Direct Answer
Tekla BIMsight (now superseded by Tekla Structural Designer and Trimble Connect) was a free 3D model viewer and clash detection tool. Its role is now fulfilled by Trimble Connect, which allows project teams without Tekla licenses to view, markup, and clash-check the structural model in a browser or desktop viewer. It is used for coordination meetings, RFI communication, and sharing models with GCs and MEP contractors.
Full Explanation
BIMsight allowed teams to load multiple IFC models (structural, mechanical, architectural) and detect clashes visually. Trimble Connect serves this same function and adds cloud storage, issue tracking, and mobile access. For a steel fabricator, the practical use is: share the Tekla IFC export with the GC's coordination model, run interference checks, and document any structural clashes that require an RFI before fabrication begins.
What This Means for Your Shop
Even if you don't use Tekla yourself, your detailer's model can be exported to IFC and loaded into Trimble Connect or Navisworks for coordination. Participating actively in BIM coordination meetings reduces field clashes that cause costly rework.
Common Mistakes
Assuming coordination is the GC's problem. When MEP clashes with structural steel, it is almost always the fabricator who eats the cost of field modifications. Participating in coordination early is self-protective.
Recommended Process
Request an IFC export from your detailer at 60% model completion. Share it with the GC's BIM coordinator. Participate in one coordination clash-review meeting before IFC packages are issued. Document and resolve clashes as RFIs before cutting steel.