Likelihood to Recommend Well suited:
Simple and self-explanatory user interface. Inter usability between other software such as MicroDrainage and Bentley CivilStorm. Autodesk customer service. Easily customizable. Not suitable: The software is still very resource intensive on the machines and often crashes when too much data is being shown. Though significant improvements have been made in other Autodesk software like Revit, older applications like AutoCAD and C3D seem to be stuck on old, inefficient source codes.
Read full review When it comes to modelling a product using multiple parts, CATIA becomes tedious. One need someone to sit with and learn with the experience from a frequent user. If switching from any other software to CATIA, it can be intimidating as learning curve is lengthy. For example, when working with complex shape in a knuckle joint, more steps are needed in part modelling. This cause part modelling lengthier and consume time more time, in comparison to
SOLIDWORKS . However, CATIA is tremendously helpful in generating really complex features. Surface modelling is way easier when one know how to use it. It becomes really handy to make changes to the design later as well. The design history tree is also very well organized, which save time in later modifications
Read full review Pros Ease of functionality Templates make design and drawings easier to complete The ability to design and setup drawings simultaneously, where the drawings will be updated as the design is updated should there be changes Read full review Surface modeling module is extremely developed and successful. 2D drafting module is doing the job effectively (AutoCAD is no more required). Read full review Cons The processing of huge sized files in such in big projects, the delay of opening a sheet in Civil3D would burn time Sometimes, it crashes while opening or processing The vast number of tools and functions which make it difficult to use at times hence decent amount of training may be required Read full review The software is pretty heavy, even with computers designed for heavy-duty loads, resulting in long wait times to load files and make changes, reducing productivity. Read full review Support Rating They have a vast open community, which has helped us understand Autodesk Civil 3D from the beginning. They have provided many templates and tutorials videos to our team due to that we can learn every new feature from them. Autodesk Civil 3D has also helped us to interconnect all its software in an internal bridge, which helps us switch between software as we need.
Read full review We got frequent updates on CATIA. There are lots of update notes. Also, there are lots of lots of videos online to solve the issues that you can stumble upon. It also has a built-in help manual, which helps occasionally. I have gotten my education through a physical class on CATIA, so there are opportunities like that as well.
Read full review Alternatives Considered Nothing compares to the ease of learning for Autodesk Civil 3D. It is very intuitive and easy to pick up. However, most DOTs require the use of
MicroStation for roadway and transportation modeling. Autodesk Civil 3D does NOT integrate well with GIS or Bentley products. However, most aviation jobs and land development firms use the software and most students learn to model on a student trial of the software.
Read full review You can create solid or 3D figures more easily and efficiently using Catia than in other programs or in specific
AutoCAD . You can also create different pieces to later assemble them and thus create figures even more complex or in greater detail. In the same way, you can make 2D drawings without much complication.
Read full review Return on Investment Possibility to analyze different scenarios of underground infrastructure design Fast material volumes and quantities reports Easiest way to achieve BIM mandate's objectives Read full review If designing large assemblies or very complex ones, especially in the aerospace industry, CATIA is the way to go. The graphics are really good, and the software offers many possibilities to view a design: 2D, 3D, bird's eye view... Controls pan zoom rotate are easy. Read full review ScreenShots