The document presents a comparison of the top 7 BIM software tools for AEC projects, including Revit, Archicad, Tekla Structures, and others. Each software is assessed based on market share, strengths, and weaknesses, with guidance on selecting the right tool based on project complexity, budget, team expertise, and specific needs. The emphasis is on choosing software that enhances collaboration and leads to successful project outcomes.

1. Conquering BIM
Services: Top 7
Software Picks
for Your Next
AEC Project

2. Introduction:
• The world of BIM (Building
Information Modeling) is a
vibrant ecosystem, teeming with
software options.
• But navigating this can be
daunting!
• But there’s nothing to fret!
• Let’s compare the top 7 BIM
software platforms to choose
the perfect tool for your next
AEC project.

3. Contenders: 7 Software for BIM Services:
1. Revit
2. ArchiCAD
3. Tekla Structures
4. Bentley MicroStation
5. Etabs
6. Solibri Model Checker
7. Navisworks
Take a look at the Key BIM Services
required by AEC professionals.

4. 1. Revit:
Revit: The undisputed heavyweight, Revit
reigns supreme with its comprehensive
3D modeling, powerful collaboration
features, and extensive library of building
components.
https://www.autodesk.com/products/revi
t/overview
https://www.autodesk
.com.au/products/revi
t-lt/features
Market share: 60%
Strengths: 3D modeling, collaboration,
interoperability
Weaknesses: Steep learning curve, high
cost

5. 2. ArchiCAD:
This Hungarian contender focuses on user-
friendliness and parametric design, making
it a favorite for architects seeking intuitive
workflows and creative freedom.
https://www.graphisoft.com/archicad/
Market share: 10%
Strengths: User-friendly interface,
parametric design, energy analysis
Weaknesses: Limited structural
engineering capabilities
https://www.upwork.com/en-
gb/services/product/design-3d-
archicad-model-of-your-house-bim-
model-3ds-model-
1533852340799913984

6. 3. Tekla Structures:
For complex steel and concrete structures,
Tekla stands tall. Its advanced analysis tools
and detailing capabilities cater to structural
engineers who demand precision and control.
https://www.tekla.com/
https://www.tekla.com/us/resources
/tekla-structures-concrete/concrete-
contractor-adjustable-forms-adopt-
tekla-to-help-improve-business-5
Market share: 5%
Strengths: Structural analysis,
detailing, interoperability
Weaknesses: High cost, steep
learning curve

7. 4. Bentley MicroStation:
This veteran software boasts powerful
3D modeling and design capabilities,
catering to civil engineering and
infrastructure projects.
It's a well-established choice for large-
scale, complex undertakings.
https://www.bentley.com/software/mic
rostation/
https://www.bentley.com/software/o
penroads-conceptstation/
Market share: 5%
Strengths: 3D modeling,
infrastructure design, collaboration
Weaknesses: Not specifically BIM-
focused, higher complexity

8. 5. Etabs:
When static and dynamic loads demand
robust analysis, Etabs steps up.
This structural engineering software
tackles complex building structures with
precision and efficiency.
https://www.csiamerica.com/
Market share: 5%
Strengths: Structural analysis,
multi-story buildings, dynamic
loads
Weaknesses: Limited 3D
modeling capabilities, not BIM-
focused
https://www.researchgate.net/figu
re/3D-Model-of-the-Building-in-
ETABS_fig1_346054567

9. 6. Solibri Model Checker:
This cloud-based tool acts as your BIM QA
specialist, meticulously checking models for
code violations and clashes.
Solibri ensures your project adheres to
regulations and avoids costly rework.
https://www.solibri.com/
https://www.bimportale.
com/solibri-model-
checker/
Market share: 3%
Strengths: Code checking, clash detection,
cloud-based
Weaknesses: Not a full BIM platform,
limited design capabilities

10. 7. Navisworks:
This powerhouse takes center stage for
clash detection and coordination.
Bringing all your MEP, architectural, and
structural models together, Navisworks
identifies clashes early, saving time and
frustration.
https://www.autodesk.com/products/navi
sworks/overview
Market share: 3%
Strengths: Clash detection, model
coordination, visualization
Weaknesses: Limited design
capabilities, not a full BIM platform
https://www.softwareadvice.com/const
ruction/navisworks-profile/

11. Choosing the Right BIM
Software:
With so many options, selecting the perfect BIM software
for your project depends on several factors:
• Project complexity: Simple projects might favor
beginner-friendly tools like SketchUp, while complex
structures require robust platforms like Revit or
Tekla.
• Budget: Software costs vary significantly. Open-
source tools like SketchUp are budget-friendly, while
premium options like Revit come with higher price
tags.
• Team expertise: Choose software your team is
comfortable with to ensure smooth adoption and
workflow efficiency.
• Specific needs: Consider if you need advanced
analysis capabilities (RFEM), clash detection
(Navisworks), or user-friendly rendering
(Vectorworks).

12. Few Considerations:
• The best BIM software is the one that
empowers your team, enhances
collaboration, and ultimately leads to
successful project outcomes.
• Explore, compare, and choose the tool
that fits your needs like a glove!
• Share your experiences with different
BIM software in the comments below.
What challenges have you faced? What
tools have worked best for you?
Together, we can build a vibrant and
helpful community of BIM enthusiasts!
• Get in touch with our BIM consultants
in USA at 202-465-4830 or
info@tejjy.com.