MicroStation

MicroStation is a computer-aided design (CAD) software application developed by Bentley Systems. It is used for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, visualization, and documentation across architecture, engineering, and construction, with particular emphasis on infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and utilities.

The program provides precise drafting and modeling tools for large-scale projects, including 2D drafting, parametric and constraint-based design, solid and surface modeling, and rendering for visualization. It supports complex assemblies, detailed annotations, and scalable collaboration across teams. MicroStation also integrates geospatial data and GIS workflows through coordinate systems, georeferencing, and live linkages to maps and asset data, enabling common data environments for civil, rail, water, and energy projects.

Interoperability and collaboration are central to MicroStation. It uses the native DGN file format, while offering import/export to DWG, DXF, and other formats to support multidisciplinary workflows. The software can connect to Bentley’s iTwin platform for data-centric collaboration, design reviews, and issue tracking, and it can be extended via APIs in MDL, .NET, and other languages.

Platform and editions: MicroStation runs on Windows and is distributed in versions aligned with Bentley’s CONNECT Edition, which emphasizes cloud-enabled workflows and integration with other Bentley design and asset-management tools such as OpenRoads, OpenBuildings, and OpenRail.

History: First released in the 1980s, MicroStation evolved from 2D drafting software to a comprehensive 2D/3D design platform and remains a core tool in Bentley System’s product family.