Quick Overview
- 1#1: Tekla Structures - Industry-leading BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, fabrication drawings, and construction management of steel, concrete, and precast structures.
- 2#2: Advance Steel - Comprehensive steel detailing software integrated with AutoCAD for automated creation of fabrication drawings, BOMs, and CNC files.
- 3#3: SDS/2 - Powerful 3D steel detailing software that generates constructible models, shop drawings, and erection plans with high accuracy.
- 4#4: Autodesk Revit - BIM platform with robust structural detailing tools for rebar, steel, and concrete in building information modeling workflows.
- 5#5: Allplan - Open BIM software excelling in reinforcement detailing, formwork design, and quantity takeoff for concrete structures.
- 6#6: ProtaStructure - Integrated structural analysis and design suite with automated rebar detailing and drawing production for buildings.
- 7#7: SCIA Engineer - Advanced structural design software featuring automated detailing for steel, concrete, and composite structures.
- 8#8: AxisVM - Finite element analysis software with integrated detailing modules for steel connections and reinforcement drawings.
- 9#9: SOFiSTiK - CAD/BIM solution specialized in reinforcement detailing, formwork planning, and structural documentation.
- 10#10: Graitec Advance Design - Structural analysis and design software with tools for generating detailed drawings and reports for steel and concrete.
We selected these tools by evaluating functionality, performance, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring they excel in meeting the rigorous demands of professional structural detailing workflows
Comparison Table
Structural detailing software is vital for creating precise, efficient construction drawings, bridging design and build phases. This comparison table highlights key tools like Tekla Structures, Advance Steel, SDS/2, Autodesk Revit, and Allplan, examining their capabilities, workflows, and optimal uses to guide users in choosing the best fit for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tekla Structures Industry-leading BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, fabrication drawings, and construction management of steel, concrete, and precast structures. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Advance Steel Comprehensive steel detailing software integrated with AutoCAD for automated creation of fabrication drawings, BOMs, and CNC files. | enterprise | 8.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | SDS/2 Powerful 3D steel detailing software that generates constructible models, shop drawings, and erection plans with high accuracy. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Autodesk Revit BIM platform with robust structural detailing tools for rebar, steel, and concrete in building information modeling workflows. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Allplan Open BIM software excelling in reinforcement detailing, formwork design, and quantity takeoff for concrete structures. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | ProtaStructure Integrated structural analysis and design suite with automated rebar detailing and drawing production for buildings. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | SCIA Engineer Advanced structural design software featuring automated detailing for steel, concrete, and composite structures. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 8 | AxisVM Finite element analysis software with integrated detailing modules for steel connections and reinforcement drawings. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 9 | SOFiSTiK CAD/BIM solution specialized in reinforcement detailing, formwork planning, and structural documentation. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Graitec Advance Design Structural analysis and design software with tools for generating detailed drawings and reports for steel and concrete. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
Industry-leading BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, fabrication drawings, and construction management of steel, concrete, and precast structures.
Comprehensive steel detailing software integrated with AutoCAD for automated creation of fabrication drawings, BOMs, and CNC files.
Powerful 3D steel detailing software that generates constructible models, shop drawings, and erection plans with high accuracy.
BIM platform with robust structural detailing tools for rebar, steel, and concrete in building information modeling workflows.
Open BIM software excelling in reinforcement detailing, formwork design, and quantity takeoff for concrete structures.
Integrated structural analysis and design suite with automated rebar detailing and drawing production for buildings.
Advanced structural design software featuring automated detailing for steel, concrete, and composite structures.
Finite element analysis software with integrated detailing modules for steel connections and reinforcement drawings.
CAD/BIM solution specialized in reinforcement detailing, formwork planning, and structural documentation.
Structural analysis and design software with tools for generating detailed drawings and reports for steel and concrete.
Tekla Structures
enterpriseIndustry-leading BIM software for detailed 3D modeling, fabrication drawings, and construction management of steel, concrete, and precast structures.
Model-based fabrication outputs including CNC files, weld data, and assembly drawings generated directly from the intelligent 3D model
Tekla Structures is a premier BIM software solution from Trimble, specialized in 3D modeling, structural detailing, and fabrication management for steel, concrete, timber, and precast structures. It excels in creating fully detailed, constructible models that automate the generation of shop drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and CNC fabrication data. Widely used in large-scale construction projects, it ensures clash-free designs and seamless integration from engineering to on-site erection.
Pros
- Unmatched accuracy in 3D modeling and automated detailing for complex structures
- Direct integration with fabrication machinery via NC files and erection planning tools
- Comprehensive clash detection, customizable libraries, and full IFC compatibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- High hardware demands and resource-intensive performance
- Premium pricing that may be prohibitive for small firms
Best For
Large structural engineering firms, fabricators, and contractors handling complex, multi-material building projects requiring fabrication-ready deliverables.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription licensing with custom quotes; typically $10,000–$25,000+ per user annually depending on modules and scale.
Advance Steel
enterpriseComprehensive steel detailing software integrated with AutoCAD for automated creation of fabrication drawings, BOMs, and CNC files.
Connection Vault with thousands of fully parametric, customizable steel connections that auto-update models and drawings
Advance Steel, developed by Autodesk, is a comprehensive 3D modeling software specialized in structural steel detailing and fabrication. It allows users to model complex steel structures, including beams, columns, connections, stairs, and railings, with parametric tools for accuracy. The software automates the generation of fabrication drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), NC files, and CNC data, streamlining the workflow from design to manufacturing. Seamlessly integrated with AutoCAD and Revit, it supports BIM workflows for collaborative projects.
Pros
- Extensive library of over 10,000 parametric steel connections via the Connection Vault
- Automated production of multi-sheet fabrication drawings, BOMs, and NC files
- Strong integration with AutoCAD, Revit, and Autodesk Construction Cloud for BIM collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to reliance on AutoCAD interface and complex toolset
- High subscription cost may deter small firms or freelancers
- Performance can lag with very large models or on lower-end hardware
Best For
Medium to large structural engineering firms and detailers working on complex industrial, commercial, or infrastructure steel projects requiring precise fabrication outputs.
Pricing
Subscription-based at approximately $2,500/year standalone or included in Autodesk AEC Collection (~$3,000/year)
SDS/2
specializedPowerful 3D steel detailing software that generates constructible models, shop drawings, and erection plans with high accuracy.
Fully automated 'smart' connection design engine that generates code-compliant connections instantly from 3D models
SDS/2 is a powerful 3D steel detailing software designed for creating precise models of structural steel frameworks, generating fabrication drawings, and producing CNC files for manufacturing. It excels in automating complex tasks like connection design, bolt placement, and plate development, streamlining workflows for steel detailers and fabricators. Widely used in industrial and commercial construction, it integrates seamlessly with shop management systems and supports compliance with international steel codes.
Pros
- Highly automated connection design and detailing reduce manual errors
- Excellent integration with CNC machinery and fabrication software
- Robust 3D modeling tools for complex steel structures
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High upfront and maintenance costs
- Primarily focused on steel, with limited multi-material support
Best For
Experienced steel detailers and fabricators managing large-scale industrial projects requiring high precision and automation.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at approximately $15,000-$25,000 per seat with annual maintenance fees of 18-20%; subscription models available from $5,000/year.
Autodesk Revit
enterpriseBIM platform with robust structural detailing tools for rebar, steel, and concrete in building information modeling workflows.
Model-driven detailing where changes to the 3D model automatically propagate to all 2D views, schedules, and annotations
Autodesk Revit is a comprehensive BIM software widely used for structural design and detailing, allowing users to create intelligent 3D models of beams, columns, slabs, foundations, and connections. It supports detailed rebar placement, steel fabrication drawings, and automatic generation of schedules and annotations directly from the model. Revit integrates seamlessly with other Autodesk tools for enhanced detailing workflows, making it suitable for collaborative AEC projects.
Pros
- Powerful parametric modeling with automatic updates to drawings and schedules
- Extensive tools for rebar detailing, steel connections, and BIM interoperability
- Strong collaboration features via cloud integration and IFC export
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for non-BIM users
- High hardware requirements and potential performance issues with large models
- Expensive subscription model limits accessibility for small firms
Best For
Medium to large structural engineering firms needing integrated BIM workflows for design-to-detailing processes.
Pricing
Annual subscription ~$2,500/user for Revit standalone; included in AEC Collection (~$3,000/year) with additional tools.
Allplan
enterpriseOpen BIM software excelling in reinforcement detailing, formwork design, and quantity takeoff for concrete structures.
Intelligent rebar tools with automated clash detection and bending schedule generation
Allplan is a powerful BIM software from Nemetschek Group, specializing in architectural and engineering design with advanced structural detailing capabilities for reinforced concrete, steel, timber, and precast elements. It supports 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and automated reinforcement placement, scheduling, and shop drawing generation. Allplan excels in parametric modeling and integrates with fabrication workflows, making it ideal for detailed construction documentation in complex projects.
Pros
- Exceptional reinforcement detailing with automatic scheduling and labeling
- Parametric modeling for efficient handling of complex geometries
- Strong integration with CNC machines and openBIM standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface
- Higher pricing compared to entry-level alternatives
- Limited built-in cloud collaboration tools
Best For
Structural engineers and detailers focused on reinforced concrete and precast projects requiring precise fabrication-ready drawings.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around €2,500 per user, with perpetual licenses from €4,000 plus maintenance fees.
ProtaStructure
specializedIntegrated structural analysis and design suite with automated rebar detailing and drawing production for buildings.
Prota Rebar intelligent engine for fully automated, clash-free reinforcement detailing and shop drawings from 3D models
ProtaStructure is an integrated structural analysis, design, and detailing software tailored for reinforced concrete, steel, and masonry structures. It provides advanced 3D BIM modeling, automated reinforcement detailing, and production of fabrication drawings, plans, sections, and schedules. The software streamlines workflows from initial design to construction documentation, with strong emphasis on efficiency for building projects.
Pros
- Automated reinforcement detailing generates accurate rebar schedules and drawings quickly
- Seamless integration of analysis, design, and detailing in one platform
- High-quality, customizable output for construction documents and BIM exports
Cons
- Learning curve for advanced detailing customization
- Less intuitive interface compared to mainstream BIM tools like Revit
- Limited support for highly complex or non-building structures
Best For
Mid-sized structural engineering firms focusing on reinforced concrete building projects needing efficient automated detailing.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses from ~$4,500 with annual maintenance (~20%); subscription options starting at ~$300/month.
SCIA Engineer
enterpriseAdvanced structural design software featuring automated detailing for steel, concrete, and composite structures.
Physical modeling with automatic detailing generation directly from optimized analysis results
SCIA Engineer is a comprehensive BIM-enabled software for structural analysis, design, and detailing of concrete, steel, and timber structures. It supports 3D modeling, advanced finite element analysis, code-compliant design, and automated generation of reinforcement drawings, steel connection details, and schedules. While its core strength lies in analysis and optimization, detailing capabilities provide integrated outputs for fabrication and construction documentation.
Pros
- Integrated analysis-to-detailing workflow reduces errors
- Supports multiple international design codes and materials
- BIM interoperability with tools like Revit and IFC
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Detailing automation less advanced than dedicated tools like Tekla
- High cost limits accessibility for small firms
Best For
Experienced structural engineers handling complex multi-material projects that require seamless analysis and basic detailing.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; annual subscriptions typically start at €5,000+ per user, with volume discounts available upon request.
AxisVM
specializedFinite element analysis software with integrated detailing modules for steel connections and reinforcement drawings.
Automatic generation of reinforcement details and drawings directly from 3D analysis models
AxisVM is a finite element-based structural analysis and design software suite that supports modeling, analysis, and design for steel, concrete, timber, and composite structures across numerous international codes. It includes detailing modules for generating reinforcement schedules, drawings, and reports for concrete elements, bridging analysis directly to fabrication details. While versatile for engineering workflows, its detailing capabilities are solid but secondary to its core analysis strengths, making it a mid-tier option in pure structural detailing.
Pros
- Seamless integration of analysis, design, and basic detailing in one platform
- Supports a wide range of design codes, especially Eurocodes
- Modular licensing allows customization to specific needs
Cons
- Detailing tools lack the depth of dedicated BIM software like Tekla or Revit
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and customization
- Limited native interoperability with other detailing or BIM platforms
Best For
Structural engineers handling European projects who want integrated analysis with moderate detailing capabilities without switching software.
Pricing
Modular perpetual licenses starting at ~€2,000 per module, plus annual maintenance (~20%); custom quotes required.
SOFiSTiK
specializedCAD/BIM solution specialized in reinforcement detailing, formwork planning, and structural documentation.
Automatic 3D reinforcement detailing with full collision avoidance and direct linkage to FEA results
SOFiSTiK is a powerful integrated software suite for structural engineering, specializing in finite element analysis, design, and automated detailing for concrete, steel, and composite structures. It excels in generating precise reinforcement models, shop drawings, and BIM-compatible outputs directly from analysis results. Widely used in Europe for bridges, tunnels, and high-rise buildings, it supports complex geometries and code-compliant designs.
Pros
- Seamless integration of analysis, design, and detailing workflows
- Advanced automation for reinforcement placement and clash detection
- Strong BIM/IFC interoperability and support for international standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to script-based customization
- High cost suitable mainly for large firms
- Interface feels dated compared to modern CAD tools
Best For
Experienced structural engineers and firms handling complex concrete and bridge projects requiring end-to-end automation.
Pricing
Modular token-based licensing; annual costs start at €5,000+ per module, enterprise quotes required.
Graitec Advance Design
enterpriseStructural analysis and design software with tools for generating detailed drawings and reports for steel and concrete.
Direct synchronization between physical BIM models and finite element analysis for precise automated detailing generation
Graitec Advance Design is a BIM-based structural design software that supports analysis, design, and preliminary detailing for concrete, steel, and timber structures. It automates code-compliant design workflows and generates reinforcement schedules, drawings, and reports. While strong in integrated analysis-to-design processes, its detailing capabilities are more oriented toward engineering outputs rather than full fabrication-level shop drawings.
Pros
- Excellent BIM integration with Revit, Advance Steel, and other Graitec tools
- Automated reinforcement design and detailing for concrete structures per major codes
- Physical-analytical model synchronization for accurate detailing from analysis
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-BIM users
- Limited advanced fabrication detailing compared to specialized tools like Tekla
- Customization for complex steel connections requires additional modules
Best For
Structural engineers and firms using Graitec's ecosystem who need seamless analysis-to-preliminary detailing workflows.
Pricing
Subscription or perpetual licensing starting at around €4,000-€10,000 annually depending on modules; contact Graitec for quotes.
Conclusion
The 10 tools reviewed represent the pinnacle of structural detailing innovation, with Tekla Structures emerging as the top choice, renowned for its robust BIM capabilities across steel, concrete, and precast projects. Advance Steel and SDS/2 stand out as strong alternatives, offering tailored solutions for automated steel detailing and high-accuracy model generation, respectively, to meet varying professional needs. Together, they underscore the industry’s push for efficiency, precision, and integrated workflows in structural design.
To unlock superior detailing results, try Tekla Structures—its comprehensive features can transform your project workflows. Explore the top 3 and their unique strengths to find the perfect tool that aligns with your specific structural requirements.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison