Dear colleagues,

I am currently developing in my PhD thesis a framework towards the
integration of multiple thermal simulation tools in the architectural design
process. Most tools that will be used are already defined and,
unfortunately, the most influent criterion in the selection process was
the affordability of these tools. In the category of energy/thermal tools, I
am planning to use DesignBuilder, which I have been using for 3 years
(besides, I already have purchased a student license).

I wonder if it would be interesting to include in my range of energy/thermal
tools the IES-VE program. It seems an interesting tool that fits well in my
research requirements, but I'm not sure if it is worthy to purchase it (as I
already have the license of DB). Unfortunately, I am not able to purchase
the student version because my University does not have a maintenance
contract with the company. Therefore, I would like to know from users of
these tools or experts in the field which features of IES-VE are not
properly covered by DesignBuilder (and vice versa).

Any guidance is highly appreciated.

Best regards,
Raoni Venancio