Autodesk AutoSketch 9 review:5 stars (Simple and easy CAD tool) - I've used AutoSketch for years. Some mistake this tool for a graphics design tool, which it is not. It is a mechanical or architectural design tool. As such it is simple to use and produces accurate results. We use it in our business daily. I am pleased that they finally solved the printed line weight problem in this new version. If you're expecting a Visio or Adobe replacement, you misunderstand the product. If you are expecting a simplified version of AutoCAD, this is the product to use.1 stars (Who are they trying to kid??) - I am a long user of graphic and drawing programs, including Canvas, MacDraw and Corel. I bought AutoSketch 9 hoping to have a relatively cheap tool for drawing flowcharts, maps, sketches, diagrams and such. AutoSketch was billed as the solution to my needs and easy to use. It is neither.
For example, in most applications, to duplicate an object and align it with the grid-snap takes maybe one key-press and and one click-and-drag. In AutoSketch, it takes eleven steps -- eleven complicated and non-intuitive steps.
Another example. In AutoSketch, you cannot select an object then select a fill color. You must select a filler tool, then go through menus of colors, then click on the object. This may seem only a little more complicated, but your object is NOT filled with color! A new, colored object is created of the same size, and hides the original one. Even the border of the original is hidden.
The simplest actions in AutoSketch are mind-bogglingly complicated and arcane, when you can figure out how to do them at all. Most of the relatively 'easy' operations I learned how to perform came with unintended and undesireable side-affects. Experience in the full-blown AutoCAD application is probably a requirement to get any use at all out of AutoSketch.
This is not a tool for kids. Or even for adults unless they're professional propellor heads who think that memorizing eleven steps to duplicate a rectangle is "kool".
I don't. It's been ten years since I've had a computer application make me this angry and frustrated.
AutoSketch 9 is a total waste of time and money. I'm returning my copy.
Autodesk AutoSketch 9 Features:
Multimedia
Illustration (Illustrated)
Graphics (Graphic)
Professional Design
desktop publishing
desk top publishing
Computer software (programs)
Graphics
3D (3-D)
CAD (Computer Assisted Drafting)
Architect
Architectural
Architecture
CD
Tutorials and wizards for a fast start
Comprehensive CAD tools for creating expert-quality drawings
Electrical details, floor plans, conceptual sketches, and more
Straightforward drafting in a Windows XP-like environment
DWG format compatibility for creating and viewing AutoCAD files

Autodesk AutoSketch 9 is the CD-ROM version. The full version can be purchased by clicking on the "CLICK HERE TO ORDER" button below for around 119.99USD.