Model Coordination in BIM Projects: Leveraging ACC, Navisworks, and Solibri for Smarter Collaboration
- Loyiso Toyi BSc Eng (Civl)
- Jun 29
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 9
In today’s construction and architecture industries, effective model coordination is crucial for minimizing errors, reducing rework, and ensuring seamless collaboration among project stakeholders. Three of the most powerful tools for BIM (Building Information Modeling) coordination are Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC), Navisworks, and Solibri.
Each of these tools serves a unique purpose in the coordination process:
ACC (Autodesk Construction Cloud) – A cloud-based platform for collaboration and project management.
Navisworks – A powerful clash detection and model review tool.
Solibri – A rule-based model checking and validation software.
We explore how these tools integrate, their key features, and best practices for efficient model coordination.
These tools complement each other in a robust coordination process that supports multi-disciplinary collaboration, data-rich decision-making, and regulatory compliance.
The Importance of Model Coordination
Poor model coordination is one of the leading causes of rework, budget overruns, and project delays in construction. When MEP systems clash with structural elements, or when models are not updated in sync across disciplines, issues arise in both digital and physical environments.
Modern BIM coordination addresses this through:
Centralised model access
Issue tracking and resolution
Automated clash detection
Design rule checking
Progress tracking and reporting
Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): The CDE Backbone
Role in Coordination:
ACC acts as the Common Data Environment (CDE), allowing distributed teams to collaborate on a single source of truth. The Model Coordination module in Autodesk BIM Collaborate or BIM Collaborate Pro provides cloud-based clash detection and issue tracking without needing heavy desktop applications.
Key Features:
Cloud-hosted federated model viewing
Automatic clash grouping (by discipline, level, system, etc.)
Integrated issue creation, with notifications and assignment
Permissions-based access to ensure model security
Seamless integration with Revit, Navisworks, and AutoCAD Plant 3D
Benefits:
Faster coordination cycles with real-time access to model versions
No file-based exchange delays
Reduces risk of working with outdated models
Encourages early engagement from consultants and contractors
Navisworks: Advanced Clash Detection & 4D Review
Role in Coordination:
Navisworks Manage is the industry standard for detailed clash detection, construction sequencing (4D), and model aggregation. While ACC handles cloud-based review, Navisworks provides desktop power for in-depth coordination, particularly in complex builds like hospitals or transport hubs.
Key Features:
Customisable clash detection rules
Clash matrix by discipline and status
Integration with TimeLiner for 4D simulations
Quantification for preliminary takeoffs
Export clash reports to ACC as BCF or issues
Workflow Example:
Aggregate federated NWC/NWD files from all disciplines
Run clash detection with discipline-specific rules
Export critical clashes to ACC for assignment and resolution
Sync updated models back to ACC for tracking and progress
Benefits:
Handles large datasets efficiently
Supports complex infrastructure or multi-phase projects
Enhances construction planning and risk mitigation
Solibri: Rule-Based Model Checking for Compliance
Role in Coordination:
Solibri Office excels in automated rule-based checking for design quality, code compliance, and LOD verification. Unlike ACC and Navisworks, which focus on coordination and clash detection, Solibri adds a quality assurance layer to BIM deliverables.
Key Features:
Rule templates for fire safety, accessibility, clearances, and data completeness
Customised Information Takeoff (ITO) reports
Classification systems for object grouping
Advanced issue management with BCF exports
Workflow Example:
Import IFC files from Revit, ArchiCAD, or Civil 3D
Run rule checks based on project stage or discipline
Generate compliance reports or quantity reports
Export issues to ACC or Navisworks for tracking and resolution
Benefits:
Ensures regulatory and quality compliance
Supports client-specific EIR/BEP checks
Provides transparent audit trails of model quality
Final Thoughts: Elevating Coordination to Intelligent Delivery
Coordination is not just about geometry—it’s about data, decisions, and delivery certainty.
By integrating ACC, Navisworks, and Solibri, your team can move from reactive issue management to proactive model governance. This enables:
Earlier detection of high-impact issues
Alignment with digital delivery mandates (e.g., ISO 19650)
More efficient site execution with fewer RFIs and rework
Is your team still relying on manual model reviews and fragmented communication?
We help construction professionals and design teams implement end-to-end BIM coordination workflows using ACC, Navisworks, and Solibri.
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