I have been using Autodesk products (AutoCAD R12 and up, Mechanical Desktop, Civil Survey, Land Desktop and Autodesk map3D) since 1998. In my current position with a Major North East Utility I also assisted in the Development of our new mapping software that is based on Automap 3D 2006 platform. I have also had the opportunity to sample and experiment with several other CAD type software packages. (Like Microstation, Solid Edge, Solid Works, and 3D Studio Max.), and having taught adult education classes in AutoCAD feel I have a well rounded exposure to engineering software in general.

Given my experience with the Autodesk Product line and having used them for the everyday bread and butter survival of my family I can honestly say they have a well rounded package of software to meet any client's needs. Also with their longevity in the marketplace being what it is, most employers will find a large pool of candidates with at least some experience in using an Autodesk product. Think of Autodesk software as Windows for the engineering world. Sure there are other Engineering products available but for over all ease of use and general acceptance by the majority of people they truly stand alone in the marketplace.

A major factor in Autodesk favor is uniformity. If you understand one of the Core Products you will find the others use many of the same commands and logic. Therefore as your business grows and your needs increase. Upgrades are less costly, and productivity can be rapidly ramped up due to training times being shortened. Upgrades are generally available at a reduced cost, and many times can come with training and support. Not to mention with all the power engines such as Architectural Desktop, Civil Survey, and Mechanical Desktop to name just a few you will be able to take advantage of many specialized features based on your company's type of business that will assist you in creating better drawings much faster.

Most Autodesk products offer migration assistants that will allow you to convert existing and current projects over to the new formats. Autodesk software is also compatible with most of the other major CAD software formats in existence today.

In this age of the World Wide Web and the sharing of information across the Internet Autodesk is again on the cutting edge. Their DWF format is perfect for sharing or publishing large files to the Web. The WHIP viewer is a free download from Autodesk that will allow your clients and customers who have no engineering software or background to open and view drawings right in their web browser. Yet another reason to consider buying one of the many Autodesk products as opposed to some of the others on the market.

You can learn more about the exciting Autodesk suite of products and locate an authorized Autodesk Reseller or buy directly from Autodesk buy visiting their web site at http://usa.autodesk.com.

Learn more about this author, Richard Koch.
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