ArborCAD
ArborCAD is a specialized CAD software designed for arborists to create professional, scale-accurate tree survey plans and reports while automating critical protection zone calculations and data management.
SmartDraw
SmartDraw is a versatile diagramming software that allows you to create professional-quality flowcharts, floor plans, and organizational charts using automated formatting and a vast library of specialized templates.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | ArborCAD | SmartDraw |
|---|---|---|
| Website | cad.com.au | smartdraw.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Subscription |
| Starting Price | Custom Pricing | $9.95/month |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✓ 7 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1988 | 1994 |
| Headquarters | Sydney, Australia | The Woodlands, USA |
Overview
ArborCAD
ArborCAD is a specialized design tool built specifically for arborists and tree consultants who need to produce professional, scale-accurate survey plans. Instead of struggling with generic drafting tools, you get a system that understands arboricultural data, allowing you to plot trees quickly and generate comprehensive reports automatically. You can import site surveys, define tree species, and visualize critical data points directly on your plan without manual drafting.
The software simplifies the complex task of calculating Tree Protection Zones (TPZ) and Structural Root Zones (SRZ) by automating these measurements based on your input data. You can manage large-scale projects with ease, ensuring all your documentation meets local regulatory standards. It functions as an add-on to the PowerCADD engine, providing a familiar yet highly optimized environment for your specialized consulting needs.
SmartDraw
SmartDraw is a powerful diagramming tool designed to help you create professional visuals without the manual effort of traditional drawing software. Whether you need to map out complex business processes, design architectural floor plans, or build technical engineering diagrams, the platform automates the alignment and arrangement of your elements. You can simply click a command and watch your diagram reformat itself instantly as you add or move shapes.
The software serves a wide range of users, from solo contractors needing quick blueprints to enterprise teams documenting IT infrastructure. It solves the problem of messy, inconsistent diagrams by providing over 45,000 professional templates and 70,000 symbols. You can work entirely in your web browser or use the Windows desktop application, making it easy to collaborate with your team regardless of their operating system.
Overview
ArborCAD Features
- Automated TPZ/SRZ Calculation Calculate and draw Tree Protection Zones and Structural Root Zones instantly based on your trunk diameter measurements.
- Tree Survey Plotting Place tree symbols on your plans quickly using a dedicated toolset that stores species and health data.
- Automatic Report Generation Export your survey data directly into professional reports, saving you from manual data entry and transcription errors.
- Scale-Accurate Drafting Create precise, professional-grade plans that you can share with architects, developers, and local planning authorities.
- Species Database Integration Access and manage a comprehensive list of tree species to ensure consistent naming and data across all projects.
- DXF/DWG Compatibility Import site surveys from land surveyors and export your finished plans to work with other industry-standard CAD formats.
SmartDraw Features
- Intelligent Formatting. Add or remove shapes and watch your diagram automatically readjust its layout to maintain perfect alignment and spacing.
- Extensive Template Library. Choose from over 70 different diagram types including flowcharts, floor plans, and network diagrams to start your project instantly.
- CAD-Drafting Engine. Design professional-grade floor plans and engineering drawings with ease using powerful tools that rival expensive CAD software.
- Data-Driven Diagrams. Generate charts and visuals automatically by importing data from your existing spreadsheets or external databases.
- Visio Import and Export. Collaborate with others easily by importing your old Visio files and exporting your new designs back to Visio format.
- Development Platform. Use the built-in SDK to create custom extensions and automate diagram generation for your specific business needs.
Pricing Comparison
ArborCAD Pricing
SmartDraw Pricing
- Over 70,000 symbols
- 4,500+ smart templates
- Visio import and export
- Premium support included
- Cloud storage integration
- Everything in Individual, plus:
- Minimum 3 users required
- Shared team folders
- Administrative controls
- Document retention rules
Pros & Cons
ArborCAD
Pros
- Significant time savings on calculating tree protection zones
- Produces professional plans that meet local government standards
- Eliminates manual data entry between plans and reports
- Specifically designed for arborist workflows rather than generic CAD
Cons
- Requires a separate base CAD engine to operate
- Limited to specific operating systems (primarily macOS)
- Higher initial cost compared to basic drawing tools
SmartDraw
Pros
- Automated formatting saves hours of manual alignment
- Massive library of industry-specific symbols and templates
- Excellent compatibility with Microsoft Office and Visio
- Easier to learn than complex CAD software
Cons
- Web version can lag with very large diagrams
- No forever-free tier for casual users
- Subscription is required to keep desktop access