Choosing Between BIM 360 and Revit

In the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, technology plays a pivotal role in improving efficiency, collaboration, and project success. Autodesk’s Revit and BIM 360 are two widely used tools, but they serve distinct purposes. While Revit is crucial for building information modeling (BIM), BIM 360 enhances collaboration and project management in the cloud. Understanding how each tool functions—and how they can complement each other—can significantly streamline workflows and improve project outcomes.

What is Revit?

Revit is the go-to software for creating detailed 3D models of buildings and infrastructure. It is essential for architects, engineers, and contractors involved in the design and modeling phases. Revit supports parametric design, which means that changes made to one part of the model automatically update related elements, ensuring consistency and minimising errors.

It allows professionals to design everything from structural elements to mechanical systems. The software’s robust modeling capabilities enable the creation of interconnected plans, sections, elevations, and schedules. Revit is indispensable for creating accurate, detailed models that form the backbone of the project.

What is BIM 360?

BIM 360, is a cloud-based platform that enhances collaboration and project management. While Revit focuses on modeling, BIM 360 is designed to centralise project data, facilitating communication, file-sharing, and task management throughout the project lifecycle.

BIM 360 allows teams to collaborate in real time, accessing and updating project information from any location. This eliminates version control issues and ensures that everyone is working from the most current data. It also offers features for document management, issue tracking, and quality control, which are vital for ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.

How Revit and BIM 360 work together

While both tools are distinct, they work incredibly well together. Revit handles the detailed modeling aspect, while BIM 360 enhances the collaborative and operational aspects of a project.

• Design and collaboration: After creating models in Revit, teams can upload them to BIM 360 to allow real-time collaboration. This way, all project stakeholders—regardless of location—can work with the latest version of the design, reducing the risk of miscommunication and errors.
• Documentation and task management: BIM 360 consolidates project documentation, schedules, and tasks into one platform, allowing teams to track project progress and assign responsibilities seamlessly. The integration between Revit and BIM 360 ensures a smooth transition from design to construction, with no lost information or miscommunication.
• Clash Detection and issue resolution: Revit’s clash detection tools identify design conflicts early on, while BIM 360’s issue tracking and management features help teams resolve those issues quickly, preventing delays during the construction phase.
• Data-driven decision making: BIM 360’s analytics allow project managers to evaluate real-time project performance. This insight helps teams make proactive decisions and address potential risks promptly, with the detailed models from Revit providing the foundation for informed choices.

Key differences between Revit and BIM 360

Though both are Autodesk products, Revit and BIM 360 have different focuses:

• Revit is dedicated to design and modeling, helping create accurate, detailed representations of the project.
• BIM 360 focuses on collaboration, data management, and project oversight across all phases of the project lifecycle.

Which one is right for your projects?

The choice between Revit and BIM 360 depends on your firm's needs. If your focus is on the design and modeling aspects of a project, Revit is your primary tool. However, if you need to improve collaboration and streamline project management, BIM 360 is essential.

For many firms, using both tools in tandem offers the most efficient solution. Revit handles the design and modeling, while BIM 360 ensures effective communication, documentation management, and real-time collaboration across the entire project.

If you’d like to explore how these tools can enhance your firm's workflows, check out our blog on How Does BIM Help Optimise Construction Costs?.

Both Revit and BIM 360 are invaluable in the AEC industry. While Revit is focused on building detailed 3D models, BIM 360 enhances collaboration and streamlines project management. Used together, they provide a comprehensive solution that covers both design and operational phases of construction projects, driving efficiency and improving outcomes.

If you're looking to leverage the full potential of these tools, LVI Associates specialises in connecting firms with skilled professionals who are proficient in both Revit and BIM 360. Request a Call back or Submit a Vacancy to find the talent you need to ensure the success of your projects.