SDS2
SDS2 is a steel detailing and BIM software suite that automates 3D structural modeling, intelligent connection design, and fabrication-ready shop drawings for detailers, fabricators, and engineers.
Steel detailing shops live and die by how fast they can turn an engineer's model into accurate shop and erection drawings without a pile of RFIs. SDS2, part of ALLPLAN within the Nemetschek Group, focuses on that fabrication handoff with automated connection design tied to each framing condition.
The product ships in package tiers: SDS2 Drafting for 2D shop and placement drawings, SDS2 Modeling for 3D input, connection design, and quantity takeoff without full drafting deliverables, and SDS2 Ultimate as the combined detailing suite. Teams can add BIMplus cloud collaboration for real-time model sharing across devices, and active subscriptions include a free BIMplus Pro plan per SDS2 marketing materials.
In user surveys cited on the vendor site, 78% reported being at least 50% faster and more accurate with SDS2, and 86% said it improves fabrication shop efficiency (SDS2, 2026). Pricing is quote-based through SDS2 sales or authorized resellers rather than public list prices.
Specifications
Pricing
Platforms
Used for
Used by
Tasks
Pros and cons
Pros
- Deep automation for connections and miscellaneous steel saves detailing hours.
- Package tiers let teams buy drafting-only or modeling-only capabilities.
- OpenBIM focus supports downstream fabrication and equipment integrations.
- Subscription benefits include free online training and a BIMplus Pro account.
Cons
- Public list pricing is not published; quotes are required through sales or resellers.
- Primarily targets structural steel rather than concrete or general building BIM.
- Windows-based desktop software with a learning curve typical of detailing suites.
Key features
Automated connection design: Intelligent steel connections update as the model changes based on framing conditions and fabricator preferences.
3D structural modeling: Input and edit structural models with automated piecemarking, stairs, handrails, and miscellaneous steel tools.
Shop and erection drawings: Drafting packages produce code-compliant shop drawings and erection placement sheets from the live model.
Clash and constructibility checks: Built-in clash detection and field-ready design review reduce RFIs before steel reaches the shop.
OpenBIM interoperability: Imports and exports standard formats and connects to fabrication management, CNC, and ERP systems through APIs.
BIMplus collaboration: Optional cloud module shares project data in real time across devices with secure storage.
Pricing
Subscription or perpetual (quote)
Contact sales
SDS2 does not publish list prices; request a quote from SDS2 sales or an authorized reseller. Subscription plans include maintenance, training, and BIMplus Pro per vendor materials.
Frequently asked questions
How much does SDS2 cost?
SDS2 does not publish list prices on its website. Packages such as SDS2 Drafting, Modeling, and Ultimate are sold through SDS2 sales or authorized resellers on subscription or perpetual terms. Contact SDS2 or a local distributor for a project-specific quote.
What is included in SDS2 Ultimate versus SDS2 Modeling?
SDS2 Modeling covers 3D model input, automated connection design, quantity takeoff, load planning, and BIM imports/exports without drafting deliverables. SDS2 Ultimate includes everything in Basic, Drafting, and Modeling, adding full shop and erection drawing production in one suite.
Does SDS2 support BIM and open formats?
Yes. SDS2 describes itself as an openBIM solution with standard file imports and exports plus API integrations to fabrication management, automated shop equipment, and related BIM platforms. Exact format support depends on package and connected systems.
What platforms does SDS2 run on?
SDS2 is Windows-based structural steel detailing software installed on desktop workstations. BIMplus cloud collaboration extends sharing to additional devices through a browser, but core modeling and detailing run on Windows.
SDS2 vs Tekla Structures: which is better for steel fabricators?
Both target structural steel BIM and detailing. SDS2 emphasizes automated connection design tuned to fabricator preferences and integrated shop drawing production, while Tekla is a broader structural BIM platform. Many shops evaluate both on detailing speed, connection libraries, and CNC integration with their existing equipment.
Who is SDS2 designed for?
SDS2 targets steel detailers, fabricators, and engineers who produce fabrication-ready models and drawings. Customer stories on the vendor site range from small two-person detailing departments to large fabricators automating estimates, BIM, and CNC output from one model.
Tutorials and learning
Sources
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