1. When will STAAD(X) be released?
A: The intended release date is Q1 2016
2. What will it cost?
A: STAAD(X) will be one product with three different “flavors” depending on the user’s needs. These tiers will be controlled by licensing. We will have:
- STAAD(X): The entry level that will eventually replace RAM Elements, QSE and MultiFrame.
- STAAD(X) Professional: That will in time replace STAAD.Pro and Microstran.
- STAAD(X) Advanced: The option that will one day replace STAAD.Pro + Advanced Analysis option.
The official cost of these programs will be determined later, but it will likely be $ 3K, $ 5K and $ 7K USD respectively.
3. Can I continue to use older products?
A: Yes of course. During the transition phase (likely to be one year), you’ll be able to use your existing product or the equivalent SX tier interchangeably with the same license.
4. Will older products still be supported?
A: When we launch STAAD(X) in Q1 2016, we will not develop RAM Elements, QSE and MultiFrame any further. However we will continue to provide tech support for them. Only minor updates with bug fixes (if any are found) will be released.
On the other hand STAAD.Pro will continue to coexist with STAAD(X) for 3 to 4 years and will continue to be developed, enhanced and supported.