Autodesk A360

You can create highly detailed models using building, roads, bridges and much more using accurate specs which are then built accordingly. The overall functionality has a ton of useful features to help you analyze and enable the best concept including terrain surfaces. The presentation and publishing features utilize images while you can integrate third party software to help extend it's functionality into other software such as Civil3D. There's a lot of documentation and support available including an entire community and forum available. The ability to render is one of the strongest features. It's very quick to do so with snapshots and is dramatically improved in terms of efficiency compared to other CAD software. One great way to learn a new complex software and AutoDesk Infraworks 360 is most definitely included is to initially Google the software name and 'keyboard shortcuts' then view the images available and you will usually find cool maps individuals have created with all of them on a single keyboard image. This way you can learn the fastest way to use any software while you are getting a hands on experience. This reduces the learning curve quite dramatically and increases your workflow efficiency the fastest possible way.

It's a large software coming in just under twenty gigabytes so ensure you have a dedicated system with lots of resources. Your video card is going to have perhaps the most impact on your ability to use this software efficiently. I would highly recommend using a high end video card. There is a massive learning curve in order to become proficient with this software though it does remarkably well to help facilitate this with it's highly visual approach and well setup menus. There are certain modular elements you may have to purchase in addition to your software license so keep that in mind going in. I believe it could use better image editing capabilities to help you create realistic backgrounds and more.

AutoDesk Infraworks 360 has a free trial available you can download and test within a few minutes. The Ultimate package has by far the most functionality. I wish the company would have a more inclusive pricing model for something as important as civil engineering. It too bad to think that a municipal system in some locality did not have it in their budget for the Roadway Design, Bridge Design and Drainage upgrades. That doesn't seem like the most ethical way to empower end users in a matter as important as this but I suppose they would have other options.