SDS2 VS TEKLA
Choose the Smarter Steel Detailing Software.
SDS2 has the smart, steel-centric design and detailing tools you need to deliver results from day one.
Easy to use, powerful automation
Quick, clean drawing production
Complete designs with fewer errors and RFIs
Universal integrations for BIM, MRP and CNC systems
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DETAILED SOFTWARE COMPARISON
The Difference Between SDS2 and Tekla Structures
|
SDS2 |
Tekla Structures |
|
| Automatic connection design | Designs connections to code and shop preferences as you model | Requires third-party apps. |
| Live multi-user modeling | Work in the same model at the same time, whether team members are local or remote | Supports local multi-user modeling and cloud-based model sharing. Changes made locally must be synchronized. |
| Automated piecemarking | Steel-focused, shop-ready grouping and naming for members with live updates as you model. | Requires separate numbering process with configurable templates. |
| Drawing customization and automation | Produces clean drawings out-of-the-box, customizable to shop preferences. | AI-driven drawing creation; full customization requires expert setup. |
| US-based support team | SDS2’s customer support experts are based in the US and maintain a 96% satisfaction rate. | Standard support portals are available on the product website, with local support experts available in the US. |
| Flexible, scalable licensing | Offers subscription licenses for named and floating users. | Limited usage flexibility with named licenses only. |
| Integration with CNC/BIM | Supports industry-standard file formats and direct API integrations for CNC output, fabrication management platforms, including Tekla PowerFab and others. | Supports industry-standard file formats and direct API integrations for CNC output. Part of the Tekla PowerFab ecosystem. |
NOTE: This comparison has been prepared by SDS2 and are based solely on SDS2’s evaluation and understanding of Tekla Structures, reviews from customers, and other information publicly available.
"SDS2 is the perfect steel detailing software. I have been using it for the last 5 years as a modeler to create connections and produce accurate fabrication drawings that meet client standards. It’s reliable and easy to learn.”
Vamshi B.
Modeler
"User-friendly and clean UX is the best part of SDS2. The software makes life easy for drafters by reducing human error with automation and quick drawing production. We spend less time fixing mistakes and more delivering accurate models."
Ganesh K.
Assistant Product Manager
"The smartest move I made for my business was going with SDS2. It allowed me to compete for larger projects, and having the ability to produce CNC data and be a part of BIM projects was extremely helpful."
Darko Detailing Services
See why more steel professionals choose SDS2.
Take the next step and experience the difference SDS2 can make for your business.
Built for steel. Period.
With SDS2, everything from modeling to piecemarking is designed for the realities of steel fabrication and construction. You don't need a solution that can do anything—you need the one that's built for you.
Simpler steel modeling.
No expert setup needed. With SDS2, you can start modeling structural and miscellaneous steel projects right out of the box, and produce quick, clean drawings automatically, with minimal cleanup.
Smarter steel connections.
SDS2 delivers code-checked, shop-ready connections as you model, with advanced constructability checks to minimize RFIs and streamline production.
Better steel projects.
From the office to the shop, SDS2 thinks like a fabricator and delivers what matters most to you: faster results, fewer errors, seamless integrations, and better outcomes for your projects and your business.
Ready to get started?
Talk to a product expert and discover how SDS2 can transform your steel projects today.
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Detail Smarter and Faster with SDS2
Most users report saving 20–40% of their detailing time within the first 30 days. Here’s why:
Detail Smarter and Faster with SDS2
Most users report saving 20–40% of their detailing time within the first 30 days. Here’s why:
