ORD Implementation Initiative Overview
Bentley is scheduled to discontinue support for its legacy MicroStation software that NCDOT currently utilizes, and the NCDOT is underway with a statewide, technology-focused, OpenRoads Designer (ORD) Implementation Initiative. The purpose of the initiative is to move the Department's computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) operations to ORD, a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary, three-dimensional (3D) modeling application that will advance the delivery of our transportation projects from conceptual design through construction. ORD is replacing MicroStation as Bentley's next-generation civil design technology platform.
As a benefit to the state, the utilization of ORD 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. In addition, ORD is a software platform that Bentley will provide support and maintenance services for years to come.
ORD Piloting Work
NCDOT staff have identified and are working on several test/pilot projects in various design phases utilizing ORD in 2022. In some cases, the pilot project work will be conducted in addition to the standard (Geopak) design and plans production process for these projects for learning and comparison purposes. Through the piloting process, the NCDOT will be working towards determining (1) ORD software enhancement needs, (2) potential design workflow changes necessary for ORD and 3D modeling, and (3) impacts of converting projects from SS2/SS4 to ORD. Our PEF partners also initiate few ongoing projects in ORD, and we will be moving forward with the designs in later phases according to the project schedules.
NCDOT Connect Workspace
NCDOT staff continue to test and refine the NCDOT Connect ORD Workspace that enables 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 continue to maintain the current MicroStation V8i workspace for use with SS2/SS4 projects. NCDOT is coordinating both 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
NCDOT has switched to ORD v.10.10 on Dec. 6th. All current ORD projects are incouraged to transition to this version. The NCDOT will continue to test and update the Connect workspace and evaluate production readiness on any new versions released later before finalizing them as production-ready. At present, NCDOT is working closely with Bentley on identifying and addressing several software issues, particularly as they relate to Drainage and Utilities (formerly known as SUDA). As these issues get resolved, interim workarounds may be utilized to continue the projects in ORD.
Implementation Timeframe
As of July 1, 2021, NCDOT will utilize 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 may be needed. Additionally, NCDOT is currently evaluating design work on a project-by-project basis to determine if converting from SS2/SS4 to ORD may be an option for design projects already underway. For PEFs interested in utilizing ORD for their current NCDOT project work, please coordinate directly with the pertinent NCDOT Project Manager to discuss conversion options.
NCDOT anticipates continued ORD implementation steps for State Fiscal Year 2021/2022 that will include ongoing testing/piloting of project work utilizing ORD as well as training and developing workflows, guidelines, and instructions for both internal and external use of 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 questions or more information:
For any questions about the current NCDOT ORD Implementation Initiative, please send an email to:
NCDOT.ORD.Implementation.initiative@ncdot.gov
