List of BIM Software & Providers

There are a lot of choices on BIM software, see a list here
Català - Castellano - Deutsch
Although BIM is relatively new, it is also a trend that is penetrating the Construction industry fast and I would even dare to say, with no way back. For those trying to choose an application, here comes a comprehensive list of BIM providers for the different categories.

ArchitectureSustainabilityStructuresMEPConstruction (Simulation, Estimating and Const. Analysis)Facility Managment
I am sure I am missing some, so please add a comment if you know any other. The category order is kind of in the timeline of a building lifespan (Design --> Build --> Mantain). The order of software systems in each category has no reason, first that came to my mind or that I found was first on the list. I know that some of the Systems are more liek add ons to some BIM programs or Analysis Systems. nevertheless, I think these add-on and analysis packages are an integral part of the BIM process and so must be listed together with "pure" BIM modelling tools.

Please Contribute with your knowledge commenting on this post!

by Marti
Labels:

60 comments:

  1. Klaus Mc SchwabMar 16, 2010, 1:45:00 AM

    Hi Marti. I like to see good info like this- It allows people to see what's out there before investing time and money which is so important. One omission in the BIM list is SketchUp... Some will say that SU isn't BIM, but here is a comparison between SU Pro and Revit: http://bit.ly/Skp_vs_Rvt

    Also the categories of Sustainability and Construction could include SketchUp.

    Good work

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. UnknownSep 3, 2017, 5:05:00 PM

      Good day; you tried Archline.XP yet? an Amazing CAD BIM software. You can try a trial for 30 days www.archlinexp.be you will be amazed. Intergrated 3D wearhouse, shortly BIM Object intergreted, free library Laufen, Orac....

      Greetings Wannes

      Delete
  2. MartiMar 16, 2010, 9:09:00 AM

    Well Paul/Alan (viewsion),
    I was tempted to include SketchUp, but this list aimed more to be very specific, and to point out the leading Programs (more developed not more widespread) in each category.
    I have no doubt that SketchUp can be used as a BIM software, since BIM is as much a process as it is a result of the use of certain pieces of software.
    Nevertheless, I have not even included AutoCAD Architecture, which technically it is a BIM software because I think Revit beeing its Also Autodesk's cousin is much better for that purpose.
    I know more and more people are deceloping Plugins to make SketchUp "more BIM" liek 4D Scheduling plugins and others. But still, i feel if I add SketchUp I would need to add a whole set of 3D modelling Programs that"could be used as BIM"
    Thanks anywas for the comment, I think it is and interesting discussion

    ReplyDelete
  3. AnonymousOct 31, 2010, 2:29:00 AM

    Dear Paul...
    There is Another Software, which is Web-based for AEC. The name of the software is "Glue" By Horizontal Systsems.

    ReplyDelete
  4. UnknownApr 20, 2011, 5:10:00 PM

    Hi there, I know it's been a long time since you wrote this post but I just had to thank you for the list. I'm writing a report on BIM for my masters degree in project management and your list has been a life saver.

    For whatever it is worth, it just didn't feel right to close this webpage after using your info without at least writing a comment thanking you.

    All the best!

    ReplyDelete
  5. MartiApr 25, 2011, 10:52:00 PM

    Thanks Bassem for the Comments,
    they are always appreciated, soon after the post or after a long time.
    Cheers

    ReplyDelete
  6. AngelJun 30, 2011, 4:22:00 AM

    Hi Marti,

    First of all, good job! I am starting a Company which is going to provide BIM services for Owners, Design Firms, and General Contractor and I am trying to find one provider which gives me all of the applications I need including energy simulation. It looks like Bentley is one that has all of them,.... but based on your knowledge and experience, can you recommend me any particular provider?

    ReplyDelete
  7. MartiJun 30, 2011, 10:08:00 AM

    Hi Angel,
    I mostly use Autodesk products but that doesn't mean I would stay only using Autodesk software.
    Although choosing one single software provider might be beneficial to guarantee the best interoperability, some piece of software from a different company might do better certain things.
    In my opinion, since you will have to interact with other stakeholders using software from different vendors it is better as I see it to establish a workflow that allows softwares from different vendors to work together rather than trying to stick to one.
    So summarizing, it might make sense to choose one software provider but it shouldn't be your ultimate goal.

    ReplyDelete
  8. TOFeb 27, 2012, 10:06:00 PM

    catia?

    ReplyDelete
  9. MartiFeb 27, 2012, 10:51:00 PM

    haven't included CATIA since Gehry technologies is based on that as far as I know and CATIA is more aimed for the aerospace or automotive industry than for the AEC sector.
    I am waiting for informationa bout Solidworks Live Buildings which seems is going to be the Dassault Systems (CATIA's owners) bid on BIM

    ReplyDelete
  10. Graham BrownAug 1, 2012, 7:32:00 PM

    Envisioneer by Cadsoft?...
    http://www.cadsoft.com/envisioneer_professional.php

    ReplyDelete
  11. MartiJan 5, 2013, 2:06:00 PM

    Thanks Graham, Envisioneer up on the list thanks to you!

    ReplyDelete
  12. UnknownJan 25, 2013, 2:31:00 AM

    We have been using Archicad for 8 years. Currently on version 16. It might be a good perspective to include which of these BIM systems efficiently "Teamwork" from one central model and the average model size for a 100,000 m2 project (or whatever makes sense). These topics critically impact decisions for staffing, workflow, hardware and WAN/LAN bandwidth. Our opinion after reviewing REVIT and ARCHICAD is that Graphisoft still leads the curve on speed, ease of use, metadatabase capabiltiies, memory, and portability (BIMx). Disclosure: Registered consultant and power user talking here...

    Thank you for maintaining your list. Understand its not a comparison or evaluation thread.

    ReplyDelete
  13. UnknownFeb 6, 2013, 12:41:00 AM

    Thank you for your info, but how about Ansys software?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. UnknownApr 11, 2015, 4:39:00 PM

      I think Ansys is a CFD and FEA tool, the design modeler in Ansys is terrible. However if you mean spaceclaim which is Ansys modeler as well, I would like to inform you that the spaceclaim would not provide you with any history (history tree) hence you cant back track the design or modify previous features.

      Delete
    2. UnknownApr 11, 2015, 4:40:00 PM

      Ansys? Spaceclaim modeler?

      Delete
  14. Theory ShawFeb 11, 2013, 3:20:00 PM

    Veo

    ReplyDelete
  15. AnonymousMar 20, 2013, 11:52:00 PM

    ePIN is releasing it's new Bi-Directional BIM Interface Module soon. This major addition to the long established ePIN Project & Program Control Platform will enable a whole new range of fully integrated solutions that can be uniquely tailored to a wide range of situations and needs, as well as providing bi-directional data links to other systems such as ERP
    http://www.epin-international.com

    ReplyDelete
  16. AwrasaJun 26, 2013, 4:29:00 PM

    Hi, this is a great list. I'd like to cite it in a report I'm writing for my company, but was wondering if it's current...

    thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  17. The Revit KidJun 27, 2013, 5:28:00 PM

    Thanks for the list! It is cool to see them all laid out like that!

    www.therevitkid.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  18. steiniallaJun 28, 2013, 7:38:00 PM

    YouBIM for Facility Management, Lumion for visualization, Stadia 3D for Interactive renderings and handouts to customers (without any softwares).
    You may want to include BIM softwares for GEO and Infrastructures as well. For example Autodesk Civil 3D, Autodesk MAP, Autodesk Infraworks etc. There are also a lot of other BIM softwares in the Autodesk Suites not mentioned in your list above not to mention all the Autodesk 360 Cloud services... Yes I'm a hardcore Autodesk user ;)
    Anyway! Great to see this all listed in one place, Thanks ;)

    ReplyDelete
  19. Carl VeilletteJun 30, 2013, 7:55:00 AM

    Sds2 missing in the structure cstegory ?

    ReplyDelete
  20. craig barbieriJul 16, 2013, 3:29:00 PM

    Hey man, aren't you forgetting Civil3D? What about PowerCivil,
    Site Design Site Planning by Eagle Point, Synchro Professional? You should have a Site/Civil category.

    ReplyDelete
  21. MartiJul 16, 2013, 3:39:00 PM

    I see I got a lot of updating to do to this post, I will do is asap. Thanks guys!

    ReplyDelete
  22. UnknownAug 29, 2013, 11:54:00 AM

    Marti whats your opinion about ArchiCAD ?

    ReplyDelete
  23. MartiSep 16, 2013, 3:53:00 PM

    Kostnows87 the truth is I can only talk about ArchiCAD from what I heard which is all good. I have browsed the interface and seems as simple or even simpler to learn that the Revit one.
    I am sure it is an awesome tool, for most of its users seem very satisfied with it.
    Sorry not to be able to provide more info about it, but I really never used it more than to try a few things with the Demo

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. UnknownApr 11, 2015, 4:43:00 PM

      Hi Marti,

      Is Archicad any good for data transfer? IFC files and COBIE database share? I am after a BIM software which is robust, this means we can design and share the design and data effectively without loosing any critical part or section of the design. Could you help me on this matter please?

      Many thanks.

      Delete
  24. AnonymousOct 7, 2013, 11:06:00 PM

    Currently work in autocad but looking to go to BIM. Which program would be easiest for a small residential builder to implement? In terms of learning curve and cost. Are there any specifically designed for residential?

    ReplyDelete
  25. MartiOct 10, 2013, 9:48:00 AM

    Anonymous, hard to tell without more info on your processes. I would say, give a quick try to several trials and depending on how you feel using each one and a quick assessment on features / needs make a pick.
    I read somewhere "the right BIM tool is the one you feel more confortable with" and I tend to agree.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Yair kavaOct 22, 2013, 10:41:00 AM

    Hi all,
    What about SketchUp, EnergyPlus OpenStudio?

    ReplyDelete
  27. MakoOct 24, 2013, 9:23:00 PM

    Hi there,
    I would sugest SolidWorks 3D CAD and the StructureWorks Add-in
    http://www.solidworks.com/sw/successes/customer-story.htm?record=Metromont-Corporation&id=1671
    I am a Certified SolidWorks Professional and have been using the software for over a year now.

    ReplyDelete
  28. AnoopJan 1, 2014, 12:14:00 PM

    There seems to be no mention of Constructivity software

    ReplyDelete
  29. UnknownMar 21, 2014, 5:44:00 PM

    AutoSPRINK is now BIM compliant and REVIT compatible for sprinkler design work

    ReplyDelete
  30. UnknownApr 9, 2014, 5:02:00 PM

    So is this list updates

    ReplyDelete
  31. pui keiApr 16, 2014, 7:05:00 AM

    Do u hv any software tht is for qs ?

    ReplyDelete
  32. GHIJun 6, 2014, 8:23:00 PM

    Hi Marti, not sure if this qualifies as BIM Software, but Guardian Industries offers a free tool at http://www.na.en.sunguardglass.com/ToolsandResources/SpecificationTools/BIMGenerator/index.htm to allow the download of BIM data, that can then be fed into your BIM software of choice.

    ReplyDelete
  33. UnknownOct 3, 2014, 10:33:00 AM

    Very powerful BIM program used widely in EU is also ACAD-BAU that runs on AutoCAD or BricsCAD platform. It is a German product following DIN standards and therefore much closer to European architect. It has autstanding automatism capabilities and uses industry standard DWG file format. More information and Demo available here: http://www.cadtobim.com/acad-bau.html It is definitly missing on your BIM list.

    ReplyDelete
  34. JoDawsonOct 8, 2014, 10:33:00 AM

    Take a look at Concerto's web based BIM enabled solution. It is an integrated project / asset and fm management solution which supports BIM throughout. The functionality is super flexible and can also be employed as separate modules. In support of British standards PAS1192 - 2 & 3, it features robust data validation process at the project phase along with COBie data drops which can be seamlessly transferred to the FM phase. Nice functionality such as in built CAD plans and 3D modelling along with the 'single' umbrella' solution concept make this a comprehensive and powerful offering!
    www.concerto.co.uk
    http://www.concerto.co.uk/bim-enabled-asset-management/

    ReplyDelete
  35. UnknownDec 1, 2014, 2:45:00 PM

    Hi Marti,

    Please add TiffinBIM (at the moment, under Architecture) which will be an alternate solution affordable BIM software. An affordable software that will support BIM-related industry and encourage more participation from relevant industries. Although it is not a Total-BIM-solution, however it will be a good benchmark to start involved in BIM.

    From time-to-time the software will be equipped with MEP, Structural, Telecommunication and many more modules whichever useful for BIM implementation. It shall takes time but it will somehow benefits the industries and let more involvement from many industries.

    ReplyDelete
  36. KRINAAug 6, 2015, 7:57:00 AM

    Thnaks for such nice list.
    even comments are very informative thank you

    ReplyDelete
  37. UnknownAug 26, 2015, 10:39:00 PM

    hi guys,
    I dont have any idea of BIM, I am working on Autodesk inventor , my new job ask to have knowledge if BIM , does my software relate to BIM ,
    Please help me out

    ReplyDelete
  38. Renu AroraNov 13, 2015, 6:40:00 AM

    There is one more called ArchiCAD for BIM modeling

    ReplyDelete
  39. BIM 5D kalkylNov 20, 2015, 3:12:00 PM

    Glodon TAS and TIME is the best BIM modeling programs
    .Even can have take off quantities both 2D and 3D.

    ReplyDelete
  40. BIM 5D kalkylNov 20, 2015, 3:12:00 PM

    Glodon TAS and TIME is the best BIM modeling programs .Even can have take off quantities both 2D and 3D.

    ReplyDelete
  41. UnknownNov 26, 2015, 5:01:00 PM

    how about causeway suite software for quantity surveying services-i.e. estimating (cato pro )

    ReplyDelete
  42. UnknownFeb 11, 2016, 11:45:00 AM

    Good and informative article. BIM services allow Architects, builders and Engineers to efficiently present their design concepts with the help of essential models.

    ReplyDelete
  43. UnknownFeb 11, 2016, 9:03:00 PM

    Chief Architect is missing...?

    ReplyDelete
  44. UnknownFeb 11, 2016, 9:03:00 PM

    Chief Architect is missing...?

    ReplyDelete
  45. BIM RECFeb 17, 2016, 4:30:00 PM

    Thanks for adding this List. I noticed it a while back and thought it was an excellent resource do you have an updated version I can use to add to the BIM REC website www.bimrec.com for a list of BIM software providers

    ReplyDelete
  46. BIM RECFeb 17, 2016, 4:32:00 PM

    Thanks for adding this List. I noticed it a while back and thought it was an excellent resource do you have an updated version I can use to add to the BIM REC website www.bimrec.com for a list of BIM software providers

    ReplyDelete
  47. cadsifuOct 6, 2016, 3:44:00 AM

    Please add TiffinBIM Architecture
    A Malaysian product

    ReplyDelete
  48. MartinOct 21, 2016, 9:43:00 AM

    All BIM-Applications by Category via buildingSMART:

    http://www.buildingsmart-tech.org/implementation/implementations

    ReplyDelete
  49. Mark SchipperNov 30, 2016, 1:32:00 PM

    I guess that list makes other suggestions obsolete : p Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  50. UnknownDec 7, 2016, 9:11:00 AM

    FUZOR construction.
    Another BIM software for 4D simulation

    ReplyDelete
  51. AnonymousDec 21, 2016, 4:16:00 AM

    I am not an architec, but I now marketing in this field. But I don't see you mention about some autodesk softwares likes: recap, Naviswork manage, Scene... They are object softwares we've used. http://vibim.com.vn/.
    So I think they are really popular

    ReplyDelete
  52. UnknownJan 15, 2017, 3:57:00 PM

    Any new BIM tools apart from - Autodesk Revit , Navisworks , solibri which helps to upgrade career in BIM ( especially in construction of Metro, flyovers , tunnels , underpass , airports ) In the Domain of MEP.

    ReplyDelete
  53. UnknownJan 15, 2017, 3:58:00 PM

    As per previous comment does GLUE & DYNAMO Helps in MEP

    ReplyDelete
  54. UnknownMay 1, 2017, 6:33:00 PM

    What about PDMS?
    Plant Design Management System is a 3d software for piping, electrical, mechanical, HVAC, instrumentation & structural. Each discipline is its own DB, Where you can see all items in the model, but the user can only add or modify the DB which he belongs.

    ReplyDelete
  55. UnknownJun 2, 2017, 4:12:00 PM

    Hi Marti
    I am Chartered QS and Contract Admin Consultant in Dubai.
    Instead of / in addition I am thinking to add BIM consultancy to small and medium projects.

    Your guidance is Great in that direction.

    ReplyDelete
  56. UnknownSep 6, 2017, 10:50:00 AM

    Thanks for the list! It's a great job!

    ReplyDelete

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