MicroStation

bentley.com/software/microstation
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Infrastructure Design CAD Software - Bring Your Vision to Life

How to Replace MicroStation

Overview

MicroStation is a computer-aided design software specifically built for infrastructure design, helping architects and engineers create precise 2D and 3D drawings for infrastructure projects. It enables users to design, communicate, and deliver projects reliably while minimizing risks and accelerating automation. The software provides a geospatially-enabled environment with industry-standard DGN file format support and comprehensive collaboration capabilities.

Features

22 features across 14 categories

Analysis(1)

Model Analysis

Perform various analyses on 3D models

Also in: Lexion, Ironclad, Juro

Collaboration(1)

Collaborative Design Environment

A common environment connects applications, data, and teams to reliably deliver on demanding projects

Also in: Notion, Airtable, Obsidian

Compliance(1)

Standards Compliance and Enforcement

Ensure project quality by enforcing CAD standards with robust configuration capabilities and industry-compliant documentation

Also in: Insider CDP, Airtable, 1Password

Customization(2)

Configurable Environment

Customize the software environment to work the way you want

Keyboard Shortcuts Customization

Customize keyboard shortcuts for personalized workflow

Also in: monday.com, Obsidian, Smartsheet

Data & Integration(1)

Geospatial Context Integration

Design with accurate real-world context automatically by integrating geospatial information from thousands of systems and GIS background files

Data Management(1)

Point Cloud Data Support

Work with point-cloud data seamlessly without requiring conversions

Also in: monday.com, Notion, Airtable

Design(3)

2D and 3D Drawing Creation

Create geospatially enabled 2D and 3D drawings for infrastructure projects at any scale

3D Modeling and Rendering

Create 3D models and renderings with comprehensive CAD capabilities

Annotation Tools

Annotate drawings to communicate design intent clearly

Also in: Squarespace, InVision, WordPress.com

File Management(1)

DGN File Format Support

Native support for industry-leading DGN file format for infrastructure design projects

Also in: Ironclad, monday.com, Smartsheet

Interoperability(1)

Legacy File Format Compatibility

Incorporate legacy data and file formats like DWG and point-cloud data without conversions

Learning & Support(2)

In-App Learning

Access in-app learning resources to help users become experts

Video Tutorials

Comprehensive video tutorial library for learning MicroStation

Licensing(1)

License PoolingPremium

Access software licenses from multiple computers

Output(3)

Document Production

Produce consistent, high-quality deliverables such as paper plots, reports, 2D/3D PDFs, iModels, and 3D models

iModel Export

Deliver designs in iModel format

PDF Export

Generate 2D and 3D PDF documents for design delivery

Performance(2)

Reliability and Stability

Reliable system that works without crashes or complications

Unlimited Project Size

Work collaboratively on any size project without size restrictions

Visualization(2)

Animation Capabilities

Create animations from 3D models

Data Visualization

Analyze and perform data visualizations on models based on their geometry or underlying attributes

Pricing

12-Month Subscription (Virtuoso Subscription)

Popular
Custom per region
  • 12-month software license
  • Training and mentoring services
  • 3 Keys (training credits) for consulting and customized instruction
  • Auto-renewal option
  • No long-term contract required
  • Quick to get started

Perpetual License with SELECT

Custom per region
  • One-time purchase
  • Yearly maintenance subscription (SELECT)
  • 24/7/365 technical support
  • Learning resources
  • License exchange capability
  • License pooling
  • Annual renewal support

Enterprise Plan

Custom
  • Global pricing
  • Comprehensive software portfolio access
  • Success plan services
  • Implementation services
  • Training and technical support
  • Global best practices

Cost Calculator

Pricing data not available for MicroStation. Check their website for current pricing.

Build vs Buy

Should you build a MicroStation alternative or buy the subscription? Estimate based on 22 features.

Buy MicroStation

Better Value
Monthly costContact Sales
3-year totalVaries
Time to deployDays

Build Your Own

Development cost$12,000
Maintenance$180/mo
3-year total$18,480
Dev time~1 months

Buying MicroStation saves ~$18,480 over 3 years vs building.

Estimates based on 22 features and a BuildScore of 5/5. Actual costs vary.

Integrations

4 known integrations

Citrix XenAppDWG Format (AutoCAD)GIS SystemsPoint Cloud Data Systems