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Jan De Nul Transforms Engineering Processes with Siemens NX CAD

Jan De Nul is a global leader in maritime and civil construction. This family-owned Belgian company is known for its innovative and sustainable approach to offshore and infrastructure projects. To stay ahead in an increasingly digital world, Jan De Nul set out to modernise its design and engineering processes.

The decision to adopt Siemens NX CAD, integrated with Windchill, marked a strategic turning point. With Emixa as a trusted technology partner, the company achieved a more efficient, flexible, and integrated design process – an essential step toward future-proof innovation.

Digital Transformation with Siemens NX CAD and Windchill
To enhance engineering workflows and strengthen innovation capabilities, Jan De Nul transitioned to Siemens NX CAM and Windchill. This large-scale project included:

  • Migration from Creo Elements and Creo Direct to Siemens NX CAD
  • Integration with Windchill for streamlined data management
  • Converting 1.2 million CAD models
  • Delivering a comprehensive training programme to ensure smooth adoption across teams

This strategic shift laid a solid digital foundation for continued growth and process optimisation.

Jan De Nul team observing a vessel from the shipyard
Worker watches cutterhead lifted from sea on Jan De Nul dredging vessel

From Legacy Systems to a Streamlined Workflows

Before the migration, Jan De Nul relied on a CAD system that hindered innovation and efficiency. Limited compatibility with other software made external collaboration slow and inefficient, while unoptimised workflows led to long lead times and higher operational costs.

The shift to a new system wasn’t just technological , it required an organisational transformation. Employees had to adopt new tools and ways of working . The biggest challenge? Finding the right balance between innovation and user-friendliness to ensure smooth adoption.

Smart Implementation and Strong Collaboration

A successful digital transformation starts with a well-defined strategy. Jan De Nul and Emixa partnered closely to map internal processes and ensure seamless implementation.

Key success factors included:

  • Early involvement of key users: Engaging employees from the start reduced resistance and encouraged adoption .
  • Phased rollout: A fast, step-by-step implementation enabled a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
  • Collaborative approach with Emixa: Thanks to proactive support and deep technical expertise, challenges were resolved quickly and effectively. Special recognition goes to Ruud van den Brand for his crucial role in training and adoption, and to Tim Schmidt (T-Systems) for his valuable contributions.
  • Strong project management: Joost Laureys played a key role in guiding the project and solving unforeseen challenges.
  • Innovative data migration: An effective strategy led to an impressive 98.6% migration success rate.
  • The right mindset: Jan De Nul employees approached this complex journey with determination, turning each challenge into a success story.
Sales Consultant and Engineer in safety gear meet dockside near Jan De Nul vessels
Installation vessel positions yellow monopile at sea under sunrise sky

Greater Efficiency, Flexibility, and Design Quality

The transition to Siemens NX CAD and Windchill delivered clear, measurable benefits:

  • Faster lead times: Parametric design speeds up modifications and optimises workflows.
  • Improved design quality: Enhanced traceability and new features reduce errors.
  • More efficient collaboration: Windchill supports transparent, effective collaboration with both internal teams and external partners.
  • Rapid Adoption: A tailored training programme and active support ensured high user adoption 

Jan De Nul remains committed to innovation and ongoing optimisation. The company is exploring expanded NX capabilities and continues to invest in new technologies to strengthen its market leadership. 

This story illustrates the power of a strategic approach, expert implementation, and the right technology partner. Jan De Nul and Emixa demonstrate how innovation and collaboration drive sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. 

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Advice for Companies Considering a CAD Migration

"A successful transition begins with thorough preparation. Map out your processes, involve your team, and choose a partner who not only delivers software but also offers strategic thinking and implementation support."

 

Lead Engineer in safety gear explains how technology works on the deck of an offshore vessel, with equipment, cranes, and clear blue sky in the background

Wouter Tollet

Manager Design Department

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