In 2002 Esri and Bentley Systems, Inc., started work on a strategic initiative to integrate more closely their respective architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) and GIS technologies. This initiative focuses on interoperability of both data and tools at the desktop and server levels. Under this initiative MicroStation users will be able to easily and seamlessly access Esri data in shapefile and geodatabases. ArcGIS users will also be able to access DGN files, including the new V8 format, and interact with Bentley's AEC content management environment. Another goal is the ability for MicroStation and ArcView tools to interoperate on the desktop. More details of this will be forthcoming at the Bentley User Conference in May 2003.

For more information, contact Kevin Daugherty, Esri (e-mail: kdaugherty@esri.com).

See main article, "Improving CAD-GIS Interoperability."