AutoCAD is the industry standard for 2D project documentation and is right for the smallest offices and largest firms.
April 08, 2021

AutoCAD is the industry standard for 2D project documentation and is right for the smallest offices and largest firms.

Anonymous | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User

Overall Satisfaction with AutoCAD

We use AutoCAD for existing conditions documentation, 2D drawings and details, annotation, sheet layout, and PDF creation for architectural projects. It is an integral part of our office workflow and allows us to easily create templates and base drawings to export for use in 3D modeling software for design development.
  • Easy to use in field to quickly document existing floor plans.
  • Industry standard allows for easy collaboration with consultants.
  • The subscription model allows for easy scaling if personnel needs change based on workload.
  • Steep learning curve means downtime if training is needed.
  • Relatively expensive, especially if not the main software in office workflow.
  • Complex drawing files tend to become unstable and crash frequently, especially if hatching is used.
  • Efficiency in use means the subscription fee is fairly reasonable
  • Ability to export in various formats allows us to use less expensive software for 3D modeling.
  • Monthly subscription billing option allows us to add or remove seats with yearly commitments.
AutoCAD is used more widely which makes collaboration easier. Learning curve for ARCHICAD didn't outweigh cost differences.

Do you think AutoCAD delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with AutoCAD's feature set?

Yes

Did AutoCAD live up to sales and marketing promises?

Yes

Did implementation of AutoCAD go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy AutoCAD again?

Yes

SketchUp, Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365)
For all of its faults, AutoCAD is the industry standard for 2D CAD drawings. It is appropriate for single users, small offices, or large firms. CAD libraries are easily developed and shared over networks or via the cloud. Scaling and collaboration with consultants is easy.