Being in the education space, we are often asked: What is Autodesk? It is a multinational software corporation that develops software for a variety of industries, primarily focusing on architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, media, and entertainment.

Also, it is best known for boosting productivity and efficiency in as much as 63% of tasks completed in the industry it serves. Some of Autodesk’s flagship products include AutoCAD (Computer-Aided Design), (Building Information Modeling), Maya (3D animation), Fusion 360 (CAD, CAM, and CAE), and many others. Professionals and companies around the world widely use these software tools for designing, visualizing, and simulating ideas and projects in various fields.

Who Uses Autodesk?

To increase one’s knowledge of what Autodesk is, one should understand who utilizes it. Autodesk is used by a wide range of professionals and industries, which is why it is gaining popularity.

Here are some of the main sectors and users:

Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC): Architects, engineers, construction managers, and building designers use Autodesk software like AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM 360 for designing buildings, infrastructure, and managing construction projects.

Manufacturing: Engineers, designers, and manufacturers use Autodesk software such as Fusion 360, Inventor, and AutoCAD Mechanical for product design, simulation, and manufacturing processes.

Media and Entertainment: Professionals in the film, television, gaming, and animation industries use Autodesk software like Maya, 3ds Max, and MotionBuilder to create 3D animations, visual effects, and virtual environments.

Product Design: Industrial designers and product developers use Autodesk software for concept design, prototyping, and visualization of consumer products, electronics, and machinery.

Education: Autodesk software is also widely used in educational institutions, from K-12 schools to universities, to teach students various design, engineering, and digital fabrication skills.

Urban Planning and Infrastructure: Planners and urban designers use Autodesk software for city planning, infrastructure design, and transportation modeling.

Gaming and Virtual Reality (VR): Game developers and VR content creators use Autodesk software to create game assets, characters, and immersive virtual environments.

These are just a few examples, but the versatility of Autodesk software means it’s utilized in many other fields, wherever digital design, visualization, or simulation is needed. Many companies like LearnKey are creating Autodesk training and certification courses to accommodate Autodesk’s popularity.

Getting Started with Autodesk

Because there are so many people asking the question, “What is Autodesk?” and due to its growing popularity in education, there are slang phrases for its products. One such term is “CAD” (pronounced “kad”), which is the shortened form of Computer-Aided Design and is often used to refer specifically to AutoCAD. Also, the Autodesk CAD certification is one of the most popular globally recognized industry certifications.

Here is what you should know to begin using Autodesk:

Selecting the Right Software: Determine which Autodesk software best suits your needs. Autodesk offers a wide range of products tailored to different industries and applications. For example, Autodesk Inventor for students features 3D modeling software for designers and engineers.

Acquiring the Software: Autodesk software can be obtained through various means. You can purchase licenses for individual products or subscribe to Autodesk’s software suites. Once you have acquired the software, follow the installation instructions provided by Autodesk. This process typically involves downloading the software installer from the Autodesk website, running the installer, and following the on-screen prompts to complete the installation process.

Learning Resources: Autodesk provides a wealth of learning resources to help users get started with their software. These resources include documentation, tutorials, webinars, online courses, and user forums. Take advantage of these resources to familiarize yourself with the software’s features and capabilities.

Advanced Training: As you become more proficient with the software, consider seeking advanced training or certification programs offered by LearnKey. These programs can help you deepen your knowledge and expertise in specific areas of the software.

Flexibility: Online Autodesk courses offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and pacing. Learners can typically access course materials and complete assignments at their convenience, allowing them to learn at a pace that works best for them. This flexibility makes online courses suitable for individuals with busy schedules or other commitments.

Certification and Credentials: Some online Autodesk courses offer certification or credentials upon completion, which can be valuable for demonstrating proficiency in using Autodesk software to potential employers or clients. These credentials can help learners differentiate themselves in the job market and enhance their career prospects.

Overall, online Autodesk courses offer a convenient and effective way to learn how to use Autodesk software, providing learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed in their chosen field. Whether you’re interested in architecture, engineering, manufacturing, media, or another industry, an online Autodesk course is likely available to help you achieve your learning goals.

One last thing to remember when asking the question “What is Autodesk?” is that while it can be initially intimidating to grasp it, learning to use Autodesk software is a continuous process, and proficiency comes with practice and experience.