Why DataCAD?
Choosing an Architectural CADD Program
Abstract
DataCAD is an affordable, professional-level CADD program for AEC professionals. DataCAD
is one of only a few applications that are developed specifically for
architectural tasks. Originally developed by an architectural firm
more than 30 years ago, DataCAD is one of the stalwarts of the CAD industry.
This white paper provides first-time and experienced CADD users with
a general view of DataCAD and its relationship to competitive offerings.
Is DataCAD right for me?
Chances are you already own a CADD program. Architectural CADD solutions
for desktop PCs have been available since 1984 when DataCAD was first
introduced. Since that time, these programs have matured in many ways.
They now provide more capabilities related to production drawing, 3D
modeling, and rendering. Today, CADD is much more affordable and takes
advantage of modern computer hardware that has become faster and less
costly.
Just about any off-the-shelf PC available today is more than adequate
to run DataCAD, though you can certainly invest as much as you want
in specialized hardware in order to maximize speed and increase data
storage capacity.
Along with hardware and software, the communities of specific CADD program
users have also grown. Many of our customers cite the support they receive
from other DataCAD users via the free online message board at
forum.datacad.com.
The DataCAD Message Board has grown to include more than 80,000 posts in more than 16,000
topics since its debut in 2005. Customers are encouraged to visit often to get answers,
share ideas, and interact with other DataCAD users around the world.
This means that when you purchase DataCAD, you're also joining a community of
users that, on average, have owned DataCAD for twenty years or more. In fact, 25% of
our customers have owned DataCAD for more than 25 years. Chances are you'll
be able to freely interact with other DataCAD users who are applying the program in much
the same way that you will. This kind of support can greatly reduce
the time required to learn DataCAD.
Should you switch to DataCAD?
You might consider switching to DataCAD if your current CADD program
does not provide you with the functionality you need or if you feel
that the program's tools are cumbersome to use and not productive. DataCAD
users who have switched from other CADD programs have done so primarily
to address the lack of comprehensive and efficient production drawing
tools.
Some programs that provide comprehensive 3D tools are lacking when it
comes to producing documents for construction -- and you don't get paid
until the drawings get done! DataCAD serves as the production drawing
backbone for thousands of architects and building designers.
Should you add DataCAD to your present CADD solution?
Consider using DataCAD in conjunction with your current CADD program
to broaden your capabilities. For example, if creating 3D models for
realistic rendering is a prime concern, you might use DataCAD in conjunction
with a dedicated rendering program such Artlantis or Thea Render. DataCAD
is ideal for fast modeling and conceptual visualization, whereas Artlantis'
and Thea Render's focus is on high-end rendering capabilities.
DataCAD is compatible with SketchUp, which is heavily geared toward
3D modeling. As such, SketchUp can be used to develop models for presentation
early in the design process then transferred to DataCAD for the production
drawing phase.
DataCAD and AutoCAD provide many similar functions, so why
would I use these two programs together?
There are two primary differences between DataCAD and AutoCAD. First,
DataCAD is optimized for architectural tasks and is ready, "out-of-the-box"
to create these kinds of drawings. AutoCAD, by itself, is more generic
and does not include architecture-specific tools.
Secondly, DataCAD is much less expensive than AutoCAD. For first-time
buyers, a DataCAD license is $1,295 whereas a license of AutoCAD retails
for $4,195. On an annual basis, DataCAD can be maintained with support
for $300 per year. An AutoCAD subscription with basic support costs
$1,680 per year. So it may be cost-prohibitive for your firm to own
and maintain multiple copies of AutoCAD.
DataCAD in detail:
Power and Ease-of-Use
DataCAD is a flexible design tool that allows you to draw or model almost
anything. It is easy to learn, affordable, and powerful. The drawing
and modeling commands are immediately accessible from an icon or single
keystroke.
Unlike other CADD programs, there is little that comes between you and
the drawing. You don't have to constantly interact with dialog boxes
and prompts. Once you learn the basic commands, the program becomes
transparent to the drawing or model you are working on.
Due in part to the fact that DataCAD is so easy to use, it almost seems
like lines, shapes, dimensions, and text create themselves. Common,
repetitive editing tasks are accessed with a keystroke. The "sticky"
nature of the command structure allows you to perform multiple edits
using that tool before exiting the function. Powerful add-on macros
allow you to extend DataCAD's functionality. Additional tools can
be created for specialized building practices like log construction
and pre-manufactured homes.
Design Tool
The ability to create construction drawings might be taken for granted
in the application of CADD. Recent trends in the CADD industry point
toward a "virtual building" model, or "BIM" (Building Information
Modeling) by which the building is constructed in its totality in CADD;
then, the requisite plans, sections, and elevations are extracted from
this model. One of the most powerful benefits of using DataCAD is its
ability to quickly construct a three-dimensional design idea and then
use this model to generate plans, sections, and elevations.
While DataCAD's parametric modeling technology may not be as robust
as other, more-expensive products, its speed and flexibility easily
compensate. In fact, one might argue that a separation between 2D and
3D are a decided advantage. One of the most problematic aspects of parametric
CADD software is that it does not fare well when the building is not
preconceived in its totality. In DataCAD, however, you can use an evolutionary
process, starting with simple elements and gradually adding complex
relationships. You might draw simple lines, turn these lines into walls,
develop and edit the plan, extrude the lines to a height, convert these
to three-dimensional elements, and finally complete the project by modeling
in the doors, windows, and roofs.
This accretion of data intelligence mirrors the way an architect develops
a design idea. It is intuitive and the end result is a comprehensive
collection of information that you can use to generate more data. For
example, once the model is complete, you can use it to produce the elevations,
sections, and details. The resulting drawings are not "connected"
to the model. While this may be perceived as a limitation, it again
provides the flexibility required by the creation of construction documents.
A window shown in plan is keyed to the details that describe it. You
do not need to know the detailing before you draw the window.
Easy to Learn
DataCADs command structure gives you at least four ways to access most
commands, with each method being progressively faster. Typically, a
command such as Move can be invoked by clicking its icon on the toolbar,
selecting it from the main menu, pressing its corresponding function
key, or using its keyboard shortcut (in the case of Move, the [m] key).
This system allows the novice user to get up to speed quickly, then
gradually increase productivity by using rapid methods to initiate the
command. Eventually, the user comes to rely on single keystrokes that
provide rapid command navigation. These shortcuts can also be customized
and batched together, allowing even more speed. Because DataCAD's
shortcuts are single-letter and don't require typing the whole word
(e.g., "move" "copy array"), they are much faster
than other CADD programs.
Affordability
The cost of a CADD solution is a significant consideration for the majority
of architectural offices, which tend to be small businesses with 5-10
staff members. Purchasing multiple stations at $5,000 each is typically
not a viable option. Moreover, once the software is loaded, there remains
the cost of decreased productivity while learning the program. In the
case of an affordable program like DataCAD, a firm can still entertain
professional training after purchasing the product.
A Comprehensive Solution
DataCAD offers almost everything an architect needs to produce a project
right out of the box. Add-ons to the program can also be purchased to
provide specialized functionality. These are plentiful and also inexpensive.
DataCAD can be used from the very first design ideas as a visualizer
and form modeler. This data can be used for renderings and presentations,
then worked through the design phase and contract documents.
The AIA defines five phases of professional practice. DataCAD can be
used as a strategic tool for each phase:
By Architects and Software Engineers for Architects
DataCAD was created specifically for use as an architectural application.
As such, it takes many architectural needs for granted: drawing walls,
doors, and windows; dimensioning; and notation. All are straightforward
and easy to use. Other programs, which are engineering-based and fitted
with an architectural harness, are unwieldy, time-consuming and difficult
to learn, and counter-intuitive to the drawing process. DataCAD is easy
for an architect to relate to because it is a literal translation of
architectural drawing. DataCAD can even display "line-overshoots,"
a common drafting style used by many architects. Guided primarily by
the interests of architects, DataCAD's development team is dedicated
to continuous improvement.
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