When implementing BIM during the construction phase, selecting the core modeling software is crucial. The information model created by this software serves as the foundation for all subsequent BIM applications. It is important to continuously refine and enrich the construction information within the original model until the final as-built model is completed. When choosing software tools, several factors should be carefully considered, including the project’s specific characteristics, data compatibility between upstream and downstream software, market share, hardware requirements, and the intended software application domain. Currently, four major software series dominate the market:
Autodesk’s Revit is currently one of the most widely used BIM tools in the civil construction sector. It offers parametric design capabilities and supports integrated multi-disciplinary modeling, enabling bi-directional synchronization with drawings. Many other BIM programs use Revit as their preferred interface for development. However, Revit tends to be resource-intensive and demands robust hardware support.
The Bentley software suite is primarily focused on infrastructure construction and enjoys a significant market share. It excels in modeling complex surfaces and provides a comprehensive upstream and downstream product chain. However, data interoperability with other manufacturers is limited, and frequent changes in its functional modules can pose challenges for users in terms of learning and operation.
In 2007, Nemetschek acquired Budapest-based Graphisoft, incorporating its ArchiCAD software into Nemetschek’s portfolio. ArchiCAD is widely used for building systems and equipment management, with a notable strength in handling large models efficiently.
Dassault’s CATIA is a globally recognized parametric modeling platform, primarily used in mechanical design. It is often applied to model large and complex structures. To address construction industry needs, Dassault developed DigitalProject (DP), which can directly create surfaces controlled by multiple shape sets. However, the software has a steep learning curve and does not fully support model mapping.
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