The Morpholio Trace integration with Vectorworks lets you sketch on your plans and other drawings by sending scale-accurate sheets or viewports via the cloud to your iPad. Sketch freely and then have your ideas flow straight back into your Vectorworks project as images or linework via DXF with less effort. No more manual juggling of PDFs, emails, and uploads simply to sketch by hand.
All Industries
All Industries
4m
Beginner
Learning Objectives
Explore the new Morpholio Trace integration released with Vectorworks 2026 Update 5.
Designing and calculating cable requirements for a lighting rig has long been a necessary but time-consuming task. Estimating cable needs often relies on educated guesses, leaving room for uncertainty.
With the latest version of the Spotlight cable tools, users can now design cable layouts and power distribution systems quickly and with precision. Dimmers, distros, and cable breakouts can be easily inserted, and connections can be drawn manually or generated automatically by Vectorworks. If equipment inventory changes, cable runs can be rapidly updated to reflect available gear. Detailed parts lists and equipment summaries can then be exported into spreadsheets and reports, providing valuable documentation for shop preparation.
The power planning tools in schematic view further enhance workflow by allowing users to repatch systems, balance electrical loads, and calculate accurate power requirements.
Entertainment
Entertainment
1h 30m
Advanced
Learning Objectives
Explore the features and capabilities of the Spotlight cable tools.
Insert power distribution components within a sample project.
Learn methods for documenting projects using data tags and worksheets.
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to site analysis workflows in Vectorworks Landmark, focusing on the tools and techniques needed to transform survey data into meaningful design insights. Participants will learn how to efficiently import and reference survey information, ensuring accurate geolocation and project setup from the outset.
The course covers the creation and refinement of Site Models, including an in-depth exploration of site model settings and analytical features.
Learners will gain practical experience in evaluating terrain through slope, elevation and drainage analysis, enabling more informed design decisions.
Advanced topics include the introduction of Site Model Snapshots to clearly analyse, display and document existing site conditions. The course also introduces data visualization techniques to communicate building usage and spatial relationships clearly within a site context.
In addition, participants will explore environmental analysis tools such as the Heliodon, learning how to conduct solar studies and shadow analysis to assess daylighting, seasonal sun paths, and their impact on site planning and design.
By the end of the course, users will have a solid understanding of how to leverage Vectorworks Landmark for accurate, data-driven site analysis and presentation.
Landscapes
Landscapes
1h 42m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Accurately
import, organise, and geolocate survey data within Vectorworks Landmark to
establish coordinated project references and a valid basis for subsequent site
modelling and analysis.
Configure Site Model settings and create Site Model Snapshots, to produce robust assessments of existing site conditions that inform design decisions.
Implement Data Visualisation to analyse building types and usage.
Employ environmental analysis tools, including the Heliodon, to conduct and document solar and shadow studies that evaluate daylighting and seasonal sun paths, and apply these findings to evidence‑based site planning and spatial design.
This class offers an in-depth exploration of Vectorworks Spotlight rigging tools, catering not only to riggers but also to technical directors (TDs), lighting designers (LDs), sound engineers, video designers, and scenic designers—essentially anyone involved in managing flown elements. The class is structured in two main parts to provide a holistic understanding and practical application of these tools.
Entertainment
Entertainment
8h
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Understand and utilize truss, pipes, and ladders in your rigging designs.
Efficiently connect various loads to the rigging structure.
Integrate and configure hoists within your rigging system.
Design and implement bridles for complex rigging configurations.
Utilize worksheets and data for rigging management and documentation.
Incorporate Braceworks to perform accurate load calculations and analysis.
Vectorworks for Set Designers: Developing Efficient and Flexible Set Designs
Vectorworks has been a trusted tool among theatrical designers for decades. Lighting designers were among the first to adopt it, drawn to its intuitive tools for drafting light plots and managing large volumes of data. Scenic designers soon followed, recognizing its flexibility and creative potential
This class will guide you through the workflow of creating a set design using Vectorworks. We’ll use the example of a play staged in a traditional proscenium theater. We'll begin with the initial conceptual design and progress through building a white model, eventually adding color, textures, and detail.
Using basic Spotlight and architectural tools, along with simple 3D modeling techniques, we’ll focus on developing an efficient, flexible workflow. Key topics include the strategic use of layers and classes to support design flexibility and streamline collaboration.
We’ll also explore how to structure files and workflows so that designers and assistants can work simultaneously on different aspects of the set—preserving visual consistency while generating precise construction documentation for individual elements.
Entertainment
Entertainment
2h 30m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Develop a flexible workflow with efficient use of classes and layers.
Easily modify surface treatments by modifying classes or using data visualization.
This on-demand class offers a comprehensive exploration of working with data in Vectorworks software, covering everything from built-in object parameters to advanced visualization and reporting techniques. Participants will start by examining the different types of native object data within the software, then progress to creating and attaching custom records for both simple and complex objects. The class will also demonstrate practical methods for viewing, managing, and presenting data using tools such as Data Visualization, Data Tags, and report generation. This class will develop your skills to structure, manage, and leverage object data effectively—ultimately boosting project efficiency, accuracy, and documentation quality.
All Industries
All Industries
2h 1m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Identify and utilize existing object data – Recognize different types of default object data, including 2D, hybrid, and complex objects, and navigate the Object Info Palette (OIP) and Resource Manager to explore attached records.
Create and attach custom records to objects – Develop and apply custom records to objects, incorporating various field types such as boolean values, text fields, and dropdown lists, and attach them using conventional methods.
Visualize and report data on drawings – Utilize Data Visualization and Data Tags to display object data within drawings, and generate both preformatted and custom reports for project documentation.
Unlock efficient, organized workflows for professional landscape design in this comprehensive on-demand course. Learn to establish a robust file structure and create reliable base files—laying the foundation for thorough project analysis, design, and development.
This paid class offers practical guidance on developing and using template files for landscape design in Vectorworks, equipping both individual designers and collaborative teams to work more efficiently and consistently. Discover best practices for document setup, including georeferenced workflows that facilitate seamless collaboration with others using real-world coordinate systems, and maximize the power of Vectorworks' suite of GIS features.
You’ll also learn how to identify, manage, and employ the most effective data types for site model creation, ensuring your documents remain organized from the outset and ready to handle external references. By mastering these workflows, you’ll gain the confidence to streamline your document management and establish a solid project base file for every new landscape design project.
Landscapes
Landscapes
2h 45m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Establish template and documentation standards for organizing Design Layers and Class structures tailored to landscape design projects.
Configure project files for effective georeferenced workflows, ensuring seamless integration with real-world coordinate systems and collaborative environments.
Implement efficient processes for managing and integrating external documentation, including various file types and reference materials.
Select and apply appropriate data formats to streamline site model creation and enhance overall project accuracy and scope.
Vectorworks for Lighting Designers: Crafting Effective Light Plots
Vectorworks has been used by Broadway lighting designers for decades. Its tools and functionality make Spotlight the industry standard. In this 3-hour live online class, we’ll cover the basics of creating a light plot. During the design process, we’ll use Vectorworks Spotlight’s tools to correctly insert and focus lighting devices, allowing us to see an accurate representation of beams and angles. Putting on our electrician's hat, we’ll add channel and DMX addressing. By the end of the class, you will have a full set of production documents, including light plots and sections, equipment counts, instrument schedules and hookups, and even rendered images.
Entertainment
Entertainment
3h
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Insert and focus theatrical lights accurately in 3D space.
Input and display lighting data, both on the plot and through instrument schedules.
Whether you are evaluating Vectorworks for the first time or planning your move away from AutoCAD, join this practical session for landscape architects and designers to discover how Vectorworks provides a clear migration path to change at your own pace.
Join the webinar to see familiar 2D workflows like hatches, line types, and a design/sheet-layer organization map from AutoCAD conventions. Plus, discover how file referencing serves the same purpose as xrefs, and Point Cloud integration brings survey data straight into the drawing environment for a productive start.
The session will demonstrate core capabilities for a connected workflow, from schematic linework to detailed technical drawings, all within a single environment. We’ll explore Vectorworks Content Libraries for plants, textures, and site symbols, which are designed to reduce repetitive drafting and free up more time for design decisions. Finally, the webinar will show how GIS integration, cross-discipline file referencing, and IFC/BIM coordination position landscape designers as integrated design leads at the center of multidisciplinary project delivery.
Landscapes
Landscapes
39m
Beginner
Learning Objectives
Understand how Vectorworks simplifies landscape workflows at different stages of adoption—from familiar 2D drafting, design, and sheet layer organization through to integrated, ready-to-use Vectorworks Libraries.
Identify multiple low‑risk paths for adopting Vectorworks Fundamentals, Landmark, and Design Suite when switching from AutoCAD.
Explore how industry peers use Vectorworks Landmark to consolidate digital tools, streamline landscape documentation, and elevate design quality—working confidently within sole-practitioner and medium-sized firms, all the way up to multidisciplinary BIM and GIS‑enabled project teams.
Watch this session to dive deeper into
softscape design and discover new capabilities that streamline the production
of plant specifications for commercial and residential landscape projects.
You’ll gain insights into plant data import, giving you better control over
project procurement at early design stages and providing access to data from
regional plant suppliers. We’ll share how to build tailored planting palettes,
refine attributes such as canopy or irrigation requirements, add notes for
maintenance contractors, and design diverse, species-rich plant communities for
rain gardens, SuDS schemes, or rooftop gardens with ease.
Additionally, see workflows in action for
producing detailed planting and management plans for public parks and
commercial landscapes, and learn how to effortlessly create, manage, and refine
plant palettes; tailor hedge and array settings; track water requirements; and
streamline graphic replacements. We’ll share how to adhere to planning
conditions and achieve your project’s sustainability goals through integrated
automation that tracks Biodiversity Net Gain or your project's Urban Greening
Factor score.
To receive 1 LA CES PDH and 1 APLD CEU, please make sure to login and complete the quiz after watching our webinar.
Landscapes
Landscapes
1h 21m
Beginner
Learning Objectives
Learn how to
complete an advanced plant data import.
Understand the
capabilities of plant design tools.
Explore creating
a BNG and UGF workflow for 2D and 3D designs.
Join architectural designer, educator, and
digital workflow expert Henry Gao as he demonstrates three powerful workflows
that connect Morpholio Trace and Vectorworks into one seamless design process.
Drawing on his many years of experience
helping architects, interior designers, and landscape architects transition
from traditional hand drawing to efficient digital workflows, Henry will show
how sketching, redlining, and concept development can work hand in hand with
professional BIM and documentation tools. With real-world examples, you'll
learn how to mark up Vectorworks drawing sets in Morpholio Trace, send
revisions back for further development, create site and floor plans that can be
brought directly into Vectorworks, and sketch over 3D models to rapidly explore
and communicate design ideas. Plus, discover how integrating freehand
creativity with digital precision can help you iterate faster, improve
communication, and maintain design momentum from early concepts through project
development.
Whether you're new to the Morpholio Trace and
Vectorworks ecosystem—or looking to refine your workflow—this session will
provide practical techniques you can apply to your own projects immediately.
Buildings/Interiors
Buildings/Interiors
50m
Intermediate
Learning Objectives
Understand how to seamlessly bring
a PDF drawing set from Vectorworks to markup in Morpholio Trace with scale
tools.
Learn how to generate a scaled
site plan in Morpholio Trace and easily transfer the drawing as a vector-based
DXF file directly to Vectorworks for modeling.
Discover how to move 3D models
from Vectorworks to Morpholio Trace for concept sketches, markups, or base
sketches to generate AI renderings.
AutoCAD users are feeling the pressure to do more with less, consolidate software, and support 3D and BIM without derailing day-to-day work. A switch to Vectorworks is the right next step. Attend this webinar hosted by Luis Ruiz, lead product specialist at Vectorworks, to learn what it takes for a smooth transition.
Discover how Vectorworks provides a clear path to change at your own pace, with three solutions tailored to your design journey. We will explore adopting Vectorworks Fundamentals as your modern CAD alternative with purpose-built architectural tools, uncover the unique benefits of Vectorworks Architect, and review how to use the Vectorworks Design Suite for complex work. Plus, see how firms like yours have made the software transition to simplify processes, reduce complexity, and bring better designs to life through practical examples and customer stories.
Buildings
Buildings
32m
Beginner
Learning Objectives
Differentiate how Vectorworks Fundamentals, Architect, and Design Suite simplify workflows at different stages of adoption.
Identify multiple paths to adopting Vectorworks, from a low-risk start to higher-reward, fully integrated design and documentation workflows.
Understand how industry peers leverage Vectorworks to consolidate tools, streamline documentation, and elevate design quality.
