TransCAD Reviews

“versatile transport analysis platform”

Pros

Loading data into the system is very easy and I find the interface simple especially since I already have experience with CAD or vector GIS tools. The workflows for generating outputs related to network analysis and transport network saturation are simple for me to handle. I have worked with it regularly for the past 15 years in urban mobility research focused on public transport across Latin American cities and I have consistently found it to be an excellent solution. Including it in monitoring projects and getting it implemented is uncomplicated for me. Another big advantage I see is that the software runs with basic requirements so I can install it on low-cost, basic, or mid-range equipment without much trouble. The license is also reasonably priced which makes it accessible for small companies, universities and research groups like mine with limited budgets. It also allows me to use cartographic bases created in other programs and its compatibility and interoperability with different formats have improved in newer versions. That adaptation to today's information exchange environment creates more opportunities for integration and I can export the resulting vectors to other software for viewing geolocated results.

Cons

One limitation is that if you want to try the demo before buying a license, you need to evaluate it within a very short timeframe and the trial period is sometimes not enough. I also think the options for displaying web map images as background layers still need improvement.

“Simple GIS integration”

Pros

One of the biggest advantages I notice is how easily it works with other GIS-based software which makes network editing much more convenient for me.

Cons

To run the model, we still have to go through six different algorithms one after another.

“affordable mapping that delivers”

Pros

I really appreciate the mapping tools which I find are among the best I've used and I also like that the pricing is very low compared to other options.

Cons

I do think some of the maps could be updated more regularly.

“Perfect modeling and GIS integration”

Pros

From the algorithms to the software architecture, this book really delivers. I find the GIS integration, compatibility with TransModeler as a micro-simulation package, graphics and programming capabilities all especially valuable in my work.

Cons

Nothing comes to mind here. I honestly can't think of anything I dislike about it.

“Amazing matrix-driven gis”

Pros

Built for transportation work, yet I find it really shines as a GIS as well. The data structure is incredibly powerful, to the point that matrix operations can be used within the industry-standard matrix model. Most GIS tools simply can't handle matrix modeling even though it's a core part of mathematical modeling wherever vectors are involved.

Cons

The only thing missing is a version separated from transportation planning and engineering so it could be offered and sold as a standalone GIS product.

“excellent detail-rich software”

Pros

This software is extremely capable for what it's designed to do and it lets you work all the way down to the finer details. I also attended the training in Newton, MA and that really helped me understand many of the features and capabilities the software offers.

Cons

It would be even better with more responsive technical support. I ran into a few situations where I didn't realize certain steps had to be completed first before a specific command would work.