V7.1 to V8 or AutoCAD?

[zride91]

I'm just looking for personal feedback:
Our firm is an MEP firm and we presently use PowerDraft 7.1, times are changing, we are looking over new horizons, we feel we have to upgrade soon, but to what? V8 seems the way to go with the capability of working in both dgn and dwg files. However, has anyone dealt with importing Architectural desktop files into Microstation before, it seems I can never get it right, the two just aren't very compatible. More architects are using this which is one reason of many we are thinking of AutoCAD. Both programs seem like there will be a lot to deal with during the upgrade process, am I over estimating?

Thanks for your time and feedback
Dave

 

[rKeyTek]

Your right about the V8 issue with AutoCAD add-ons ... .

Bentley only took a few steps towards addressing the DWG format.
More and more companies are using the "Achitecural Desktop"; "Revit"; "Land Desk Development"; etc.... on top of AutoCAD.

The company I work for has both systems in place.
And yes, the management of both systems can be overwelming but after the 1st year it becomes routine.

MicroStation V8 is a nice tool but to rely on it to handle these "HYBRID" DWG files is not a wise move.

The "CORPORATE" IT Group here have investigate the option of just using V8, and it wasn't favorable.

We're using MicroStation J & AutoCAD 2004.
At this point it would seem for the next 2 years we will continue on this path. We will continue to upgrade on AutoCAD ... but ... remain on MicroStation J.

Anyway ... hope that offers some insight over here.
R.