If you had to compare the interface to another piece of software what is it like? Revit? ArchiCAD? Sketchup? (I wish :D)

How much is it?

Do they have a demo?

I am not a user, so no advice, but the following link will lead to a 2D module of the program.

http://www.tfguild.org/tools.html

Not like SketchUp. It has its own methods to achieve the model. The version I tested and played with had you working in plan and roof plan view, then flipping to a 3d iso view of the frame, with options to go perspective, rendered, etc.

The full on demo I had from Chris and Wil Dancey was pretty impressive - if you get the full version you can setup databases of pricing, parts, etc., and generate materials lists, estimates, hardware lists, etc. etc. And they have a CNC module for automation, as well as the ability to generate 2d part drawings for hand cutting.

Look up Wil Dancey - he is a Zimmerman and a TFG member over the border in Canada.

And I think Jim Rogers uses the software as well. He should be able to comment on recent versions (my trial was back in 2005(ish).

Wil Dancey is currently at a conference in BC.

But you can see the program at http://www.dietrichsna.com/index.html

I do draw with it but I don't do demos anymore. You'll have to contact Wil and he can do a demo for you.
And I'm sure he can answer all your questions on interfacing with other programs. But I believe if you can export it as a 3d object then we can import it.

As to cost, the program is module based. And you can get "package plans" that includes certain modules. The price of these plans are based on what the customer needs, and therefore there isn't really one price to be quoted.

Jim Rogers

Thanks guys!