How to Select the Right 3D CAD Software

3D Computer Aided Design Software (3D CAD software) is used by architects, civil engineers, drafters, artists and other professionals to create precision drawings, images or technical illustrations. The CAD software replaces manual drafting with the automated process with 3D CAD providing an extra dimension in precisely visualizing and share designs.

The software helps users achieve the productivity and efficiency by producing high-quality products with lower cost benefits.

Ever since the invention of 3D CAD/CAM software by the French engineer, Pierre Bezier, it is being used across industries such as civil engineering, automotive, aerospace, electronics, mechanical, and other industrial sectors.

The advances in computer programming and computer hardware notably in solid modeling has allowed more versatile applications of 3D CAD Software across various industries.

Guidelines for Selecting the Right 3D CAD Software

Selecting a right 3D CAD software is the most important decision for an organization as designing a product involves huge manufacturing costs, if not controlled with effective software system in place. The following tips or guidelines will help you in selecting the right 3D CAD Software that is a best fit for your needs.

Compatibility

Compatibility of the chosen 3D CAD Software is one of the factors that need to be taken into account as a design may have multiple CAD formats that need to be converted and centralized to the format that the manufacturers are able to support.

Therefore, you need to ensure that your system is universally compatible, both external as well as internal.

Your system should meet the CAD system requirements to avoid transmission and editing problems.

The created data must be compatible with other systems for the purpose of planning, organizing, and for product promotion. It is also essential to make sure that your system supports export and import formats such JT, IGES, STEP etc.

Drafting Tools

When looking for a 3D CAD Software, it is essential for you to not ignore the drafting tools (available with the software) for creating other CAD software designs, such as in 2D. It is important to choose the one that best fits your design needs or projects.

Pricing

The pricing of a 3D CAD software is one of the most important factors that need to be considered as choosing a software that meets your budget without sacrificing the quality of your output is the best choice. There are lots of 3D CAD software tools online or provided by software service firms or agencies that are not very expensive and provide good value for your money. So, it is important to do a thorough research to evaluate the top 3D CAD software that suits your budget.

Support Availability

Last but not the least, support availability means to take into account whether the engineering CAD Software provider is offering you the right service and support in the form of phone, chat, or email. It is better to choose or look for those software providers who cover customers’ need as part of their service.

Finally, it should be remembered that your design output depends upon the right type of 3D CAD Software you choose and use. Therefore, be practical and wise when selecting the right 3D CAD Software.