How do you make sure different civil engineering software works together?

1 Choose software with common standards

One of the easiest ways to ensure compatibility is to choose software that supports common standards and protocols for data exchange and communication. For example, you can look for software that uses the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) standard, which is an open and neutral format for building information modeling (BIM). IFC allows you to share data across different software platforms and disciplines without losing information or quality. Another example is the LandXML standard, which is a common schema for civil engineering and land development data. LandXML enables you to transfer data between different software applications for surveying, design, construction, and maintenance.

2 Use software with integration features

Another way to make sure different civil engineering software works together is to use software that has built-in integration features or add-ons that can connect to other software. For example, you can use software that has application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow you to access and manipulate data from other software. APIs are sets of rules and protocols that define how software components interact and exchange information. For example, you can use the Revit API to create custom scripts and plug-ins that can link Revit to other civil engineering software, such as AutoCAD Civil 3D, Bentley MicroStation, or ArcGIS. Another example is the FME software, which is a data integration platform that can connect to over 400 civil engineering software applications and formats. FME can help you transform, validate, and automate data workflows between different software.

3 Use software with conversion tools

Sometimes, you may need to use software that does not support common standards or have integration features. In that case, you can use software that has conversion tools that can convert data from one format to another. For example, you can use software that can export and import data in different formats, such as DWG, DXF, DGN, SHP, KML, or CSV. These are some of the most widely used formats for civil engineering data, such as drawings, models, maps, and tables. For example, you can use AutoCAD Map 3D to export and import data in various formats, or use QGIS to convert data between different spatial formats. Another example is the ODA File Converter, which is a free software that can convert between different versions of DWG and DXF files.

4 Use software with cloud services

Another way to make sure different civil engineering software works together is to use software that has cloud services that can store, share, and access data online. Cloud services can help you overcome the limitations of local storage, network, and hardware, and enable you to collaborate with other users and stakeholders. For example, you can use software that has cloud storage services, such as Autodesk BIM 360, Bentley ProjectWise, or Trimble Connect. These are cloud-based platforms that can store and synchronize data from different civil engineering software applications, and allow you to view, edit, and comment on data online. Another example is the ArcGIS Online service, which is a cloud-based mapping and analysis platform that can integrate data from different civil engineering software, such as AutoCAD Civil 3D, Bentley MicroStation, or Revit.

5 Use software with quality control tools

Finally, you can make sure different civil engineering software works together by using software that has quality control tools that can check and verify data accuracy, consistency, and completeness. Quality control tools can help you identify and resolve any errors, conflicts, or gaps in data that may occur during data exchange or integration. For example, you can use software that has validation tools, such as the IFC Validator, which is a free online tool that can check the compliance and quality of IFC files. Another example is the FME Data Inspector, which is a tool that can inspect and compare data from different civil engineering software applications and formats.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?