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Bentley Systems ProjectWise vs BIM 360 or BIM Collaborate Pro (AutoDesk): Current comparison (as of 2024)

ProjectWise vs BIM 360 / Collaborate Pro, Konstruktionssoftware im Vergleich
Table of contents

ProjectWise from Bentley Systems and BIM Collaborate Pro (formerly BIM 360) from AutoDesk are two competing cloud-based software solutions for collaboration on technical projects that companies can choose between.

In this technical article, we compare the ProjectWise and BIM Collaborate Pro platforms for you. We will discuss advantages, disadvantages and use cases, among other things, and show the possibilities for collaboration, data visualization and individual customization. All data and findings from the product comparison come from practice, because we have many years of expertise in project management for construction and engineering projects and are, among other things, an ELO Certified Business Partner and a verified Bentley Gold Channel Partner.

Key takeaways

  • Both ProjectWise and BIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360 are cloud solutions used in the planning and management of construction and infrastructure projects
  • Both software solutions are basically comparable and offer similar tools and integrations, with ProjectWise being known for more customization options
  • BIM 360 / BIM Collaborate Pro is considered by experts to be more intuitive to use and is generally preferred by smaller companies because the learning curve is less steep
  • ProjectWise (Bentley Systems) is mainly used in the following industries: construction and infrastructure industry, energy and utilities, oil and gas industry, construction, transport and traffic sector
  • ProjectWise is therefore mainly used by medium-sized to large companies and enterprise-level organizations
  • BIM 360 / BIM Collaborate Pro (AutoDesk) is mainly used in the following industries: construction and architecture industry, engineering, building technology, construction project management
  • BIM 360 / BIM Collaborate Pro is consequently mainly used by small to medium-sized companies, less often by large companies

Do you work with CAD data and already use ELO as enterprise content management (ECM)?

Then we have a tip for you: Instead of jumping to ProjectWise or BIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360, you should check out our tailor-made software solution CME BElink2ELO. It is just as powerful in terms of features as ProjectWise, but has clear advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and usability! Get in touch and we will help you find the right solution for your use case – tailored to your individual requirements.

ProjectWise vs BIM 360 / BIM Collaborate Pro – what are the platforms suitable for?

ProjectWise is a product from Bentley Systems. As comprehensive cloud software, it is suitable for overall project management in the construction and infrastructure industry and for collaboration. In direct comparison with BIM Collaborate Pro, ProjectWise covers significantly more and more complex industries. The software is used in the energy and utilities, oil and gas and construction sectors, among others.

The BIM Collaborate Pro product (formerly BIM 360) from AutoDesk is also cloud-based, generally suitable for project management and is primarily used in the construction industry. BIM Collaborate Pro contains functions and tools that enable users to efficiently manage data, manage documents, manage changes and collaborate with other team members.

Integration and compatibility of ProjectWise and BIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360 with other software solutions and systems

IntegrationProjectWiseBIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360
CAD-Softwaredirect linking and integration of well-known CAD software and platforms such as MicroStation or AutoCADseamless integration with AutoDesk products (e.g. AutoCAD, Revit)
GIS (Geographic Information Systems)Linking with GIS systems such as ArcGIS for direct integration of geographic data and maps into project documentsSupport through third-party integrations (e.g. Esri ArcGIS)
BIM-Toolsseamless integration of BIM platforms such as Tekla Structuresoptimal compatibility with AutoDesk BIM tools (e.g. Revit, Navisworks)
ERP-IntegrationLinking with ERP systems such as Oracle ERP to manage resources and optimize financesIntegration with common ERP systems (e.g. SAP, Oracle) via API and third-party tools
Communication toolsIntegration of tools such as Slack is possibleConnection with common collaboration tools (e.g. Microsoft Teams, Slack)
Time tracking systemsLink to time tracking systems such as Toggl to directly track working hours and assign them to projectsSupport through integrations with time recording systems (e.g. TSheets)
CRM (sales and customer relationship management)Can be linked to CRM platforms such as HubSpot to include customer and sales dataIntegration with CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) via API and third-party tools

Both platforms offer extensive integration options and are compatible with a wide range of software solutions. However, ProjectWise offers additional industry-specific integrations that make the software particularly adaptable and powerful. In addition, many integrations in BIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360 are only possible with the help of third-party tools and separate interfaces. Integration within the AutoDesk product family is of course optimal.

User-friendliness: Which platform is easier to use and learn?

A key feature of BIM Collaborate Pro (formerly BIM 360) is its intuitive and user-friendly interface. This means that users (whether experienced or inexperienced) can find their way around quickly and can work productively sooner. The software platform is easy to set up and the navigation is clear. For this reason, BIM Collaborate Pro has been able to prevail among small to medium-sized companies and teams without in-depth technical expertise.

Very extensive customization options make the ProjectWise platform particularly valuable for complex projects and experienced users. This is because the ProjectWise user interface is completely customizable. To optimize the workflow, both menus and functions can be individually configured, but this requires experienced users. It is precisely this particular flexibility that logically makes it difficult for new and/or inexperienced users to get started, as they first have to find their way around the variety of features and the diverse options.

Customer support and community in comparison

When it comes to the important comparison criteria of “customer support” and “community”, there are hardly any significant differences between the two competing software products. However, experience has shown that ProjectWise offers particularly fast and comprehensive technical support, including extensive on-site training, which is typical for a product with an enterprise target group. BIM Collaborate Pro, on the other hand, relies more on efficient online resources and the so-called AutoDesk Knowledge Network. Both platforms, ProjectWise and BMI 360, have a large and active user community, with the AutoDesk community being considered particularly lively.

ProjectWiseBIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360
Customer SupportTelefon

E-Mail

OnlineComprehensive and fast technical support. In addition, knowledge bases, training materials and on-site training help to learn more about usage. Personal support and customized training offers are offered.
Telefon

E-Mail

OnlineAutoDesk technical support is known for efficiency and fast response times. Knowledge bases, training materials and online tutorials are also available. Community support rounds off the training offering.
CommunityProjectWise has a large and growing community where users interact with others in discussion groups and forums. Here, tips, problem solutions and best practices are exchanged. In addition, Bentley Systems regularly organizes training courses, conferences and meetings to strengthen the community.BIM Collaborate Pro has a large and active community that interacts through discussion forums, social media, and dedicated community websites. Tips, troubleshooting, and best practices are regularly shared within the community. AutoDesk regularly hosts training sessions, webinars, conferences, and community meetings to encourage knowledge sharing.

All important advantages of both platforms

ProjectWiseBIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360
specific tools for complex project management
high adaptability and individual customization optionseasy setup and operation
highly customizable user interfaceintuitive and user-friendly interface
efficient collaboration features for team members and stakeholdersefficient collaboration features for team members and stakeholders
in-depth functions and integrations for CAD data managementsupports basic CAD data management
comprehensive document and change management functionscomprehensive document management
compatible with many other software solutions and systemsseamless integration with other AutoDesk products such as Fusion, Inventor, Maya, Flame
supports many industry-specific standards and guidelines

FAQ / Conclusion: ProjectWise vs. BIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360

Which platform is better suited for managing CAD data?

1:0. ProjectWise from Bentley Systems is better suited for managing CAD data

BIM Collaborate Pro offers general support for CAD data management. However, the software only has basic functions in this important area, but these are at least simple and intuitive to use. Because ProjectWise offers much more in-depth functions and integrations, the platform is more flexible and compatible and therefore much better suited for managing (a lot of) CAD data and complex projects.

Which platform is better suited for complex project management?

2:0. ProjectWise is better suited for complex project management.

Because BIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360 only offers general support in this area, ProjectWise is better suited for complex project management. The platform has specific functions and customization options that are tailored to the requirements of large and complex projects, including comprehensive tools for managing project data, documents and changes.

Which software is better at adhering to industry standards and guidelines?

3:0. ProjectWise is often better at adhering to industry standards and guidelines.

The platform includes features and customizations specifically tailored to the needs of the construction and engineering industry. This makes it particularly suitable for companies that need to adhere to strict standards and guidelines.

Our recommendation

Both ProjectWise and BIM Collaborate Pro offer all the basic functions needed to manage projects professionally and efficiently.

The larger and more complex the projects and the larger the amount of data, the more likely ProjectWise is to meet the requirements, because the software offers more options for making individual tasks and processes more efficient. ProjectWise from Bentley Systems has a clear advantage, especially when it comes to industry-specific solutions.

Small and medium-sized companies in the construction industry like to use BIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360 because many of the required functions and industry-specific features are already on board. At the same time, BIM Collaborate Pro scores with a simple setup and an uncomplicated user experience.

Ultimately, ProjectWise as an enterprise solution is clearly ahead in a direct comparison with BIM Collaborate Pro, because every single component can be customized and tailored to your needs.

Do you work with CAD data and already use ELO as enterprise content management (ECM)?

Then we repeat our tip for you: Instead of hastily opting for ProjectWise or BIM Collaborate Pro / BIM 360, you should check out our tailor-made software solution CME BElink2ELO. It is just as powerful in terms of features as ProjectWise, but has clear advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and usability! Get in touch and we will help you find the right solution for your use case – tailored to your individual requirements.

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