Vectorworks — the Premier BIM Software

If you’ve followed along so far in our exploration of Building Information Modeling, you have a good understanding of the BIM basics. You might be wondering how you can take what you learned to start using these powerful BIM workflows yourself.

You can choose from several BIM software options on the market. In this chapter of the Beginner’s Guide to BIM, you’ll see why Vectorworks design-centric BIM software is the ultimate solution for BIM workflows from start to finish.

• Integrated, Hybrid 2D/3D
• Smart Management of Changes & Data
• Industry-Wide Interoperability

Though BIM is generally considered a 3D modeling process, 2D drawings play a huge role in the effectiveness of BIM workflows. Since architects and other AEC professionals are still typically required to produce documentation of their to-be-built models, a software program that reliably manages both 2D and 3D goes a long way in terms of accuracy and time savings.

Let’s go a step further. It’s time-consuming to create 2D drawings of your models from scratch, and often, AEC professionals rely on two separate software programs to accomplish this.

Most BIM programs have some level of linking between 2D drawings and 3D models, but their 2D output isn’t detailed enough to produce the kind of quality drawings that architects need, forcing practitioners to an additional software program for 2D.

Since Vectorworks is a design-centric BIM program, you have access to purpose-built 2D tools for exploration in pre-design and schematic design. Then, when it comes time to create a BIM model, not only are 2D outputs linked to the model, but it also comes backed with best-in-class 2D documentation tools so you don’t have to rely on another program.

Vectorworks employs an object-oriented approach to BIM, allowing users to attach relevant data to specific elements within the model. This includes detailed information about materials, dimensions, costs, and performance specifications. The software's intelligent objects facilitate accurate representation and ensure that changes made to one aspect of the model automatically propagate throughout the entire project, maintaining consistency and coherence.

Additionally, Vectorworks software has been developed for the way designers work. Changes are inevitable — design is ultimately an iterative process. In Vectorworks, you’ll find that change management is a seamless process, allowing you to iterate and experiment with design options quickly and easily, without sacrificing quality or accuracy.

Furthermore, Vectorworks facilitates efficient data exchange through open standards like Industry Foundation Classes (IFC). This compatibility enables collaboration with other BIM software platforms and interoperability across the construction ecosystem. The software's ability to import and export IFC files fosters a collaborative environment, allowing stakeholders to contribute their expertise without facing compatibility issues.

Vectorworks' data visualization tools also play a pivotal role in enhancing the understanding and interpretation of complex project information. The software enables users to generate customizable reports, schedules, and visual representations of data, empowering them to make informed decisions throughout the design and construction phases.

Revit users can work hand in hand with Vectorworks users in the BIM process thanks to Industry Foundation Classes (IFC). With Vectorworks being able to both import and export IFC files, the collaboration between the two software platforms becomes a smooth and efficient process.

At the core of Vectorworks is the OpenBIM philosophy, which places a strong emphasis on collaboration, transparency, and accessibility. By adhering to open standards and prioritizing interoperability, Vectorworks ensures that its users can easily engage in multi-disciplinary projects. This commitment ultimately enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the design and construction process, making it a win-win situation for both Revit and Vectorworks users.

Vectorworks also integrates with other popular BIM collaboration software options such as Revizto, Newforma Konekt (formerly BIMTrack), and Solibri. This enables a holistic BIM workflow that includes model checking and validation.

Vectorworks is also known for having import and export options to work with all major software programs in the industry. From SketchUp to AutoCAD, you won’t have to worry about collaborating with others who aren’t using Vectorworks.

Vectorworks emerges as a top choice for BIM workflows due to its integrated 2D/3D capabilities, smart management of changes and data, and industry-wide interoperability. By seamlessly combining both 2D and 3D aspects, facilitating efficient data exchange, and promoting collaboration across different software platforms, Vectorworks offers a comprehensive solution for architects and AEC professionals.

For more information on the advantages of designing with Vectorworks, check out the resources below.

• 4 Reasons Why Vectorworks Architect Outshines Revit
• Read: Back to BIM Basics | Early Project Setup in Vectorworks
• Read: Back to BIM Basics | Get the Most Out of Layers
• The Data Difference | The Power of Data Visualization
• The Data Difference | 3 Ways to Maximize Your Data Use for BIM