MicroStation is a computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM) software application developed by Bentley Systems. It is used by architects, engineers, constructors, and other professionals for the design and documentation of buildings, infrastructure, and other physical assets.
MicroStation is a powerful and versatile software application that can be used for a wide variety of design and documentation tasks. It is known for its ease of use, its powerful features, and its compatibility with other software applications. MicroStation is also a popular choice for BIM projects, as it provides a comprehensive set of tools for creating and managing BIM models.
If you are interested in purchasing MicroStation, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you will need to decide which version of MicroStation is right for you. There are several different versions of MicroStation available, each with its own set of features and capabilities. Once you have decided which version of MicroStation you want, you can purchase it from Bentley Systems or from an authorized reseller.
1. Version
The version of MicroStation you choose will depend on your specific needs and budget. Here is a brief overview of the three main versions of MicroStation:
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Standard
Standard is the most basic version of MicroStation and is suitable for most users. It includes all the essential features for 2D and 3D design and documentation. If you are new to MicroStation, or if you only need to use the basic features, then Standard is a good option.
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Professional
Professional includes all the features of Standard, plus additional features for power users. These features include advanced 3D modeling tools, support for larger projects, and integration with other Bentley applications. If you are a professional user who needs access to advanced features, then Professional is a good option.
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Select
Select includes all the features of Professional, plus additional features for large teams and complex projects. These features include project management tools, collaboration tools, and support for BIM workflows. If you are working on large or complex projects, or if you need to collaborate with other team members, then Select is a good option.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which version of MicroStation is right for you is to try them out and see which one meets your needs. Bentley Systems offers a free trial of all three versions of MicroStation, so you can try them out before you buy.
2. Licensing
Licensing is an important consideration when purchasing MicroStation. There are two main types of licenses available: perpetual licenses and subscription licenses.
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Perpetual licenses
Perpetual licenses are a one-time purchase that gives you the right to use the software indefinitely. This type of license is typically more expensive than a subscription license, but it gives you the peace of mind of knowing that you will always have access to the software, even if Bentley Systems discontinues the subscription model.
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Subscription licenses
Subscription licenses are a monthly or annual subscription that gives you access to the latest version of the software and support. This type of license is typically less expensive than a perpetual license, but it requires you to pay a monthly or annual fee to continue using the software. Subscription licenses also give you access to Bentley’s online services, such as Bentley Communities and Bentley LEARN.
The type of license that is right for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you need to use the software for a short period of time, or if you are on a tight budget, then a subscription license may be a good option. If you need to use the software for a long period of time, or if you want the peace of mind of knowing that you will always have access to the software, then a perpetual license may be a better choice.
3. Cost
Cost is an important consideration when purchasing MicroStation. The cost of MicroStation varies depending on the version and licensing option you choose. Perpetual licenses are more expensive than subscription licenses, but they give you the right to use the software indefinitely. Subscription licenses are less expensive upfront, but they require you to pay a monthly or annual fee to continue using the software.
The cost of MicroStation can also vary depending on the reseller you purchase it from. It is important to shop around and compare prices from different resellers before making a purchase.
Once you have considered the cost of MicroStation, you can start to think about how you will use the software. If you are only going to use MicroStation for a short period of time, or if you are on a tight budget, then a subscription license may be a good option. If you need to use MicroStation for a long period of time, or if you want the peace of mind of knowing that you will always have access to the software, then a perpetual license may be a better choice.
4. Support
When considering how to buy MicroStation, it is important to think about the support you will need. Bentley Systems offers a variety of support options for MicroStation users, including online help, documentation, forums, and training. You can also purchase support contracts that give you access to priority support and other benefits.
Support is an important part of any software purchase, but it is especially important for MicroStation. MicroStation is a powerful and complex software application, and there are many things that can go wrong. Having access to support can help you get up and running quickly and can help you troubleshoot any problems that you encounter.
There are several different ways to get support for MicroStation. You can access online help and documentation from the MicroStation Help menu. You can also post questions on the Bentley Communities forums. If you need more personalized support, you can purchase a support contract from Bentley Systems. Support contracts give you access to priority support and other benefits, such as access to Bentley’s technical support team.
The type of support you need will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you are a new user, or if you only need occasional support, then online help and documentation may be sufficient. If you are a professional user who needs access to more personalized support, then a support contract may be a good option.
FAQs
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about how to buy MicroStation, a computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM) software application developed by Bentley Systems.
Question 1: What are the different versions of MicroStation available?
Answer: There are three main versions of MicroStation available: Standard, Professional, and Select. Standard is the most basic version and is suitable for most users. Professional includes additional features for power users, and Select includes all the features of Professional plus additional features for large teams and complex projects.
Question 2: What are the different licensing options for MicroStation?
Answer: MicroStation is available as a perpetual license or a subscription license. A perpetual license is a one-time purchase that gives you the right to use the software indefinitely. A subscription license is a monthly or annual subscription that gives you access to the latest version of the software and support.
Question 3: How much does MicroStation cost?
Answer: The cost of MicroStation varies depending on the version and licensing option you choose. Perpetual licenses are more expensive than subscription licenses, but they give you the right to use the software indefinitely. Subscription licenses are less expensive upfront, but they require you to pay a monthly or annual fee to continue using the software.
Question 4: What kind of support is available for MicroStation?
Answer: Bentley Systems offers a variety of support options for MicroStation users, including online help, documentation, forums, and training. You can also purchase support contracts that give you access to priority support and other benefits.
Question 5: What is the best way to decide which version of MicroStation is right for me?
Answer: The best way to decide which version of MicroStation is right for you is to try out the different versions and see which one meets your needs. Bentley Systems offers a free trial of all three versions of MicroStation, so you can try them out before you buy.
Question 6: Where can I buy MicroStation?
Answer: You can purchase MicroStation from Bentley Systems or from an authorized reseller. When purchasing from a reseller, it is important to compare prices and to make sure that the reseller is reputable.
This concludes our FAQ section on how to buy MicroStation. We hope this information has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact Bentley Systems or an authorized reseller.
Next Steps:
Once you have purchased MicroStation, you can start using it to create and edit 2D and 3D models. MicroStation is a powerful and versatile software application, and it can be used for a wide variety of design and documentation tasks.
Tips on How to Buy MicroStation
When considering how to buy MicroStation, there are several key factors to keep in mind, including version, licensing, cost, and support. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
Tip 1: Choose the Right Version
MicroStation is available in three main versions: Standard, Professional, and Select. Standard is the most basic version and is suitable for most users. Professional includes additional features for power users, and Select includes all the features of Professional plus additional features for large teams and complex projects. Consider your specific needs and budget when choosing a version.
Tip 2: Decide on a Licensing Option
MicroStation is available as a perpetual license or a subscription license. A perpetual license is a one-time purchase that gives you the right to use the software indefinitely. A subscription license is a monthly or annual subscription that gives you access to the latest version of the software and support. Choose the licensing option that best fits your needs and budget.
Tip 3: Consider the Cost
The cost of MicroStation varies depending on the version and licensing option you choose. Perpetual licenses are more expensive than subscription licenses, but they give you the right to use the software indefinitely. Subscription licenses are less expensive upfront, but they require you to pay a monthly or annual fee to continue using the software.
Tip 4: Get the Support You Need
Bentley Systems offers a variety of support options for MicroStation users, including online help, documentation, forums, and training. You can also purchase support contracts that give you access to priority support and other benefits. Choose the support option that best meets your needs and budget.
Tip 5: Compare Prices from Different Resellers
If you are purchasing MicroStation from a reseller, be sure to compare prices from different resellers. This can help you get the best possible price on the software.
By following these tips, you can make an informed decision about how to buy MicroStation and get the software that best meets your needs and budget.
In Closing
This article has explored the various aspects of how to buy MicroStation, including version, licensing, cost, and support. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about which option is right for you.
MicroStation is a powerful and versatile software application that can be used for a wide variety of design and documentation tasks. By choosing the right version, licensing option, and support plan, you can get the most out of this software and use it to create high-quality designs and documentation.
