CompuServe Messages

Robert, My inquiry was regarding alternative low priced CAD Programs to AutoCAD. Maybe even Generic CAD in 3D if anyone has had experience with inputing those files to 3D Studio. I haven't used Generic CAD so I'm defering to this forum's expertise. I've been an AutoCAD Dealer for 5 years and and Autodesk Multimedia ( 3D Studio & Ani Pro ) Dealer for 1.5 of them. I'm used to using the AutoCAD Product and the Higher priced third party packages like ASG now part of SoftDesk (formerly DCA) which I'm also familiar with. My client only has enough money budgeted for his CAD system and another $3000.00 for software. The problem is, I can't sell him AutoCAD _and_ a third party product like Architectural Power Tools ( The Best Priced add-on for his needs ) AND get him in to 3D Studio all for under $3000.00 . (3D Studios List) I might be able to convince him to spend a little more for a Generic CAD program if their was a similiar add-on that would allow the creation of 3D Architectural Geometry. Saaaayyy maybe up the anti to about $4,000.00 for the software investment. Even if I discount the 3D Studio to $2500.00 as part of a Total Package deal I'm still hard pressed to get him in to the CAD Package I'd like to see him in….which of course is AutoCAD. Jeeezz what can you really do with $1500.00? Add to that the price of the AutoCAD third party add-on and he's certainly going to be over budget. The Client really wants to put this together to do the Renderings and Animations which are the main focus of this System. He can survive with working drawings on the boards which is what he's doing now but as a small business he's looking to impress larger clients and the best way to do that besides the "Quality" of his work is… Getting thier attention in the first place. How you Say? With full color Renderings and Animation Walk Throughs!!! Hope you've got the full picture now and I would appreciate it if you told me what "GDS" is? BTW I'll probably have to bite the bullet on the 3D Studio and Talk him into getting AutoCAD and Starting with a "Smaller" less expensive Rendering Program. As a Consultant I have to do what's best for my client's business as that will ultimetly be best for mine too.<g> Sometimes It's hard to start someone out with less than you'd be happy with yourself. Thanks for the input. James M. Murphy