I've used Vectorworks since 2001. I switched from AutoCAD because ACAD didn't have all the features of VW and was becoming too expensive. VW is the most economical way to start using 3D/BIM. The latest release, Vectorworks 2011, has the feel of Sketchup with push/pull capability and drawing in 3D without rotating the model. I have Sketchup, but I don't use it since VW does the same thing and much more. VW easily imports and exports all the other formats and is certified by GSA as IFC compliant and I've used it on federal projects. You won't need any add-on's for VW since the Architect/Renderworks package includes digital terrain modeling, 3D lighting, and advanced digital rendering.
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Timothy Mead AIA
Timothy N. Mead, AIA, Architect
Phoenix MD
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