Tekla Structures: The BIM-Native Platform
Tekla Structures is a full 3D parametric modeling environment built from the ground up for BIM coordination. Every object — beam, plate, bolt, weld — lives in a single database. Changes cascade automatically: update a column size and every connected beam, plate, and drawing regenerates. Tekla's strength is its interoperability: it exports IFC 2x3 and IFC 4, Navisworks NWC/NWD, and Revit-compatible formats natively, making it the preferred platform on complex mixed-discipline projects.
SDS/2: The Fabricator-Centric Platform
SDS/2 was purpose-built for the fabrication workflow. Its connection design automation engine is its signature feature — SDS/2 automatically designs and details standard AISC connections (shear tabs, moment end plates, seated connections, etc.) based on member loads and design parameters. For shops that value speed on repetitive commercial and industrial work, SDS/2's auto-design reduces manual connection input dramatically. Its DSTV/NC1 CNC output and material list integration are tightly tuned to common fabricator ERP systems.
Key Differences at a Glance
Here's how the two platforms compare across the dimensions that matter most to fabricators and their detailing partners:
- BIM coordination: Tekla leads — richer IFC, better clash detection, more robust multi-user model sharing
- Connection automation: SDS/2 leads — built-in load-based connection design vs. Tekla's manual or plugin-driven approach
- Model complexity: Tekla scales better on large, complex projects (hospitals, airports, stadiums, high-rise)
- Repeatability / speed on standard commercial: SDS/2 is faster for repeat connection patterns
- CNC output: both export DSTV/NC1; SDS/2's output is more natively integrated with many fabricator workflows
- Owner / EOR requirements: many DOT, healthcare, and federal projects specify Tekla IFC deliverables explicitly
When Tekla Is the Right Choice
Choose Tekla when: the project requires coordinated IFC model deliverables for multi-discipline clash; when the owner or GC has a BIM execution plan (BEP) specifying LOD 300 or higher; when the structure is complex (curved members, large transfer trusses, atypical connection geometry); or when the EOR uses Revit and expects live link or regular IFC exchanges. Tekla is also the better fit when field scanning point clouds need to be imported and overlaid against the structural model.
When SDS/2 Is the Right Choice
Choose SDS/2 when: your fabrication shop already runs SDS/2 and wants native file compatibility; when the project is standard commercial or industrial with repetitive AISC connections; when the schedule is tight and connection automation speed outweighs BIM coordination depth; or when your ERP (FabSuite, Strumis, Tekla EPM) integrates directly with SDS/2's material list output.
What Tectonix Uses
Tectonix runs Tekla Structures on all structural projects. We chose Tekla because most of our clients operate in multi-discipline BIM environments and because Tekla's single-model accuracy — where every drawing is extracted from the same parametric database — eliminates the drawing-to-model discrepancies that cause RFIs and field rework. Our team also produces DSTV/NC1, DXF plate, and XML drill-line outputs from the Tekla model, so CNC compatibility is not sacrificed.
The Deliverable Question
Before selecting a detailing firm, ask what native format their deliverables come in and whether your fabrication software can consume them without conversion. Conversion steps introduce errors. Also confirm whether the firm's model is the source of truth for drawings — or whether drawings are produced separately and the model is decorative. At Tectonix, drawings are always extracted from the live model, not drawn independently.