Chief Architect Software is a 3D architectural home design software for builders, interior designers, architects, and DIY home experts. It uses BIM tools to create a 3D model of the structure and automatically generates all of the building systems of the home. It offers powerful building and designing tools, such as automated roofs, foundations, framing, dimensions, product schedules, and materials lists. Chief Architect Software has two main products: Chief Architect Premier and Home Designer. Chief Architect Premier is the best software product for full residential or light commercial design, while Home Designer is designed for the consumer DIY home design market. These products have different pricing options, ranging from $199 (€181.09, £173.13) to $3,295 (€2,998.45, £2,866.65). They also offer free trials, training courses, and catalog subscriptions. Chief Architect Software has many pros and cons, depending on the user’s needs and preferences. Some pros are that it streamlines the design process, shows multiple views of projects, defines exterior details, and provides a powerful CAD engine. Some of the cons are it has a steep learning curve, it has limited customization, it has a complicated layout process, and it requires high system requirements. Chief Architect Software is a good choice for professional designers who want comprehensive and realistic 3D software but not for beginners or casual users who want simple and flexible 3D software.
What is Chief Architect Software?
Chief Architect Software is a 3D CAD software that helps users design homes, kitchens, and interiors. It has smart building tools that automatically generate roofs, foundations, framing, dimensions, and materials lists. It also has realistic rendering and virtual tours that let users visualize their designs. Users can choose from a library of thousands of cabinets, appliances, furnishings, and textures or create custom objects. Chief Architect Software has different products for different audiences and needs, such as architects, builders, remodelers, interior designers, and home experts.
The main product of Chief Architect Software is Chief Architect Premier, which is a professional home design software for new construction, remodeling, kitchen, bath, and interior design. It offers powerful building and drafting tools, construction documents, site plans, cross-sections, and elevations. It also has specific kitchen, bath, and interior design tools, such as automatic and manual dimensions, floor and space planning, and manufacturer catalogs. Chief Architect Premier costs $199 (€181.09, £173.13) per month or $166.25 (€151.29, £144.64) per month if billed annually. Users can download a trial version and watch a video to learn more about the features and benefits of Chief Architect Premier.
The ArchitectureLab Verdict: Should You Buy Chief Architect Software?
Yes, Chief Architect Software is recommended for those seeking fully-featured architectural design software. The many benefits make Chief Architect Software a worthwhile investment for most residential and commercial projects. Firstly, Chief Architect offers professionals and homeowners a wide range of powerful 3D architectural design tools. The software allows users to efficiently draft floor plans, model structures in 3D, and create photorealistic renderings. The Chief Architect streamlines the design process with automated functionality like roof and framing tools.
Secondly, the Chief Architect has a large library of symbols, textures, materials, and entourage items that can be used to create detailed and customizable architectural visualizations. The software also integrates with a community database of user-created content for even more options. This comprehensive set of tools allows for flexibility and realism. Thirdly, Chief Architect is relatively easy to learn, with an intuitive interface and helpful tutorials for new users. At the same time, it has advanced capabilities for more experienced architects and designers. The software offers different levels of functionality based on each user’s needs and expertise. This balance makes Chief Architect accessible for hobbyists yet powerful for professionals.
Fourthly, Chief Architect software allows users to work across desktop and mobile devices. The software syncs plans via the cloud to access projects anywhere. This flexibility to design on the go is convenient, especially when meeting with clients or visiting sites. Seamless transitions between devices improve workflow. Lastly, Chief Architect is offered at a one-time price that provides good value compared to subscription-based software. Different versions are available based on the features needed, allowing users to choose the best fit for their budget and requirements. It may not be the cheapest option, but the Chief Architect provides robust capabilities for the price.
Which company develops Chief Architect Software?
Chief Architect Software is a company that creates 3D home design software for different users. It has two product lines: Chief Architect for professionals and Home Designer for DIY enthusiasts. The software helps users to design homes, interiors, landscapes, and more. It also generates building systems, materials lists, and construction drawings automatically. Chief Architect Software started in 1981 as Advanced Relational Technology, Inc. (ART), developing relational databases. It was founded by Jack Simpson, a physics PhD from Stanford University. He moved the company to his hometown of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in the early 1990s and changed the business to home design software. He created Chief Architect as a tool to design homes easily. The company changed its name to Chief Architect, Inc. in 2005.
On what platforms does Chief Architect Software run?
Chief Architect Software has two main product lines: Chief Architect for professionals and Home Designer for DIY enthusiasts. These product lines are compatible with PC and Mac operating systems. They allow users to design homes, interiors, landscapes, and more in 2D and 3D modes. They also generate building systems, materials lists, and construction drawings automatically. Chief Architect Premier and Chief Architect Interiors are the professional versions of the software. They offer more advanced features and tools for residential and light commercial design. They can handle complex projects and produce high-quality renderings and animations. They also support a variety of file formats, including DWG, DXF, PDF, and SketchUp.
Home Designer Professional, Home Designer Architectural, and Home Designer Suite are the consumer versions of the software. They are designed for home enthusiasts who want to create their own designs or remodel their existing homes. They have simpler interfaces and fewer options than the professional versions, but they still offer powerful capabilities and realistic visuals. They also have a large catalog of products and materials to choose from. Chief Architect 3D Viewer is a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. It allows users to view and share their 3D models created with Chief Architect or Home Designer software. Users can explore the models in 3D, take snapshots, and add comments. They can also use the app to present their designs to clients or contractors.
When was Chief Architect Software first launched?
Chief Architect Software was first launched in 1992 by Advanced Relational Technology, Inc. (ART) as a 2D drafting program for Windows. It has since evolved into a 3D modeling and rendering tool that supports both Mac and Windows platforms. The latest version of Chief Architect Software is X15, which was released in March 2023. It has new features such as improved ray tracing, enhanced cabinet design, and expanded library content. It is available for purchase or upgrade at chiefarchitect.com. Users can also download a free trial version or watch online tutorials to learn more about the software.
What are the licensing options available for Chief Architect Software?
Chief Architect Software offers two types of subscriptions: monthly and annual. The monthly subscription is a flexible option for users who need the software occasionally, as they can start and stop as needed. The annual subscription is a more economical option for users who need the software regularly, as they can save 16% over the monthly subscription. These subscriptions include access to all the features in Chief Architect plus Support & Software Assurance (SSA).
Chief Architect Software uses a license security system that allows users to activate or deactivate the software on different computers. A license of Chief Architect can only be active on one computer at any given time, but users can switch between computers as needed. Users can activate or deactivate the software within the program while an internet connection is active. Users can deactivate the software online using the website.
What is the cost of Chief Architect Software?
The cost of Chief Architect Software is $199 (€181.09, £173.13) per month or $166.25 (€151.29, £144.64) per month if billed annually. The monthly subscription is a flexible option for users who need the software occasionally, as they can start and stop as needed. The annual subscription is a more economical option for users who need the software regularly, as they can save 16% over the monthly subscription. These subscriptions include access to all the features in Chief Architect plus Support & Software Assurance (SSA). SSA is a service that provides software upgrades, premium catalog downloads, and priority technical support.
How can Chief Architect Software help architects and designers?
Chief Architect Software helps architects and designers create realistic 3D models, 2D drawings, and construction documents of their designs. Firstly, Chief Architect Software can help architects and designers to streamline their workflow and save time. It has smart building technology that automatically generates roofs, foundations, framing, dimensions, materials lists, and other elements as users draw walls. It also has a dynamic help system that provides guidance and information on using the tools. It has a subscription-based licensing system allowing users to access the software on different computers and devices. Secondly, Chief Architect Software can help architects and designers to visualize and communicate their designs effectively. It has powerful rendering capabilities that produce photo-realistic images and walkthroughs of the 3D models. It also has artistic 3D rendering options such as line drawing and watercolor. It has a 3D Viewer app that lets users share the 3D models with clients or stakeholders via mobile devices or web browsers.
Thirdly, Chief Architect Software can help architects and designers to customize and optimize their designs. It has a style palette tool that allows users to transform the look of a room with colors, materials, and architectural elements. It also has a manufacturer and custom catalog that provides a wide range of products and items. It has a library browser that organizes and updates the catalogs and libraries. Fourthly, Chief Architect Software can help architects and designers to create accurate and detailed construction documents. It has 2D design, drafting, and annotation tools that generate floor plans, elevations, cross sections, CAD details, and site plans. It also has tools for cabinet design, materials, colors, and lighting that generate kitchen, bath, and interior design documents. It has 3D design, rendering, and animation tools that generate 3D views, perspectives, and videos.
Lastly, Chief Architect Software can help architects and designers to learn new skills and improve their productivity. It has various training resources, such as videos, articles, webinars, classes, and forums covering the software’s toolset and best practices. It also has a support and software assurance service that provides software upgrades, premium catalog downloads, and priority technical support. It has special offers and discounts for competitive upgrades, additional licenses, national accounts, and academic licenses.
What is Chief Architect Software output, and in which format?
The outputs of Chief Architect Software can be classified into three main categories: 3D outputs, 2D outputs, and documents. 3D outputs include 3D views, perspectives, and videos that show the design from different angles and levels of detail. 2D outputs include floor plans, elevations, cross sections, and CAD details that show the design in a flat and scaled representation. Documents include materials lists, site plans, kitchen, bath, and interior design documents that show the specifications and measurements of the design.
The formats of the outputs of Chief Architect Software depend on the output type and intended use. For 3D outputs, the software can export in DXF, DWG, 3DS, SKP, and OBJ formats, which are compatible with other 3D modeling and rendering software. It can also export in JPG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF formats, which are common image formats. For 2D outputs, the software can export in DXF, DWG, PDF, and SVG formats, which are compatible with other 2D drafting and vector graphics software. It can also export in JPG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF formats, which are common image formats. The software can export documents in PDF, XLS, and CSV formats, which are compatible with other document and spreadsheet software. It can also be exported in HTML format, which is a web page format.
Is the Chief Architect Software’s output format compatible with other industry-standard software?
Yes, the Chief Architect Software’s output format is compatible with other industry-standard software. It can export and import designs in a wide range of file formats, making it easy to collaborate with other professionals. The compatible formats depend on the type of output and the intended use. For 3D outputs, the software can export in DXF, DWG, 3DS, SKP, and OBJ formats, which are compatible with other 3D modeling and rendering software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Blender. It can also export in JPG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF formats, which are common image formats that can be viewed and edited by most image editing software such as Photoshop and GIMP.
For 2D outputs, the software can export in DXF, DWG, PDF, and SVG formats, which are compatible with other 2D drafting and vector graphics software such as AutoCAD, Illustrator, and Inkscape. It can also export in JPG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF formats, which are common image formats that can be viewed and edited by most image editing software such as Photoshop and GIMP. The software can export documents in PDF, XLS, and CSV formats, which are compatible with other document and spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Google Docs. It can also be exported in HTML format, which is a web page format that can be viewed and edited by most web browsers and web development software such as Chrome and Dreamweaver.
What file formats does Chief Architect Software support for exporting and importing designs?
The file formats that Chief Architect Software supports for exporting and importing designs are 3D models, 2D drawings, and documents. The file formats vary depending on the output type and intended use. For 3D models, the software can export in DXF, DWG, 3DS, SKP, and OBJ formats, which are compatible with other 3D modeling and rendering software. It can also import these formats and STL, DAE, and FBX formats, which are common 3D printing and animation formats. For 2D drawings, the software can be exported in DXF, DWG, PDF, and SVG formats, which are compatible with other 2D drafting and vector graphics software. It can also import these formats and JPG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF formats, which are common image formats.
The software can export documents in PDF, XLS, and CSV formats, which are compatible with other document and spreadsheet software. It can also import these formats and HTML format, which is a web page format. The software can export images in JPG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF formats, which are common image formats. It can also import these formats and GIF, PSD, and TGA formats, which are additional image formats.
Is Chief Architect Software considered user-friendly for beginner users?
Yes, Chief Architect Software is considered user-friendly for beginners. Firstly, Chief Architect Software has an intuitive interface and drag-and-drop functionality, making creating and modifying designs easy. It has a large library of pre-built objects and materials that can be used to populate the design with minimal effort. It also has automatic and manual dimensions, labels, and annotations to help users measure and document the design. Secondly, Chief Architect Software has a range of support and training resources to help users learn and improve their design skills. It has online tutorials, webinars, and a user forum that can provide guidance and tips on how to use the software effectively. It also has free introductory on-demand training that can teach users the basics of the software. Lastly, Chief Architect Software is compatible with many file formats, making it easy to import and export designs and collaborate with other professionals. It can handle 3D, 2D, and document formats common in the industry, such as DWG, DXF, PDF, and SketchUp. It can also handle image formats viewed and edited by most editing software, such as JPG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF.
What are the rendering capabilities of Chief Architect Software?
Chief Architect Software has powerful rendering capabilities that can produce photo-realistic images and walkthroughs of the designs, which can help users sell their ideas to clients or stakeholders. The software can render the designs in different modes, such as standard, vector, watercolor, technical illustration, and ray trace. These modes have settings and effects that can enhance the appearance and quality of the renderings. Users can adjust the design’s lighting, shadows, reflections, and materials to achieve the desired look and feel. The software can also create 360-degree panoramic renderings and elevations, providing a more immersive and interactive experience for users and viewers. Users can export the renderings in various file formats, such as JPG, PNG, BMP, TIFF, PDF, and SVG, which are compatible with other image editing and viewing software. Users can also share the renderings online or on mobile devices using the Chief Architect 3D Viewer app.
Does Chief Architect Software include Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities for better project management?
Yes, Chief Architect Software includes Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities for better project management. Firstly, Chief Architect Software uses BIM tools to create a 3D model of the structure and automatically generates all of the building systems of the home, such as floor plans, elevations, sections, and details. The software also allows users to add information and specifications to the model, such as materials, dimensions, labels, and annotations. Users can also modify the model and see the changes reflected in the views and documents. Secondly, Chief Architect Software can export and import the model in various file formats compatible with other BIM software, such as DWG, DXF, PDF, and SketchUp. This enables users to share and collaborate with other professionals, such as engineers, contractors, and clients. Users can also use the Chief Architect 3D Viewer app to view and present the model on mobile devices or online.
Lastly, Chief Architect Software can produce photo-realistic renderings and walkthroughs of the model, which can help users visualize and communicate the design to clients and stakeholders. The software can also generate accurate and detailed material lists, schedules, and cost estimates, which can help users manage the budget and resources of the project. The software can also perform energy analysis and code checks, which can help users optimize the performance and compliance of the design.
How does Chief Architect Software facilitate collaboration abilities among teams?
Chief Architect Software facilitates collaboration among teams by allowing users to share and collaborate on the design in real-time using the cloud service, supporting multiple file formats that are compatible with other software and platforms, providing a range of tools and features that can help users create and present the design effectively, and integrating with other software and services that can enhance the collaboration among teams.
Firstly, Chief Architect Software allows users to share and collaborate on the design in real-time using the cloud service. Users can upload the design to the cloud and invite other team members to view, comment, and edit the design online. Users can also sync the design across multiple devices, such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This enables users to access and update the design anytime and anywhere. Secondly, Chief Architect Software supports multiple file formats compatible with other software and platforms. Users can export and import designs in 3D, 2D, and document formats like DWG, DXF, PDF, and SketchUp. Users can export and import the design in image formats like JPG, PNG, BMP, and TIFF. This enables users to exchange and communicate the design with other team members who use different software and platforms.
Thirdly, Chief Architect Software provides various tools and features to help users create and present the design effectively. Users can create photo-realistic renderings and walkthroughs of the design, which can help users visualize and communicate the design to clients and stakeholders. Users can also create 360-degree panoramic renderings and elevations, providing a more immersive and interactive experience for users and the viewer. Users can also generate accurate and detailed material lists, schedules, and cost estimates, which can help users manage the budget and resources of the project.
Lastly, Chief Architect Software integrates with other software and services to enhance team collaboration. Users can use the Chief Architect 3D Viewer app to view and present the design on mobile devices or online. Users can also use the Home Designer DIY app to create and share the design with clients and stakeholders. Users can also use the Room Planner app to measure and capture existing spaces and create floor plans. Users can also use the ChiefTalk Forum to ask questions and get answers from other users and experts.
What are the minimum hardware requirements for running Chief Architect Software?
The minimum hardware requirements for running Chief Architect Software are a computer with a 64-bit operating system, a multi-core processor, at least 8 GB of RAM, a video card with at least 2 GB of RAM, 5 GB of hard disk space, and internet access. These are the minimum hardware requirements for running the software, but users can have a better experience with the software if they have a computer that has a more powerful processor, more memory, a better video card, and a faster hard disk.
For Windows-based computers, the minimum hardware requirements are a Windows 10 or 11 64-bit operating system, Multi-core processor, 8 GB of RAM, 4 GB of RAM, DirectX 12 supporting Shader Model 6 or higher, 5 GB of available hard disk space, and internet access for installation, license authentication, deactivation, and video & library catalog access. Internet access for license authentication is required once every 14 days. For Mac-based computers, the minimum hardware requirements are Monterey, Ventura, or Sonoma operating systems, Apple M1 or newer, or Intel or AMD processor, 8 GB of RAM, 2 GB of RAM with support for Metal GPUFamily macOS 2 or newer, 5 GB of available hard disk space and internet access for installation, license authentication, deactivation, and video & library catalog access. Internet access for license authentication is required once every 14 days.
How frequently is the Chief Architect Software updated?
Chief Architect Software is updated periodically, and users can download the updates for free from within the program or from the website. Users can also upgrade to the latest version of the software if their SSA is current or if they purchase or renew it. The latest version of the software is usually released once a year and has more features and tools that can help users create professional-quality architectural designs.
Is there a mobile version or app available for Chief Architect Software for on-site work and presentations?
Yes, there is a mobile version or app available for Chief Architect Software for on-site work and presentations. The 3D Viewer is a free app on both Apple iOS and Android devices. The 3D Viewer app allows users to view and share 3D models exported from Chief Architect Software. Users can also use the app to create virtual and augmented reality experiences of the models, which can help them visualize the designs in a real-world environment. Users can also use the app to navigate the models using the Sojourn ® 3D Virtual Reality Navigation Controls, which include thumbsticks, gyro camera, and walk-thru modes. To get the 3D Viewer app, users need to download it from the App Store or Google Play Store, depending on their device. Users must also have a Chief Architect Online Account, which is required for exporting, viewing, and sharing the 3D models. Users can sign up for a free account on the Chief Architect website. Users can then export their 3D models from Chief Architect Software to their cloud account and access them from the 3D Viewer app. Users can also share or embed the 3D models on a web page or social media platform.
What are the advantages of Chief Architect Software?
The advantages of using Chief Architect Software are listed below:
- Streamlined design process: Chief Architect Software streamlines the design process by automating and simplifying many tasks. Users can quickly develop a 2D-floor plan while the software simultaneously creates a viewable 3D model and supporting structural components, such as a foundation, roof, and framing, without additional work. This level of automation saves users time and money while improving the accuracy and quality of the design.
- Powerful building and designing tools: Chief Architect Software offers powerful building and designing tools that allow users to create highly detailed and realistic models of their designs. Users can choose from a vast library of manufacturer-specific or generic products, such as cabinetry, fixtures, appliances, furniture, lighting, and more. Users can also customize the materials, colors, textures, and styles of any element in the design. The software also has smart tools that automatically generate roofs, dormers, stairs, railings, and other complex elements.
- Powerful CAD engine: Chief Architect Software has a powerful CAD engine that enables users to create and edit any shape or object with precision and flexibility. Users can draw lines, arcs, circles, splines, polylines, and other geometric shapes to create custom symbols, details, and annotations. Users can also import and export CAD files in various formats, such as DWG, DXF, PDF, and more. The software also supports layers, dimensions, text, and other CAD features that enhance design documentation.
- Multiple views of projects: Chief Architect Software shows multiple views of the projects, such as floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, perspectives, and 3D renderings, that can help users visualize and communicate the design. Users can easily switch between views and see the changes reflected in real-time. Users can also create 360 panoramic renderings and virtual tours that can provide an immersive experience of the design. Users can also export the views as images, videos, or web pages and share them with clients or stakeholders.
- Exterior details: Chief Architect Software defines exterior details, such as landscaping, terrain, decks, pools, and outdoor living spaces, that can complement the design and add curb appeal. Users can use the terrain tools to create hills, valleys, slopes, and contour lines and apply elevation regions, driveways, sidewalks, and roads. Users can also use the plant chooser to select from over 4,000 plants, trees, and shrubs and customize their size, color, and growth. With the use of the deck and railing tools, users can also design decks, pools, fences, and other outdoor features.
What are the disadvantages of Chief Architect Software?
The advantages of using Chief Architect Software are listed below:
- High system requirements: Chief Architect Software requires high system requirements to run smoothly and efficiently. Users need a powerful processor, a large amount of memory, a dedicated graphics card, and a fast internet connection. The software may lag, crash, or render the models properly if users have a low-end or outdated device. Users may also need to invest in additional hardware or software, such as VR headsets, 3D printers, or cloud storage, to fully exploit the software’s features.
- Steep learning curve: Chief Architect Software has a steep learning curve for beginners and intermediate users. Users must master the software’s various tools, menus, settings, and commands. Users also need to understand the basic principles of architecture, design, and engineering, as well as the relevant codes and standards. Users may need to spend a lot of time and effort to learn the software or enroll in training courses, tutorials, or webinars, which may incur additional costs.
- Limited customization: Chief Architect Software has limited customization options for some elements and objects in the design. Users may be unable to create or modify complex geometries with the software, such as shell structures, space frames, or trusses. Users may also have to accept the software’s default roof forms, which may not match their taste or preference. Users may need to use other CAD software or applications to create or edit these elements, which may increase the complexity and time of the design process.
- Difficult layout process: Chief Architect Software has a difficult layout process for creating and exporting the design documentation. Users must follow a complicated, multi-step process to set up the layout pages, scale the views, arrange the annotations, and print or export the drawings. Users may encounter errors, glitches, or inconsistencies in the layout process, which may affect the quality and accuracy of the documentation. Users may need to manually adjust or correct the layout, which may be tedious and time-consuming.
- Expensive license: Chief Architect Software has an expensive license fee for purchasing and renewing the software. Depending on the version and edition, users must pay a high upfront cost to buy the software, ranging from $500 (€455, £435) to $2,995 (€2,725.45, £2,605.65). Users also have to pay an annual or monthly fee to access the software updates, technical support, and cloud services, which may range from $199 (€181.09, £173.13) to $995 (€905.45, £865.65) per year. Users may need to consider their budget and needs before investing in the software or looking for alternative or cheaper software options.
What do customer reviews and feedback say about Chief Architect Software?
Chief Architect Software has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 67 user reviews. Most users praise the software for its ease of use, powerful features, and realistic renderings. They also appreciate the software’s ability to automate and simplify many tasks, such as creating floor plans, generating roofs, and creating 3D models. Some users also point out some drawbacks of Chief Architect Software, such as its high system requirements, steep learning curve, limited customization, difficult layout process, and expensive license fee. Some users complain that the software requires a powerful device and a fast internet connection to run smoothly and efficiently, while others find the software hard to learn or use, especially for beginners or intermediate users. Some users also wish the software had more options to create or modify complex elements, such as shell structures, space frames, or trusses. Some users also struggle with the layout process, which they find complicated, multi-step, and error-prone. Some users think the software is too costly for purchasing and renewing the software.
What other architecture software options are there?
Listed below are some other architectural software options apart from Chief Architect Software:
- Cedreo: Cedreo is a web-based software that allows architects, designers, builders, and remodelers to create 2D and 3D floor plans, renderings, and virtual tours. It helps users save time, reduce costs, and improve client satisfaction by streamlining the design process and facilitating communication and collaboration.
- SketchUp: SketchUp is a 3D modeling software that is easy to use and learn. It enables architects and designers to create, edit, and share 3D models of buildings, landscapes, and interiors. SketchUp also offers a large library of 3D models, materials, and plugins that can be accessed online.
- AutoCAD: AutoCAD is a software widely used by architects, contractors, and designers for creating 2D and 3D drafts and designs. It supports various file formats, standards, and tools that can be customized to meet specific project requirements. AutoCAD also integrates with other Autodesk products, such as Revit, Fusion 360, and 3ds Max.
- Planner 5D: Planner 5D is an online software suitable for interior design, real estate, and DIY projects. It lets users create 2D and 3D floor plans, furnish and decorate the space, and view the result in 3D. Planner 5D also has a community of users who can share their designs and get feedback.
- Revit: Revit is a software based on the BIM approach. It allows users to create 3D models of buildings that can be updated and modified automatically across all views and documents. Revit also offers features for analysis, simulation, and design documentation.
Does Chief Architect Software require any special peripherals for better productivity?
Listed below are some of the Chief Architect Software’s special peripherals for better productivity:
- A good mouse: A good mouse is essential for navigating and editing the design in Chief Architect Software. The best mouse for architects should have a high DPI (dots per inch) for precise movement, a comfortable grip for long hours of use, and extra buttons for quick access to commands and functions. A good mouse can improve productivity by reducing errors, fatigue, and time spent on the design process.
- A large monitor: A large monitor is beneficial for viewing and rendering the design in Chief Architect Software. The best monitor for architects should have a high resolution for clear and sharp images, a wide color gamut for accurate and vivid colors, and a fast refresh rate for smooth and responsive animations. A large monitor can improve productivity by enhancing the design’s visual quality, realism, and immersion.
- A comfortable keyboard: A comfortable keyboard is important for typing and entering data in Chief Architect Software. The best keyboard for architects should have an ergonomic design for optimal posture and comfort, a mechanical switch for tactile and audible feedback, and a backlight for visibility in low-light conditions. A comfortable keyboard can improve productivity by preventing injuries, errors, and distractions while working on the design.
- A VR headset: A VR headset is optional but useful for experiencing and exploring the design in Chief Architect Software. A VR headset should have a high resolution for immersive and realistic graphics, a wide field of view for natural and panoramic vision, and a low latency for smooth and seamless motion. A VR headset is the best headset for architects, and it can improve productivity by allowing users to test and evaluate the design in a virtual environment.
- A cloud storage service: A cloud storage service is advisable for storing and sharing the design in Chief Architect Software. A cloud storage service should have a large storage capacity for multiple and large files, a high-security level for protecting and encrypting the data, and easy accessibility for syncing and accessing the files from any device. A cloud storage service can improve productivity by providing a backup, collaboration, and mobility solution for the design.
