Switching from Autodesk Inventor to SOLIDWORKS

For many design and engineering teams across the UK, Autodesk Inventor works well. But as workloads grow and assemblies get more complex, some workflow challenges stand out. Rebuild delays, assembly behaviour, and repeated manual fixes can gradually influence the pace of projects. 

Hesitation about switching from Inventor to SOLIDWORKS is not usually about the software itself. It’s often about disruption, the learning curve, or protecting existing Inventor CAD data. A well-planned and supported migration keeps work moving and reduces uncertainty. 

Common Challenges for Autodesk Inventor Users

As assemblies grow and design cycles become more demanding, some teams using Inventor begin to notice areas where the workflow feels heavier than they’d like.

These may include:

• Slower rebuilds on large or complex assemblies
• Occasional suppress/fix cycles to maintain stability
• Repeating certain manual steps during design updates
• Using separate tools for simulation, visualisation, or documentation
• Delays when passing files downstream, especially across departments

Inventor is a capable system, but as workloads scale, these small interruptions can become more noticeable over time.

The Real Impact of Staying in Inventor Long-Term

Each delay or workaround might feel manageable on its own. Over months and years, however, they accumulate across engineers and projects, leading to: 

• Slower design progress during busy phases
• More checks during reviews and approvals
• Interruptions that break concentration
• Spending extra time resolving unexpected behaviour 

Another challenge is support availability. When issues arise, teams often rely on online searches or experimentation, which can extend delays. 

Why Teams Hesitate to Move from Inventor to SOLIDWORKS

Switching CAD software isn’t something teams do often, so it’s natural to question: 

• What happens to our existing Inventor files?
• Will switching slow down active projects?
• How long will training take?
• How predictable will assemblies be in SOLIDWORKS?
• Who can help if something isn’t working? 

These concerns make sense, and a structured migration process addresses exactly them. 

How Quick Is the Inventor to SOLIDWORKS Migration Process?

Every business has different data volumes, workflows, and requirements. Even so, the switching process is quicker and smoother than most teams initially expect. 

Software onboarding: a few hours to a couple of days 

Most teams become productive in SOLIDWORKS early on. Guided onboarding helps engineers understand the environment fast. Role-based training usually takes 3 to 10 days, based on experience. 

Data migration: days to several weeks (or staged over months) 

Migration timeline depends on: 

• The size and age of your Inventor library
• Whether you choose a full or staged migration
• How your file structure is organised
• Whether legacy files need repair 

Many companies choose a staged migration to avoid pressure on live work. 

File integration reduces conversion time 

SOLIDWORKS can work with several non-native CAD formats directly, reducing the need to convert everything at the start. 

Hardware can influence performance 

If you’re checking if your current workstation will run SOLIDWORKS smoothly, our hardware guide can help you decide. 

Most teams feel agile in SOLIDWORKS early in the process, with larger data migration handled quietly in the background. 

How Solid Solutions Makes the Move Straightforward 

A move from Inventor to SOLIDWORKS can be organised to minimise disruption. The process typically includes: 

Data Migration 

Inventor parts, assemblies, drawings, and metadata are transferred for you. We identify potential issues early, so they don’t carry into the new environment. 

Repair and Adjustment 

Legacy files with broken references or stability challenges can be repaired during the move. 

No Disruption to Live Projects 

Migration plans are aligned to your active workload so engineers can continue working without interruption. 

Daily UK-Based Support 

Support is available via phone, email, and remote access. This reduces downtime and gives teams confidence during the transition. 

Structured Training 

We tailor SOLIDWORKS training to each engineer’s responsibilities, helping teams gain familiarity and momentum quickly. 

Optional CAD Administration Support 

Some organisations use our CAD Management Services for ongoing governance and system management. This keeps their setup consistent and well maintained. 

What Teams Gain After Switching 

Teams often notice improvements in: 

• Assembly performance, particularly on larger builds
• Rebuild times
• Stability and predictability
• Drawing accuracy and consistency
• Change and revision control
• Collaboration across engineering and downstream functions 

SOLIDWORKS brings modelling, visualisation, analysis, and data management together in one environment. Some teams also explore cloud-based design tools through SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services to modernise collaboration across locations or partners. 

Predictable modelling behaviour is often one of the first differences engineers’ comment on. 

Experiences from Teams Who Have Switched 

Teams that have already made the switch frequently mention: 

• Clean, organised data migration
• Minimal disruption to active projects
• Quick adjustment once training begins
• Greater day-to-day stability
• Confidence from having direct support available 

Many also note that the transition felt smoother than expected once the process began. Some choose structured long-term support and training through our Success Packages. 

Is Switching from Inventor to SOLIDWORKS Right for You?

If Inventor causes repeated slowdowns or forces manual workarounds, a move may be worthwhile. 

It may also help if your team needs an integrated setup for modelling, simulation, and data management. 

A managed migration helps your team stay productive during the transition. It often creates a smoother, more predictable design environment. 

Next Steps & Additional Resources 

These resources can help you explore the process in more detail: 

• SOLIDWORKS Data Migration Services
• Switching CAD Systems
• CAD Management Services
• Success Packages
• SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services
• SOLIDWORKS Hardware Advice
• SOLIDWORKS Cost Guide