Integration between Tekla Structures and Tekla Structural Designer has been developed to ensure that 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 Tekla Structures by the technician.)

It is recommended that Tekla Structures model is used as the "master model" for geometrical changes as this model also is linked to the BIM documentation. Alterations made to the model geometry are best handled by altering the Tekla Structures 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 Structures or Tekla Structural Designer without any detriment to the process.
• A number of factors may determine which software is used for starting the modeling process, such as availability of staff, or deliverable requirements.
• Unless there are external drivers, Tekla Structures 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 back to Tekla Structures for initial drawings or material list creation.
• Simple drawings can be created at this stage, this can be done in Tekla Structures or Tekla Structural Designer.
• Initial material lists for cost estimates can be generated at this stage.

Detailed design stage

• It is not always appropriate to carry models forward from the Initial scheme stage to the Detailed design stage as changes to the overall scheme may have been made, which will not be reflected in the initial scheme model. It is sometimes better to begin the model again.
• Models can be started in Tekla Structures 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.
• Tekla Structural Designer can be used for a full gravity and lateral design of the structure.
• Within Tekla Structures, 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 Tekla Structures so that the integration with other disciplines 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 Structures or Tekla Structural Designer models can be carried out to suit the user.
• The model will be completed within Tekla Structures and fully detailed drawings for parts can be created along with construction level arrangement drawings of the structure.
• Detail integration checks with other disciplines (e.g. mechanical and electrical engineers) can be carried out at this stage.