Dilbert

But saying this requires a quantification on what a "design tool" is. While you can do Massing models in Revit in general it's greatest strength comes when it's time to refine a design. Producing models that allow you to see shades and shadows, heat gain/loss calculations, quantity take-offs, conflict detection, etc. BUT these tend to be items we address once the basic form (relationship of spaces and architectural style) has been roughed out a bit. Too often I see companies disapointed in Revit as an initial design tool and grumble that they "justify" using it for it's other advantages. The truth is, they are sold on it as being a "design" tool without actually quantifying that it's a Design Development tool and not a tool best used for (in most cases) early conceptual work. My job is to teach people/companies the software, I like to set that expectation level up front and push it's coordination and "I"nformation (BIM) possibilities. These features alone are worth switching to this software and that's only a starting point of its advantages.

In the end, Revit is a superior design tool.. as long as you use it for the right stage of design.

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Brian Myers
Applications Engineer
BIM Expert
Seiler Instrument
St Louis Missouri USA