RAM Structural System

a) Primary Functions and Target Markets

RAM Structural System is a comprehensive suite of software applications aimed at structural engineers. It is primarily used for the analysis, design, and drafting of building structures. The software facilitates the design of both steel and concrete structures, providing tools for wind and seismic load analysis, steel connection designs, and gravity and lateral load systems.

Target Market:

• Structural engineering firms
• Civil engineering firms
• Construction companies
• Architectural firms engaged in structural design

b) Market Share and User Base

RAM Structural System is part of Bentley Systems’ portfolio, a recognized leader in infrastructure software. While specific market share figures aren't typically disclosed, Bentley Systems has a significant presence globally, especially within structural and civil engineering sectors. However, the software faces competition from other prominent tools like Autodesk's Revit and Tekla Structures, which may have broader adoption in some regions.

c) Key Differentiating Factors

• Integration with Bentley Ecosystem: RAM Structural System is part of Bentley's wide suite of infrastructure solutions, allowing for seamless integration with other Bentley products.
• Specialized Features for Structural Design: Unlike some competitors more focused on modeling, RAM is deeply specialized in structural analysis and design, particularly excelling in complex load simulations.
• Focus on Specific Engineering Aspects: It offers advanced features for things like seismic and wind load analysis, which not all general architectural modeling tools provide.

Revizto

a) Primary Functions and Target Markets

Revizto is a real-time issue tracking software designed for the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry. It facilitates collaboration by allowing teams to capture, specify, and manage project issues in 3D environments in real-time, supporting both BIM (Building Information Modeling) workflows and traditional 2D plans.

Target Market:

• Architecture firms
• Engineering firms
• Construction companies
• Project managers and BIM coordinators

b) Market Share and User Base

Revizto has been growing steadily in the market due to its strong emphasis on collaboration and integration across different software platforms. It is particularly popular among firms that prioritize real-time collaboration and issue tracking in complex projects. Revizto does compete with other collaboration-focused tools like Autodesk BIM 360 and Trimble Connect, which are also prominent in the industry.

c) Key Differentiating Factors

• Cross-Platform Collaboration: Revizto facilitates collaboration across different software platforms, emphasizing interoperability and ease of use.
• Real-Time Issue Tracking: This feature allows for immediate identification and management of issues, which can be a significant advantage in fast-paced project environments.
• User-Friendly Interface: Known for its intuitive interface, Revizto enables users with varying technical skills to engage in the project's issue tracking and collaboration processes.

Summary

• Purpose and Market: RAM Structural System is deeply rooted in structural design and engineering, while Revizto is aimed at improving project collaboration and real-time issue tracking within the AEC industry.
• Market Presence: RAM is widely used within engineering-focused organizations that require in-depth structural analysis, although it faces strong competition. Revizto is popular for its cross-platform ease and is gaining traction due to its collaborative features.
• Differentiators: RAM excels with technical and specialized structural engineering features, while Revizto stands out with its real-time collaboration capabilities and user-friendly interface suitable for diverse project teams.

Both products serve the AEC industry but target different needs within the project lifecycle – RAM for structural design precision and Revizto for project collaboration efficiency.

RAM Structural System and Revizto serve different primary functions in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries but still share some overlapping features related to project collaboration and management. Here's a breakdown of their similarities and differences:

a) Core Features in Common

1. 3D Modeling and Visualization:

   • RAM Structural System: Primarily used for designing and analyzing structural systems including steel, concrete, and wood frameworks. It allows engineers to visualize structures in 3D to understand spatial relationships and loads.
   • Revizto: While not a structural design tool, Revizto is used for model coordination and visualization, allowing users to view and interact with 3D BIM models for better coordination among project stakeholders.

2. Collaboration Tools:

   • Both platforms improve team collaboration, although in different capacities:
     • RAM Structural System facilitates collaboration through model sharing and possibly integrating with other design platforms.
     • Revizto excels in bringing project teams together through issue tracking, model review, and BIM coordination features that enable synchronized work and real-time communication among stakeholders.

3. Integration with Other Software:

   • Both systems integrate with other AEC industry tools to enhance workflows. Revizto integrates with tools like Revit, Navisworks, and AutoCAD, while RAM Structural System may integrate with CAD tools for documentation purposes.

b) User Interface Comparison

• RAM Structural System: Typically features an engineering-centric interface focused on detailed analysis tools, structural component modeling, and load analysis. The UI is designed for structural engineers with menus and toolsets aligning with structural analysis tasks.
• Revizto: Features a more user-friendly and visually driven interface aimed at project coordination. It is designed for a broader audience, including architects, contractors, and project managers, making it intuitive for users less familiar with technical design software. The interface supports model navigation, issue tracking, and easy access to project data.

c) Unique Features

• RAM Structural System:

  • Structural Analysis and Design: Offers advanced capabilities for detailed structural load calculations, design codes compliance, and specific component design unique to structural engineers.
  • Load Combinations and Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Specialized tools for creating and analyzing load combinations and performing finite element analysis, crucial for ensuring structural integrity.

• Revizto:

  • Issue Tracking and Clash Detection: Allows users to track project issues directly within models and perform clash detection to identify conflicts across different design disciplines.
  • Real-time Collaboration: Enables real-time model review and feedback in collaborative environments, enhancing communication and decision-making across the project lifecycle.

In summary, while RAM Structural System and Revizto share some collaborative features, they are tailored for different end-users and purposes within the AEC sector, with RAM focusing on structural design and analysis, and Revizto on project coordination and BIM model visualization.

RAM Structural System

a) Types of Businesses or Projects

RAM Structural System is ideally suited for structural engineers and architecture firms working on building design and analysis. It is particularly beneficial for:

1. Commercial Buildings: This includes high-rise buildings, retail complexes, and office buildings. The software's ability to handle complex load calculations and designs makes it a strong contender for large-scale projects.

2. Industrial Structures: Factories and large-scale industrial facilities often require detailed structural analysis, which RAM can efficiently provide.

3. Residential Developments: While more often used for larger projects, the RAM Structural System can also be applied to residential buildings, especially multi-story apartments or condos.

4. Institutional Buildings: Schools, hospitals, and government buildings benefit from RAM's comprehensive design capabilities, allowing engineers to meet rigorous safety standards.

RAM Structural System excels in situations where in-depth analysis and complex design tasks are required, particularly for steel, concrete, and timber structures. It is popular among structural engineering firms of various sizes, ranging from small consultancies to large multidisciplinary firms.

b) In What Scenarios Would Revizto be the Preferred Option?

Revizto is best used in scenarios where there is a need for enhanced collaboration across different teams working on a project. Specific use cases include:

1. BIM Coordination: It is an excellent tool for any construction project that involves Building Information Modeling (BIM), as it facilitates effective communication and issue tracking.

2. Design Review and Clash Detection: For projects where multiple disciplines are involved, Revizto allows for the seamless identification of clashes and resolutions before construction begins.

3. Remote and On-site Collaboration: Especially crucial in today's increasingly remote working environments, Revizto offers tools that help teams collaborate in real-time, regardless of location.

4. Project Stakeholder Engagement: Revizto’s intuitive interface makes it easier for non-technical stakeholders to engage with the project, offering a visual understanding of the project's progression and challenges.

d) Cater to Different Industry Verticals or Company Sizes

RAM Structural System:

• Industry Verticals: RAM primarily serves the construction and architectural industries, focusing on structural engineering. It is tailored to businesses that need precision in structural load analysis and design.

• Company Sizes: It caters to both small and large engineering firms. Smaller firms benefit from its comprehensive set of tools without needing separate software for different tasks, while larger enterprises appreciate its ability to handle complex and large-scale projects.

Revizto:

• Industry Verticals: Revizto is adaptable to various construction and design sectors, including architecture, engineering, and construction management. It is particularly useful in projects with a strong emphasis on BIM.

• Company Sizes: The software scales well from small firms to large corporations. Smaller companies benefit from its collaborative features without the need for a heavy IT infrastructure, while larger companies appreciate the seamless integration with existing workflows and comprehensive data tracking across multiple projects.

Overall, RAM Structural System is centered on the technical aspects of structural analysis and design, whereas Revizto focuses on collaborative efforts and project communication, providing solutions for different but overlapping segments of the construction industry.

Conclusion and Final Verdict

When evaluating RAM Structural System and Revizto, it's important to recognize that both software solutions are designed for different aspects of the construction and engineering workflow. Consequently, users should choose based on their specific needs and project requirements.

a) Best Overall Value

Considering all factors, such as functionality, usability, cost, and integration capabilities, there is no definitive answer as to which product offers the best overall value since they cater to different needs. However, for structural engineering tasks, RAM Structural System would be the better choice; whereas, for coordination, collaboration, and visualization tasks, Revizto would provide more value.

b) Pros and Cons

RAM Structural System:

Pros:

• Specialized Functions: Offers comprehensive tools for structural analysis and design, particularly for steel, concrete, and wood structures.
• Integration: Seamlessly integrates with other Bentley Systems platforms and various structural engineering software.
• Detailing and Reports: Provides detailed analytical reports and documentation important for structural analysis.

Cons:

• Complexity: Can be complex for beginners or those not deeply familiar with structural engineering concepts.
• Cost: Licensing fees can be high, particularly for smaller firms or independent contractors.
• User Interface: Some users may find the interface outdated compared to newer software solutions.

Revizto:

Pros:

• Collaboration: Excellent for real-time collaboration across teams, enhancing communication and reducing errors.
• Visualization: Strong 3D visualization capabilities facilitate better understanding across various stakeholders.
• Cross-Platform Use: Works on multiple operating systems and devices, offering flexibility for remote teams.

Cons:

• Not Specialized for Structural Analysis: Lacks in-depth engineering analysis capabilities that RAM Structural System possesses.
• Learning Curve: While user-friendly, it still requires some learning for those new to BIM collaboration tools.
• Integration Limitations: May not integrate as seamlessly with some specialized structural engineering tools.

c) Recommendations

• For Structural Engineers: If the primary need is structural analysis and design, RAM Structural System is the clear choice. It will provide the specific tools and reports needed for structural integrity assessments and certifications.

• For Teams Focused on Collaboration: If project coordination, issue tracking, and interdisciplinary collaboration are the prime concerns, Revizto would be more advantageous. It is particularly beneficial for complex projects requiring input and collaboration from various teams and stakeholders.

• Hybrid Needs: In cases where both structural engineering and collaborative project management are important, consider using both systems in tandem. This approach can leverage RAM Structural System for the engineering portion and Revizto for project management and coordination.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on the specific challenges and requirements of your projects, as well as your existing software ecosystem and budget constraints. Properly defining your priorities and trialing both software options, when possible, can help in making an informed decision.