Just downloaded BricsCad which seems very compatible to what we've been using. This suite operates inside of BricsCad. So far the demo leaves little to be desired. I was wondering how comparable it was to the other software options that are out there.
There are others to consider, you should look around before you commit.
https://www.google.com/?gws_rd=ssl#q=Civil+Survey+Software+for+BricsCAD
Shameless!:-D
Here is a site I found a while back, never have used it.
http://www.underhill.ca/land-surveyor-software
We are CAD based and have been for over 20 years. I don't feel the need to switch platforms now, but between Windows and CAD upgrades they are forcing our hand. I'm looking for something that's equivalent to Softdesk or Carlson, but w/out the big price tag and in a CAD based engine. There are some really great products out there that are surveyor friendly, but put out a crappy drawing. IMO that's one of the most important products out there. Any ideas?
I demo'ed Briscad with the the DotSoft add on, and it is the most similar to LDD/Autocad that I've seen. I don't really have a timeline set for switching over, but it's nice to know it's out there.
I agree with you, between Windows updates, and CAD updates, my days of using LDD/AutoCAD are numbered, too. There is no way I'm going to AutoCAD's new rental model.
From what I understand, there is no reason why you can't run Briscad with two or more add-ons, like you could run Dotsoft and Cogosoftware, and customize your menus to give you the best of both. You can buy all three packages for the cost of renting Civil 3D for a few months.