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Questions & Answers

Q: To what extent will Autodesk Revit provide a better, or more accurate, material quantity extraction by using Autodesk ® Quantity Takeoff?

A: Revit is able to do material takeoff of items pretty well and quantify that in certain ways. But what QTO is able to do, is quantify the building and break down the items further using the catalogs (think into drywall, studs, paint, carpet, etc), whereas Revit tends to look at the entire wall takeoff. QTO also has the capability to build complex item assemblies and formulas and works the way an estimator thinks. Also, with QTO we have the ability to perform 2D takeoff of items if we are only receiving 2D plans (PDF, DWG). We can also combine 2D/3D type of workflows with QTO to help extend the value of QTO over Revit in terms of Takeoff capability.

Q: How do I get started with BIM and how much does it cost?

A: BIM is a process that incorporates technology. There are many ways to get started with BIM, from design tools to coordination, analysis, simulation, and visualization tools, depending on your existing workflow and your needs. Contact a local reseller to evaluate your business processes and help you get started.

Q: Which BIM products are best suited for contractors?

A: While it depends on your unique business needs, many contractors find that Autodesk® Navisworks® software is a good place to start, since it enables them to coordinate, visualize, analyze, and simulate models from various sources and file formats. Read customer stories of contractors who have successfully used Autodesk BIM products to help them win more business and become more efficient.

Q: Do I have to stop using AutoCAD or 2D drawings if I start using BIM?

A: We may live in a 3D world, but 2D designs and workflows are often still the reality. Autodesk provides a range of 2D and 3D design products (such as AutoCAD®, Autodesk® Revit® Architecture, Autodesk® Revit® MEP, and Autodesk® Revit® Structure software), as well as construction coordination, analysis, and simulation software (Autodesk Navisworks) to help you incorporate both 2D and 3D file formats into your construction process.

Q: What is 4D construction?

A: The term "4D" means time—the fourth dimension in project management. Building your project in 4D with Building Information Modeling means that you're able to synchronize your project schedule with the data from a building information model to simulate and visualize your project timeline.

Q: What is 5D construction?

A: The term "5D" means cost—the fifth dimension in project management. Working with 5D in a Building Information Modeling process means that you're able to automate the quantity takeoff process from a variety of 2D and 3D sources, expediting your cost estimating process and incorporating cost information into coordinated building models. Autodesk® Quantity Takeoff software can help you improve your cost estimating process.

For more information about Autodesk Construction Solutions, call 800-234-0074.