CAD Collaboration is not as easy as with Revit, as each file needs to be viewed as a silo. That is why they are usually completed on a Local Area Network (LAN) using Autodesk Vault as a file management platform, which allows only one person to access the file at a time.
Using Civil 3D Data Shortcuts is a great idea. It essentially creates an XML file that is automatically updated when the Civil 3D file is saved.
When these Data Shortcuts are referenced in other files, their data and geometry are available for use. This means separate files may be used to create a surface, alignment and profile data shortcuts for use to create a corridor. It is so much easier to manage that sharing files all the time.
If you need training using Civil 3D or help in your office to apply it correctly, please contact Micrographics so we may be of assistance.