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Hi winniebearong,

It is a bit difficult to answer that question without knowing what you need the program for. Most product development software will give you the option of measuring distances between any object or point and will do a lot more (calculating area surface, object volume, gravity point, weight, etc.)

Inventor will import lots of formats and provides a plug-in for 3D Max to import your model. These programs are great to work with but may not be suitable for architectural purposes, although I personally use Inventor for interior design. It’s parametric features are very convenient and since I started of in product design I never really switch over to a descend interior or architectural program. AutoCAD Revit is a version which incorporates parametric modelling I think. It might be worth looking into that.

For a range of programs have a look at: http://www.id-sphere.com/blog-…..-software/
And to get some more info on the different types of programs available you can read up on the article: http://www.id-sphere.com/2008/…..uld-i-use/

Hope this helps,
Lizzy

I don't think visio is considered to be a interior design program.  Maybe it would be good to start off with something like sketch-up to get you acquainted with the basics of design software.  I think it covers most of what you are looking for.  You can find many tutorials here: http://www.go-2-school.com/med…..tchup_show 

Most programs are capable of doing a lot more and consequently become more complex and less intuitive.  Most interior design software will require you to spend some time to master it.