Reply To: 2d/ 3d

[Clayton Munson]

I agree with Brandon, work with what you know and do what’s best for your business. I use AutoCAD, which gets me my base for design. On top of that I have added LandFX which is quickly growing to be a great landscape specific software. It does work with other cad type programs as well. And has added a conversion command which quickly translates all of your plants from CAD into SketchUP 3D. I then use sketchUP for any 3D work.

I agree that the AutoCAD sticker is steep. But just like everyone else they are hurting for business as well, and are constantly putting out new promotions. Also after that initial payment for $400/yr you will receive every new release. At the rate they are releasing versions that’s been every year since at least 2005. All this goes for LandFX as well. You also get great tech support with both programs.

Also look into the software that your clients are using and search for a program that is compatible with it. What formats does it export in? (DWG, DXF, and so forth)