Not all computer-aided design (CAD) programs are created equal. Although the end goal of every CAD program is to facilitate design, the tools, integrations, functionalities, and platforms can differ significantly.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the unique features of Autodesk products that motivate many individuals to switch to this platform or bring it in parallel to their existing CAD tools.
Additionally, we’ll provide guidance on how to make the transition.
Start With a CAD-Agnostic Single Source of Truth
If you switch to Autodesk (or, more likely, decide to run it in parallel with what you have today), you no doubt will want to be able to work seamlessly in a CAD-agnostic environment. Autodesk enables stakeholders to store, view, and work on design files and associated data from any CAD source (Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD software, Creo, Siemens PLM, Altium, SolidWorks PDM, and Catia) without worrying about compatibility issues or sacrificing efficiency. Fusion 360 Manage with Upchain is Autodesk’s bridge to working across these disparate CAD platforms and keeping sane workflows. [link to our relevant product page in this copy somewhere]
Upchain serves as a centralized repository for all of your up-to-date product data. Having a single source of truth lets you collaborate more effectively with internal and external stakeholders, resulting in better products and faster launches.
Additionally, since Upchain is cloud-based, it’s easily accessible by anyone at any time, giving designers and engineers flexibility and freedom. User access control ensures sensitive information is protected. Moreover, thanks to the cloud, Upchain is less expensive and requires less upkeep than traditional on-premise solutions.
Featured Resource
33 Essential AutoCAD Tips
Architects, engineers, and design professionals rely on Autodesk AutoCAD to create precise 2D drawings and 3D models. Whether you’ve been using AutoCAD for 30 years or 3 months, we’ve put together a list of essential tips to help any AutoCAD user. From keyboard shortcuts to dynamic blocks, this list of tips will help you speed up your processes for greater efficiency.
Simulation Tools Directly Inside Inventor
Inventor Nastran is a powerful tool that allows engineers and analysts to conduct finite element analysis (FEA) simulations. Its vast capabilities include a broad range of simulation study types, such as nonlinear dynamics, heat transfer, fatigue, and much more.
Using Inventor Nastran, designers and engineers can improve product performance, reduce warranty issues, and accelerate time-to-market. Simulation capabilities also reduce the need for physical prototypes, saving time and money.
One of the key benefits of Inventor Nastran is that it can be used directly inside Inventor. Users can perform simulations on their designs without learning a separate tool and switching back and forth. This seamless integration allows for more efficient simulation workflows and increased productivity.
Inventor Nastran is an excellent option for engineering teams working in Autodesk, but for those requiring more advanced simulation assistance, KETIV can also provide access to Ansys Simulation software and consulting services.
A Single Platform That Does Everything
Users of CAD programs like Solidworks often complain of the disjointed nature of the product. They have to use different tools to perform different tasks, which is inefficient and expensive.
For example, Solidworks users might have to use Solidworks for 3D CAD, Solidworks PDM for data management, Mastercam for machining, and EPLAN for electrical design; the list goes on. Each tool comes with a string of pricey upgrades and add-ons.
Autodesk, on the other hand, is different. The company offers a complete suite of tools covering all aspects of the design process that seamlessly integrate into a single platform, making Autodesk easier to manage and operate.
Autodesk also offers pricing flexibility. Buyers can purchase individual tools or cost-effective bundles such as the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection–a comprehensive package of CAD, CAM, and CAE applications.
Effortless Scalability for Ambitious Businesses
Autodesk software is designed for scalability, making it the ideal choice for the most ambitious and demanding businesses. Its unrivaled processing power sets Inventor apart from other CAD solutions, which allows it to handle the largest and most complex 3D modeling effortlessly. With the ability to support multiple users working simultaneously, Inventor ensures optimal performance without any risk of downtime.
Sounds Great. But Why Should I Care?
If you’re thinking about switching to a new CAD software, it’s essential to evaluate whether the extra features it offers are actually going to benefit your business. You don’t want to waste your money upgrading just for the sake of it. If you’re considering Autodesk, here are some of the benefits our customers have shared with us after making the move.
Improved Profitability: Autodesk lets high-cost designers and engineers switch their focus from transactional work to product development, designing better quality products and bringing them to market faster.
Increased Customer and Employee Satisfaction: By improving products to suit customers’ needs better and minimizing the failure rate, customers experience greater satisfaction, driving loyalty and retention. Likewise, employees experience greater enjoyment when they can automate time-consuming and tedious tasks, freeing up more time for innovation.
Less Risk: Easy access to the latest design optimization technologies, such as simulation, elevates product performance while reducing reputational and legal risks associated with product failure.
Greater Productivity: Integrated data, connected workflows, simplified change management, and better handling of product variability and customizations result in enhanced efficiency and throughput.
Augmented Collaboration and Innovation: By implementing a system where designers and engineers can easily access and share up-to-date, clean, and consistent data, the need to search for files, create them from scratch, or follow up by email to check if files have arrived is eliminated. Clearing bottlenecks enhances collaboration between internal and external stakeholders, leading to improved product innovation and upgraded processes.
How Do I Make the Switch with KETIV?
With the right partner in your corner, switching from your existing CAD program to Autodesk is easier than you think. At KETIV, we don’t just manage your contract; we provide the guidance, support, and additional technology you need to achieve rapid time-to-value and company-wide adoption once you’ve migrated over.
Learn with the KETIV Virtual Academy
The KETIV Virtual Academy offers a comprehensive solution to enhance the skills of both seasoned engineers and business users with no technical background. Through various educational videos and weekly webinars, participants can gain valuable insights and practical knowledge to become proficient in Autodesk’s software solutions. What’s more, they can get up to speed fast, so they can get back to daily operations.
Take a look at our rich resource of past sessions on topics including:
- Autodesk Account Portal 101
- Take Your Inventor Nastran Simulations to the Next Level with Ansys
- Improving Product Design with Automated Modeling and Autodesk Fusion 360
- What’s New in AutoCAD 2023
Changing Resellers Is Easy
To fully benefit from the personal and proactive support we offer at KETIV, we recommend that you make us your Autodesk reseller. By doing so, we can assist you with managing your contract and software renewals and guide you on Autodesk’s various offerings and programs.
As importantly, we’ll grant you access to the vibrant KETIV Virtual Academy community, onboarding resources, and a team of experts (partners, employees, and customers) ready and eager to assist you. So don’t wait any longer. Take the first step towards achieving your digital transformation goals – contact KETIV today.