GUANGZHOU, China — (BUSINESS WIRE) — July 3, 2014 — ZWSOFT, a leading supplier of CAD solutions for the global MCAD and AEC industries, has published the results of an in-depth research study with 5 major architecture and engineering company customers, regarding problems when using their CAD software. Six main issues were raised by these companies and solutions have been found.

High-level API

The vast number of elements involved in engineering and architecture design means that several specialist tools are needed to be integrated within the design environment, to avoid the requirement for several other pieces of specialist software. ZWCAD+’s high-level API compatibility means developers can create applications to address the specific needs of users. They can also port their applications 10 times faster, meaning even more applications are available on ZWCAD+.

Efficient Tools

Since CAD software was invented to make the design process easier and more efficient, the availability of advanced tools has proved to be a major concern for the respondents. Users wanted a more customizable UI, ensuring that their most used features are the most easily accessible, thereby becoming more efficient and saving money and time, while also making it easier to correct mistakes and undertake repetitive tasks. The innovative features offered by ZWCAD+, such as Associative Dimensions and Dynamic Block, can reduce the need for re-working, while the brand new SmartSeries allows for highly customizable commands and annotation.

Data Exchange

As the most common complaint about CAD software, mentioned by 3 of the 5 firms questioned, compatibility is the main concern for many users. Zamil, a Saudi construction firm; Euroned, a Romanian offshore engineering company; and CASAIS, an architectural firm from Portugal, all noted that they had worries in this area. With the vast amount of CAD and other specialist software required in major projects, as well as the high level of collaboration involved with architecture and engineering, the firms wanted strong compatibility to allow users to open and edit drawings from a variety of origins, in one design environment. ZWCAD+ offers compatibility with all mainstream CAD software, meaning users can open files from clients and collaborators without the risk of changes or time-consuming conversions.

Efficient Memory Management

Euroned, CASAIS and Ingerieros, a Chilean construction firm, have all noted that their computer speeds have decreased as the CAD software they are using becomes more sophisticated and their designs become larger and more detailed. Since replacing hardware is far too expensive for most businesses, the firms noted the need for the efficient use of a computer’s processing ability while running the CAD software. ZWCAD+’s new Memory Management technology allows users to open large drawings over 100MB with 50% less memory usage, leading to faster speeds, saving time and money.

Comfortable User-Interface

The layout of the UI was noted by many as a major issue with CAD software. With AutoCAD being the most common starter software, a significantly different layout would cause confusion and result in significant re-learning costs when moving to a cheaper or more efficient alternative. This idea has been raised by firms as a major worry when considering switching CAD software. Having switched to ZWCAD+, however, the respondents found that there were no re-learning costs due to similarities with the AutoCAD layout, while the customizable features allowed them to make their most used commands easily available to improve efficiency.

Customizable Upgrade Structure

With the growing prices of AutoCAD, the market leader, and the major importance of cost when bidding for projects, firms are looking for alternative CAD software that may offer a more competitive pricing structure. At around 20% of the price of an AutoCAD license and a cost-efficient and customizable upgrade policy, ZWCAD+ can offer huge savings for any firm.

The vast size of most engineering and architecture projects causes unavoidable problems and challenges, while some CAD software presents unnecessary additional issues. With ZWCAD+, these challenges have already been addressed through innovative features and a focus on the end user, resulting in an efficient and cost-effective design process for all.

About ZWSOFT

ZWCAD Software Co., Ltd., is an international CAD software provider through its network of over 150 partners in 80+ countries and regions. The flagship products of ZWSOFT include ZWCAD+, the CAD solution developed by its wholly owned subsidiary company, ZWCAD DESIGN, and ZW3D CAD/CAM software.