Project workflows

Integration between Tekla Structural Designer and Autodesk Revit has been developed to ensure the initial model can be started in either tool without any detriment to the design process. This added flexibility enables companies to align their software solutions closely to their own workflows. (I.e. The initial model can be created in Tekla Structural Designer by the Engineer or in Autodesk Revit by the Technician.)

We would recommend that the Autodesk Revit model is used as the ‘master model’ for all geometrical changes. Alterations made to the model geometry are best handled by altering the Autodesk Revit model and transferring the changes through to Tekla Structural Designer for redesign.

A typical workflow and the decision making process through the different stages of a project could be as follows:

Initial scheme stage

The initial model may be started in Tekla Structural Designer or Autodesk Revit without any detriment to the process.
A number of factors may determine which software is used in the initial modeling process, such as availability of staff, or deliverable requirements.
Unless there are external drivers, Tekla Structural Designer may prove to be the best starting point for the model as it can provide most of the deliverable items at the initial stage.
The model does not need to cover the complete building, it might be a typical bay or floor for example.
The generated structure can be designed in Tekla Structural Designer for initial section sizing at the initial stage and synchronized with Autodesk Revit for initial drawings or material list creation.
Simple drawings can be created at this stage, this can be done in Tekla Structural Designer or Autodesk Revit.
Initial material lists for cost estimates can be generated at this stage.

Detailed design

It is not always appropriate to carry models forward from the Initial Scheme Stage to the Detailed Design Stage. It is sometimes better to begin the model again.
Models can be started in Autodesk Revit or Tekla Structural Designer to suit the user. The models can then be transferred to the other modeling system.
Importantly, the two models can be worked on at the same time, with synchronization of the two models taking place to suit the workflow.
Within Tekla Structural Designer, the model can be used for a full design of the structure, sway check and lateral (wind) design.
Within Autodesk Revit, drawings can be generated to a Tender stage level and general arrangements submitted to Building Control for approval.

Construction stage

Using the model from the Detailed Design stage, much of the Construction Stage process will take place in Autodesk Revit so that the integration with other trades can be accounted for.
The design is not revisited unless the client drives the requirement for change.
If a re-design of the structure is required, the same synchronization of Tekla Structural Designer and Autodesk Revit models can be carried out to suit the user.
The model will be completed within Autodesk Revit and fully detailed drawings for parts can be created along with construction level drawings of the structure.
Detail integration checks with other trades (e.g. Mechanical and Electrical Engineers) can be carried out at this stage.