the program. At that time, Revit was released as different versions based on disciplines. There were Revit Structure, Revit MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing), and Revit Building which was later renamed Revit Architecture. Later on, all these versions for different disciplines were brought together into one package simply called Revit. Several improvements have been made on the software since then. Revit 2021 is the latest version. 

What does Revit do?

Revit is a BIM software package that has complex design and collaboration tools suitable for Structural design, Architectural design, Landscape design, and MEP Engineering. The software covers the complete construction process, which is from the structural design to plumbing to electrical design. Revit is compatible with only Microsoft 64-bits Windows operating system and is available in English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese and some other languages.

There are several capabilities offered by Revit that produce well-detailed designs efficiently. These capabilities are divided into design, collaboration and data management, and visualization and rendering.

Revit has made the design process so easy and efficient with its design capabilities. The software comes with a user-friendly interface and you can easily make use of the tools to produce 2D drawings and their respective 3D models. There are also existing relationships between the views and the families. For example, when you edit an elevation of your model, the plan changes immediately, helping you avoid confusion and mistakes. This feature allows the importation and exportation of DWG, DGN, IFC, and other widely used file formats. 

The collaboration and data management tools provided by Revit enable multiple workers to work on a single project easily. This is done by using the BIM 360 design, a highly secure cloud-based collaboration and data management solution where design and construction teams can co-design models. With this feature, designs are done more efficiently as corrections can be made by team members, and feedback is gotten immediately from the client or company. Members can work on a design simultaneously from anywhere at any time. Collaboration can also be done through sharing, where users can work on a model simultaneously via a local area network. 

Revit offers high tools for high-level visualization and rendering. Design Presentation is a very important phase of the design process. With these tools, communicating designs with either the client, team members, or companies have been made easy as you can give a more realistic ending presentation. 

Who uses Revit

With Revit’s properties and capabilities, and usability in different construction disciplines, it is used by Architects, construction firms, Structural Engineers, MEP (Mechanical Electrical Plumbing) Engineers, and Interior/Landscape Designers. 

ArchiCAD vs. Revit

Conclusion 

ArchiCAD and Revit are two highly-rated BIM software applications that have sophisticated capabilities that make the design process efficient. Choosing which software now depends on the job at hand. ArchiCAD is the one for you if your design is fully architectural based and you plan on working as a team. However, if your application is more sophisticated, Revit is the right choice.

One of the most prestigious design certifications to have is the Autodesk Certification from Autodesk, the biggest CAD software developers in the world.

In this article, we will be discussing Autodesk Certifications and their types, the benefits of getting certified, and the certifiable Autodesk software.

Benefits of getting certified

Before we go into what it takes to earn an Autodesk Certification, let us take a look at some of the benefits of becoming certified. Some of these benefits are

• Gain a competitive advantage that boosts your productivity and value 
• Earn an industry-recognized endorsement of your skills
• Accelerate professional development
• As a student, enhance your academic success and prepare yourself for college or a career.

Autodesk Certifications

Autodesk Certifications are industry-recognized credentials that validate and showcases your expertise in certain Autodesk software. Autodesk offers two types of certifications that differ by level of expertise. They are Autodesk Certified User (ACU) and Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP).

Revit Architecture Autodesk Certified Professional certification (Source)

Autodesk Certified User

The ACU certification verifies that the holder has acquired basic Autodesk software skills and industry knowledge. This certification is recommended for students and entry-level users who have about 150 hours of real-world Autodesk software experience. The ACU not only enhances student college applications and resumes by providing proof of proficiency but also gives them the confidence to pursue professional-level certifications.

Autodesk Certified Professional

The ACP certification validates the mastery of an Autodesk software. It is an advanced certification for professionals with an expert-level of knowledge, who can solve complex workflow and design problems. To qualify for an ACP certification in a software, you are expected to have worked regularly with the software in a professional environment for a minimum of two years. This is equivalent to a minimum of 400 hours and recommended 1,200 hours.

What Autodesk software can you earn certifications in

Autodesk offers certifications in the following software. 3ds Max, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, Inventor, Maya, Revit Architecture, Revit Structural, Revit MEP: Electrical, and Revit MEP: Mechanical. Some of this software have only ACU certifications, some have only ACP certifications, and others have both ACP and ACU certifications. For each software, we will be going through a list of things you need to master before you can get certified. Note that while these topics are required for both ACU and ACP certifications, the ACP certification requires a far more in-depth knowledge of the topics.

3ds Max

3ds Max is a professional 3D modeling and rendering software used for design, visualization, games, and animations. Autodesk offers both ACP and ACU certifications in this software. Certification in 3ds Max requires knowledge of the following in the software. Animation, cameras, lighting materials/shading, riggers, modeling, rendering, UI/object management, and for ACP certification, effects.

AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a CAD software for everything drafting and design. The software includes industry-specific toolsets for various industries. Autodesk offers both ACP and ACU certifications in the software. To qualify for an AutoCAD certification, you must be able to draw objects with accuracy, modify objects, use additional drawing techniques, organize objects, reuse existing content, annotate drawings, and set layouts for printing.

Inventor

Inventor is a professional-grade 3D modeling, simulation, visualization, and manufacturing software that unifies CAD, CAM, and CAE.  Both ACU and ACP certifications are available for this software. Required knowledge for Inventor certification includes user interface and navigation, assembly modeling, part modeling, drawing, sketching, and browser editing. For an ACP certification, additional knowledge of collaboration, views, and documentation is necessary.

Maya

Maya is a 3D computer animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering software. You can earn both ACU and ACP certifications in Maya. To earn these, you must have acquired knowledge of animation, cameras, lighting, materials/shading, rigging/setup, modeling, rendering, and UI/object management. An ACP certification requires additional mastery of effects, dynamics/simulation, scene assembling, and pipeline integration.

Revit Architecture

Revit Architecture is a BIM-integrated 3D modeling software dedicated to the Architecture industry. Autodesk offers both ACP and ACU certifications in this software. Knowledge requirements for certification are creating, modeling, and modifying components, managing views, and managing documentation. Additional knowledge of collaboration is required for ACP certification.

Fusion 360

Fusion 360 is an integrated CAD, CAM, and CAE software for everything product development. Currently, only ACU certifications are available for this software. To qualify for certification, you must be able to sketch, draw, sculpt, model parts and assemblies, and use direct modeling.

Revit Structure

Revit Structure is an industry-specific 3D modeling software dedicated to the construction industry. Autodesk only offers the ACP certification for this software. Prerequisites for certification include mastery of advanced modeling, collaboration, and documentation using Revit structure.

Revit MEP: Mechanical

This is a modeling software that caters to the mechanical and plumbing design needs of structures. Only the ACP certification is offered. Complete mastery of mechanical modeling is required for certification.

Revit MEP: Electrical

Revit MEP: Electrical, like its mechanical counterpart, is dedicated to the electrical design needs if structures and buildings. You can only acquire an ACP certification in this software. The prerequisite for certification is mastery of electrical modeling and design in the software.

For better comprehension, the table below shows the certifiable Autodesk software, and the type of certification you can earn in them.

How to earn Autodesk certifications

Autodesk offers certifications for its software through Certiport, a leading certification exam development & delivery provider. Certiport is a subsidiary of Pearson VUE, a company that develops, manages, and delivers computer-based testing programs for companies and organizations around the world. There are four recommended steps to earning an Autodesk Certification lined up by Certiport. These steps are: learn, practice, certify, and badging.

Learning is a process

Learn

This stage is especially for those who are aiming to earn an ACU certification in a software they may not have come across. Certiport offers several excellent courseware and preparation materials through some Autodesk authorized partners. The leading partners are CADlearning, which includes over 35,000 video tutorials; Global eTraining, a provider of online training solutions; and LearnKey, a top provider of self-paced education. You may also learn from several other sources such as Lynda, Udemy, Edx, Coursera, and the Autodesk Academy, which have comprehensive courses on various Autodesk software.

Practice

As part of your learning process, and in preparation for Autodesk Certifications exams, you can carry out some practice tests. These tests are offered by GMetrix, a skill-management system and leading provider of practice tests, in partnership with Certiport. The GMetrix practice tests are recommended as they create familiarity with the actual exam interface, build confidence towards the certification examination, and enhance the overall learning process through practice questions. You can practice in either testing mode which is just like the actual timed exams, or practice mode where you can work at your own pace while receiving instructions and feedback for each question. GMetrix currently offers practice tests for all ACU certification exams, and for the following ACP certification exams: AutoCAD, Inventor, 3ds Max, Maya, and Revit Architecture.

Certify

Once you have acquired the necessary experience for an Autodesk Certification (150 hours for ACU certifications, and 400 to 1,200 hours for ACP certifications), or when you feel confident enough in your abilities, you can proceed to take the certification exams. The examinations are organized by Certiport and take place in various test centers around the world. You can also take the exam online at OnVUE. To schedule an exam, visit Pearson VUE for more information.

Badging

After you must have taken and passed the certification exam, you become officially certified! You’ll receive a downloadable/printable certificate, as well as an Autodesk Certification digital badge. The digital badges are web-enabled versions of your certification that you can share online, and that can be easily verified in real-time. They are issued by Acclaim, a digital badging platform used by Certiport.

An AutoCAD Autodesk Certified User badge (Source) 

How to promote your certification

What is the point of earning a certification if you do not promote and showcase it, or if it is not verifiable? Autodesk Certifications come with digital badges that you can share with potential employers via LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, emails, online portfolios, and digital resumes. All you need to do is download the image of your badge from your Acclaim profile page, insert or upload it to whatever document or platform you desire, and hyperlink the image to your Acclaim page of the badge. Whenever this image is clicked, the clicker will immediately be directed to a page containing all the details about the certification; what it means, for which software, what abilities and skills it verifies, and many more.

Earning an Autodesk certification is highly recommended for both students and professionals who are affiliated with the design industry. While it would require dedicated and hard work, it is definitely worth it.

Since the software’s ability to get the job done is evident in its millions of users, the next question is how much does Revit cost? In this article we will be discussing everything Revit pricing; from how and where to get the software, to the purchasing options available, to cost. This pricing review was made using the latest Revit version, Revit 2020.

How and Where to Get Revit

Out with the Old: Revit’s Old Licensing Format

On January 31st, 2016, Autodesk stopped selling perpetual licenses for all their software packages and switched to subscription licenses. Revit is available in both short-term and long-term options. The product is available in monthly, annual, and 3-year period subscriptions. While monthly subscriptions are best suited for project-based work or short-term projects, annual and 3-year options are cost-effective long-term options. Since then, Autodesk has made a few additional changes to the subscription licenses.

Previously, there were two major subscriptions licensing options for Revit: Single-user (Standalone license) and Multi-user (Network license). With single-user licenses, a single user could install and use Revit in up to three devices, while organizations whose employees exceeded three had to purchase additional licenses. On the other hand, a multi-user access subscription allowed multiple users on a single local area network (LAN) or a virtual private network (VPN) to have joint access to a single Revit network license. This license was perfect for teams of users as Revit could be installed on as many devices as possible. The single-user license could be bought from either an authorized reseller or from the Autodesk online store, while multi-user licenses could be only be bought from authorized resellers. 

In with the New: Revit’s New Subscription Model

This is no longer the case because, starting August 7, 2022, Autodesk stopped selling new subscription licenses with multi-user access. The company retired these licenses on February 7, 2023, meaning they cannot be renewed after this date. Additionally, Autodesk retired the earlier subscription concept in which licenses were based on serial numbers. Moving forward, the subscription will be assigned to named users through the admins’ Autodesk accounts.

Nonetheless, customers looking to purchase a license that can support multiple users are still covered. Autodesk offers the Premium and Enterprise licenses for this exact purpose. The Single-user license has also been renamed the Standard license. Like its predecessor, the Standard license includes three packages that are based on the length of the subscription period: monthly, annual, and every three months.

Given the changes, you might be wondering where you can get a Revit subscription. We will have you know that Autodesk has not altered its earlier model. Standard licenses can be purchased from Autodesk online store. Similarly, to purchase Premium and Enterprise licenses, you must contact Autodesk’s representatives or authorized resellers.

Revit is AutoDesk’s leading BIM solution. (Image source)

Where to purchase Revit also depends on the subscription term length you require. Monthly subscriptions are only available on the Autodesk store. Annual and 3-year subscriptions, on the other hand, are available for purchase through both resellers and the Autodesk store.

How to Renew Your Revit Subscription

Prior to the expiration of your license, Autodesk will send your contract manager (reseller or Autodesk sales representative) renewal notifications and instructions 90, 45, 30, and 4 days before the expiration date. This reminders help them initiate the manual renewal process as Revit software purchased via a reseller or an Autodesk sales representative is not renewed automatically. Nonetheless, note that all subscriptions purchased through the Autodesk online store are automatically renewed and you’ll be billed automatically unless you turn off this option in your Autodesk account. It is also possible to cancel a subscription before it expires. Canceled or expired subscriptions cannot be restarted. You have to buy a new subscription to continue access. All subscription plans come with a lineup of benefits.

Revit’s Subscription Licensing Plans

Revit subscriptions are available as four major types of licenses: Standard (standalone), Premium, Enterprise, and Education.

1. Standard Plan

Every Revit subscription you purchase on the Autodesk store, through an Autodesk representative, or through a reseller includes the Standard plan. You can elect to purchase the monthly, annual, or 3-year plan.

Based on the newly introduced changes, the Standard plan is based on usage by user name rather than by serial number. In this regard, you must specify the number of users (seats) beforehand during the purchase. For instance, if your team comprises five users, you will have to purchase five seats under the Standard license. You can even purchase as many as 20, 30, or 50 seats, but Autodesk will not give you a discount on your bulk purchase. To purchase and manage your purchases, you must have an Autodesk account.

The Standard license includes the following benefits:

• All the functionalities of Revit
• Two-step verification
• Aggregate usage reports by product, frequency, and version
• Live support during local weekday working hours (8×5)
• Ability to invite, add, and assign users to a Revit product
• User organization into groups to quickly assign the same products to many users simultaneously
• Fewer user management tools compared to Premium and Enterprise plans

2. Premium Plan

The Premium plan is a prepaid subscription available on either a 1-year or 3-year term. This plan is suited for organizations that need to purchase more than 10 Revit seats. According to Autodesk, this plan is designed for small and medium-sized organizations that manage 50 or more subscriptions. It facilitates more efficient user management by including the single sign-on (SSO) tool that enables users to access their accounts using company credentials. In addition, it offers a usage reporting API that facilitates data transfer between different software.

This plan costs about $300 (suggested retail price) per Revit subscription. You can upgrade anytime from the Standard plan or at subscription renewal by contacting an Autodesk representative or an authorized reseller. However, as this is a prepaid plan, you have to wait for your subscription to expire in order to downgrade to the standard plan. 

The additional price offers the following benefits:

• All the functionalities of Revit
• Usage reporting by user, product, frequency, and version
• Single sign-on
• Directory sync: This tool connects your company’s directory with Autodesk’s user management platform
• Automated addition of users upon first sign-in
• API access that enables you to integrate usage data with third-party software
• 24/7 support

3. Enterprise Plan

The Enterprise plan is designed for large customers that enter into an Enterprise Business Agreement (EBA) with Autodesk. This plan offers several benefits, including:

• Customization, e.g., inputting metadata that is relevant to your business to enrich reports
• Control over admin rights, i.e., ability to restrict product downloads to admins only
• Autodesk’s support on individual projects
• Autodesk’s assistance in the development of procedures, workflows, and overall BIM implementation
• Ability to work with an assigned Customer Success Manager (CSM) to build, implement, and capture value from the customer success plan

4. Education Plan

The Education license is reserved for eligible students and educators. It gives these users free one-year educational access to the Revit desktop software and cloud services through the Autodesk Education Community. This license is renewable, provided you remain eligible. Eligibility is anchored in whether a person is an employee or independent contractor working for a qualified educational institution or a person enrolled as a student in a qualified educational institution.

There are two types of education licenses: those meant for individual students and those meant for an entire class/lab. The former license provides access to about 45 Autodesk products, including Revit, while the latter offers access to 55 Autodesk products, including Revit.

Revit Pricing

As we went through the various subscription periods and license types for Revit, you have probably already chosen the plan that you feel is best. Not so fast! It’s time to review the pricing options. The table below shows the price for single-user licenses as well as multi-user licenses. The prices for the single-user licenses were sourced from the Autodesk online store. All prices are in USD.

Autodesk also offers Revit in a heavily discounted AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) collection. This collection includes Revit, the entire AutoCAD family, Civil 3D, Autodesk Forma, and Navisworks Manage. The table below shows the prices of subscriptions for the AEC collection.

To put your savings on the AEC collection into perspective, the table below shows the individual prices of annual standard licenses for some of the major products available in the collection.

The AEC is sold for $3,430.00, yet the actual price is $11,530.00. With savings of a whopping $8,100.00, the AEC collection is a no-brainer. It’s like getting Revit for the usual $2,805.00 and the rest of the amazing collection for just $625.00!

Revit Discounts

The 3D view of a building in Revit. (Image source)

Autodesk offers a number of discounts and freebies on Revit. Some of them are as follows.

1. Revit Education License

You can get a free version of Revit for students, teachers, and educational institutions, through an education license. As stated earlier, the education plan is valid for one year and can be renewed provided you are still eligible. This version is solely for the purposes of research, training, development, and learning. It must not be used for professional or commercial purposes.

2. Revit Free Trial

Autodesk allows users to enjoy the full version of Revit for free, over a period of 30 days. After this period users are expected to decide whether to either subscribe or discontinue usage.

3. Revit’s 10% Off on Renewals

Autodesk gives existing subscribers a special renewal pricing that is 10% less than what they would ordinarily pay for a new subscription. However, this discount only applies if you renew before the subscription expires and is applicable to only the annual and three-year plans.

Revit Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I buy Revit without a subscription? No. Autodesk moved from a perpetual licensing model, which would allow you to purchase Revit without a subscription, to a subscription model. Under this model, you have to renew your license after every month, year, or three years, depending on the term you choose.
2. Can I renew my expired Revit license? No. An expired license cannot be reactivated or restarted. In that regard, you have to purchase a new subscription license. You can purchase a new license through Autodesk’s online store or via an authorized reseller.
3. How can I convert Revit trial version to paid subscription? As trial licenses cannot be extended or renewed, you have to purchase a paid subscription. To convert your Revit trial to a subscription, follow this procedure:
   1. Open your trial software and click ‘Subscribe Now.’ This will open the Autodesk Account page where you will be prompted to log in.
   2. Log in to your Autodesk account to purchase the license plan that best suits your needs. In rare cases, however, purchasing via your account may not be possible. In such an instance, you will have to go through a reseller.
   3. Once you have made the purchase, your trial license will automatically switch to a subscription.
4. Will my Revit software update automatically if I choose long-term plans? Yes. You will receive automatic Revit updates throughout your contract term. This applies to both short-term (monthly) and long-term (1 year and 3 year) plans.

Are There Alternatives to Revit?

Having gone through the pricing of Revit, it’s reasonable to want to consider alternative products.

1. Revit LT

Revit LT is an economical and cost-effective BIM software that is used to produce 3D architectural designs and basic documentation. Generally, Revit LT is designed for BIM and project managers, contractors, consultants, engineers, architects, and design and engineering professionals in solo practice or those working for and in small organizations. It is also ideal for students and educators. 

Compared to Revit, Revit LT is cheaper. In addition, it is a more simplified BIM solution. This means Revit LT provides basic structural modeling, data management, and interoperability tools. Additionally, its visualization and presentation features are more rudimentary than what Revit offers.

Revit LT lacks MEP modeling capabilities (which are present in Revit), meaning it cannot be used to design HVAC duct systems, mechanical equipment, piping and plumbing systems, electrical and lighting systems, as well as fabrication of parts. Moreover, it cannot be used for construction modeling, simulation, or analysis. If you want a program that unlocks these and more features, then you have to purchase another software; you could use Revit or the other products on this list.

2. AutoCAD Revit LT Suite

AutoCAD Revit LT Suite pairs Revit LT and AutoCAD LT together in suite. It thus provides professional grade CAD and BIM tools within a single interface. The suite is used to design, document, visualise, and deliver both engineering and architectural projects for teams or individuals working in the BIM and CAD spaces.

3. Vectorworks Architect

Vectorworks Architect is one of several products under the Vectorworks stable. Developed and sold by Vectorworks, Inc., a subsidiary of the Nemetschek Group, Vectorworks Architect is a BIM software suited for the various design and construction phases, including the pre-design phase, schematic design development, detailed development, and documentation.

In addition, Vectorworks Architect promotes creative expression by allowing you to sketch, model, and document all your ideas using the built-in 2D drafting and 3D modeling tools. Upon completing the modeling phase, you can visualize your creation thanks to the software’s integrated 3D modeling engine powered by SIEMENS Parasolid.

What’s more, this solution enables you to quantify and analyze information, run ‘what if’ scenarios, automate schedules, calculate costs, maximize and optimize every design element, and analyze energy efficiency. In addition, its import/export capabilities allow you to import different file types from myriad 3D modeling software.

As we have detailed in our Vectorworks vs. Revit article, there are several differences between Vectorworks and Revit. For instance, Vectorworks Architect is available via a perpetual license or a subscription, while Revit users can only purchase a subscription plan. Additionally, unlike Revit, Vectorworks Architect has a network license and a separate maintenance charge for the perpetual license. That said, Vectorworks, Inc. will follow in Autodesk’s footsteps as it intends to stop selling perpetual starting January 1, 2023. The Vectorworks subscription license is cheaper than Revit.

4. ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD is a popular BIM CAD software developed by the Hungarian company Graphisoft. This solution is the first execution of BIM in the CAD industry and is mainly designed for architectural applications. For this reason, it is primarily used by interior designers, drafters, and architects who want to create 2D and 3D designs.

The software offers a myriad of design, visualization and rendering, collaboration, and data management tools. Its approach to the design process is simple as it enables you to easily incorporate parts such as windows, doors, walls, slabs, and others. Moreover, ArchiCAD offers visualization and rendering tools that help designers and architects transform their 3D models into photo-realistic videos and pictures.

And being a BIM software, ArchiCAD promotes collaboration via the cloud. For example, members of a large team can edit a drawing or model, with the software automatically synchronizing the changes in the cloud. This enables every user to access only the updated copy of the drawing/model.

As detailed in our ArchiCAD vs. Revit comparison article, both of these applications differ greatly. For instance, ArchiCAD has both a Windows and macOS version, while Revit is only compatible with the Windows platform. Furthermore, Revit can also be used by MEP engineers in addition to architects and designers, while ArchiCAD can only be used by architects and designers. Finally, ArchiCAD is cheaper than Revit – ArchiCAD’s pricing is summarized in the table below.

5. BricsCAD BIM

There are different BricsCAD products, including BricsCAD Shape (a free 3D modeler), BricsCAD BIM (a BIM solution for designers, structural engineers, and architects), BricsCAD Mechanical (for mechanical engineers), and BricsCAD 24/7 (a cloud-based collaboration tool). Of this, and as the name suggests, BricsCAD BIM is Revit’s alternative.

BricsCAD BIM offers start-to-finish (design-to-documentation) tools that improve the BIM workflow. In fact, the software uses machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence to automate tasks such as BIM data manipulation, documentation, and detailing. Its intuitive direct modeling tool enables you to sculpt a model in a way that ensures it remains responsive and light. In addition, the solution acts as an easy path for CAD users to enter into the BIM space without having to learn about the traditional BIM system. Simply put, BricsCAD BIM provides design modeling, documentation, and BIM capabilities in a DWG-based system.

The solution lets you visualize your design at every step of your BIM workflow. This is thanks to real-time rendering using integrated tools such as Escape, Twinmotion, and Lumion.

When it comes to pricing and licenses, BricsCAD BIM does not have a monthly subscription plan. Instead, its subscription plans cover either a one-year or three-year term. The existence of one-year and three-year subscription plans means BricsCAD BIM operates somewhat similarly to Revit. Nonetheless, BricsCAD BIM is cheaper.

The table below summarizes the pricing information of the various Revit alternatives.

If you are still undecided, consider checking out our article discussing the different BIM software you should choose.

User interface

First things first, let’s talk about the user interface.

Launch screen

When you launch the application, you first come in contact with the launch screen. The launch screen is roughly divided into two. The top half contains the Project area where you can open a previous project you’ve been working on, create a brand new project, or access commonly used templates such as construction, architectural, structural, and mechanical templates. The top half also contains thumbnail links to your four most recent projects so that you can easily access them. The lower half of the launch screen contains the Families area where you can open existing or create new Revit families. This area also contains thumbnails of some commonly used families.

The Revit launch screen. (Source)

You may be wondering what the difference between Revit projects and families is. The difference is that while Project is used to design a whole building or structure with several components and a general environment, Families contain single objects used as ready templates to be imported into a Revit project. For example, a Revit architecture family may contain furniture, walls, windows, and doors; a structure family may contain beams, roofs, and pillars; and a lighting family may contain bulbs, fans, and sockets. Revit families may be created within Revit or downloaded from the internet.

On the right-hand side of the launch screen is the resource panel where you get news, updates, and information from Autodesk, creators of Revit. The resource panel is basically a series of hyperlinks to resources online.
The topmost area of the launch screen contains a series of tabs and instruction located in a menu bar. Keep in mind that the launch screen menu bar is just a condensed form of the software’s main menu bar which you get to see once you begin a project.

In the left corner of the menu bar is a menu button. As with other Autodesk software packages, this button is denoted by the first letter of the application in question; in this case, an R which stands for Revit. Clicking on the R icon will open a standard set of file commands such as open, new, save, save as, import, and options. The options button opens up a lot of important general settings which we recommend you go through the first time you launch your application

Main drawing interface

To access the main drawing interface, you need to start a project by either clicking on New in the Projects area of the launch screen or by clicking on the R menu Icon and selecting New. You will be asked to choose a template. For this tutorial, we will use the architecture template. The main drawing interface is somewhat similar to those of other CAD applications. You have a set of instructions and a menu bar at the top of the screen, a properties’ palette on the left, a project browser on the right, and a large drawing area in the center.

Menu bar

The menu bar which was condensed and had limited access in the launch screen is now expanded and accessible. It contains most of the tools and features for drawing, modeling, simulating, sharing, and collaborating, which make Revit, Revit. These tools and features are neatly organized into a series of tabs on the menu bar. Each tab contains different panels which in turn contain individual tools.

The Revit menu bar. (Source.)

The first tab on the menu bar is the Architecture tab. It is used to create, model, and analyze the solid parts of a building or structure such as walls, roofs, ceilings, stairs, and rooms. The tools under the Architecture tab are arranged into seven panels; build, circulation, model, room and area, opening, datum, and work plan.

The next tab, the Structure tab, is dedicated to everything structures and structural engineering. These include beams, walls, Slabs, foundations, columns, and reinforcements. Tools under the structure tab are grouped into 7 panels; structure, foundation, reinforcement, model, opening, datum, and workplace. You may have noticed that similar to Architecture, the first three panels under Structure are dedicated to drawing proper, while the rest is used to edit and model the drawing with high precision. Coming after the Structure tab is the Systems tab which is divided into several panels; HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning), fabrication, P&ID (Piping and Instrumentation Diagram), collaboration, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, model, and workplace. The Systems tab contains all the MEP engineering tools you require in your building such as ducts, pipes, and plumbing and electrical fittings.

The Insert tab allows you to import, link, or load other CAD files and projects of various file formats, regardless of the CAD software package.

A huge portion of your work process in Revit is annotating and detailing your 3D model with 2D details and annotations. All the tools you require to do this is contained in the Annotate tab under the following panels; Dimension, detail, text, tag, color fill, and symbol. Using the Annotate tab, you can dimension your drawing, add certain symbols, attach texts, detail parts, and create tags.

The Analyze tab which comes next allows you to carry out various in-depth analysis on the 3D model you’ve created. This is where you can carry out structural analysis, heating and cooling estimations, and energy analysis. The Massing and site tab allows you to create a context topography for your building to sit on. You can create the surface area, add trees and parking space, show mass zones and shades, place masses, and manage surfaces.

The Collaborate tab. (Source)

Through a process known as work sharing, a suite of tools under the Collaborate tab allows you to interact with other users of Revit. The collaboration tools of Revit are one of its most important features as they allow to you open other users’ projects, merge projects, and work together on the same project.

Next is the View tab. The view tab is basically a visualization tab which allows you to create different views of your model, from 3D views and sections, to plan views, hidden lines, elevation, and visibility. The tab is divided into graphics, create, sheet composition, and windows. After the View tab is the Manage tab. This tab contains day to day settings in your project such as materials and project location. The tab is divided into settings, design options, manage projects, project location, phasing selection, inquiry, and macros. The Add-in tab is a feature of the full version of Revit which allows you to expand its functionality by adding plugins that enhance your workflow process.

Finally, we have the Modify tab. This tab contains a suite of tools that allow you to modify the elements of the project that you have created. You can copy, move, solutions, and expand items using a variety of tools. These tools are categorized into properties, modify, view, measure, and create.

Quick access toolbar

The quick access toolbar is a narrow band of commands and tools positioned just above or below the menu bar.

The Revit Quick Access Toolbar. (Source)

It contains commonly used commands such as open, redo, undo, and save. It also contains some of your most used tools. The quick access toolbar can be customized or reordered to your preference by adding or removing tools. To add a tool, right click on the tool and select Add to toolbar. You can rearrange the contents of the quick access toolbar by clicking on the customize icon at the right end of the bar.

Properties palette

The properties palette located on the left side of the screen is used to display the parameters and their associated properties of all the elements that you create in Revit. The palette is typically scanty when you begin a project but as you add more and more elements, their properties are displayed. Keep in mind that these properties can be edited to suit your preference. To view the properties of an element in your project simply click on it and its properties will be displayed. the properties palette can be closed to increase the drawing area using the small x located at the right-hand corner of its title bar. it can be opened by typing PP on your keyboard.

Project browser

To the right of the screen is the project Browser which is used to navigate through all the different views contained within your project. Like the properties palette, the project browser may be closed by clicking on the little x on the right of the browser’s title bar. To reopen it, right click on the drawing area and select project browser.

Drawing area

The drawing area is the central area of the application screen where you’ll be carrying out most of your drawing, modeling, and detailing. You can think of it as a drawing board where you can draw whatever you wish. The drawing area takes the highest percentage of screen space. It is like an application window within an application. At the top right corner of the drawing area, there are the three icons that you can find in any almost every application window; close, minimize, and resize. This means that you can close the drawing area without closing Revit, open multiple drawing areas, minimize a drawing area, and resize it by shifting the borders.

Before you start drawing

Before you begin your project in Revit there are certain steps that you need to take to ensure that your workflow suits you perfectly. One of the first steps is to check the default settings. As we stated earlier in this guide, most of these settings can be found in Options under the menu button. Here, you can set up the frequency of the save reminder, modify the graphics, toggle on or off the different interfaces of the software, and select file location.

Next, check the settings in the Manage tab of the menu bar. Here you can select different materials for your project, choose different design options, and change units.

Drawing and editing

Now that we’ve completely familiarized ourselves with the interface of Revit, let’s get to drawing proper. To make it easier for you to draw a component, Revit allows you to select the particular components you wish to draw before starting the drawing. For example, you want to draw a simple house. The first component is the floor. To draw a floor, click on Floor under the Build panel of the Architecture tab. This opens up an array of geometry including line, arch, ellipse, circle, and polygon. Click on any of these shapes displayed under the modify tab to activate it. Next, click on the drawing area and move your mouse to apply this shape in your preferred orientation. Repeat these steps until the floor is complete.

The procedure is basically the same for walls, fittings, roofs, and any other component or building you want to create. The below tutorial is a great visual introduction to modeling in Revit.

Recommended resources

Revit is such a wide software and the things covered in this guide are just the basics. To learn more about Revit, you may use any of the following resources.

• Autodesk’s Design Academy
• Autodesk’s tour of the Revit interface.
• BIMScape’s complete beginner’s guide.
• Balkan Architect’s Youtube Channel.

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.

This month sees news from major players in both hardware and software. Firstly, we’ll be checking out the release of Revit 2019 to see what innovations Autodesk have included in the latest version of their popular BIM software. Then, we’ll be taking a look at the latest budget-friendly mobile workstations from industry powerhouse HP.

Afterwards, we’ll head back to the world of CAD software, as we explore the MacOS release of BricsCAD Shape, the free conceptual design tool for engineers and architects. Finally, we’ll take a detour into an exciting new plotter that can draw on any surface: Scribit. Let’s dive in!

Autodesk launches Revit 2019

If you’re familiar with BIM (or have read our guide to building information modeling), you’ll know that Revit stands as top dog when it comes to BIM software. One of the most popular architecture software suites, the ability to create in 3D and 4D with Revit is hard to beat. It’s for this reason that the launch of a new edition of Revit always generates plenty of excitement.

Right on cue, Autodesk released Revit 2019 earlier this month. In creating the new version, Autodesk took inspiration from customer feedback, with the company inviting requests on its Revit Ideas pages. This prompted the company to improve the overall design environment, as well as the architectural design experience.

The Revit team’s goal was threefold: to help users design, optimize and connect. In keeping with this, Revit’s new features include:

Design

• Greater control over view graphics
• Tabbed views and multi-monitor support
• Levels in 3D views and uncropped perspective to make 3D design more immersive
• Complex fill patterns and lifelike renderings
• New features to help users capture design intent

Optimize

• More complex piping networks

Connect

• More streamlined design-to-fabrication workflows for steel design
• Dimensions for curved objects in section views
• Enhanced 3D modeling and communication of fabrication instructions
• Structural Precast Extension for Revit 2019
• Autodesk BIM 360 collaboration tools

With yet more new features available at the Autodesk blog, it’s clear that the company aren’t resting on their laurels. In fact, it was only last month that the company unveiled AutoCAD 2019. We can’t wait to see what’s in store for Autodesk software in the near future!

HP releases “most affordable mobile workstation”

“The most affordable mobile workstation”—but is it worth the hype? Image source: HP.

Here at Scan2CAD, we know that behind all great CAD work lies a trusty computer. It’s for this reason that we created our rundown of the best workstations for CAD—as well as a guide for those who want to build their own ultimate CAD PC.

No matter which approach you take, however, the issue of getting a great machine for a low price is one that still plagues many a CAD professional. Thankfully, HP have ridden to the rescue this month by launching the ZBook 15V.

The new machine forms part of HP’s ever-expanding ZBook range, with the launch coming alongside revamped ZBook 15 and 17 models. The 15V attracts our attention, however, for the price, with a starting price of just $950.

With a price tag this low, it’s easy to see why HP called the 15V “the most affordable mobile workstation”. But can you really get a great mobile workstation for under $1,000?

Things do certainly get off to a good starting point, with the machine featuring up to 32 GB of RAM, plus up to 6 GB of storage. As for the CPU, both Intel Core and Xeon options are available. Meanwhile, when it comes to the all-important graphics card, CAD users may well want to opt for the NVIDIA Quadro P600 option.

Once you factor in the various extras that you’ll need to complete professional CAD work, the price tag may start to swell a little. Nonetheless, this could be an ideal workstation for any students learning CAD, offering users great specs at a low price. Check the ZBook 15V out at HP.

BricsCAD Shape comes to MacOS

A few months ago, we featured BricsCAD amongst our top 5 affordable AutoCAD alternatives. However, its developers, Belgian CAD firm Bricsys, aren’t happy to merely be an alternative: they want to put their own stamp on the CAD industry.

The company’s innovative spirit led them to create BricsCAD Shape, a conceptual modeling tool for architects and engineers. BricsCAD Shape boasts a simple UI that all designers should get to grips with in mere minutes. But it’s no slouch, featuring smart parametric doors, windows, materials and more. Oh, and did we mention that it’s free—including for commercial use?

So far, so good. Unfortunately, the software has, thus far, only been available to Windows users. Thankfully, the Bricsys team set to work to expand their software’s reach. In April, they revealed the results of their hard work to the world, as BricsCAD Shape for MacOS hit the market.

With the release of this software, both Windows and Mac users can create fully CAD-accurate, real 3D models. You can then remake and remix these models over and over again. When you’re ready, simply save the design as a DWG file, and then go direct to BIM. Put all of this together, and you have a free, simple-to-use design tool that fits within any organization’s existing BIM workflow.

Bricsys have established themselves as one of the most innovative names in CAD. To get in on the action—on Windows or Mac—head to Bricsys.

Scribit: the robot that can draw on any surface

Let’s be honest—plenty of companies resort to pretty hyperbolic language when announcing their new products. With this in mind, we were understandably sceptical when Carlo Ratti Associati announced they’d designed “a new way of drawing”. Thankfully, it seems that what they created really does live up to the hype. Meet Scribit.

Scribit is a vertical plotter system that can turn any surface into your very own canvas. The system takes just a few minutes to set up; just hammer a couple of nails into your wall, plug Scribit in, and you’re ready to let it draw.

Once you’re good to go, the possibilities are near-endless. As Scribit comes with internet connectivity, you can access visuals from across the web. Those who are feeling creative, however, are free to create their own designs. This makes it a perfect choice for applications as wide-ranging as restaurant menus, stock ticker updates or wall art. Plus, if you want to change anything, you can. Scribit can identify the placement of an image upon a surface, and go over it to erase and re-draw.

Those of you already itching to get your hands on Scribit still have a bit of a wait on your hands. In fact, we haven’t even reached the crowdfunding phase yet—so any commercial launch is still a long way off! Nevertheless, we’re certainly already looking forward to the possibilities offered by this neat little robot. To learn more about how it all works, visit Scribit.

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!

In this article, we’ll take you on a whistle-stop tour of some of Autodesk‘s most prominent programs. We’ll cover their key features, the industries where they are most prevalent, and what sets them apart from their Autodesk stablemates.

AutoCAD

Arguably the most well known CAD program on the market, AutoCAD has been Autodesk‘s flagship software since its launch in 1982. Not only was it Autodesk’s first commercially available program, it was also the first CAD software developed for PCs. AutoCAD was initially solely a 2D design software; it has since acquired 3D capabilities over the years. Nevertheless, the software’s primary use is still 2D design and documentation. Autodesk themselves describe it as “primarily a drafting tool to create basic geometry that represents real life”.

A screenshot of AutoCAD Architecture 2017. (Source: Softpedia)

As the program’s features are so fundamental to virtually all aspects of design, AutoCAD has found wide use across a range of industries. This contrasts with some other Autodesk programs which are primarily associated with specific fields—for example, Revit, which is most commonly used by architects and structural engineers.

Its status as an all-rounder also means that its native DWG file type is one of the most common in the world: billions of DWG files are currently in existence today. Many Scan2CAD users convert their images to DWG for use in AutoCAD; one such example is Camden Custom Cutters, who we recently featured on our blog.

Users who don’t need AutoCAD’s 3D tools and simply want to create 2D design can benefit from AutoCAD LT. Subscriptions come in at just a fraction of the cost of the full version; both versions include use of the AutoCAD mobile app.

Proficient in AutoCAD? Make the most of your skills by checking out our guide to AutoCAD careers.

Revit

Autodesk have long been key players in the field of architecture. It’s little surprise, therefore, that they have dedicated building information modeling (BIM) software in their arsenal. Unlike AutoCAD, which focuses on geometry and line work, Revit focuses on complete, unified models. These models are not merely 3D but 4D: users can attach additional real-life information to every element of their design.

Still need to learn more about building information modeling? Visit our guide to BIM.

Screenshot of Revit 2015. (Source: cadsoft-consult.com)

As a BIM product, Revit’s focus is singular: the design of buildings, structures and building elements. As such, architects, engineers, designers and contractors are the key market for Revit. Its functionality is therefore geared towards this purpose: it supports a modeling workflow, when compared to AutoCAD’s drafting workflow, and contains all major building elements. Revit can be used to create practically every detail of a building—everything from its external structure to the furniture inside.

Revit also makes the process of designing buildings simpler by streamlining repetitive tasks. Another key feature is that all views automatically update to reflect changes made to the model. Similarly, changes made to one element affect adjacent or connected elements. The downside to this is that it offers less flexibility than AutoCAD, which views individual drawings as independent from one another. However, Revit’s workflow is more suitable for designs which will later be constructed in real life.

As with AutoCAD, a slimmed-down version of Revit exists: Revit LT. It maintains much of the functionality of the full version, but includes fewer documentation and modeling tools, and does not allow for collaboration.

Learn more about how architects use CAD.

Fusion 360

Fusion 360 is a 3D design tool that includes varying modeling tools; it emphasizes freeform modeling, but also allows for solid, parametric and mesh modeling. It focuses on industrial design, with a target market of mechanical engineers. As such, it stands in contrast to Revit, whose primary purpose is architectural design.

Screenshot of Fusion 360. (Source: AutoDesk Forums)

One of the key distinguishing features of Fusion 360 is that it is cloud-based. This means that users can design from anywhere, with both online and offline editing functionality. The software also runs natively on both Mac and PC, meaning users are free to work on one project on both operating systems.

As an engineering product, Fusion 360’s key features include simulation of motion and structural integrity, assembly modeling, and rapid prototyping. As with Revit, any changes you make in one view will automatically update in other views. This means that you can edit associative 2D drawings and see changes take place in 3D models.

For more information, check out our guide to the impact of the cloud on CAD.

Inventor

Aiming for a similar user base as Fusion 360 is Autodesk Inventor, another design program for mechanical engineers. However, there are several key differences between the two programs. First, whereas Fusion 360 is a cloud-based app, Inventor is desktop-based, and is native only to Windows. Inventor is also a more complex program, with a steeper learning curve to match.

Screenshot of AutoDesk Inventor 2018 (Source: AutoDesk Knowledgebase)

Whilst both programs focus on mechanical engineering, Inventor is clearly the more robust of the two. Fusion 360 is primarily aimed at smaller assemblies of fewer than 2000 parts; Inventor, meanwhile, is aimed at much larger assembles. It also offers a comprehensive range of add-ins, including sheet metal, injection molds, chains and frame design. Potential uses for Inventor include designing conveyor lines, plant layouts, and other complex assemblies.

Similarly to Fusion 360, Inventor offers a range of different modeling solutions. The key difference is that while Fusion 360 focuses on freeform modeling, Inventor focuses on parametric modeling. Meanwhile, Inventor additionally allows users to choose between creating solid models and sheet metal components. It also includes faster simulation times for structural frames, and a range of assembly environments.

…and many more

In this article, we’ve focused on Autodesk’s CAD-related software. However, the company’s reach extends far beyond CAD, and it now operates across a number of industries. Autodesk has, over the years, created a number of different programs to serve customer needs. These include:

• 3ds Max: A computer graphics software for 3D animation, design and modeling. Frequently used within the video game and entertainment industries, it allows for high-end rendering and realistic animation.

• Maya: 3D animation, modeling, simulation and rendering software, popular in the world of art and with filmmakers. In fact, every film since 1997 to win the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects has used Maya. Steeper learning curve than 3ds Max, but more powerful and customizable for power users.

• Flame: An application for interactive 3D visual effects. It includes tools for compositing, editorial timelines, editing, and animation.

• Alias: High-end product design software. Targeted primarily at the automotive industry, it provides sketching, concept modeling, surfacing and visualization tools.

• Netfabb: Design software for additive manufacturing. Helps to speed up the manufacturing process by streamlining workflows and reducing build errors. As noted in our recent World of CAD article, it will soon also encompass generative design functionality.

• Powermill: Autodesk’s CAM software for 5-axis CNC machines. Suitable for various types of CNC machine, with recent updates to the software including turn mill capabilities.

Even this list, however, only scratches the surface of what Autodesk has to offer. For full details, visit our article covering everything you need to know about Autodesk.

Want to learn more about CAD software? Visit our CAD section for the tips and advice you need to know.