Autodesk has been producing state-of-the-art CAD design, drafting and prototyping software since 1982. The comprehensive suite of software enables the users to experience their designs before they are realised in 2D and 3D models. Computer Aided Design has come along way since the 80's with more regular software releases which allows users to engage in more complex designs whether they are designing a building or complex components it has now become one of the mainstream design software developers within the design industry.

As an architect I have used a variety of the software provided by Autodesk including on a day-to-day basis AutoCAD, Revit, Architectural Desktop, 3ds Max, VIZ and Buzzsaw. I have been using Autodesk products now for 9 years and have been providing CAD solutions for 3 years.

The features that are mostly used within the construction industry has to be AutoCAD as an industry standard however with the evolution of the Revit software it seems this will soon become a new standard tool in design due to its integrated interface and components management. With the software provided within the Architectural, Engineering & Construction division an architectural practice would not need to invest in any other AEC software as the software range covers all aspects of design. The only setback in buying Autodesk products over rival products is the cost of the products however the customer support is very good and very available. Other setbacks include crashes and compatibility issues with previous versions of individual software which can sometimes take time to resolve.

Generally, the various software solutions are user-friendly and have the convenience of either entering commands by keyboard or by clicking a relative icon in a toolbar. The basic commands to producing a simple 2D drawing are easily learnt within a four hour training session* enabling the user to grasp a basic understanding of how CAD design works. Managing the drawings and components which make up a drawing seems to be where training is harder with more intense lessons. The 3D packages seem to be the hardest to teach however this is made easier if the one has prior knowledge of the workings of 2D design packages.

Mark Physsas, Architect, Foliocity Ltd, Director

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