Discover the best structural engineering software for analysis, BIM, and design with gbc engineers. Explore tools like Revit, ETABS, STAAD.Pro, Tekla, AutoCAD & more.
BIM Tools for Modern Projects
Structural engineers today rely heavily on BIM (Building Information Modeling) software to design, analyze, and manage structures with speed, precision, and collaboration. These platforms create rich 3D models embedded with structural intelligence—transforming traditional workflows into coordinated, efficient processes.
This guide explores the top BIM tools shaping the field: Revit, Tekla Structures, Archicad, and BIM 360.
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Autodesk Revit
What Makes Revit Stand Out
Autodesk Revit is an all-in-one BIM solution designed for architecture, structural, MEP, and construction teams. Its parametric model lets engineers design beams, columns, slabs, and foundations as part of a unified digital twin. Because everything is modeled as intelligent objects, changes automatically update views, schedules, and documents—dramatically reducing rework.
Structural Engineering Features
- Analytical Modeling: Generates structural representations for analysis
- Reinforcement Detailing: Offers 3D rebar modeling and automated shop drawing schedules
- Steel Connection Tools: Parametric steel detail modeling with customizability
- Analysis Integration: Bi-directional linkage with analysis platforms enables iterative design
Why Engineers Choose It
- Efficient Coordination
- Automated Documentation
- Clash Detection
- Parametric Design Power
Despite a learning curve, Revit remains a leading BIM platform because it supports the entire structural design lifecycle from concept to construction and beyond.
Tekla Structures
Mastering Detailing and Fabrication
Trimble’s Tekla Structures is widely regarded as the go-to BIM tool for steel and concrete detailing. It excels in fabrication-level accuracy, producing precise 3D models and automated shop drawings.
Core Strengths
- Constructible Models: Highly detailed models used directly in fabrication and construction
- Multi-User Collaboration: Tekla Model Sharing allows distributed teams to work on the same model locally
- Data Interoperability: Supports IFC, DWG, DXF, PDF, and Excel exports
- Structural Designer Integration: Tekla Structural Designer bridges design and analysis workflows
Why It’s a Favorite
- Fabrication Accuracy
- Scalable Collaboration
- Open BIM Support
Tekla demands specialized training and investment, but its payoff in precision and construction-ready deliverables is significant.
Graphisoft Archicad
Bridging Architect & Engineer
Archicad is an architect-centered BIM tool with powerful structural capabilities. Its standout feature? The Structural Analytical Model (SAM), a simplified model extracted from the architectural geometry for smooth hand-off to analysis software.
Key Features
- Parametric Modeling: Intelligent walls, slabs, roofs, columns, and beams
- Collaborative Teamwork: BIMcloud enables real-time multiuser projects with version control
- Analytical Model Export: SAF format supports interoperability with analysis tools
- Model Synchronization: Updates in analytical model reflect back into the architectural model
Why It Works for Engineers
- Integrated Workflow
- Open BIM Focus
- Ideal for Architectural Projects
- Archicad empowers teams seeking robust design-structural coordination without separate analytical platforms.
Autodesk BIM 360
The Cloud Collaboration Hub
BIM 360 is Autodesk’s cloud-based platform unifying design, documentation, coordination, and construction management. It excels at bringing discipline-specific data together—from Revit models to field reports.
Functional Highlights
- Design Collaboration: Real-time Revit worksharing across firms
- Model Coordination: Clash detection and resolution
- Document/Field Management: Central control for RFIs, submittals, issue tracking, and mobile site workflows
- Lifecycle Integration: Extendable to Autodesk Construction Cloud
Why It Supports Structural Projects
- Unified Workspace
- Cross-Discipline Alignment
- Field-Controlled Quality
As construction moves into cloud-based collaboration, BIM 360 stands as a structural engineer’s central command center.
Structural Analysis & Design Software
In structural engineering, precision and performance are non-negotiable. Whether designing a high-rise building, a long-span bridge, or an industrial foundation, structural engineers rely on advanced software to perform accurate calculations, simulate stress responses, and comply with global codes. This article explores the most trusted structural analysis and design software used by engineering firms worldwide, including SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, ETABS, RISA, SAFE, ANSYS, and Prokon.
SAP2000
Overview
SAP2000 by Computers and Structures, Inc. (CSI) is a versatile and widely used platform for static and dynamic analysis of structural systems.
Key Features
- Intuitive user interface with object-based modeling
- Nonlinear static and dynamic analysis capabilities
- Support for time-history and response spectrum analysis
- Integrated design code checks for steel, concrete, and timber
- Extensive library of elements (beams, shells, solids, links, cables)
Ideal Applications
- Bridges
- Tall buildings
- Industrial structures
- Dams and offshore structures
Why Engineers Choose SAP2000
SAP2000’s strength lies in its flexible modeling environment and ability to handle complex geometries and load combinations with ease.
STAAD.Pro
Overview
Developed by Bentley Systems, STAAD.Pro is one of the most comprehensive software solutions for structural analysis and design, known for its compatibility with multiple codes and materials.
Key Features
- Supports steel, concrete, aluminum, and timber structures
- International design code compliance (Eurocode, AISC, IS, BS, etc.)
- Advanced loading conditions (wind, seismic, temperature)
- Parametric modeling and scripting with STAAD Editor
- BIM integration and interoperability with Revit and Tekla
Ideal Applications
- High-rise buildings
- Industrial plants
- Transmission towers
- Transportation infrastructure
- Benefits for Engineers
STAAD.Pro provides robust, scalable tools for firms working across global markets and materials.
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ETABS
Overview
ETABS (Extended Three-Dimensional Analysis of Building Systems), another CSI product, is optimized for multi-story building design and analysis.
Key Features
- Grid-based modeling tailored for buildings
- Advanced seismic and wind load analysis
- Automated code checking for frames and shear walls
- Integrated floor and foundation system modeling
- Interactive report generation and graphical output
Best Use Cases
- Residential and commercial towers
- Hospitals and schools
- Government and institutional buildings
Why Use ETABS
ETABS is a go-to solution for civil and structural engineers designing complex building systems. Its integrated workflow and code compliance make it ideal for fast-track projects.
RISA
Overview
RISA Technologies offers a family of structural design tools, with RISA-3D at the core of its offering. The suite is known for being engineer-friendly and versatile.
Features of RISA-3D
- Easy-to-use 3D modeling interface
- Comprehensive steel, concrete, timber, and masonry design
- Load combination generator and design optimization
- Integration with other tools like Revit and Tekla
Supporting Tools
- RISAFloor: Floor system design
- RISAFoundation: Foundation design
- RISAConnection: Steel connection design
Best Use Cases
- Low to mid-rise buildings
- Educational facilities
- Light industrial structures
Benefits
The RISA suite’s modular nature makes it highly adaptable to firms needing tailored structural design tools.
SAFE
Overview
SAFE (Slab Analysis by Finite Element Method) is also from CSI and is specialized for the analysis and design of concrete floor slabs and foundations.
Key Capabilities
- Finite element modeling of slabs and mats
- Punching shear and post-tensioned slab design
- Integration with ETABS and SAP2000
- Comprehensive documentation generation
Best Use Cases
- Residential podiums
- Commercial basements
- Mat foundations
- Post-tensioned slabs
- Value for Engineers
SAFE simplifies otherwise complex slab designs into an intuitive environment, reducing modeling time and improving construction accuracy.
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ANSYS
Overview
ANSYS is a high-performance simulation tool offering finite element analysis (FEA), thermal, and multiphysics modeling for advanced structural engineering tasks.
Core Features
- Static and dynamic structural analysis
- Thermal and fluid-structure interaction
- Composite and nonlinear material simulation
- Meshing tools and solver accuracy
Ideal Applications
- Aerospace and automotive components
- Complex mechanical structures
- Research and high-precision engineering
Why Choose ANSYS
For firms requiring advanced simulation capabilities beyond buildings—especially in R&D contexts—ANSYS is unmatched.
Prokon
Overview
Prokon is an accessible structural analysis and design suite known for its modular, user-friendly interface and code compatibility.
Core Modules
- Frame and truss analysis
- Concrete and steel design to international codes
- Base plate and connection design
- Retaining wall design
Features
- Simple reporting and calculation output
- Integration with AutoCAD and BIM platforms
- Graphical 3D visualization
Best Applications
- Residential and commercial buildings
- Educational facilities
- Modular construction projects
Engineer Benefits
Prokon is ideal for firms seeking affordable, easy-to-deploy design software with support for local and international codes.
Drafting & 2D/3D Modeling Software
In the field of structural engineering, precise drafting and accurate 3D modeling are fundamental to successful design, documentation, and construction. The right software tools enable engineers to create detailed drawings, simulate real-world behavior, collaborate seamlessly with other disciplines, and streamline the overall project lifecycle. In this article, we explore leading drafting and modeling software solutions, including AutoCAD, SketchUp, Navisworks, SimScale, and Tekla Structural Designer. Each tool plays a unique role in modern engineering workflows and helps optimize performance, reduce errors, and enhance productivity.
AutoCAD
Overview
AutoCAD by Autodesk is a cornerstone in engineering and architectural design. Known for its flexibility, it allows for both 2D drafting and 3D modeling and supports workflows across multiple industries.
Key Features
- Precise 2D drawing tools for structural and architectural plans
- 3D modeling and rendering capabilities
- Extensive library of symbols and templates
- Layer management and annotation tools
- Integration with other Autodesk products (Revit, Civil 3D, Navisworks)
Ideal Applications
- Structural detail drawings
- Construction documentation
- Shop drawings for steel, rebar, and concrete elements
- Layouts for site and utility planning
Why Engineers Use AutoCAD
AutoCAD is the industry standard for 2D drafting and is often the first software engineers learn. It offers unmatched control, drafting precision, and universal compatibility.
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SketchUp
Overview
SketchUp is a 3D modeling software known for its simplicity and intuitive user interface. Originally designed for conceptual design and architectural visualization, it has become a valuable tool for structural engineers as well.
Key Features
- Quick and intuitive modeling environment
- Push-pull modeling and component libraries
- Integration with plugins for structural analysis (Sefaira, Trimble Connect)
- Ability to import/export various file types (DWG, DXF, IFC, etc.)
- Real-time rendering and animation options
Ideal Applications
- Conceptual structural design
- Visualization of steel or timber frame systems
- Preliminary massing studies
- Client presentations and stakeholder engagement
Benefits
SketchUp allows engineers to quickly iterate designs, communicate intent visually, and test structural forms in a lightweight, collaborative platform.
Navisworks
Overview
Autodesk Navisworks is a project review and coordination tool that excels in clash detection and BIM model aggregation. It is particularly useful for large, multidisciplinary projects.
Key Features
- Aggregates models from Revit, AutoCAD, Tekla, Archicad, and more
- Clash detection and interference checking across disciplines
- Timeliner for 4D simulation (construction scheduling)
- Quantification and model takeoffs
- Integration with BIM 360 for cloud collaboration
Ideal Applications
- Large-scale infrastructure projects
- Mixed-use developments
- Industrial plant coordination
- Data center and MEP-intensive buildings
Why Navisworks Matters
Navisworks ensures that different systems (structural, architectural, MEP) do not clash before reaching the construction phase. This minimizes costly on-site errors.
SimScale
Overview
SimScale is a cloud-based engineering simulation platform that brings high-fidelity computational tools to structural engineers without the need for specialized hardware.
Key Capabilities
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress and displacement
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for wind flow and heat transfer
- Thermal analysis for HVAC and structural performance
- Cloud-based platform with parallel computing
- Integration with CAD and BIM workflows
Ideal Applications
- Wind load analysis on high-rise buildings
- Structural integrity testing of facades
- Seismic simulations and vibration studies
- Heat transfer and thermal bridging assessments
Why Engineers Use SimScale
SimScale removes the barrier to entry for advanced simulations. With just a browser, engineers can run detailed studies that would traditionally require expensive software and hardware.
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Tekla Structural Designer
Overview
Tekla Structural Designer by Trimble is a powerful all-in-one solution for analyzing and designing building structures. It offers seamless integration between analysis and detailing.
Key Features
- Automatic load calculation and combination generation
- Concrete and steel design per international codes
- BIM integration with Tekla Structures and Revit
- Interactive 3D model with real-time feedback
- Design reporting and drawing automation
Ideal Use Cases
- Multi-story concrete and steel structures
- Schools, hospitals, and commercial facilities
- Residential towers and podium structures
Benefits for Engineers
Tekla Structural Designer simplifies the analysis-to-detailing process, making it easier for engineers to test structural behavior, apply design changes, and produce drawings within a single environment.
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Conclusion
In today’s competitive AEC landscape, selecting the right structural engineering software is essential for delivering safe, efficient, and code-compliant designs. Whether you're drafting 2D plans in AutoCAD, analyzing high-rise structures in ETABS, or collaborating on BIM models using Revit or Tekla Structures, each tool plays a critical role in the modern structural workflow.
From concept to construction, software solutions like SAP2000, SAFE, STAAD.Pro, and Navisworks streamline communication, reduce errors, and improve design quality. Cloud-based tools like BIM 360 and SimScale further enhance collaboration and accessibility for globally distributed teams.
At gbc engineers, we leverage a robust portfolio of structural software to support our clients through every project phase — from initial design to detailed analysis and documentation. Whether it’s new construction, retrofitting, or global coordination, we ensure precision, performance, and partnership.