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Jan De Nul transforms engineering processes with Siemens NX CAD
Construction & Infrastructure
• Legacy CAD tools limited innovation and slowed down engineering efficiency
• Limited compatibility with external systems slowed communication and coordination with partners
• Lack of standardised workflows led to long lead times and increased operational costs
• Transitioning to a new system required significant organisational change and user adoption
• Modern design tools and streamlined workflows significantly reduced lead times
• Design quality improved through better traceability and fewer errors
• Windchill integration enhanced collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders
• High user adoption was achieved through a well-structured training programme and ongoing support
NX CAD
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 towards 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 CAD 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, and 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.
From legacy systems to 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, whilst 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, which reduced resistance and encouraged adoption;
- A phased rollout that enabled a smooth transition with minimal disruption;
- A collaborative approach with Emixa whereby proactive support and deep technical expertise allowed challenges to be resolved quickly and effectively – with special recognition going 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 from Joost Laureys, who played a key role in guiding the project and solving unforeseen challenges;
- An innovative data migration strategy that led to an impressive 98.6% migration success rate; and
- The right mindset from Jan De Nul employees, who approached this complex journey with determination, turning each challenge into a success story.
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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