Allplan is developed by the German Nemetschek Group, a giant in the AEC industry. Unlike simplified CAD tools, Allplan is built for the complete building lifecycle.
The "Top" qualification in the Allplan 2018 suite is critical. Allplan was released in three tiers:
Allplan 2018 Top combines the power of Architecture and Engineering into a single, unified platform. It includes the Allplan Add-Ons (Render, Terrain, Site Planning, Stair Module, and Roof Module) plus advanced import/export filters (IFC, DWG, DGN). If you needed to design a complex stadium, a parametric bridge, or a high-rise with intricate rebar detailing, Top was the version you bought.
The "Top" edition came with a robust link to Bimplus—Nemetschek’s cloud collaboration platform. This allowed distributed teams to view the federated model on iPads in the field, mark up PDFs, and sync comments back to the 2018 desktop client.
Final Rating (2018 context): ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Docked half a star for a steep learning curve, but awarded full points for production reliability.
Looking for the latest features? Allplan has evolved significantly since 2018. Contact your local distributor for a 2024 feature comparison.
Allplan 2018 is a comprehensive Building Information Modelling (BIM) platform widely used by architects and engineers. For users seeking a guide, the following core resources and top features define the 2018 version: Essential Official Guides Basics Tutorial
: A foundational guide covering project creation, understanding drawing files, and configuring the Actionbar. You can find the ALLPLAN 2018 Basics Tutorial on MASES SOFTWARE. Architecture Tutorial
: Detailed instructions for architectural workflows, including project templates and page layouts, available as the Allplan 2018 Architecture Tutorial on Scribd. Steps to Success (Reinforcement)
: A specialized guide for engineering workflows, particularly for reinforcement views and project templates, accessible via the Steps to Reinforcement Views MASES SOFTWARE Top Features & Enhancements Actionbar Customization
: The 2018 version introduced an enhanced Actionbar Configurator that allows you to drag-and-drop task areas and tools into roles, making the interface more intuitive. CineRender Engine : Integration with the MAXON CineRender engine
significantly improved internal visualization and rendering quality. IFC4 Support : Added support for the IFC4 file format
, which enhances the accuracy of BIM data exchange during imports and exports. PythonParts : Enhanced parametric objects ( PythonParts
) were introduced to automate repetitive tasks like wall reinforcement and strip foundation design. Setup & Maintenance License Settings
tool in the Services application is used to activate product keys and manage workstations. Allmenu Utility : This separate utility is critical for managing central file storage
, performing manual backups, and handling technical support tools. System Requirements
: Allplan 2018 requires a 64-bit Windows system and specific software environments like Java SE Runtime Environment 8u152 or higher for certain synchronization tools. ALLPLAN 2018 - Basics Tutorial - MASES SOFTWARE
Allplan 2018 — Overview and key features allplan+2018+top
Allplan 2018 is a BIM-aware CAD solution for architects and engineers focused on 2D/3D design, precision modeling, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Below are concise, actionable highlights and practical tips.
Key features
Practical tips
Common workflows
License and compatibility notes
Useful shortcuts & commands (typical)
Where to learn more
Would you like a condensed one-page quick-reference cheat sheet (printer-friendly) or a short checklist tailored to architects vs. structural engineers?
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
Released in late 2017, Allplan 2018 marked a significant turning point for the Nemetschek Group, shifting the software from a powerful "standalone" CAD tool into a fully integrated, cloud-ready BIM (Building Information Modeling) platform. This version introduced the ActionBar, revamped the IFC4 workflow, and launched Allplan Share, making it one of the most stable and productive releases for architects and structural engineers. Top Features of Allplan 2018 1. The New ActionBar
The most visible change in Allplan 2018 was the introduction of the ActionBar. Allplan is developed by the German Nemetschek Group,
Role-Specific Menus: Tools are grouped by specific tasks (e.g., Architecture, Engineering, Drafting), ensuring you only see the commands you need.
Efficiency: This UI overhaul significantly reduced the learning curve for new users and minimized "click fatigue" for pros. 2. Advanced BIM Collaboration with Allplan Share
Based on the Bimplus cloud platform, Allplan Share allowed teams to work on the same project data in real-time from different locations.
No Local Server Needed: It eliminated the need for complex local workgroup servers, enabling remote collaboration through the cloud.
Task Board Integration: Users could assign tasks and track project progress directly within the model via the integrated Task Board. 3. Enhanced IFC4 Export and Import
Allplan 2018 was at the forefront of "OpenBIM," providing superior support for the IFC4 format.
Lossless Data Transfer: It allowed for the exchange of complex free-form geometry and reinforcement data without losing detail.
Precision: The improved interface ensured that all stakeholders—from architects to MEP engineers—worked with the most accurate model data. 4. Certified Quantity Takeoff Accuracy
For the 12th consecutive year, Allplan 2018 received the TÜV SÜD certificate for software quality.
Cost-Reliable Planning: In combination with NEVARIS, it provided highly accurate graphic quantity takeoffs, ensuring that budget statements were reliable from the start. System Requirements for Allplan 2018
To maintain peak performance, your hardware should meet or exceed these specifications: Minimum Requirement Recommended Processor Intel Core 2 or compatible Intel Core i7 or i5 RAM OS Windows 7 SP1 (64-bit) Windows 10 (64-bit) GPU OpenGL 3.3 compatible (1 GB) OpenGL 4.2 compatible (8 GB) Screen 1280 x 1024 resolution Up to 2560 x 1600 Why It Still Ranks at the Top
Even as newer versions like Allplan 2024 and 2026 are released, the 2018 version remains a benchmark for its balance of speed and reliability. It was the first version to truly bridge the gap between traditional 2D drafting and the modern 3D BIM environment, offering a flexible "work at your own pace" transition that many firms still value today. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS ALLPLAN ALLFA 2018
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 Allplan 2018 Top combines the power of Architecture
: 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?
A standout feature of Allplan 2018 is its advanced Allplan Bimplus integration, which significantly improved BIM (Building Information Modeling) collaboration through a "top-down" cloud-based workflow. Key Highlight: Allplan Bimplus Task Board
This version introduced a more seamless connection to the Allplan Bimplus portal, allowing for real-time task management and coordination directly within the CAD environment.
Integrated Workflow: You can access the Task Board directly within Allplan to manage change requests and design iterations without leaving your workspace.
BIM Coordination: It enables the synchronization of models from different disciplines (architecture, structural engineering, MEP) into one central cloud model to identify and resolve clashes early.
Centralized Communication: All project participants, regardless of their location or the software they use, can access the same task list, ensuring everyone is working from the "top" version of the project data. Other notable improvements in the 2018 release include:
Actionbar: A redesigned, intuitive user interface that groups tools by role and task (Modeling, Drafting, etc.), making it faster to find high-level functions.
PythonParts: The introduction of programmable, parametric objects using Python, allowing users to create complex, intelligent BIM components that react to changes automatically.
Allplan 2018 retains its powerful 2D drafting engine alongside 3D BIM modeling. This hybrid approach allows users to:
Top Benefit: Steep learning curve flattens for users migrating from pure CAD tools (AutoCAD, BricsCAD) to BIM.
Most BIM software relies on strict vertical levels (Level 1, Level 2). Allplan 2018 Top used a Reference Plane system that was, and remains, more flexible.
In 2018, you could snap a reference plane at any angle—not just horizontal. This meant designing a sloped ramp, a stadium bowl, or a leaning façade was native behavior, not a workaround. While Revit required "Model in Place" or adaptive components, Allplan 2018 Top let you draw a wall on a 45-degree plane instantly. For parametric roof structures, this workflow was a godsend.