BIM Software Explained: Types and Key Tools You Should Know

By researching various books and online resources about building information modeling (BIM) software, it is clear that designing and constructing BIM projects using fundamental BIM technologies can be accomplished with a variety of tools. These include Autodesk Revit, Autodesk Navisworks Manage, Civil3D, Tekla Structures, and more.

There is a wide range of BIM software available, which can be categorized into several types: core modeling software, BIM scheme design software, geometric modeling software that integrates with BIM, sustainable analysis software, visualization software, structural analysis software, mechanical and electrical (M&E) analysis software, integrated collision detection software for M&E models, detailed design software, model checking software, cost management software, and operation management software. Among these, core modeling software is the most crucial. Creating and constructing models with core software enables the use of model checking tools, structural and M&E analysis programs, and collision detection software, thereby unlocking the full potential of BIM technology.

When classifying BIM software by their functions in creating and utilizing BIM models, core modeling software, scheme design software, and geometric modeling software that interfaces with BIM fall under the category of software used for creating BIM models. The rest are categorized as software used for leveraging and managing BIM models.

Software for Creating BIM Models

BIM Core Modeling Software: Revit, Civil3D, AECOsim Building Designer, ArchiCAD, Allplan, Vectorworks, Digital Project, CATIA

BIM Scheme Design Software: Onuma Planning System, Affinity Designer

Geometric Modeling Software Compatible with BIM: SketchUp, Rhino, FormZ

Software for Utilizing BIM Models

Sustainable Analysis Software: Ecotect, Green Building Studio, IES, EnergyPlus, DeST, PKPM

Visualization Software: 3ds Max Design, Lightscape, AccuRender, Artlantis

Structural Analysis Software: Robot Structural Analysis, STAAD.Pro, ETABS, PKPM

Mechanical and Electrical Analysis Software: MagiCAD Electrical

Integrated Collision Detection Software for M&E Models: Navisworks Manage, Bentley Navigator, Solibri Model Checker

Detailed Design Software: Xsteel

Model Checking Software: Solibri Model Checker

Cost Management Software: Innovaya, Solibri Model Checker, Luban

Operation Management Software: Archibus

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