When it comes to building information modeling software, Allplan claims to be a leading solution for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry.
However, its ability to perform electrical engineering tasks needs more examination. Here, we’ll give a thorough review of Allplan using the Electrical Engineering BIM Scorecard to determine if it’s right for electrical engineering uses.
For more information on how the 10-point scorecard works, see this video that discusses it further. You can also download a scorecard graphic to help personally score BIM software.
Scoring Allplan
Using the BIM scorecard, we can measure how well Allplan performs on electrical engineering tasks. The scorecard consists of ten “yes” or “no” questions designed to evaluate the software’s suitability for electrical engineering needs.
- Does engineering exist?
Yes, the software recognizes engineering disciplines on its homepage.
- Does MEP exist?
The Allplan homepage doesn’t clearly mention Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing solutions, but after some digging, there is an internal page dedicated to MEP design.
- Does electrical engineering exist?
On the same MEP page, Allplan does acknowledge the electrical engineering discipline.
- Can you insert electrical devices?
The ability to accommodate electrical devices is uncertain, with only awkward references to electrical design components available on the Allplan website. This lack of specific features raises doubts about its usefulness for electrical engineering tasks.
- Can you create a panel schedule?
This is also uncertain. The website doesn’t provide clear evidence related to panel scheduling. The feature might as well not exist if you have to dig hard to find it.
What This Means
Allplan might work for architectural design but it does not have anything of interest for electrical engineers. Its score of a 3 or 4 is no better than what you get using AutoCAD.
While Allplan may present itself as a broad solution for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry, its suitability for electrical engineering tasks comes up short.
Before investing time and resources into mastering Allplan for their electrical design purposes, electrical engineers should explore alternative software solutions better suited to their specific requirements and workflows.
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