Autodesk Civil 3D vs. LightningCAD

Well suited:

1. Simple and self-explanatory user interface.
2. Inter usability between other software such as MicroDrainage and Bentley CivilStorm.
3. Autodesk customer service.
4. 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.

Incentivized

• 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

Incentivized

• 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

Incentivized

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.

Incentivized

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.

Incentivized

• Possibility to analyze different scenarios of underground infrastructure design
• Fast material volumes and quantities reports
• Easiest way to achieve BIM mandate's objectives

Incentivized