It can be frustrating...we know.
There are various construction software available and it just comes down to what you aim to achieve. Over the years, more prominent software have emerged and have been slowly gaining ground as more companies choose which software will achieve their desired results. In this article, we will explain in detail the appropriate construction software to learn. Keep reading and find out. The first question to ponder about is what is construction software?
Construction Software: What is it?
Construction software is the collection of not only programs, but also information and processes that have the capacity to carry out specific goals within a project or to implement an internal infrastructure to increase competitiveness, productivity and efficiency.
Now, in order to determine the construction software to learn first, below are some of the tips to help you decide.
Tips to help in deciding which construction software to learn first
Research Software Features: A construction software definitely would have some features. Most of the time, you find out that they may have some interesting tools to support your workflow, but what about its features? So, it is important that you look out for features. Do a software test drive with a small team or a colleague and compare notes.
Try alternatives after comparing different construction softwares: For someone who wants to learn construction software, you may have to spend a considerable amount of time testing before finding the right one. Most times, a brand that wants to sell its product might tell you nice things in order to sway your decision, and once you give in you then notice any hidden flaws. To this end, it is important you carry out a thorough research and test whether a software will support your desired workflow.
Look out for reviews: An integral step before choosing a construction software are the reviews. People who have written reviews on construction software must have used it and they may enlighten you on their experiences and the issues they found. So, reviews are a way of helping you out in making the right choice in learning construction software.
The most popular construction software to look out for are:
Navisworks
AutoCAD
Revit
There are tons of construction software out there, but there are some that just stand out and the focus is on these three. Let's analyze each of them.
Navisworks
This software is known as a clash coordination software and it allows project teams to coordinate all disciplines to identify any ‘clashes’ or ‘hits’, therefore analyzing the constructability of a project. There are currently three versions: Simulate, Manage and Freedom. But the question that you should ask is who should learn and use this type of construction software?
As earlier mentioned, this software is mainly championed by construction professionals. Some of the reasons why you might want to learn this software are:
Most model authoring software on the market can currently export native files into a format that Navisworks can read.
The file format of this software is NWD, as it is a small file size. Also, it contains 3D project information and clients can review a task with the free version of Navisworks freedom.
A faster speed rate for aggregated models than most construction softwares
It has some export options to help users for different projects
AutoCAD
This is an entry-level software mostly used to generate a 2D representation of a design. Some of the reasons why people learn AutoCAD is to:
Entry point into the AEC industry
Learn the basics of drafting and design in a 2D environment
Very common software that is proven and widely used in the AEC industry
More inexpensive than other options
Revit
Another interesting construction software to bear in mind is Revit. With Revit, you can achieve anything and everything. Let's give you insight on why you have to learn Revit.
Yup, Revit is the Iron Man to all construction software. It is an awesome program does it all and can be adapted to most use cases and can be tailored to any custom application.
Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software that brings together various disciplines in the construction field together, for the sole aim of achieving a project that is not only cost effective but also efficient. With Revit, you would be learning a powerful software that can help you automate the most repetitive and tedious tasks. Some of the reasons to learn this construction software are:
It helps visualize, coordinate and find potential problems ahead of time
Reduce rework and provide added value to clients
Automate and expedite repetitive tasks
Establish a link between 2D drawings and a 3D model
Revit also has a wide range of features that appeals to all aspects of construction and it has the capability to communicate with other software by exporting various file types. Because of it’s versatility and adaptability to be used an any use case, it would be unthinkable not to use or learn this software.
Conclusion
Learning construction software is never an easy task to do. Also, knowing the right one or the appropriate one first can be a bit tricky. Learning Revit can create that solid foundation you need to carry on with intended design or construction you might be needing. It is also advisable to move with the trend instead of being caught in the past. You can't go wrong learning Revit, you will be in charge of your own virtual world and be handsomely compensated as well. So, Revit should be the first construction software to learn.
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