BIM 360 vs Navisworks vs Revizto

Introduction

Numerous global industries have experienced profound transformations driven by technological advancements, and the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector is a notable example. The introduction of computer-aided design has drastically changed multiple aspects of the field, allowing for the creation of better workflows, better projects, and better software.

The term “architectural software” encompasses a wide range of solutions and tools designed to facilitate various aspects of construction projects. The term in question may be applied to extensive CAD software, sophisticated building information modeling (BIM) solutions, or even applications geared toward predicting a structure’s future response to sunlight.

BIM software and CAD software may have plenty of similarities, but the same logic applies to their exclusive features. CAD solutions have their own sets of features and use cases, while BIM software addresses its own audience and their needs. The AEC software landscape presents a plethora of options, making it challenging to pinpoint the right solution for a very specific set of use cases.

We aim to address this challenge by directly comparing several AEC software solutions, shedding light on their merits, limitations, and sets of features. This comparative analysis simplifies the process for prospective clients, enabling them to discern the distinctive offerings of each solution when evaluated against similar software options. In this particular context, we compare BIM 360, Navisworks, and Revizto, offering valuable insights for those seeking the most suitable AEC software for their needs.

BIM 360

Autodesk BIM 360 is, at its core, a cloud-based project management solution. It was a standalone product for quite a while, but it is now part of a bigger product: Autodesk Construction Cloud. Autodesk’s Construction Cloud solution is a significant development in the field of project management as a whole, and the platform unifies various aspects of the construction process, including design, project management, and construction, into a single streamlined workflow. Leveraging cloud-based technology, it offers real-time access to critical data to the different teams involved in a construction project, mitigating delays and enhancing decision-making processes.

Autodesk Construction Cloud is a logical continuation of ideas behind BIM 360, offering a combination of different modules, all of which can be helpful in a very specific list of tasks, including BIM coordination, design review, issue management, coordination of deliverables, and many others. It empowers project stakeholders to manage the entire lifecycle of a project, optimizing construction processes and leading to successful project outcomes.

BIM 360 Main Features

• BIM 360 supports field management and quality control by offering tools for field data collection, checklists, inspections, and safety management. Teams can use the platform to monitor and manage construction activities, track issues, and make sure that all of the tasks are performed in accordance with specific quality standards.
• It provides a collaborative environment for project teams to work on the same project simultaneously, exchanging data such as status updates. It offers features like document management, requests for information (RFIs), submittals, and issue tracking, enabling seamless communication and collaboration among project stakeholders.
• The solution also facilitates centralized document management, version control, and access control for construction documents. It allows teams to store, organize, and distribute project documents, including plans, drawings, specifications, and reports, ensuring that everyone has access to the latest information.

BIM 360 Technical Details

• Autodesk Construction Cloud has dedicated smartphone applications for both Android and iOS devices, available from their respective app stores.
• Autodesk Construction Cloud is a web-based cloud solution, and so it can operate on practically any device that has a web browser.

BIM 360 Price

• Autodesk Construction Cloud includes several different modules, and there is a separate price for each module in the package, the same logic used when Autodesk BIM 360 operated as a standalone solution.

BIM 360 Customer Ratings

• Capterra – 4.3/5 points based on 2,072 user reviews
• G2 – 4.2/5 points based on 1,907 user reviews

Benefits of BIM 360

• The solution caters to various professions and purposes, offering a wealth of features and tools tailored to the diverse needs of construction professionals and project stakeholders.
• The web-based BIM 360 solution enables users to access project data and collaborate from virtually anywhere in the world, providing unprecedented accessibility and flexibility for construction teams working in different locations.
• It offers a robust centralized data storage solution for a wide range of project-related documents, including drawings, reports, schedules, and requests for information (RFIs), which enhances organization and accessibility.

Shortcomings of BIM 360

• Organizations accustomed to slower update schedules with minimal compatibility issues may find the high frequency of updates disruptive. Additional effort and testing may be necessary in order to ensure a problem-free transition from one version of the product to another.
• The inability to create project templates from scratch may limit flexibility in tailoring templates to specific project requirements, as users can only duplicate or modify existing templates.
• The heavy reliance on a web-based platform means that work operations could come to a halt if Autodesk’s servers experience downtime for any reason, underscoring the importance of robust internet connectivity.

Navisworks

Navisworks, another BIM solution developed by Autodesk, serves a distinct role compared to BIM 360. Navisworks is primarily designed as a project review solution for constructors, architects, and engineers. It is compatible with MS Windows and can seamlessly integrate with other Autodesk solutions, enabling the opening, combination, review, and navigation of various models with ease.

Navisworks plays a crucial role in the initial stages of a project, particularly in the pre-construction phase, where it assists with project control and prediction from the very beginning of the project. It offers essential features like model coordination and clash detection, which are invaluable for identifying and resolving issues before the actual construction phase begins. Additionally, Navisworks provides tools for a number of other highly specialized tasks to improve project management efforts as a whole, whether it involves animation, data aggregation, model simulation, or more.

Main Features of Navisworks

• The ability to simulate the construction process in Navisworks ensures that all project participants are well-informed about potential on-site issues and challenges. This feature helps in visualizing and addressing construction sequencing and coordination concerns.
• Navisworks allows users to view Navisworks’ proprietary NWD files with no associated costs, promoting accessibility and collaboration among team members.
• Navisworks provides effortless navigation within a model, including customizable viewpoints and a set search feature, which simplifies the process of locating and inspecting specific components or areas within the model.

Technical Details of Navisworks

• Autodesk Navisworks is compatible only with Windows-based devices with either Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed.
• There is no official Navisworks app for smartphones or tablets, but it is possible to view Navisworks files with these types of devices using either the Autodesk Viewer or AutoCAD Mobile apps (both of which are available for Android and iOS devices).

Navisworks Price

• The pricing model of Navisworks Simulate is unified and straightforward. There is a single pricing plan with three different payment values depending on the frequency of the payment in question:
  • $135 per month
  • $1,070 per year
  • $3,210 per three years
• Navisworks Manage works the same in this regard:
  • $330 per month
  • $2,645 per year
  • $7,935 per three years
• Alternatively, it is also possible to purchase Navisworks Manage using Autodesk Flex, a pay-as-you-go system that uses tokens to provide day-to-day access to specific Autodesk services (Navisworks Manage costs 9 tokens per day):
  • 100 tokens for $300
  • 500 tokens for $1500
  • Custom amounts of tokens

Navisworks Customer Ratings

• Capterra – 4.7/5 points with 23 user reviews
• G2 – 4.6/5 points with 168 user reviews

Benefits of Navisworks

• Navisworks simplifies clash coordination with other project teams. It offers intuitive clash detection features, allowing for the identification and resolution of conflicts and issues between various elements of the project.
• The software provides extensive collaboration capabilities within a single solution, streamlining communication and data sharing among team members and stakeholders. This promotes efficient teamwork and data exchange.
• Navisworks stands out for its ability to import a wide range of file formats, making it highly versatile and compatible with a variety of design and construction software applications, enhancing interoperability.

Shortcomings of Navisworks

• Navisworks can be challenging for new users without prior experience with BIM software, and there may be a learning curve in becoming proficient in its use, which could pose a barrier to some users.
• Navisworks may encounter performance issues with larger project files, which can impact the speed and responsiveness of the software.
• Navisworks is a resource-heavy application, and an average user would have to acquire rather expensive computer hardware in order to run Navisworks project files properly. This may be a significant consideration for users with less robust computer equipment or with smaller budgets.

Revizto

Revizto, as a building information modeling (BIM) solution, places a strong emphasis on fostering inter-project collaboration through a range of effective mechanisms. It excels in reducing conflicts among team members and minimizing errors by providing a centralized data repository accessible to all project participants simultaneously. Additionally, Revizto offers a diverse range of features, including virtual reality support, which greatly simplifies tasks like design validation, design review, issue identification, and other critical project-related activities.

Two of Revizto’s key strengths lie in issue tracking and clash detection, both of which play a pivotal role in enhancing collaboration within project teams. Moreover, Revizto boasts compatibility with a wide range of architectural tools used by various professionals, including architects, contractors, and engineers. This flexibility ensures seamless integration into the workflows of different departments, promoting efficient collaboration, irrespective of the software being employed. Furthermore, Revizto’s support for numerous file formats encourages interoperability and simplifies cross-departmental collaboration, irrespective of the software applications in use.

Main Features of Revizto

• The advanced collaboration processes, simplified conflict resolution, and enforceable accountability measures combine to advance the overarching goal of bolstering project management efficiency. These elements collectively contribute to a more streamlined, organized, and successful approach to project management.
• The integration of robust automation features, including automated reporting, model distribution, version control, and real-time project status monitoring, serves to significantly enhance operational efficiency in all aspects of a project.
• It enables more effective communication with project stakeholders throughout each project phase, ensuring uninterrupted access to vital project data. This makes it easier to keep stakeholders informed about the project’s status.

Technical Details of Revizto

• Revizto is compatible with both Mac and Windows devices, offering flexibility in terms of operating systems.
• Additionally, Revizto provides users with multiple options when it comes to mobile apps – there is an Android tablet app, an Android smartphone app, and even an iPad app. These mobile applications cater to various devices and offer convenient access to Revizto’s features on the go, enhancing flexibility and accessibility for users across different platforms.

Revizto Price

• The only way to access the official pricing information of Revizto is to request a quotation or a demo showcase using a special link on the software’s website.

Revizto Customer Ratings

• Capterra – 4.3/5 stars with 31 customer reviews
• G2 – 4.2/5 stars with 21 customer reviews

Benefits of Revizto

• The fast and accurate 3D rendering capabilities facilitate the rapid creation of intricate environments with ease, enhancing the visual representation of projects.
• It has an intuitive cloud-based issue-tracking tool, which enhances project efficiency, improves collaboration, and offers many other advantages.
• The ability to assign conflicts and issues to specific team members serves the dual purpose of establishing accountability and optimizing the allocation of tasks, leading to an overall improvement in performance.

Shortcomings of Revizto

• In certain cases, Revizto may face performance challenges when dealing with complex, large-scale project models. This issue is relatively common in the industry as a whole, but it is important to consider when working on such projects with Revizto.
• While Revizto excels in 3D visualization, it is worth noting that its 2D interface may not be the most user-friendly when compared to alternatives on the market, as it primarily prioritizes 3D representation.
• Revizto’s solution can also be integrated with a number of other third-party solutions, including both CAD and BIM software. However, it is essential to be aware that some of these integrations are relatively basic and come with limited sets of features.

BIM 360 vs Navisworks vs Revizto

Since we now have sufficient data on all three of the solutions described above, it is a good time to compare their features and use cases directly.

Why BIM 360?

Autodesk BIM 360 is a collaborative platform that streamlines communication and document sharing, enabling efficiency in construction document management and quality control processes. It enhances project visibility and risk mitigation via proper issue detection and clash management. Moreover, its cloud-based accessibility supports remote collaboration and data collection from construction sites, ensuring real-time updates and streamlined project management. These and many other features are available to BIM 360 and ACC users, offering great versatility in their project management capabilities.

Why Navisworks?

Navisworks is a highly useful application for numerous reasons, with its primary strength lying in project review. Its versatile compatibility with various software types, capabilities for clash detection and construction simulation, and its contributions to BIM projects make it a valuable and versatile tool. It also has its own shortcomings, such as a steep learning curve and the demanding hardware requirements to run the solution efficiently. Nevertheless, the solution itself is extremely useful, and its benefits outweigh its shortcomings by a very large margin.

Why Revizto?

Revizto effectively leverages clash detection and issue tracking to enhance collaboration and teamwork, establishing itself as a capable BIM solution. Of course, these core functions are not everything the solution can offer, and it has other features, such as the ability to conduct virtual tours using VR equipment and various other innovative tools. Thanks to its flexibility and comprehensive set of features, Revizto emerges as an excellent choice for its intended purpose, demonstrating minimal drawbacks within this specific context. It caters to a wide range of project management needs while offering valuable tools for enhancing project efficiency and communication among team members.

Use cases for each solution

Autodesk BIM 360 streamlines project management, enhances collaboration, ensures data accuracy, reduces risks, and ultimately improves the efficiency and success of construction projects. It is a versatile solution that can benefit companies of all sizes operating in the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors. Its module-like structure also makes it a rather versatile option for plenty of different use cases and unusual types of infrastructure. It is also a web-based platform that has all of the typical advantages and disadvantages of such platforms, so it is highly recommended to be aware of this before choosing to purchase this particular solution.

Navisworks is a comprehensive project review and coordination software application that is fairly popular in the AEC industry. It enables professionals to seamlessly integrate and analyze 3D models, facilitating collaboration, clash detection, and project visualization. Navisworks streamlines the design and construction process, enhancing project efficiency and reducing errors, making it an invaluable tool for AEC professionals and project stakeholders.

Revizto is a valuable solution that should not be overlooked, even if it does not offer the extensive set of features found in solutions like Revit. It excels in data management, particularly when it comes to essential BIM functions like issue tracking and clash detection. Revizto’s capabilities play a pivotal role in enhancing collaboration, reducing rework, minimizing conflicts, and increasing the overall effectiveness of project tasks, all while offering unique features like VR support. All of these features are conveniently packed into a single centralized data model that is accessible to every project participant at all times.

Conclusion

The architecture industry is inherently intricate, which can make the search for an appropriate architectural solution a challenging task. In these scenarios, a careful evaluation of your company’s specific feature requirements becomes crucial to identify the most essential capabilities. For example, a company with a primary focus on issue tracking and clash detection might find Revizto to be the ideal choice, but it may also benefit from enhanced collaboration and increased project efficiency as valuable additional advantages. A highly customized approach is strongly advised for each unique case to ensure the selection of a solution that closely aligns with your company’s specific needs and objectives.