DataCAD Review

Affordable Computer-Aided Design And Drafting Solution

DataCAD is an affordable AEC computer-aided design and drafting solution. The DataCAD license can be purchased at a lower price, much less expensive than the licenses being offered by other CADD solutions. Due to high licensing fees, some CADD solutions make it difficult for architectural offices to allocate budget for training so that their can staff can master those applications. With DataCAD, users will still be able to avail professional training after they purchase the software.

Easy To Use And Learn

The computer-aided design and drafting solution is easy to use and learn. Because of this, architects and AEC professionals are ensured that they are able to maintain their productivity as they operate the software. DataCAD allows users to quickly interact with their drawings, eliminating the need for constantly dealing with dialog boxes and prompts.

Efficient Command Structure

DataCAD delivers a command structure which provides users with multiple ways to execute commands. For example, when they want to execute the Move command, that can be done in four ways: clicking the icon associated with it on the toolbar, selecting the command from the main menu, pressing a function key,  or invoking it using a keyboard shortcut key. Thus, DataCAD uses command execution methods that help users perform their tasks faster, thereby increasing their productivity.

Furthermore, the keyboard shortcut keys in DataCAD can be customized and grouped together as batches. Also, these shortcuts are using just a single letter, enabling users to execute commands without the need for entering or typing the whole word.

Evolutionary Design Process

In DataCAD, creating construction drawings is done through an evolutionary process. This is what makes the software different from other CADD programs that require first the creation of complete virtual building models before plans, sections, and elevations are generated from those models, a design trend and approach known as BIM or Building Information Modeling.

With DataCAD, plans, sections, and elevations can be formed and developed from simple design ideas. For instance, users can start by drawing simple lines and then convert these lines into walls. From here, they will be able to create and develop a plan, add complex relationships, and transform the design details into three-dimensional elements. Once they’re done building a model, they can use it to come up with plans, sections, and elevations. Although the drawings that they can produce are not connected to the models, such process gives them the flexibility needed for creating construction documents.

Comprehensive And Strategic Tool

The computer-aided design and drafting solution is regarded as a strategic tool. It can be used for drafting, 3D modeling, project design visualization; but on top of that, it can perform special functions through the aid of add-ons the provide users with more comprehensive capabilities.

As a strategic tool, users will be able to utilize DataCAD to manage the different phases of their practice which include the creation of schematic designs, development of designs, generation of construction documents, handling of bidding and negotiation processes, and administration of contracts.