A review of AutoCAD
September 18, 2023
A review of AutoCAD
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Overall Satisfaction with AutoCAD
We use AutoCAD for 2D drafting, and creating drawing deliverables for multiple clients. We import data from other engineering/design programs that don't have great (or any) drafting capabilities to output clean, readable prints for clients to use in office or out on site. AutoCAD accepts many different inputs and allows for great collaboration between other disciplines.
- Design and Drafting
- Site Planning
- Quantity Estimation
- Visualisation and Rendering
- User Interface Customisation: AutoCAD's user interface could benefit from more robust customisation options. Allowing users to rearrange toolbars, menus, and panels according to their specific workflows and preferences would enhance productivity.
- Enhanced 3D Modeling Tools: While AutoCAD is capable of 3D modeling, it's not as intuitive or feature-rich as dedicated 3D modeling software. Streamlining the process and adding more advanced modeling tools would be a welcome improvement.
- Enhanced Collaboration and Version Control: AutoCAD could improve its collaboration tools, such as real-time editing and version tracking, to facilitate smoother teamwork, especially in multi-disciplinary projects.
- Intelligent Object Libraries: AutoCAD could benefit from an expanded and more intelligent library of standard objects and components. This would save time for designers who often have to create custom components from scratch.
- AutoCAD provides a wide array of precise drafting and drawing tools, allowing engineers to create accurate and detailed plans for various civil engineering projects.
- It supports both 2D and 3D modelling, enabling engineers to create detailed representations of structures, buildings, and infrastructure components.
- Allows users to organize elements on different layers, making it easier to manage complex drawings and ensuring clarity and consistency in design documents.
- Provides robust dimensioning and annotation tools, which are crucial for communicating design specifications and ensuring that construction teams understand the requirements.
- Allows for the creation and use of blocks and symbols, which can represent standard components and objects. This helps in maintaining consistency and efficiency in design.
- Increased Productivity: AutoCAD's efficiency and precision in drafting and design tasks can significantly increase productivity. Engineers can create detailed drawings in less time compared to manual drafting methods, allowing the company to handle more projects simultaneously.
- Improved Accuracy and Quality: AutoCAD's tools and features help maintain high levels of accuracy in design. This reduces the likelihood of errors during construction, which can lead to cost overruns and delays.
- Cost Savings: The time saved in drafting and design, along with the reduction in errors, can lead to substantial cost savings over the course of a project. This positively impacts the company's profit margins.
- Hardware Requirements: AutoCAD may require higher-end hardware to run smoothly, which could entail additional costs for upgrading or purchasing new workstations.
- Limited 3D Capabilities: While AutoCAD does support 3D modelling, it may not be as powerful or intuitive as dedicated 3D modelling software. This could be a limitation for companies heavily involved in 3D design.
AutoCAD was chosen for its versatility, customisation and compatibility. AutoCAD is a highly versatile software used across various industries, including civil engineering. It's known for its precise drafting and drawing capabilities. It allows for extensive customization through scripts, macros, and custom programming. This makes it adaptable to a wide range of workflows and industries and it integrates well with other Autodesk products and a wide range of third-party software.
It does lack specialised functionality that you would get from 12D, MicroStation or Civil 3D so you need to decide what your ultimate work goals are.
It does lack specialised functionality that you would get from 12D, MicroStation or Civil 3D so you need to decide what your ultimate work goals are.
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?
I wasn't involved with the selection/purchase process
Did implementation of AutoCAD go as expected?
Yes
Would you buy AutoCAD again?
Yes