Is it best to have in depth knowledge of one software specialty, or have multi-platform compatibility of a combination of different programs?

Master one or at the maximum two in each domain. Experiment as much as possible to master them.

In  2D: AutoCAD (Must)

In3D: Solidworks, Solidedge, Inventor, Catia, Pro E etc ( Master any one)

In FEM: Ansys/ Nastran/ Comsol etc (Try to learn one)

All tools are similar. And if shift is required you can very easily make the transition in a week or so. Also always keep updated. With every latest releases, a lot of addition is happening. Software wont attack us. So freely exploit them to the core. Discussion forums are also a best place to get updated.

It is always best to have in-depth knowledge of one software,with an open mind towards other similar softwares also. Better to be a master of one rather than a jack of all

My views are different from others i think if you are working in industry you should be aware of multi compatibility one because when you and your organization grows it is must that someone is there to handle one large multi compatibility application. Now a days companies when getting progress it is their need to adapt the multi compatibility application so how will you manage or how will you be accountable for your organization if you do not walk with the technology so i think you should move and adapt the technology changes.

Regards,

Manmohan V Singh 

Hello M vSolms , I personally think it's better to master one of the tools rather than being able to barely use many others. 

I am not aware of a tool as good as Solidworks or Inventor that runs under Linux, but I think data exchange will always be possible regardless of the operating system.

A cros platform solution should exist somehow , because no single software can support you in all design processes, sometimes I end up doing parts on my main work station and consult others for extra's that I can't.

Best of luck

Fadi