VisiLean vs Synchro: two ways to do 4D construction planning
Bentley Synchro and VisiLean both connect the schedule to the model, so they often land on the same shortlist. They answer different questions. Synchro asks how the job should be built: specialists model the sequence in detail to test buildability, logistics and temporary works. VisiLean asks whether the job is being built to plan this week: the 4D view follows the live schedule as trades update it, beside the Last Planner lookahead and the Takt board. This page sets out where each leads and how teams use them together.
Based on publicly available information at the date of last review. Bentley® and Synchro are trademarks of Bentley Systems, Incorporated. Primavera® P6, Microsoft® Project and Asta Powerproject are trademarks of their respective owners. References are for descriptive comparison and do not imply endorsement.
The one-paragraph version
VisiLean is for
Production control. A live CPM master with Last Planner, Takt and constraints, where the 4D model shows what the site has actually done and what is ready to start next.
Synchro is for
4D modelling and simulation. Detailed sequencing, logistics and temporary works studies, built by planners and 4D specialists to prove the method before work starts.
Feature-by-feature comparison
Native means a first-class feature. Partial means limited, an add-on or delivered through another product.
| Capability | VisiLean | Synchro |
|---|---|---|
4D BIM linked to the schedule Both link model elements to schedule tasks. Synchro is built around detailed 4D authoring; VisiLean's 4D follows the live schedule. | ||
Detailed construction simulation and logistics Equipment paths, site layout and temporary works studies are Synchro's home ground. | ||
CPM scheduling engine | ||
P6 / MS Project / Asta import | ||
Last Planner System (native) | ||
Takt planning (native) | ||
Constraint log and PPC | ||
Progress updates from site crews VisiLean via the LiveSite app used by the trades; Synchro offers field and progress tools within the Bentley cloud offering. | ||
Used day to day by site teams Synchro 4D authoring is usually done by planners and 4D specialists. | ||
Pricing model Synchro via Bentley subscriptions; VisiLean quote-based against the scheduling workflow. |
Two kinds of 4D: simulation and live status
| Question | 4D simulation (Synchro) | Live 4D (VisiLean) |
|---|---|---|
| What it answers | How should we build this? | Are we building it to plan? |
| Who builds it | Planners and 4D specialists | Linked from the schedule the team already runs |
| When it changes | When the modeller updates the sequence | When tasks are progressed from site |
| Best used for | Method, logistics, temporary works, bid stage | Weekly coordination, lookahead, trade flow |
Where each one wins
VisiLean wins on
- Lean production control: lookahead, weekly work plan, constraints and PPC, native.
- Takt zones and trade flow as a view of the same schedule.
- A 4D view the site team uses, updated from the LiveSite app.
Synchro wins on
- Depth of 4D modelling, sequencing and construction simulation.
- Logistics, site layout and temporary works studies.
- Fit inside a wider Bentley infrastructure toolset.
Related reading
What is 4D BIM?
How linking the model to the schedule adds time, and how 4D differs from the other BIM dimensions.
Read moreProduction management with lean and BIM
Using lean and BIM together to improve predictability and stability on site.
Read moreVisiLean on metro construction
Real-time planning, execution and collaboration on complex metro projects.
Read moreHeathrow Airport case study
Mace on aviation work at Heathrow in London, run on VisiLean.
Read moreFrequently asked questions
What is the difference between VisiLean and Synchro?
Both link the schedule to the model, but for different purposes. Bentley Synchro is a 4D modelling and simulation tool: specialists build a detailed construction sequence to test buildability, logistics and temporary works before and during the job. VisiLean is a lean scheduling and production-control platform: the 4D view follows the live schedule as the site updates it, alongside the Last Planner lookahead and the Takt board.
Is VisiLean a Synchro alternative?
For live 4D tied to site progress and lean planning, yes. For detailed construction simulation, such as equipment paths, site logistics studies and temporary works sequencing, Synchro goes further and VisiLean does not try to match it. Teams with a dedicated 4D modelling function often keep Synchro for that work and use VisiLean for weekly production control.
Can VisiLean and Synchro be used on the same project?
Yes. A common split is that Synchro is used up front and at key stages to model and test the sequence, while VisiLean runs the programme week to week with the trades: lookahead, weekly work plan, constraints and progress from site. Both read the master programme from P6, MS Project or Asta, so they stay anchored to the same plan.
Do I need a 4D specialist to use VisiLean's 4D?
Not usually. In VisiLean the model is linked to tasks in the schedule and the 4D view updates as tasks are progressed from the LiveSite app, so planners and site managers use it directly. Detailed 4D simulation of logistics and temporary works, the kind Synchro is known for, is still specialist work.
How is pricing different between VisiLean and Synchro?
Synchro is sold through Bentley subscriptions, typically for the planners and modellers who author in it. VisiLean is quote-based and priced against the scope of the scheduling and production-control workflow. Because the tools do different jobs, compare what each would replace on your projects rather than the headline cost.
See 4D that moves with the site
Bring your model and your live programme to a working demo and watch the 4D view follow progress from the field.