When it comes to managing construction projects and promoting collaboration, ProjectWise and Aconex are two possible software solutions that companies can choose between.
Below we present a comparison of the cloud-based project management platforms ProjectWise and Aconex and discuss their strengths in collaboration, data visualization and the customization options offered.
With our many years of expertise in project management for construction and engineering projects and as a verified Bentley Gold Channel Partner and ELO Certified Business Partner, we not only help you choose the right platform, but are also at your side with all matters relating to efficient data management and process optimization.
Feel free to contact us and we will help you find the right software solution for your use case based on your individual requirements!
Key takeaways
- ProjectWise and Aconex are both cloud solutions that were developed, among other things, for the efficient management and planning of construction projects.
- Compared to Aconex, ProjectWise is also designed for other areas such as energy and utilities.
- Both solutions offer a variety of similar tools and integrations, although ProjectWise offers more options for customization overall
- Aconex is considered to be more intuitive to use and tends to be preferred by smaller companies
- ProjectWise is fundamentally more powerful and offers more customization options, which makes the software the preferred solution in the enterprise segment
- If you already use ELO as an ECM, we recommend using “CME BElink2ELO” instead of ProjectWise or Aconex.
ProjectWise and Aconex – what are the platforms suitable for?
ProjectWise and Aconex are two software solutions that were each developed to efficiently manage and plan construction projects.
ProjectWise comes from Bentley Systems. The comprehensive cloud software is ideal for project management in the construction and infrastructure industry and for collaboration. In comparison to Aconex, it is also suitable for other areas in addition to the construction industry. These include the energy and utilities, oil and gas industry and construction.
Aconex, developed by Oracle Corporation, is also a cloud-based platform for project management in the construction industry. Aconex contains numerous 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 Aconex with other software solutions and systems
Integration | ProjectWise | Aconex |
CAD-Software | Direct linking and integration of well-known CAD software and platforms such as MicroStation or AutoCAD | Support for linking and integrating various CAD applications and platforms such as MicroStation or Revit |
GIS (Geographic Information Systems) | Linking with GIS systems such as ArcGIS. This enables the integration of geographic data and maps into project documents | Here too, the integration of various GIS systems such as ArcGIS is possible |
BIM-Tools | Seamless integration of BIM platforms such as Tekla Structures | Integration of BIM tools such as Navisworks to facilitate collaboration on BIM projects |
ERP-Integration | Linking with ERP systems such as Oracle ERP to manage resources and optimize finances | Here too, a link to ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics is possible |
Communication tools | To improve communication within a team if necessary, additional integration of tools such as Slack is possible | Aconex can also integrate various communication tools such as Microsoft Teams |
Time tracking systems | Link to time tracking systems such as Toggl to directly track working hours and assign them to projects | It is also possible to link to time tracking tools such as Harvest |
CRM (sales and customer relationship management) | Connect CRM platforms like HubSpot to your projects to include customer and sales data | Here, too, the linking and integration of various CRM platforms such as Salesforce is possible |
Ease of use: Which platform is easier to use and learn?
Many users describe Aconex as being a little more intuitive to use than ProjectWise, although this of course also depends on previous experience with the software.
A big advantage of ProjectWise is that the user interface is customizable. Users can flexibly specify where menus and functions should be located so that they can reach them with just a few clicks. This can significantly improve workflow.
In addition, both beginners and advanced users receive support from various educational offerings to familiarize themselves with the two platforms, areas and functions. These include:
- Personal on-site training
- Webinars
- Documentation and tutorials
- Videos
Customer support and community in comparison
ProjectWise | Aconex | |
Customer support | PhoneEmailOnlineComprehensive and fast technical support. Also available are knowledge bases, training materials and on-site training to learn more about usage. | PhoneEmailOnlineThe type and quality of support may vary depending on the terms of the service agreement. To learn more about how to use it, additional guides, learning resources and training materials are also available. |
Community | ProjectWise 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. | Aconex also has a large community with numerous users who communicate on social media, forums and discussion groups. Here, users can share their experiences with others or ask questions. Oracle also regularly organizes training courses, conferences, webinars and meetings for community members. |
If there are problems with functions or missing interfaces when using ProjectWise, customer support can also offer suitable solutions. On request, tailor-made, individual adjustments are possible to adapt the software to the needs of the customer.
All the important advantages of both platforms
ProjectWise | Aconex |
Extensive project management functions | Efficient communication tools |
project-wide version management | compatibility with ERP systems |
Wide range of integrations | Intuitive document management |
Scalable adjustments | Extensive reporting functions |
Geographic data integration | Efficient defect management |
Flexible authorization management | Mobile applications available |
Our recommendation
Both ProjectWise and Aconex are equipped with all the basic functions needed to manage projects professionally and efficiently. However, if you take a closer look when comparing ProjectWise and Aconex, ProjectWise offers more options that make individual tasks and processes more efficient.
ProjectWise from Bentley Systems has a clear advantage, especially when it comes to industry-specific solutions. Among other things, this is because it allows for even more integrations with other systems, which makes the platform even more compatible. Aconex scores points with a generally simpler setup and a more straightforward user experience. As an enterprise solution, ProjectWise has an advantage over Aconex, because individual and customized adaptation of individual components is even possible if required. Small and medium-sized companies in the construction industry, on the other hand, are increasingly relying on Aconex, which already has the required features built in.
Tip: If you work with CAD data and use ELO as an ECM system, we recommend “CME BElink2ELO” as an alternative. This gives you a solution that is just as powerful as Projectwise, but with advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and usability.
Efficient and professional management of CAD data – even for large and complex projects!
When managing CAD data, optimized workflows, consistent data integrity and efficient collaboration are required in order to meet all requirements.
Modern and innovative document management systems (DMS) meet such requirements and are ideal for complex projects with large amounts of data. Here you can store all project-relevant documents and information efficiently and securely, thus keeping track of everything.
Are you still unsure which software is best suited to your company? Contact us and we will advise you specifically on your case!
FAQ: ProjectWise vs. Aconex
Which platform is better for managing CAD data?
Aconex provides general support for CAD data management and has basic functionality in this area. ProjectWise, on the other hand, offers much deeper features and integrations that make the platform much more flexible and compatible.
Which platform is better for complex project management?
ProjectWise is better for complex project management because it has specific features and customization options. Aconex, on the other hand, offers more general support.
Which software adheres better to industry standards and guidelines?
In many cases, ProjectWise is better suited to comply with specific industry standards and guidelines because the platform contains features and customizations tailored to the needs of the construction and engineering industry.