SDS/2
Building design and building information modeling (BIM) software
CAD software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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What is SDS/2
SDS/2 is a 3D modeling and detailing application focused on structural steel and related fabrication deliverables. It supports BIM-oriented workflows for steel detailers, fabricators, and structural engineering teams that need shop drawings, CNC/NC data, and model-based coordination outputs. The product emphasizes connection design/detailing and downstream fabrication information rather than general-purpose architectural modeling.
Steel detailing and fabrication focus
SDS/2 is purpose-built for structural steel modeling, detailing, and fabrication deliverables rather than broad building design. It supports creation of shop drawings and fabrication outputs that align with steel detailing workflows. This specialization can reduce reliance on separate tools for steel-specific detailing tasks compared with general CAD/BIM platforms.
Connection design and detailing
The software includes capabilities oriented around steel connections and constructible detailing. This helps teams move from a coordinated 3D model to connection-level documentation and fabrication information. It is particularly relevant for projects where connection complexity and detailing accuracy drive schedule and rework risk.
Downstream manufacturing data outputs
SDS/2 supports outputs used in fabrication, such as CNC/NC-style data and related production information (implementation varies by workflow and configuration). This can streamline handoff from detailing to shop operations. It also supports model-based coordination exports to participate in multi-trade BIM coordination processes.
Narrower scope than full BIM
SDS/2 is centered on structural steel, so it is not a complete solution for architectural authoring or full-discipline building design. Organizations typically still need other tools for architectural, MEP, and broader building documentation. This can increase integration and data exchange requirements across the project toolchain.
Learning curve for new users
Steel detailing and fabrication-oriented modeling introduces domain-specific concepts that can be challenging for users coming from general CAD. Teams often need training to establish consistent modeling standards and drawing output conventions. Implementation effort can be higher when aligning the software to a company’s shop practices and project requirements.
Interoperability depends on standards
Coordination with other BIM/CAD systems depends on file formats and how consistently project teams apply modeling standards. Data exchange can require validation and cleanup to avoid downstream issues in coordination or fabrication outputs. Mixed-tool environments may need defined processes for version control and model handoffs.
Plan & Pricing
Pricing model: Contact sales for license pricing — SDS2 does not publish public list prices for SDS2 licenses on its official website (contact sales/request demo required).
Known paid offerings (from SDS2 official site):
- Instructor-led training / Project Consultation — $175/hour. (virtual).
- On-site training — $2,500/day (plus travel expenses).
Free / trial offerings (official):
- SDS2 Viewer — free (permanent) downloadable model viewer.
- Student license — free 90-day SDS2 Detailing license (limited to training use, project/tonnage limits).
- SDS2 Load Planning (module) — 30-day free trial mentioned in SDS2 blog post for Load Planning.
- Promotional trade-in: limited-time 40% off first-year discount (via SDS2 demo/offer page).
Notes: License pricing (perpetual, subscription, named/floating, SSA/maintenance fees) and specific per-user / per-seat costs are not listed on the public SDS2 website; prospective customers are directed to contact sales or request a demo/quote.
Seller details
Nemetschek Group
Munich, Germany
1981
Public
https://www.allplan.com/
https://x.com/allplan
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allplan
