After my review of Carlson Construction 2010 for building data last month, I got a bunch of emails that asked this same basic question; why do I need to buy an add on program to AutoCAD, can’t I build data with AutoCAD? The answer is yes…sort of. Read on.

We need to look at the specific product called AutoCAD. This is the original architectural drafting software that has been around since 1982. The main reason this program was developed was to allow someone to draw lines on a screen as if they were drafting on paper by hand. The advantage was the lines were easier to edit if changes were necessary. AutoCAD is a line based program and performs those related functions better than anything else we have used. As the basic functions of the original program matured, outside vendors started writing commands to enhance the functionality of the main program.

There are too many products to mention that run inside the AutoCAD program seamlessly. Nearly every industry has application centric software available that runs in AutoCAD, and makes their life easier. Civil construction is no different. I don’t know about the timeline associated with aftermarket Civil add on products for AutoCAD. Names like LDD (Land Desktop Development) and Eagle Point may sound familiar to you. Over the years, these and other civil based products have been incorporated under the Autodesk (AutoCAD) company as AutoCAD  Civil 3D.

The focus of the product is grand in theory, but stumbling in execution. When the bugs get worked out, an engineer will be able to produce a fully interactive 3D design. Changes made to any part of the project will ripple through the recesses of the program and update all related fields. I do not want to be in charge of this project. The task is daunting and the end result will be revolutionary. I looked at the product last year; associates who are users are still struggling with the program. This is the program you would use to perform takeoffs and produce data.

The sheer power of Civil 3D makes large portions of its functionality useless for people like you and me. In other words you have to buy more than you need. Besides costing a lot of money, you will need to learn thing you really don’t need in order to do what you want. It is why after market suppliers like Carlson have filled the niche so well.

Instead of design, we data builders are in the duplication business. We take the plans and CAD and make a surface that will look correct when built. I need to clarify a point, Carlson has loads of commands you may never need or use. You have a better chance of using Carlson commands then many of those available in Civil 3D. Starting out as software for surveyors, Carlson stayed consistent with their mission and caters to those involved in Civil design and construction. I have found it easier to learn things in Carlson as opposed to Civil 3D, others may have the opposite experience. Over the years, older Carlson commands are still available saving the entire learning curve.

The result is yes, you can do takeoffs and data with Civil 3D. Many are doing it successfully; expect a review in the near future.