Architects across Australia rely on Autodesk software when they work. Legacy CAD files, coordination and communication, and state government BIM mandates all point to the same toolbox. That toolbox includes classics like AutoCAD Architecture and Revit. So when people ask what software architects use most, Autodesk products are almost always a big part of the answer. These products are fundamental to the way modern architecture is created.
In this article, we’ll review some of the most popular Autodesk Architecture Software in the industry.
1. Revit
Revit stands as Autodesk’s flagship BIM platform. For us, Revit is fundamentally changing how Australian architects approach design and documentation. What makes it different? Instead of just drawing lines and shapes like traditional CAD, Revit architects create intelligent 3D models. Walls know they’re walls, doors know they’re hosted in walls, and everything contains data.
That single‑source model slashes coordination errors and feeds straight into clash detection, FM handovers, and embodied‑carbon analysis. For many studios, Revit anchors the entire architecture software list because it satisfies what councils, cost planners, and builders now expect: a coordinated BIM deliverable ready for 4D and 5D workflows.
2. AutoCAD Architecture
AutoCAD Architecture enhances the classic AutoCAD platform with specialised tools for architectural documentation. It comes loaded with intelligent architectural objects and tools designed to speed up the creation of those essential floor plans, sections, and elevations. Even with the shift to BIM, AutoCAD Architecture holds its ground. Why? It’s incredibly efficient for producing detailed construction drawings and managing 2D deliverables.
So, is AutoCAD Architecture the same as Revit? Nope. AutoCAD Architecture focuses on geometric accuracy (think lines and layers). Revit builds intelligent models where elements know they’re walls or windows. While Revit handles the integrated BIM process, AutoCAD Architecture remains a vital tool for many firms, especially when drafting productivity is paramount.
3. FormIt Pro
FormIt Pro is perfect for the early stages of design. It lets architects sketch in 3D, explore massing options, and analyse factors. Its intuitive interface lets you quickly create 3D sketches, almost like modelling with digital clay. This makes it easy to test out different forms and options right from the start.
But it’s smarter than just a simple modeller. What’s handy for Revit architects is its smooth connection to Revit. You can easily bring your FormIt concepts into Revit to continue developing the design with more detail. So, Formit Pro helps you sketch massing studies in 3D, run solar analyses, and export to Revit. All before your morning coffee.
4. 3ds Max
3ds Max handles rendering, animations, and VR walkthroughs, which is ideal for marketing or planning approvals. 3ds Max is Autodesk’s powerhouse for high-end visualisation. It works seamlessly with Revit, AutoCAD, and other models. This helps you to import your designs and add the details, materials, and atmosphere that make a concept feel real.
Need a perfect render for a client presentation? Or for a marketing brochure? Or for a design competition? 3ds Max is the best answer. 3ds Max provides the advanced modelling, texturing, lighting, and rendering tools to achieve it. Please note, in today’s visually driven world, being able to clearly and beautifully communicate your design intent is crucial.
5. Autodesk Insight
Autodesk Insight tackles sustainability head-on. Integrated with Revit and FormIt Pro, it simulates energy use, daylighting, and thermal loads early in design.
Want to see how changing the window glazing affects energy use? Or how orientation impacts solar gain? Insight helps you answer these questions. This leads to more informed decisions, better-performing buildings, and reduced environmental impact. As part of Autodesk architecture software, Insight empowers greener designs.
6. Navisworks Manage
Navisworks Manage is the central meeting point for all project models in the broader Autodesk AEC Collection software list. It allows you to aggregate designs from various Autodesk architecture tools and other disciplines’ software (structural, MEP, etc.), regardless of their original file format.
Navisworks Manage most powerful feature is clash detection. Navisworks automatically finds where different elements conflict, so you can resolve these issues digitally. Beyond clashes, it’s invaluable for project review, simulating construction schedules (4D modelling), and even performing quantity takeoffs.
7. BIM Collaborate Pro
Part of the Autodesk Construction Cloud, BIM Collaborate Pro shifts team coordination online. Using features like Revit Cloud Worksharing, multiple architects and engineers can simultaneously work on the same central project model hosted securely in the cloud. It also includes similar collaboration capabilities for Civil 3D and Plant 3D projects.
Built on Autodesk Docs for robust data management, it provides a single source of truth and facilitates smoother coordination workflows. With these fundamental features, you need to consider workflow setup and Autodesk Construction Cloud pricing factors.
8. Dynamo for Revit
Dynamo is an open-source graphical programming tool that plugs right into Revit. For many architects, Dynamo extends Revit’s capabilities with graphical programming. Even without coding experience, architects can automate repetitive tasks, explore generative design, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Typically, architects use Dynamo to:
- Automate tedious processes, like numbering rooms or placing elements according to rules
- Drive geometry from data, like facade panel variations based on sunlight analysis
- Perform sophisticated model analysis.
9. Infraworks
Infraworks blends terrain, GIS, and infrastructure data into rich, real-world models for site planning. Architects use it to visualize how buildings fit their surroundings, from roads to landscapes. It’s ideal for early-stage design and stakeholder buy-in.
You can rapidly sketch conceptual designs for various infrastructure elements directly within this context model. This makes it incredibly valuable for understanding site constraints and opportunities early on. Also, it can help you test different site layouts and communicate the project’s relationship to its surroundings to clients and stakeholders.
10. Autodesk Docs
Autodesk Docs is the Common Data Environment (CDE) for projects hosted in the Autodesk Construction Cloud. It centralises document management, streamlines reviews, and ensures version control. Version control, mark‑ups, and transmittals sit in one cloud.
All these features ensure every stakeholder references the same source of truth. As we all know, in any AEC project today, managing the sheer volume of documents and data can be overwhelming. This is why Autodesk Docs is a big help.
Your Next Steps
As you can see, the world of Autodesk architecture software is extensive. Figuring out the right mix of these tools, managing the licenses efficiently, and getting your team comfortable with new workflows is where the real challenge often lies. That’s where we specialise in navigating the complexities of Autodesk software licensing and implementation.
As an Autodesk Gold Partner, we are a reseller that focuses on making sure you get genuine value from your software investment. Now, if you want to get the Autodesk architecture software that adjusts to your needs and goals, let’s talk. We offer a free discussion session with our specialist. Just book the session with us here.
