OpenX Overview
NCDOT continues to work towards transitioning from the legacy V8i SS2/SS4 and MicroStation software that NCDOT currently utilizes to the Bentley OpenX platform, including Open Roads Designer (ORD), which is a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary, three-dimensional (3D) modeling application that will advance the delivery of our transportation projects from conceptual design through construction.
As a benefit to the state, using the OpenX platform will lay the groundwork for a future transition to all-3D digital deliveries and workflows. Its advanced model creation will eventually eliminate most printed plans, potentially reduce design errors and construction costs resulting from design-related changes, and support the benefits of digital deliverables, including automated machine grading (AMG) and eConstruction.
NCDOT Connect Workspace
NCDOT and NCDIT staff are continually testing and refining the NCDOT Connect ORD Workspace, enabling flexibility for PEFs and the NCDOT to work in a single or multiple discipline environment. This Workspace utilizes standard Bentley configurations and is designed to be compatible with other State DOT workspaces. NCDOT plans to maintain the current MicroStation V8i workspace for use with SS2/SS4 projects. NCDOT coordinated internally and with Bentley to develop/refine guidelines and direction on utilizing ProjectWise and managed Workspace.
To download the current NCDOT Connect Workspace, follow the link on the CADD Services page titled NCDOT_CONNECT_WORKSPACE. NCDOT welcomes any comments/questions/input regarding the current version of this Workspace.
Current Version of Bentley ORD
The version of ORD currently being utilized by NCDOT can be found out the following location: Current NCDOT Software Versions. NCDOT will continue to test and update the Connect workspace and evaluate production readiness on any new versions as they are released before finalizing them as production-ready.
Implementation Timeframe
As of July 1, 2021, NCDOT has been utilizing ORD to generate production designs and plans for all new design projects unless, as an exception, there are project-specific reasons where using legacy software is needed. A large number of projects are currently being designed utilizing the ORD software. NCDOT continues to phase out the use of SS2/SS4 as it move forward with fully utilizing ORD.
Training
At this time, NCDOT continues to pursue both general and discipline-specific training options for NCDOT staff regarding ORD through internal CADD services options and Bentley LEARN online training materials. As the training material is completed and evaluated for external use, it will be posted on the website for our external partners.
PEFs are encouraged to explore the capabilities of Bentley LEARN online training as a resource for ORD training. There may be NCDOT training materials made available through links on this ORD website and NCDOT-specific ORD workflow training provided at NCLUG events or at any time as deemed necessary by such Units in the future. To access the NCLUG training and various CADD demonstration videos please follow the link provided on this website.
For any questions about current NCDOT Open X Initiatives, please send an email to:
cadd-sup@ncdot.gov
