AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk, is a leading 2D and 3D CAD software widely used in architecture, engineering, and graphic design. It supports numerous plugins, enhancing its functionality for specialized fields. AutoCAD also offers web and mobile applications, allowing users to work remotely. It provides flexible licensing models, including individual subscriptions, team pricing, and educational access, accommodating different user groups. AutoCAD aids architects and designers by giving precise 2D and 3D modeling capabilities, parametric design options, and efficient communication tools. It speeds up the drawing process with pre-built objects and advanced 3D modeling for photorealistic renderings. AutoCAD enhances team collaboration through features like SHARE and Trace, cloud services integration, and compatibility with various file formats. Its minimum hardware requirements include a dual-core processor, 8GB RAM (16GB), and a 3D class video card with 512 MB of memory. AutoCAD is updated annually, offering new features and improvements. A mobile app is available for on-site work and presentations. Its advantages include enhanced precision, efficiency, collaboration, powerful 3D modeling, and analysis tools. Disadvantages include its steep learning curve, expensive licensing, potential compatibility issues, hardware intensity, and occasional stability issues. Customer reviews praise AutoCAD for its precision and efficiency. ArchitectureLab recommends AutoCAD for architects due to its versatility, compatibility, comprehensive features, and robust support. Alternative architectural software includes FreeCAD, Blender, LibreCAD, BricsCAD, and SmartDraw. For better productivity, peripherals like large monitors, dedicated graphics cards, 3D mice, gaming mice, graphics tablets, and custom macro keyboards are beneficial.
What is AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is a 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software application developed by Autodesk. It was first released in December 1982 and has since become an industry-leading tool used by professionals in various fields, including architecture, engineering, and graphic design. AutoCAD allows users to create precise 2D drawings and 3D models more efficiently and accurately than traditional hand-drawing methods. It is used to draft construction documentation, visualize concepts through photorealistic renderings, and simulate how a design performs in the real world. The software offers a wide range of features that enhance the design process. It allows users to design fractions of a measuring unit, dictate the exact size coordinates, and calculate values like area or center of gravity. AutoCAD supports many plugins (add-on applications) that extend its functionality to specific fields, leading to the creation of products such as AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Electrical, and AutoCAD Civil 3D.
The ArchitectureLab Verdict: Should You Buy AutoCAD?
ArchitectureLab verdict is that AutoCAD is a must-buy investment for architects due to its versatility, compatibility, comprehensive features, integration with other tools, and robust support. Firstly, AutoCAD is a highly versatile and professional-grade software extensively used by specialists for effective development, creation of designs, and standard documentation. Its ability to work in 2D and 3D makes it a comprehensive tool for architects, engineers, and designers. Secondly, AutoCAD is known for its compatibility and integration with other tools and software. This ensures that users avoid compatibility problems, making it a reliable choice for professionals in various disciplines. Thirdly, AutoCAD offers a range of features that streamline and enhance the design process. These include using layers and line weights to help users create detailed and measurable design elements. Fourthly, AutoCAD’s integration with cloud-based services and BIM tools like Revit and KONSTRU can enhance its capabilities, enabling more efficient workflows and team collaboration. Lastly, AutoCAD provides robust support and learning resources for users. This includes tutorials, guides, and a supportive community of users that can help you get the most out of the software.
Which company develops AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is a 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software application developed by Autodesk, an American multinational software corporation. Autodesk was founded in 1982 by John Walker and 15 other co-founders to build five different desktop automation applications. Their flagship product turned out to be AutoCAD, which was launched at the COMDEX trade show in Las Vegas as the first CAD program in the world to run on personal computers. AutoCAD has become an industry-leading tool professionals use in various fields, including architecture, engineering, and graphic design. It allows users to create precise 2D drawings and 3D models more efficiently and accurately than traditional hand-drawing methods.
On what platforms does AutoCAD run?
AutoCAD is a versatile software that runs on multiple platforms, catering to many users. The primary version of AutoCAD is a full-featured desktop application compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. It is designed for professionals who need a comprehensive toolset for creating, documenting, and communicating their ideas in 2D and 3D. AutoCAD supports various versions of the Windows operating system, including Windows 10, Windows 8.1, and the latest Windows 11. It also supports macOS, with compatibility for macOS Big Sur and above. The system requirements for running AutoCAD may vary depending on the specific version of the software and the operating system. Users should check the requirements for their chosen platform to ensure optimal performance. In addition to the desktop version, AutoCAD offers web and mobile applications, known as AutoCAD Web App and AutoCAD Mobile App. These versions allow users to view, edit, and create CAD drawings in a web browser or mobile device, providing the flexibility to work anytime.
When was AutoCAD first launched?
AutoCAD, a leading computer-aided design (CAD) software application, was first launched in December 1982 by Autodesk, an American multinational software corporation. The software was introduced at the COMDEX trade show in Las Vegas as the first CAD program in the world to run on personal computers. AutoCAD was developed to provide a more efficient and precise method for creating designs and technical documentation. It allows users to create detailed 2D drawings and 3D models, replacing traditional hand-drawing methods. The software has been updated since its initial release, with each new version introducing more advanced features to enhance user experience and productivity. The first version of AutoCAD, known as AutoCAD 1.0, marked a significant milestone in architecture, engineering, and design. It revolutionized these fields by providing a digital platform for creating and modifying designs with high precision. This was a significant advancement at the time, offering a more efficient and accurate alternative to manual drafting.
What are the licensing options available for AutoCAD?
AutoCAD offers flexible licensing models to suit users across individual subscribers, enterprises, and educational institutions. Individuals can access AutoCAD, including specialized architecture and engineering tools, for $210 (€189, £167) monthly. Team pricing starts at $440 (€395, £350) for up to 3 users on standard support, with incremental additional discounting as more seats are added. Extended support options are also available. Custom quotes can be provided for large enterprise deployments with pricing decreasing with volume – centralized license management tools help IT administrators deploy, switch plans, and track usage across the organization. Importantly for learning, educational access pricing goes as low as $90 (€80, £70) for students and educators, enabling budget-friendly access to developing technical skills. Both individual and enterprise/education licensing allow flexible usage across multiple devices like desktops, mobiles, and web access. Individual subscribers can choose one or 3-year prepaid options for further savings of up to 25% over monthly rates.
What is the cost of AutoCAD?
The cost of AutoCAD depends on the type of user. For individuals, access starts at $210 (€189, £167) monthly, allowing installation on up to 2 personal devices spanning web, mobile, and desktop platforms. This pricing includes industry-specific specialized toolsets tailored for architects, engineers, and construction roles featuring parametric 2D and 3D design tools plus advanced detailing and documentation capabilities. Additional savings are available through 1-year $1,470 (€1,320, £1,170) and 3-year $3,915 (€3,510, £3,105) prepaid licenses, reducing the individual monthly cost to as low as $185 (€165, £145) via the multi-year option. For businesses, team pricing begins at $440 (€395, £350) monthly for a 3-user subscription with support longevity depending on plan choice. Educational access costs only $90 (€80, £70) annually for students and teachers. Custom enterprise quotes are available for significant volume agreements with possible added advantages like private cloud implementation assistance and license pooling flexibilities granting usage for temporary needs like contractors.
How can AutoCAD help architects and designers?
AutoCAD is a valuable tool for architects and designers due to its ease of use, powerful tools, collaboration features, and customization options. Firstly, AutoCAD enables architects and designers to create precise and accurate plans with its 2D and 3D modeling capabilities. This precision reduces errors and minimizes rework, translating into significant time savings during the design process. Secondly, AutoCAD’s parametric modeling capabilities allow designers to make modifications, experiment with various concepts, and swiftly assess different design options. Thirdly, AutoCAD improves communication among all parties involved in a project. Its flexibility enables designers to collaborate with various disciplines on-site and remotely, providing better results for the final client and impressing them professionally. Fourthly, AutoCAD’s architectural design software speeds up the drawing process with pre-built objects like walls, doors, and windows that behave like real-world objects. This feature significantly increases productivity and saves time. Lastly, AutoCAD’s advanced 3D modeling capabilities allow architects to create photorealistic renderings of their designs, providing clients with a clear and detailed vision of the final product. This can be valuable in marketing and promoting architectural projects.
What is AutoCAD output, and in which format?
AutoCAD is a CAD (computer-aided design) software application built for 2D drafting and 3D modeling workflows across architectural, engineering, and construction industries. Its primary output is vector-based 2D CAD drawings and 3D models containing precise geometry data for use in technical documentation, design proposals, and visualizations. Native AutoCAD file formats include DWG for 2D CAD drawings of lines, shapes, text, and dimensions and DWG for 3D models made from mesh, surface, and solid components. Associative views link 2D documentation with 3D visuals. These DWG and DWF files preserve design intelligence like design intent, engineering specifications, part hierarchies, animations, laser scan overlays, and more. In collaboration with other software, AutoCAD also supports extensive export capabilities. 2D CAD formats like PDF, DXF, DGN, and DWF communicate drawings, while common 3D types like OBJ, FBX, STL, and 3DS transfer 3D asset geometry. Point cloud data exchange maintains scan input accuracy. Visualizations leverage DWF, JPEG, PNG, and other renders. These standard exports from AutoCAD ensure downstream usage of its architectural and engineering data by different CAD, CAM, BIM, and visualization tools for refined fabrication, analysis, and design review, taking projects from concept to completion.
Is AutoCAD’s output format compatible with other industry-standard software?
Yes, AutoCAD is designed to be compatible with other industry-standard software and file formats, making it a versatile tool for collaboration and data exchange. AutoCAD supports exporting to other CAD file formats, such as DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) and DWF (Design Web Format). These formats allow users to share their drawings with people who do not have access to AutoCAD while preserving the quality and accuracy of the drawings. In terms of CAD interoperability capabilities, AutoCAD is compatible with industry standards such as IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification), STEP (Standard for the Exchange of Product Model Data), and STL (Standard Tessellation Language). These neutral CAD file formats are interoperable between different CAD software, allowing data to be imported and exported by various applications. AutoCAD also supports importing multiple file formats, including PDF, Pro/ENGINEER part, and assembly files. This flexibility in file format compatibility makes AutoCAD a versatile tool for professionals in various fields, including architecture, engineering, and graphic design.
What file formats does AutoCAD support for exporting and importing designs?
AutoCAD supports an extensive set of proprietary and standard file formats for importing reference data from various sources into ongoing working drawings and 3D models and exporting complete 2D & 3D design data for various downstream CAD, BIM, visualization, and manufacturing software platforms. For 2D documentation, AutoCAD’s native DWG vector drawing format offers full editing capabilities while allowing import/export compatibility with varied other 2D CAD file types like the widespread DXF; common DGN used in engineering disciplines as well industry specialized formats covering uses like GIS, schematic layouts, and microscopy ensuring AutoCAD interoperability with domain-specific tools. Incorporating 3D models and associated views employs AutoCAD’s native DWF file, providing full access alongside standard imports like OBJ, FBX, and STEP, carrying mesh, solid, and surface model data from 3D modeling environments into AutoCAD for generating accompanied 2D shop drawings. These also support outward exports to integrate AutoCAD design documentation into specialized applications covering architecture, manufacturing, mapping, and more for further analysis/refinement. For additional downstream review, file types ranging from 3D DWF and 3DS showcasing AutoCAD design visuals to 2D PDF, JPEG, and PNG files containing accessible renders or drawings facilitate collaboration with clients, external partners, and stakeholders unable to work with native CAD files through common visualized mediums.
Is AutoCAD considered user-friendly for beginner users?
Yes, AutoCAD is user-friendly for beginner users due to its learning resources, Quick Start Guide, and command input. Firstly, AutoCAD delivers various learning resources for beginners, including tutorials, guides, and a supportive community of users. These resources can help beginners understand the basics of AutoCAD and get up to speed quickly. Secondly, AutoCAD offers a Quick Start Guide, a resource specifically designed for newcomers and those looking to brush up on basic skills. This guide covers vital AutoCAD concepts, tools and functions, and the user interface, helping beginners to get started with the software. Thirdly, AutoCAD offers different types of command input, including using icons on the Ribbon (basic level), using the commands box (moderate level), and using shortcuts (advanced level). This allows beginners to start with the basic level and gradually progress to more advanced levels as they become more comfortable with the software. Lastly, AutoCAD has a book titled “AutoCAD 2024: A Power Guide for Beginners and Intermediate Users” that provides step-by-step instructions on creating designs quickly. This can be a valuable resource for beginners learning to use AutoCAD.
What are the rendering capabilities of AutoCAD?
Adobe AutoCAD offers various rendering capabilities that can benefit architects and designers. Firstly, AutoCAD has built-in rendering capabilities that allow users to create realistic images incorporating materials, multiple light sources, and entourage objects. The rendering engine calculates the appearance of materials and lighting to generate photorealistic images. Secondly, AutoCAD’s rendering tools support features like sun studies, solar studies, artificial light sources, image-based lighting, and global illumination. It allows users to simulate real-world lighting conditions. The rendering engine calculates lighting effects using ray tracing, radiosity solutions, and advanced algorithms. Lastly, AutoCAD integrates with Autodesk cloud rendering, which provides additional capabilities. Users can submit renders to the cloud directly from AutoCAD to leverage more computing power. This facilitates rendering complex, high-resolution images in less time by freeing up local hardware resources. The cloud rendering service also enables capabilities like 360-degree panorama navigation.
Does AutoCAD include Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities for better project management?
Yes, AutoCAD contains integrated Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools and multi-discipline coordination workflows that enhance project insight and management. As a data-rich CAD platform, AutoCAD allows the creation of parametric BIM models where objects represent intelligent building components like walls, windows, doors, and structural members rather than just shapes. These hold metric-driven data like materials, thermal properties, cost, and vendors sourced from embedded manufacturer libraries, aiding analysis for design decision-making, procurement, and sustainability tracking in ways essential CAD cannot. AutoCAD further enables collaborative BIM coordination by supporting import and export via IFC file support to and from other major BIM software like Revit, ArchiCAD, and Microstation – facilitating centralized building data repository integration. Clash detections can automatically flag challenging interferences between building systems modeled in AutoCAD and those other platforms, improving construction planning.
How does AutoCAD facilitate collaboration abilities among teams?
AutoCAD facilitates team collaboration through its SHARE and Trace features, integration with cloud services, compatibility with BIM Collaborate Pro, and support for various files. Firstly, AutoCAD includes collaboration tools such as the SHARE (Share URL) and Trace features, which leverage constant connectivity to facilitate teamwork. The SHARE feature allows users to share drawings with teammates and stakeholders via a web link, simplifying the process of viewing and providing feedback on designs. Secondly, the Trace feature acts as a digital version of tracing paper laid over a drawing, where team members can add feedback directly in the DWG file without altering the existing drawing. Thirdly, AutoCAD’s integration with Autodesk Docs and other cloud-based services enhances collaboration by allowing users to access and work on shared project data from anywhere. Fourthly, AutoCAD’s compatibility with BIM Collaborate Pro offers tools for design coordination, issue management, and project tracking, which are essential for collaborative AEC projects. It allows teams to manage civil engineering, building design, and multidisciplinary data in a unified workflow. Lastly, AutoCAD’s collaboration capabilities are further supported by its compatibility with various file formats, enabling easy sharing and collaboration among team members who may use different software. This ensures that all project participants can work together effectively, regardless of their preferred tools.
What are the minimum hardware requirements for running AutoCAD?
The minimum hardware requirements for running AutoCAD are a Dual-core 2.5GHz CPU, 8GB of RAM, 2GB of video memory, and 7GB of hard drive. Firstly, AutoCAD requires a dual-core 2.5GHz CPU in terms of processing power. A 3+GHz quad-core chip is recommended for handling complex 3D modeling smoothly, especially when rendering visualizations. Secondly, a minimum of 8GB of RAM allows basic 2D drafting functionality. 16GB or greater is optimal for ensuring viewport responsiveness when working within large drawings or 3D designs containing numerous visual effects, textures, and components that load substantial data into memory. Thirdly, baseline graphics cards need at least 2GB of video memory for entry-level visual performance, but 4GB or more enables GPU acceleration, providing smoother orbiting/panning at higher resolutions, support for multiple monitors, and facilitating advanced rendering/visualization capabilities relying on substantial graphics horsepower. OpenGL/OpenCL compliance also aids reliability. Lastly, 7GB of hard drive space is needed solely for application installation. Projects consume more storage depending on size – cloud syncing aids data access flexibility when offline space runs low. Internet connectivity unlocks collaborative functionality like cloud storage/rendering, though not strictly required during desktop operation.
How frequently is AutoCAD updated?
Autodesk AutoCAD receives significant software updates on an annual basis that introduce new features, improvements, and compatibility updates to optimize it for the latest hardware/OS while addressing user needs. AutoCAD 2023 delivered key upgrades like enhancing web and mobile capabilities for flexible access, better cross-platform collaboration via automated DWG conversion improvements, and AI-assisted utilities through over 63 machine learning algorithms introduced alongside refinement of existing tools. More minor dot-release upgrades like 2023.1 and 2023.2 focus on software stability through fixes addressing bugs and performance issues identified by customers that slip past initial quality testing. Usage analytics also identify frequently leveraged existing tools to optimize as well as opportunities for new functionality based on behaviors.
Is there a mobile version or app available for AutoCAD for on-site work and presentations?
Yes, AutoCAD mobile apps are available for on-site work, design review, and client presentations across Android and iOS smartphone/tablet devices. The AutoCAD mobile app focuses mainly on viewing existing 2D DWG drawings created on a desktop for in-field use, leveraging easy pan/zoom viewing. Critical functions like measurements, markups, and annotations facilitate progress tracking, noting issues overlaid directly on floorplans, sections, and elevations while construction is underway on-site – drawings stay in sync across devices. The AutoCAD web app offers additional early-stage drafting abilities for quick layout ideas in the browser itself. Model viewing in third-party apps like Autodesk Viewer offers navigating basic 3D designs. For client-facing meetings, AutoCAD iTech mobile presentation technology supports interactive rendered 3D visualizations, AR/VR experiences, and analytical dashboards displayed from tablets to external monitors, providing an impactful design delivery medium using accurate data transported from main AutoCAD projects.
What are the advantages of AutoCAD?
Listed below are the advantages of using AutoCAD:
- Enhanced precision: AutoCAD enables users to create highly accurate 2D drawings and 3D models with precise dimensions. Advanced drafting and measurement tools like object snapping eliminate errors and inconsistencies. Fractional coordinates facilitate nuanced alignment. This level of precision is vital for engineering and architecture.
- Increased efficiency: AutoCAD automates repetitive design tasks through features like blocks, templates, and shortcuts. This automation, coupled with easy customization, streamlines workflows. Tasks get completed faster, reducing project timelines. Parametric constraints also facilitate rapid design iterations.
- Seamless collaboration: AutoCAD drawings can be easily shared across teams and disciplines. Standard DWG format aids coordination, while specialized toolsets enable discipline-specific enhancements. Remote work is enabled via web and mobile apps. This collaboration brings broader perspectives to improve final design quality.
- Powerful 3D modeling: AutoCAD’s robust 3D tools allow transitioning from 2D drafting to 3D modeling within the same workflow. This saves switching software. Advanced solid, surface, and mesh modeling produces detailed models. Rendering and visualization obtain stakeholder buy-in.
- Analysis and simulation: AutoCAD integrates simulation tools to assess model performance under real-world conditions without costly physical prototyping. Engineers can evaluate strength, aerodynamics, optics, and more. This validation reduces expensive rework down the track.
- Customization and extensibility: AutoCAD allows customizing the interface and workflows to boost productivity. Tailored menus, tool palettes, and aliases accelerate everyday tasks. APIs and LISP extend capabilities. Third-party add-ons augment discipline specialties.
What are the disadvantages of AutoCAD?
Listed below are the disadvantages of using AutoCAD:
- Steep learning curve: AutoCAD has a steep learning curve, even for primary use. Considerable time and effort is needed to gain proficiency. The complexity can overwhelm beginners, hampering productivity until mastery is achieved.
- Expensive licensing: Upfront AutoCAD purchase costs are substantial, especially for individuals and smaller firms. The significant licensing investment may deter casual or price-sensitive users. Subscription pricing spreads costs but still adds up over time.
- Potential compatibility issues: AutoCAD’s proprietary DWG format can cause data loss or translation issues when exchanging files with some software. Collaboration hinges on partners having AutoCAD or compatible DWG interfaces.
- Hardware intensive: AutoCAD’s advanced capabilities demand high-end PC hardware for optimal performance when working with large file sizes or complex renders. Lag crashes and sluggishness plagues older or low-spec systems. Upgrading computers involves additional costs.
- Limited customization on web/mobile: AutoCAD’s desktop platform enables deep UI customization for efficiency. Web and mobile apps offer restricted customization and toolsets. Users need to maintain a desktop workflow despite mobile availability.
- Occasional stability issues: Complex software like AutoCAD inevitably experiences periodic bugs, especially surrounding major version updates. Problems like crashes, freezes, and errors can severely disrupt workflows until fixes are implemented.
What do customer reviews and feedback say about AutoCAD?
AutoCAD enjoys customer reviews praising its intuitive 3D conceptual modeling capabilities explicitly catered to the AEC sector. As an easy-to-learn and use application for architectural and interior design focused on geometry creation rather than complex BIM data connections, users highlight AutoCAD’s speed, empowering the rapid iteration through spatial ideas that clients request during the early stages. The ability to quickly construct abstracted massing studies based on program needs and symbolic building enclosures with color and material profiles aids designers in selling through visions to stakeholders across collaboration-friendly exports like 3D PDFs. Reviewers agree AutoCAD balances precision and simplicity better than competing tools in the conceptual design phase space. Some users criticized earlier lack of integrated rendering abilities and the need to output into other software for high-quality imagery as detriments to real-time rendered rivals. Recent upgrades enhancing visualization engines directly within AutoCAD present attractive hybrid options that supplement its core modeling strengths for the entire project journey.
What other architecture software options are there?
Listed below are some of the other architectural software options apart from AutoCAD:
- Cedreo: Cedreo is a web-based software that allows architects, designers, builders, and remodelers to create 2D and 3D floor plans, renderings, and virtual tours. It helps users save time, reduce costs, and improve client satisfaction by streamlining the design process and facilitating communication and collaboration.
- SketchUp: SketchUp is a 3D modeling software that is easy to use and learn. It enables architects and designers to create, edit, and share 3D models of buildings, landscapes, and interiors. SketchUp also offers an extensive library of 3D models, materials, and plugins that can be accessed online.
- Chief Architect: Chief Architect is software for residential and light commercial design. It allows users to create 2D and 3D floor plans, elevations, sections, details, realistic renderings, and 3D walkthroughs. Chief Architect also has a comprehensive database of building products, materials, and furnishings that drags and drops into the design.
- Planner 5D: Planner 5D is an online software suitable for interior design, real estate, and DIY projects. It lets users create 2D and 3D floor plans, furnish and decorate the space, and view the result in 3D. Planner 5D also has a community of users who can share their designs and get feedback.
- Revit: Revit is a software based on the BIM approach. It allows users to create 3D models of buildings that can be updated and modified automatically across all views and documents. Revit also offers features for analysis, simulation, and design documentation.
Does AutoCAD require any special peripherals for better productivity?
Listed below are some of the AutoCAD’s special peripherals for better productivity:
- Large high-resolution monitors: AutoCAD should have extra screen real estate from large monitors. The best monitor for architects is 4K for sharpness, allowing more working space for interface panels and keeping reference images in view alongside drawings. This avoids view toggling that slows workflows.
- Graphics card: The best graphics cards for architects like Nvidia Quadro with video memory offer performance gains in AutoCAD over consumer cards, especially when working with 3D models, renders, or complex visual styles. This specialized hardware drives viewport smoothness.
- 3D mouse: The best 3D mouse for architects like the SpaceMouse Pro enhances navigation in AutoCAD’s 3D environment, substituting keyboard modifiers for intuitive push/pull interaction. This allows panning, zooming, and orbiting models effortlessly rather than mode switching with a traditional mouse.
- Gaming mouse: The best gaming mice for architects allow AutoCAD accurate cursor placement essential for detailed technical drawings. Their sensitivity aids precision tasks like snapping. Ergonomic designs prevent strain over extensive sessions.
- Graphics tablet: The best tablets for architects like Wacom provide superior control to a mouse when drawing manually in AutoCAD. Their pen sensitivity enables natural strokes for sketching concepts. Extended reach across the tablet surface facilitates quick view navigation as well.
- Custom macro keyboard: The best keyboards for architects with programmable keys with LED labels help AutoCAD optimize workflows by assigning frequent commands or scripts to keys for one-button access. This saves clicking through menus and accelerating drafting.
