Online Course Syllabus: Navisworks Essentials

 

Course Overview

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Autodesk Navisworks, focusing on model aggregation, clash detection, coordination workflows, and project communication. Designed for beginners and intermediate users, it blends theory with hands‑on practice through guided exercises and real-world examples.

 

Course Format

• Delivery: Online, self-paced (or instructor-led). Can also be delivered in person

• Duration: 6–10 hours (depending on pace and optional modules)

• Assessment: Practical assignments + final coordination exercise

• Software Required: Autodesk Navisworks Manage (recommended) or Simulate

 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Understand the Navisworks interface, workspace, and key tools

• Import, append, and manage a variety of design models

• Create viewpoints, sections, and navigation paths for model exploration

• Run clash tests and interpret results for coordination meetings

• Create TimeLiner simulations for basic 4D planning

• Produce reports, visualisations, and outputs for project teams

• Apply best practices for BIM coordination workflows

 

Module Breakdown

 

Module 1: Introduction to Navisworks

Topics Covered:

• What Navisworks is and how it fits in BIM workflows

• Review of Navisworks product options: Manage vs Simulate vs Freedom

• Understanding file types (NWF, NWC, NWD)

• Interface tour and workspace setup

Practical Exercise:
Open and navigate a sample project; create and save your first workspace.

 

Module 2: Working with Models

Topics Covered:

• Appending vs merging models

• Working with Revit, IFC, DWG, and other formats

• File refresh workflows and model management best practices

• Selection tools, search sets, and selection sets

Practical Exercise:
Build a federated model and create working sets.

 

Module 3: Model Navigation & Visualisation

Topics Covered:

• Navigation tools: walk, orbit, fly, viewpoint management

• Adding section planes and boxes

• Visual styles, hidden line mode, and rendering basics

• Animations and saved viewpoints

Practical Exercise:
Create a structured folder of viewpoints and a short, animated walkthrough.

 

Module 4: Clash Detection & Coordination

Topics Covered:

• Setting up clash tests

• Clash rules and tolerances

• Clash groups, filtering, and clash management workflows

• Using clash detective in coordination meetings

• Exporting clash reports (HTML, XML, viewpoints, BCF)*
  (Add/remove formats based on your preference)

Practical Exercise:
Run a clash test and produce a structured clash report.

 

Module 5: TimeLiner (Optional / Intermediate Module)

Topics Covered:

• Importing schedules (CSV, Excel, Primavera, MS Project)

• Linking model items to tasks

• Building 4D simulations

• Exporting TimeLine animations

Practical Exercise:
Create a simple 4D sequence with model objects.

 

Module 6: Communication & Reporting

Topics Covered:

• Creating effective reports for contractors and designers

• Using redlining, tags, and comments

• Viewpoint-based communication workflows

• Exporting NWD files for stakeholders

• Best practices for coordination meetings

Practical Exercise:
Produce a coordination issue report with annotated viewpoints.

 

Module 7: Best Practices & Real-World Workflows

Topics Covered:

• Clash avoidance vs clash detection strategies

• Model quality checks and review workflows

• Weekly coordination cycle template

• File management and collaborative workflows

Practical Exercise:
Complete a final mini-project: set up a coordination test and report.

 

Assessment & Certification

Upon successful completion of all modules and the final project, learners receive an Origin7 Certificate of Completion in Navisworks.

 

Who This Course Is For

• BIM Coordinators

• Designers & Technicians moving into BIM workflows

• Site Engineers & Project Managers

• Students and professionals seeking Navisworks working knowledge

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For more information contact  melanie@origin7digital.com