What are the differences between SDS2 Drafting, SDS2 Modeling, and SDS2 Ultimate?

Updated

SDS2 Drafting, SDS2 Modeling, and SDS2 Ultimate are three packages that build on SDS2 Basic but target different steel detailing workflows. Drafting is for detailers who need precision 2D drafting and code-compliant drawings without 3D modeling. Modeling is for teams focused on BIM modeling and connection design without drafting deliverables. Ultimate is the all-in-one option for detailers who need advanced steel detailing and fabrication-ready drawings, and it includes all features in Basic, Drafting, and Modeling.

Quick comparison

Package Primary focus Best for Key capabilities (beyond SDS2 Basic)
SDS2 Drafting 2D drafting and code-compliant drawings Detailers focused on precision drafting without 3D modeling Shop Drawing Creation; Erection Placement Drawing
SDS2 Modeling BIM modeling and connection design Teams focused on modeling and connection design without drafting deliverables 3D Model Input; Automated Connection Design; Quantity Takeoff; Load Planning & Delivery; Imports/Exports; BIM Integrations
SDS2 Ultimate All-in-one steel detailing and fabrication-ready drawings Detailers needing the complete solution Includes all features in Basic, Drafting, and Modeling

How to choose

  • Choose SDS2 Drafting if your work centers on producing 2D shop drawings and erection placement drawings, and you do not need 3D modeling.
  • Choose SDS2 Modeling if your team's priority is building and working with a 3D BIM model, automating connection design, and handling quantities, load planning, and imports/exports — but you do not need drafting deliverables from the package.
  • Choose SDS2 Ultimate if you need both drafting and modeling capabilities in one package, including fabrication-ready drawings. SDS2 lists it as the most popular option.

What they share

All three packages build on SDS2 Basic, so the differences above are the additions each tier brings. SDS2 also emphasizes integration across design-to-fabrication workflows — BIM integration, CNC machines, and ERP systems — so it is worth confirming which integrations matter for your setup when comparing packages.

Next steps

SDS2 provides a "Book Demo" option and a "Compare Packages" page for a direct feature-by-feature view. If you want to validate fit before deciding, a demo is the most reliable way to check how each package handles your specific detailing workflow.