RAPT is by far the most reliable design software (local elements) i've encountered. it can only do continuous Beam Design (Reinforced Concrete and Prestressed Concrete), as well as Column design. because of its simplicity of function (only elements design), therefore it is stable, and easy to manage. I truly admire the function of its detail layout, especially when it comes to Prestressed beams. it clearly shows the profile of your Prestressed tendons as well as the variation of your beam dimensions (drops or changes of section).
Although RAPT prepares very detail calculations report, it however doesn't create CAD drawings. thus this will disappoint most of the ciplak 1 cent consultant since it cannot save the cost of your draughtsman/draughtswoman.
However, you HAVE to appreciate the RAPT when it comes to prestressed design. The details point to point profile and also its calculated stresses should be appreciated. Also, when it comes to complex beam sections or load cases, you will truly admire RAPT. It allows you to modify the beam section point to point and also your desired design sections.
Overall, RAPT is a very stable software, the model file rarely corrupts, and it is clear and easy to handle. Only bigger consultants will appreciate the luxury of RAPT.
StaadPro is a very powerful tool for both Local and Global structural analysis. it can perform Finite Element Analaysis (FEA), modeling a plate, roof trusses, a globe, and it also can do Bridge Design.
One thing i like about this software is that it has various type of predefined model in the structure wizard. so one click away from your very typical model, and you will be in business. it can also perform various design such as concrete and steel.
Although having the ability to import CAD drawings, when it comes to managing the lines where you have imported from the CAD drawings, i found it quite helpless. You will import a lot of dummy lines to your model space, undefined and unwanted. This thus will cause you to have more time deleting and tidying up your model instead of getting what you want. This also reviewed the fact where it is harder to control the model in staadpro under different angles and different floors. When it comes to controlling the model, ETABS still crown the best.
Many does not know that Staadpro DO exports CAD drawings (in detail). after you have completed your analysis and design, you can actually create the detail drawings (in .dxf format). For an example, you have design a 3 span RC beam. The profile of the 3 span beam as well as the reinforcement layout of the beams, lapping details can be created by the software itself.
the older version Staad2000 has some problems with bugs therefore your model will be automatically shut down if there is any errors. you have to constantly save your model (manually) or else if it is your UNLUCKY day... all changes before last saving will be totally wiped out. however, things improved when it comes to StaadPro2006 as the Auto Saving command will keep your work secured. not very sure about StaadPro2007 as but i presumed it is better.
Overall, it is a worth buying software for the medium based consultant. The software is stable, powerful for structural analysis, and the model file will not corrupt easily.
