CAD Modeling and Visualization
What is CAD software?
CAD software, or computer aided design and drafting software, is used to help architects, engineers, designers, and mapping professionals build models and drawings throughout design, construction, and operation of buildings, bridges, roads, factories, processing plants, rail networks, mines, substations, tunnels, water and wastewater plants, and more.
What is the best CAD software for infrastructure projects?
With proven technology, you can confidently take on any design, construction, or operations project. No matter what design information you are working with or what kind of deliverables are required, you can rely on Bentley’s modeling and visualization products for the flexibility and power to get the job done on time and on budget. Bentley’s modeling and visualization products are more than just CAD applications. They provide the power and versatility for information-rich 2D and 3D designs of all types of infrastructure projects.
Discover which ones are best for your project. Here are some of our most trusted, best-selling CAD software.
MicroStation
Model, document, access, and view architectural, engineering, mapping, construction, and operations design information with the power and flexibility you need for any size project.
Bentley LumenRT
Visualize your models with cinematic quality rendering and animation by integrating life-like digital nature into your simulated infrastructure designs from CAD/BIM files.
OpenCities Map
Full collection of spatial analysis and presentation capabilities using and extracting 2D and 3D reality data.
Bentley Descartes
Extract data and integrate point clouds, reality meshes, scalable terrain models, and raster imagery into your workflows.
OpenBuildings Designer
Design, analyze, document, and visualize buildings with software made for architects and engineers. Includes OpenBuildings Speedikon, a specialized software for German and European markets.
ProStructures
Create accurate 3D models for structural steel, metal work, and reinforced concrete structures.
OpenRoads Designer
Comprehensive detailed design and documentation for roadway projects including surveying, drainage, subsurface utilities, and visualization in on application.
Which Building Professions Use CAD Software?
Bentley 3D CAD and 2D CAD software is used by engineers, architects, owners, and construction professionals across every discipline. See which CAD programs are built for each building discipline.
ARCHITECTS
Design with 2D and 3D CAD and BIM applications to document buildings of any type or scale and efficiently coordinate with all engineering trades.
- OpenBuildings Designer
- MicroStation
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS
Model, analyze, detail, and document steel, concrete, and timber structures of all types with leading 3D design software.
- OpenBuildings Designer
- RAM
- STAAD
- ProStructures
- MicroStation
MECHANICAL ENGINEERS
Design complex MEP systems. Model fully parametric air-handling, piping, and plumbing systems with advanced CAD and BIM software.
- OpenBuildings Designer
- MicroStation
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS
Design lighting, power, fire-detection, and other electrical subsystems with both 2D and 3D CAD workflows and coordinate efficiently with other trades.
- OpenBuildings Designer
- MicroStation
DRAFTSMAN
Design with 2D and 3D CAD and BIM applications to document buildings of any type or scale and efficiently coordinate with all engineering trades.
- OpenBuildings Designer
- MicroStation
How To Choose CAD Software
How do CAD design software and 3D design software from Bentley and other vendors compare? How can you tell which products are best for the type of design projects you will be working on? There are different types of computer aided design software or combinations of 3D CAD software that will help you deliver different types of projects—from airports to wastewater treatment plants.
Software Qualities That Most Professionals Look For In CAD Software
CAD And BIM
Purpose-built for both CAD and BIM workflows.
Versatile
Interoperable
Work seamlessly across a variety of file formats and third-party applications.
