How to Choose the Best Architecture Design Software?
Design software is the core of every architecture company. The building information modeling (BIM) software helps architects and project managers translate their ideas into presentable
designs for their clients.
The BIM software market is expected to grow by USD 787.72 million, with new options
appearing during the next four years. This statistic shows the growing popularity and demand
for design software and that the number of choices will only be increasing.
When there are so many different options available, picking the most suitable architecture
design software for your project can be a challenge. In this article, we will take a look at the best
options currently available and guide you through the process of choosing the best one.
Why Using the Right Architecture Design Software is Important
Choosing the right BIM software for your architecture project can improve your work efficiency
and quality. Also, every architecture company has a different work style, method, and routine.
Each team might prefer and need different types of software, which is why it’s essential to learn
the available options.
Remember to consider these factors when choosing your BIM software, including your budget,
team preferences, and the amount of time required to finish the project.
The right software can also improve your credibility and professionalism. For example, you can
create a portfolio website and showcase your designs.
To create a portfolio website, you should get WordPress web hosting, purchase a domain name
and use one of the available WordPress themes. Then, display the best designs you’ve created
and include the information on what software you used for each project.
5 Factors to Look at When Choosing the Best Architecture Design Software
With numerous software choices available, it might be hard to pick one that suits you the best.
In this part, we will take a look at five aspects that will help you successfully identify the right
software for your architecture design project.
1. Create the Project Objectives
To complete your architecture project, start by listing the project objectives. The project might
require multiple BIM software, so it is essential to know that and prepare before you begin.
Good planning also involves a clear timeline of the project. This can be helpful to decide which
tool to prioritize based on the project timeline, especially when purchasing the entire set of
software at once is not possible.
Creating clear project objectives can also help you pinpoint the approximate budget needed and
compare it with your available resources. This is another essential factor when making a
decision, and it should not be overlooked.
2. Match It with Your Architecture Design Process
When you identify the design process, it will be easier for you to decide which software can
handle the required task for your project.
Take a look at the essential functions you need from this software. Some software might have
impressive capabilities and advanced features. However, those features may be irrelevant to the
related design process.
For example, instead of purchasing software with cloud storage connectivity, opt for a cheaper
alternative and use a free cloud storage service like Google Drive. By doing this, your workflow
can still be streamlined, and you can dedicate your budget to other processes that need
improvement.
3. Ensure It Caters to Your Needs
Identify your project needs and requirements to successfully choose the best architecture
design software.
If you work with a team, discuss their requirements and personal preferences. Some team
members might prefer to work on specific software they are familiar with, and catering to those
needs might improve their productivity and work quality.
4. Compare Multiple Software
Since you may have multiple viable software options, start by listing your preferred software and
comparing them. Look at the pros and cons of each software and see which one fits your needs
and budget.
For example, if you need 3D modeling software but have a limited budget, it might be better to
avoid premium software like AutoCAD. Alternatives, such as SketchUp or BricsCAD, can be
your best choice because they offer similar features at a more affordable price.
5. Consider a Multipurpose Software
By using multipurpose software, you avoid unnecessary spendings. For example, rather than
buying separate software for 2D drafting and 3D modeling worth $100 in total, consider finding
one software with both capabilities that costs $95.
Multipurpose software also helps you be more time-efficient because you won’t have to spend
more time installing and learning to use multiple software on your computer.
When importing a file from one software to another, there is a possibility that it won’t be
compatible, which might hinder the project progression. Because of that, using multipurpose
software also eliminates compatibility issues by keeping project files in the same ecosystem.
Conclusion
With numerous BIM software available on the market, users should know how to choose the
right software that fulfills their needs and preferences.
In this article, we have learned about the importance of using the right software for your
architecture project. We also learned about five steps to choosing the best architecture
software, including:
● Create the project objectives
● Match it with your architecture design process
● Ensure it caters to your needs
● Compare multiple software
● Consider a multipurpose software
Your project’s success relies a lot on what software you choose. Hopefully, this article will help
you make the right choice and improve your project’s efficiency and productivity.
