.jpeg)
Why Is Navisworks a Valuable Skill in the AEC Industry?
Navisworks is like that backstage genius of the construction world. It does not design buildings, but it ensures those designs actually work in the real world. From clash detection to construction sequencing, Navisworks workflows simplify everything from 3D coordination to 4D simulations.
The tool comes in various flavours: Navisworks Freedom, Navisworks Simulate, and Navisworks Manage. While Navisworks Freedom is the free viewer version used mainly for visualisation, Navisworks Manage is the full-featured powerhouse that supports Navisworks clash detection, model coordination, and project scheduling. Meanwhile, Navisworks Simulate focuses on 4D timelines and visualising the construction process in real time.
What makes Navisworks for construction so crucial is its integration with BIM tools, such as Revit, and its seamless integration with Navisworks BIM 360, enabling teams to work collaboratively across disciplines.
What Jobs Can You Get After Mastering Navisworks Software?
Ready to explore the exciting world of Navisworks jobs? Here is a closer look at the most in-demand roles and how Navisworks fits into each.
Job Roles
1. BIM Coordinator/Manager
A go-to role for anyone fluent in Navisworks clash detection and coordination. You will handle the aggregation of models, run clash reports, and ensure the entire project team is on the same page. Expect to use Navisworks Manage, the Navisworks coordination plugin, and contribute to model health checks.
2. Construction Project Manager
With Navisworks for construction, project managers can simulate construction sequences using 4D simulation in Navisworks. This helps avoid delays, reduce waste, and boost productivity. Add in Navisworks features like time-liner tools, and you have a virtual roadmap for the entire build.
3. MEP Engineer
Working with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems? You will benefit immensely from Navisworks clash detection report generation, allowing you to spot and fix conflicts between complex systems early in the design stage.
4. Quantity Surveyor
Yes, even quantity surveyors are using Navisworks software to extract quantities directly from the 3D model in the Navisworks environment. With accurate material takeoffs and visual verification, it’s a game changer.
5. Facility Manager
Post-construction, Navisworks for engineers and facility managers helps visualise and maintain infrastructure throughout its lifecycle. The integration of asset data through Navisworks BIM 360 enhances long-term facility planning efficiency.
6. VDC Engineer
Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) engineers rely on Navisworks integration to bring multiple models together, conduct clash detection, and prepare a detailed 4D simulation in Navisworks for presentation and planning.
7. Project Coordinator
This role bridges communication gaps between teams. Using Navisworks coordination, coordinators help align architects, engineers, and contractors by sharing updated models and running live review sessions with Navisworks rendering features.
8. Facility Lifecycle Analyst
A highly strategic position that benefits from Navisworks for construction and post-build analysis. From sustainability tracking to operations management, the lifecycle analyst uses Navisworks benefits like model linking and data syncing.
Other Potential Career Paths
While the roles above are most directly tied to Navisworks software, there are other exciting directions your Navisworks career can take:
1. Architectural Designer
With Navisworks for architects, designers can better visualise their models in coordination with structural and MEP elements, ensuring their vision remains buildable and clash-free.
2. Structural Engineer
Seeing how your structural elements interact with other systems is critical. The Navisworks 3d model capabilities enable structural engineers to detect and resolve interface issues early.
3. Urban Planner
Use Navisworks rendering features to visualise city-wide models, simulate infrastructure changes, and plan developments with more context and accuracy.
4. Interior Designer
Interior professionals can utilise Navisworks features for walkthroughs and verifying design details within the overall model to ensure everything fits and flows well.
5. CAD Drafter/Technician
Even at the drafting level, understanding Navisworks basics can help technicians see how their components align with others and support coordination teams effectively.
What Additional Skills Boost Your Career Alongside Navisworks?
Mastering Navisworks is brilliant, but pairing it with the right set of complementary skills takes your Navisworks career to a whole new level. Here is what you should focus on next:
1. Revit Expertise
Since most models imported into Navisworks originate from Revit, being able to model in Revit is a must. This helps you understand object properties and manage models more efficiently.
2. BIM Understanding
Having a profound grasp of Building Information Modelling makes Navisworks workflows more meaningful. It helps you understand the “why” behind model coordination and data integration.
3. Construction Knowledge
To make the most of Navisworks for construction, you need a real-world understanding of how buildings go up. This ensures your simulations and clash resolutions are practical and site-ready.
4. Communication Skills
Whether presenting a Navisworks clash detection report to a boardroom or conducting a model review meeting, clear communication makes all the difference.
5. Navisworks Certification
Obtaining a formal Navisworks certification enhances your credibility and demonstrates to employers that you are not only familiar with the tool but also officially trained to utilise it.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
