Vectorworks

Advantages:

• Cross-Platform Compatibility: It is available for both Windows and Mac operating systems
• 2D and 3D Design: Vectorworks supports both 2D drafting and 3D modelling BIM (Building Information Modelling): Vectorworks has strong BIM capabilities, enabling users to create intelligent building models
• Integrated Design Environment: The software provides an integrated design environment, allowing architects and designers to work on various aspects of a project
• Collaboration Tools: Vectorworks offers collaboration features that facilitate teamwork, includes cloud-based collaboration tools and the ability to import/export various file formats
• High quality rendering through Renderworks
• Educational licensing and scholarship programs.
• Very robust tutorial and "Vectorworks University" assets for skill building
• Specific modules for landscape design and entertainment design, including lighting libraries and automation
• Parametric Design: Vectorworks supports parametric design, allowing users to create intelligent objects with adjustable parameters that update dynamically
• Free for Education (requires verification)

Limitations:

• Vectorworks is a full featured software that has a fairly steep learning curve.
• It may be less of an industry standard than Autoad, although more widely used in some geographies and specific fields such as entertainment and landscaping.
• Although less expensive than Autocad, cost may be prohibitive.
• Although less expensive than Autocad, cost may be prohibitive.
• Content created with the free Education tier is watermarked
• Education verification process is invasive (requires current paystub or transcript to be submitted)