Design software provides a tool to use in the conceptual part of design. These tools have application in architecture design, home design, construction, Interior design, landscaping design, mechanical design and others. Many users find that beyond helping with the design of a project or product, the design options can be used as a sales and communication tool when dealing with customers.
Some generic tools are basically 3-D drawing tools that can be applied to many industries (even film making, game development and animation). Other products are industry specific. The list of specialized design tools is almost as varied as there are products that need designing.
These 3 D design products include many features which may include:
- Push and pull editing (click on a shape and push or pull)
- Material exploration – try out differences in:
- Texture
- Color
- Form
- Light
- Real time shadows
- Sectional views
- Import and export tools
Specialized programs for a particular industry may include tools unique to that industry such as:
- Encyclopedia of plants (including digital images)
- Guide to care of plants (including garden pests and plant diseases)
- GPS tools for precise survey
- Image editor
- Prepare remodel and new construction layouts
Major Vendors providing generic design tools:
- AutoDesk (AutoCad)
- SketchUp 3D
Some vendors of industry specific design applications include:
- Punch software (several industry specific design products)
- Garden Composer (landscaping design)
- AAA Logo (logo design)
- Architectural Lighting Design Software
Because there are so many variables when selecting a design application, it's important to know exactly what features you require before making a choice. Supporters of SketchUp insist that its an easily learned software tool, but it lacks some of the more technical tools of AutoCad and the more specialized tools.
Other factors to consider include:
- Cost
- Is a specific industry application appropriate, or will a generic design product provide the results that you need
- Ease of use and training
- Standard within industry – if everyone in your industry uses one application, you are likely to be best using the same tool
- System resources: Not usually an issue, but sometimes small business environments are on over-taxed hardware already.