What is Google Sketchup and why should I care?

Sketchup is changing the way the world looks at 3D modelling and is proving very powerful indeed, read for yourself.

Sketchup vs CAD

As opposed to traditional CAD (Computer Aided Drawing), Sketchup is cost effective. With many CAD programs costing in excess of $10,000 (NZ), its no wonder that professionals using such software have to charge so much. Sketchup is changing a traditionally expensive industry into a fast and more cost effective one.

There are, of course, requirements of 3D drawing programs that sketchup cannot perform as well as CAD software. It is a relief therefore, that sketchup exports to, and imports from, all major CAD formats.

This means that we at Coastal Concepts can get an idea into the 3D domain quickly and cost effectively with Sketchup, and then export (if need be) to CAD so the finishing touches can be added. You will be surprised at the publishing and finalisation capabilities of sketchup and exporting to CAD is probably required less than you expect.

Because Sketchup has a full range of publishing options, models can be exported to .pdf format and displayed in 2D with dimensions, angles and construction guidelines, giving a comprehensive work order for almost any project.