In 2018, Allplan was widely regarded as “BIM for engineers who draft.” Its top differentiators versus competitors:
| vs. Revit | Allplan 2018 wins on reinforcement detailing, 2D CAD speed, and file‑based version control (no cloud dependency). | | vs. ArchiCAD | Allplan 2018 wins on structural integration and quantity takeoff out‑of‑the‑box. | | vs. Tekla Structures | Allplan 2018 is more accessible to architectural firms and offers better render quality. |
The search volume for "Allplan 2018 Top" indicates a very specific user: the veteran civil engineer or architect who values stability over novelty. While you lose modern AI and cloud agility, you gain a perpetual license (no monthly fees), a mature codebase (no unexpected crashes), and hardware flexibility (runs on a $500 used workstation).
For structural engineering offices that focus on reinforced concrete infrastructure—bridges, tunnels, hydroelectric plants—the 2018 Top edition remains a viable production tool. It handles the "big three" (modeling, reinforcement, drawings) without the distraction of cloud notifications or subscription anxiety.
Final Recommendation: If you own a license of Allplan 2018 Top, do not upgrade until you absolutely need IFC 4.3. If you are learning it for a portfolio, master the Parametric Rebar Array and Freeform Shell workflows—those skills transfer directly to the 2024 version.
Search Summary: For users looking for high-end BIM performance, offline functionality, and robust concrete detailing, Allplan 2018 Top is not legacy software; it is a proven benchmark.
Have a specific question about migration from Allplan 2018 Top to a newer build? Leave a comment on our forum or check the official Nemetschek archive documentation.
In the fast-evolving world of architecture and engineering, Allplan 2018 stands as a pivotal chapter in the history of Building Information Modeling (BIM) The Evolution of Allplan 2018
Released in October 2017, Allplan 2018 marked a significant shift from a "lone superstar" application to a "team player" in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry. Before this version, even high-end CAD software often felt like an isolated island of data. Allplan 2018 changed that by prioritizing interoperability collaboration The "Actionbar" Revolution
One of the most notable changes for daily users was the introduction of the User-Centric Design:
Recognizing that their toolset had become vast and sometimes overwhelming, the developers replaced cluttered menus with a modern, intuitive bar that surfaced tools based on the current task. Efficiency Boost:
This shift wasn’t just aesthetic; it allowed architects and engineers to access complex BIM tools more quickly, significantly reducing "click fatigue". Breaking Down Data Silos: IFC4 and Bimplus
A major theme of the 2018 release was "collaboration without limits." IFC4 Export/Import: The software introduced optimized support for the IFC4 format
, an open standard that allows different BIM programs to "talk" to each other. This meant an architect using Allplan could seamlessly share models with a structural engineer using different software. Bimplus Integration: For the first time, users were deeply integrated with
, a cloud-based collaboration platform. This allowed project teams to manage models, documents, and tasks in one central location, ensuring everyone worked from a "single source of truth". Precision Meets Practicality
Beyond collaboration, the 2018 version focused on technical excellence: Certified Accuracy:
The software’s graphic quantity takeoff—essential for accurate cost planning—was certified by , a prestigious German testing organization. Infrastructure Focus: This era also saw the birth of Allplan Bridge
, a specialized tool for parametric bridge modeling that has since become a global standard used in over 40 countries. A Legacy of Modernity While newer versions like Allplan 2023
have since introduced features like "Fly mode" and advanced point cloud support, the 2018 release remains the foundation for the modern, collaborative BIM workflows used today. It was the moment Allplan truly embraced the cloud and open-standard data exchange, helping the construction industry move toward a more digital and connected future. specific hardware requirements to run this version or how it compares to newer releases ALLPLAN announces the new BIM solution Allplan 2018-1
Allplan 2018 marked a major turning point for the software, introducing a streamlined, modern interface designed to bridge the gap between traditional CAD drafting and advanced BIM modeling. 1. The All-New Actionbar
The most visible change was the replacement of old toolbars with the Actionbar.
Role-Specific Design: Tools are automatically grouped by project roles (e.g., Architecture, Structure, Engineering, or Surroundings).
Functional Tasks: Within each role, tools are further organized into functional groups like "Modeling," "Reinforcement," or "Visualization". allplan+2018+top
Customization: Users can customize the Actionbar to fit their specific workflow preferences, significantly reducing clicks and search time. 2. Enhanced BIM Workflows with Allplan Bimplus
Allplan 2018 focused heavily on collaboration through the cloud-based Allplan Bimplus platform.
Task Management: The Task Board connects directly to Bimplus, allowing team members to assign, track, and resolve tasks within the BIM model in real-time.
Universal Data Access: This integration ensured that all project partners, from architects to contractors, worked from a "single source of truth". 3. Optimized Reinforcement and Engineering
For structural engineers, Allplan Engineering 2018 introduced several automation tools to speed up planning:
Parametric Objects: Users can create complex, parametric 3D objects that adjust automatically based on defined rules.
Automated Detailing: New settings improved the automation of mesh cuttings, rebar overlapping, and stirrup hooking.
Infrastructure Support: Enhanced tools for terrain and site planning made it a stronger contender for large-scale civil projects. 4. Visualization and Data Exchange
CineRender Engine: Integration with the high-end CineRender engine allowed for more professional visualizations directly within the software.
Interoperability: The version improved IFC4 export capabilities and data exchange with other Nemetschek tools like Solibri.
Multi-Monitor Support: Better handling of windows and dialogs across multiple screens helped manage complex project layouts. Essential Resources for Users
If you are still working with or learning this version, these official guides are highly recommended:
Allplan 2018 Basics Tutorial: A great starting point for core modeling and interface navigation.
Allplan Architecture Tutorial: Specific workflows for architectural design and documentation.
Are you upgrading from an older version or learning from scratch? Is your focus on architecture or structural engineering?
In Allplan 2018, the Draft role features are primarily organized within the redesigned Actionbar, a task-oriented interface at the top of the workspace. This interface dynamically updates based on your selected role, grouping specialized tools for 2D design, labeling, and documentation. Core Drafting Features in Allplan 2018
The Actionbar: Replacing traditional menus, the Actionbar at the top of the screen provides quick access to functional groups like Design (2D objects), Label (text and leaders), and Quick Access.
Track Line & Precision Tools: A key feature for drafting is the Track Line, which allows you to determine element directions (horizontal, vertical, or 45°) and draw perpendicular lines without needing temporary construction geometry.
Fixture Integration: Allplan combines 3D modeling with flexible 2D drafting through "Fixtures." These allow you to control how an element appears in different views, including specific hatching or line work for 2D plans.
Collaborative Drafting: The 2018 release introduced an IFC4 interface for better data exchange and the ALLPLAN Exchange tool for web-based plan distribution and automatic change notifications. Functional Groups within the Draft Role
When the Draft role is active, the Actionbar typically displays the following task areas:
Design Task: Contains tools for 2D Objects such as rectangles, parallel lines, and complex intersections (e.g., the "Intersect 2 Entities" tool). In 2018, Allplan was widely regarded as “BIM
Label Task: Specifically for adding Text, labels, and leaders to your technical drawings.
Modify Tools: Enables quick adjustments like Division Points or polar coordinate modifications to existing 2D elements. ALLPLAN Ultimate
Allplan 2018 is a professional BIM (Building Information Modeling) and CAD software designed for architects and engineers. The "top" features of the 2018 release centered on a revamped user interface and enhanced collaboration through cloud integration. Top Features in Allplan 2018
The Actionbar: This was the standout interface update, replacing old menu structures with a role-based, context-sensitive toolbar that streamlines workflows and makes tools easier to find.
Allplan Bimplus Integration: A direct connection to the cloud-based Bimplus platform was added, allowing teams to centrally manage attributes and collaborate on models in real-time.
Allplan Share: Introduced as an option for direct, location-independent collaboration, enabling multiple users to work on the same project data simultaneously via the cloud.
IFC4 Export: Improved support for the latest IFC4 standard ensured higher quality and more accurate data exchange with planning partners.
Advanced Visualization: The integration of the CineRender engine from Maxon allowed for higher-quality architectural renderings directly within the software. System Requirements
To run Allplan 2018 effectively, your system should meet these specifications: Minimum Requirement Recommended OS Windows 7 (64-bit) Windows 10 (64-bit) Processor Intel Core 2 or compatible Intel Core i5 or i7 RAM Graphics OpenGL 3.3 compatible (1 GB RAM) OpenGL 4.2 compatible (8 GB RAM) Storage 5 GB free disk space SSD storage Common Use Cases
In Allplan 2018, are a key tool for analyzing and extracting project data, such as quantities of architectural elements, 3D solids, and engineering components. Key Reporting Features in Allplan 2018 Accessing Reports : You can find the tool in the Architecture module under the Rooms, Surfaces, and Stories subgroup. It is also accessible through the
, a task-oriented interface introduced in the 2018 version to streamline access to tools. Supported Elements : Reports can be generated for various items including: Architectural elements : Rooms, walls, and slabs. Engineering components
: Reinforcement, mesh cutting diagrams, and structural elements. Quantity Takeoffs : The 2018 version was specifically certified by
for its high accuracy in graphic quantity takeoffs, particularly when used with Export Options
: Once generated, reports can be exported to multiple formats for further use, including: , or saved directly within Customization
: You can modify existing report templates or create new ones using the Layout Designer
, where you can adjust logos, names, and specific data properties. Troubleshooting & Enhancements Attribute Limit
: In the 2018-0-1 hotfix, Allplan issues a message if project data contains more than 98 attributes, at which point the automated analysis stops. Modification Tools : To edit a report template, go to the menu, select Bonus Tools , and then Templates: Reports, Legends, Labels
For a visual guide on using reports to determine quantities from a 3D model, you can watch the Allplan 2020 Quickstart Lesson
, which covers the fundamental workflow still applicable to the 2018 version. for a specific project type?
The request "report for: allplan 2018 top" typically refers to the Report functionality within the Allplan 2018 BIM software, specifically for generating quantity takeoffs, steel lists, or analytical data from 3D models. Core Report Functionality in Allplan 2018
Reports in Allplan 2018 allow you to extract and visualize data directly from your project model.
Automatic Generation: Once your 3D model is complete, you can select the Reports tool to automatically calculate quantities and generate structured documents. Have a specific question about migration from Allplan
Categories: Allplan provides a wide variety of predefined templates for different roles:
Architecture: Element quantities, room schedules, and living space calculations.
Engineering: Mesh cutting diagrams, bar reinforcement lists, and steel schedules.
Top Feature - Quantity Takeoff Accuracy: Allplan 2018's reporting was certified by TÜV SÜD for its high level of accuracy in graphic quantity takeoffs, particularly when used with Tendering software like NEVARIS. How to Use Reports
Selection: Isolate the elements you want to report on (e.g., only visible layers or specific building groups).
Command: Start the Report command from the task-specific Actionbar at the top of the interface.
Template Choice: Select from the library of standard templates or use custom templates.
Export Options: Reports can be exported to multiple formats for external use: Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) Microsoft Word (.docx) Adobe PDF (.pdf) Directly into an Allplan Drawing File Specific 2018 Updates for Reports
IFC4 Support: Improvements in Allplan 2018-1 allow for better data import/export via the IFC4 interface, which improves the data quality of reports when collaborating on BIM projects.
Quality Reporting: Allplan includes an internal Quality Reporter that allows users to send automated crash or error reports to technical support to improve software reliability.
If you were looking for a top feature summary or a performance report of the software itself: ALLPLAN announces the new BIM solution Allplan 2018-1
Most software in 2018 (Navisworks, Solibri) would detect a clash after you hit "run." Allplan 2018 Top introduced live clash avoidance. As you dragged a beam through a duct, the system highlighted the conflict in real-time.
Allplan 2018 Top introduced an upgraded scripting engine for parametric objects. Users could now create intelligent components (windows, doors, steel connections) that carried legal specifications and material data.
Allplan 2018 features a built‑in quantity takeoff engine that is rule‑based and updateable:
Top Metric: Users report up to 80% reduction in manual takeoff time compared to non‑integrated workflows.
Allplan 2018, developed by the German company ALLPLAN (part of the Nemetschek Group), represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). Positioned as a direct competitor to Autodesk Revit and Graphisoft ArchiCAD, Allplan 2018 distinguishes itself through its dual‑discipline focus (architecture and engineering) and its highly precise, CAD‑core heritage.
While later versions have introduced cloud collaboration and AI‑assisted tools, Allplan 2018 remains a favorite for many professionals due to its stability, powerful modeling engine, and deep integration of design with quantity takeoff and reinforcement detailing. This write‑up explores the top features that made Allplan 2018 a benchmark release.
In the rapid churn of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, annual releases often blur into a haze of minor patches and cloud integrations. However, every decade produces a "golden build"—a version that strikes a perfect balance between cutting-edge features, hardware optimization, and workflow stability. For users of the Nemetschek ecosystem, Allplan 2018 Top represents that zenith.
Despite newer versions hitting the market, the search term "Allplan 2018 Top" persists among professionals. Why? Because this specific iteration introduced a suite of high-end (Top) capabilities that fundamentally changed how engineers handle reinforcement, free-form architecture, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
This article dives deep into the features, performance benchmarks, and legacy of Allplan 2018 Top, explaining why it remains a reference point for serious BIM professionals.
Using the Terrain Add-On (included in Top), you import a survey point cloud or contour lines. Allplan 2018 Top generates a triangulated mesh. You then place the building using "Slope Analysis" to optimize cut and fill calculations.