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EnglishWhat Is SDS2 and What Does It Do?
Updated
SDS2 is steel detailing and modeling software used by steel detailers, fabricators, and engineers to produce structural and miscellaneous steel work — including connections, stairs, and rails — with the goal of delivering projects faster, reducing risk, and maximizing ROI. It fits teams that need either 2D code-compliant drawings, 3D BIM modeling with automated connection design, or both in one package.
Who SDS2 Is Built For
The site names three audiences directly:
- Steel detailers — precision drafting and fabrication-ready drawings
- Fabricators — shop and machine workflows connected to the model
- Engineers — design and BIM coordination
If your work stops at drawings, or stops at modeling, SDS2 splits those needs into separate packages rather than forcing the full suite.
What SDS2 Actually Does
Detailing and drawing production
SDS2 Drafting covers 2D drafting and code-compliant drawings without 3D modeling. It adds shop drawing creation and erection placement drawings on top of the Basic tier.
Modeling and connection design
SDS2 Modeling is for BIM modeling and connection design without drafting deliverables. It includes 3D model input, automated connection design, quantity takeoff, load planning and delivery, imports/exports, and BIM integrations.
All-in-one detailing
SDS2 Ultimate combines Basic, Drafting, and Modeling — the full path from model to fabrication-ready drawings. The site labels it the most popular option.
Integration with shop and office systems
SDS2 connects to BIM tools, CNC machines, and ERP systems so design-through-fabrication data moves without re-entry. This is the mechanism behind the "deliver faster" claim: one model feeds drawings, machine files, and business systems.
Package Comparison
| Package | Best for | Key additions |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Entry point | Foundation for the other tiers |
| Drafting | Detailers focused on precision 2D work | Shop drawing creation, erection placement drawings |
| Modeling | Teams focused on BIM and connections | 3D model input, automated connection design, quantity takeoff, load planning, imports/exports, BIM integrations |
| Ultimate | Detailers needing everything | All Basic, Drafting, and Modeling features |
Current Release and Support
SDS2 2026 is the current version, described as adding detailing speed, design versatility, new features, automation, and customized control. Support, training programs, and a webinar library (live and on-demand) are available for teams getting started or deepening use.
How to Decide If It Fits
- Choose Drafting if your deliverable is drawings, not a coordinated 3D model.
- Choose Modeling if you need connection design and BIM coordination but not drafting output.
- Choose Ultimate if you want one system covering model, connections, and fabrication-ready drawings.
- Book a demo or compare packages on sds2.com if you need to match tiers against your current toolchain and machine/ERP setup.
Pricing is not published on the page reviewed here, so cost comparison requires contacting SDS2 directly.