Autodesk Construction Cloud is now part of Autodesk Forma: What’s next for your company?

Autodesk Construction Cloud is now part of Autodesk Forma: What’s next for your company?

by | Mar 26, 2026 | Architecture, Autodesk, BIM

Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is being brought under the Autodesk Forma umbrella as part of Autodesk’s new, single industry cloud for AECO, but your day‑to‑day workflows will largely remain the same.

Autodesk Construction Cloud is now part of Autodesk Forma: What Robotech customers need to know

Autodesk has announced a major evolution in its cloud strategy for the architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO) industry: Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is now part of Autodesk Forma, Autodesk’s AI‑native, end‑to‑end industry cloud. This change is primarily about unifying branding and data under a single platform, not about disrupting how you work today.

At Robotech CAD Solutions, we want to clarify what this means for your projects, licenses, and daily workflows so you can move forward with confidence.

One connected industry cloud, not a new product

Forma is Autodesk’s industry cloud that connects teams, workflows, and data across planning, design, construction, and operations in a single environment. ACC’s construction management capabilities are being incorporated into this broader Forma platform so design and construction can operate on the same connected foundation instead of separate silos.

In practice, this means:

  • You will see the Forma name and branding where you previously saw Autodesk Construction Cloud.

  • Design and construction data are intended to live in one shared, cloud‑native environment, improving continuity from early design through handover.

  • AI‑powered capabilities in Forma can now act across the full lifecycle, from early‑stage site analysis to downstream construction and operations decisions.

What is not changing for your projects

The most important point for current Robotech customers: your existing ACC projects and workflows will continue to function as they do today. Subscriptions, permissions, folder structures, integrations, automations, and APIs will remain intact, and no data migration is required for current ACC or Forma customers.

Concretely:

  • Your current modules keep working: Build remains Build, Takeoff remains Takeoff, Estimate remains Estimate, with names gradually aligning to Forma.

  • The ACC mobile app will continue to function as before, with changes largely limited to branding and ongoing roadmap updates.

  • The user interface and layout you rely on will stay familiar, with incremental experience improvements over time and Forma branding layered in.

You should not need to relearn tools or reconfigure environments simply because ACC is now under the Forma brand.

New naming: how key products are being rebranded

As part of this transition, several Autodesk cloud products are being renamed to align under the Forma industry cloud. Functionality remains the same; the new names are meant to reflect a unified, connected platform:

  • Autodesk Docs → Forma Data Management

  • Autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro → Forma Design Collaboration

  • Autodesk Build → Forma Build

  • Autodesk Takeoff → Forma Takeoff

  • Autodesk Estimate → Forma Estimate

  • Autodesk Construction Cloud Connect (ACC Connect) → Forma Construction Connect

  • Preconstruction Bundle → Forma for Preconstruction

  • Model Management Bundle → Forma for Model Management

  • Construction Operations Bundle → Forma for Construction Operations

You will start to see these new product names reflected in Autodesk websites, contracts, licensing, and Autodesk Account as the rollout progresses.

Forma Data Management as the new common data environment

A key part of this shift is the evolution of Autodesk Docs into Forma Data Management, which now serves as the common data environment at the core of Forma. Rather than just cloud file storage, Forma Data Management is designed as a centralized, cloud‑native project data environment that supports connected collaboration across planning, design, construction, and operations.

Notably for design and engineering teams:

  • Forma Data Management Essentials is now included with standalone subscriptions to tools like AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D, and the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection.

  • This gives many teams direct access to the same connected project environment from the desktop tools they already use, strengthening data continuity into construction.

Over time, this connected foundation should help reduce manual file transfers, version chasing, and data handoffs between design and construction teams.

What Robotech customers should do now

You do not need to overhaul anything on your side, but there are a few simple checks and actions that will help ensure a smooth transition:

  • Review Autodesk communications: Keep an eye on Autodesk emails, product announcements, and in‑product messages so you recognize the new Forma names as they appear in your environment.

  • Confirm access and roles: After the naming changes appear, verify that your users can still access their projects and that roles, permissions, and project memberships look correct in your existing hubs.

  • Update internal documentation: If you maintain internal guides, SOPs, or onboarding documents that mention “Autodesk Construction Cloud” or legacy product names (Docs, Build, BIM Collaborate Pro, etc.), plan to update them to the new Forma naming so your team is not confused.

  • Validate integrations and automations: If you use any integrations, connectors, or custom automations that reference ACC products, schedule a quick sanity check after the change to confirm everything continues to run as expected.

  • Communicate with your teams: Let project teams know that this is primarily a branding and platform‑unification change so they are not surprised by the Forma name and understand that their day‑to‑day workflows should remain familiar.

What this means for Robotech customers going forward

For Robotech CAD Solutions customers, the Forma transition brings three main benefits without disrupting your current setups:

  • Continuity: Your existing ACC‑based workflows, integrations, and project structures continue as‑is, with no required migrations.

  • Clarity: Product names and branding will update to Forma, but capabilities you depend on remain, and Autodesk’s investment in construction tools and roadmaps stays strong.

  • Connection: As Forma matures, you gain more value from connected data, AI‑driven insights, and smoother collaboration from early‑stage design through field execution and operations.

Robotech will continue to support you through this change, from explaining new naming and subscription implications to helping your teams take advantage of Forma’s connected, data‑driven capabilities as they expand. If you have any additional questions about this change or how it may impact your specific setup, please reach out to your Robotech representative for assistance.

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Urban Office Makeovers: Inside the Rise of Downtown Apartment Conversions

Urban Office Makeovers: Inside the Rise of Downtown Apartment Conversions

by | Mar 9, 2026 | Architecture

American cities are increasingly viewing vacant office suites as an untapped housing resource, especially in transit-rich neighborhoods where demand for homes far exceeds supply. In Washington, D.C., developers like Post Brothers are transforming underused office buildings into hundreds of apartments, recognizing that locations once marginal for corporate tenants can be ideal for residents. By working with existing structures instead of starting from scratch, they can move more quickly from concept to occupancy while preserving embedded urban infrastructure. At the same time, these projects respond to a larger cultural shift in how and where people work, as hybrid and remote models reduce the need for traditional office footprints. The result is a quiet but meaningful reshaping of downtown cores, from nine-to-five business districts into mixed-use communities that remain active around the clock.

The numbers driving this trend are stark: office vacancies have climbed nationwide in the wake of long-term remote work adoption, while the national housing shortage is now measured in the millions of units. In D.C., city leaders have embraced adaptive reuse as a policy priority, supporting office-to-residential projects through incentives such as multi-decade property tax abatements to make complex conversions financially viable. Since 2024, the city has completed multiple conversions that together have delivered thousands of new apartments, with more projects in the pipeline. Developers like Post Brothers have already completed several office transformations and are now undertaking the city’s largest conversion to date. These efforts are mirrored in other major metros—from New York to Dallas—suggesting that office reuse is becoming an important tool in urban housing strategies.

On the ground, conversions are both architectural and economic balancing acts. Structurally, many office towers offer solid foundations and cores that can be retained, saving time and cost, while facades and windows are reimagined to maximize natural light and residential appeal. Interiors that once housed cubicles and conference rooms are reorganized into smaller, efficient units, with new amenities like pools, dog parks, and shared lounges layered in to match contemporary expectations of urban living. Economically, developers must reconcile market realities with public goals: high construction and financing costs push many projects toward premium rents, while only a portion of units can be reserved as affordable housing under current capital constraints. Even when the share of below-market apartments is modest, these projects still add supply in high-demand central locations where building new ground-up housing can be especially difficult.

Industry experts caution that conversions, while useful, are not a silver bullet for the housing crisis. The scale of unmet housing need far exceeds what can realistically be delivered through office reuse alone, given that only a subset of office buildings have the right floor plates, window access, and structural layouts to become successful residences. Yet these projects do “kill two birds with one stone,” modestly reducing surplus office space while adding homes in walkable, transit-served neighborhoods that already benefit from public investment. They also represent a broader pattern of economic adaptation, analogous to how obsolete factories were once repurposed into lofts and live–work spaces as manufacturing declined. As companies reconfigure their space needs and workers’ relationships with the office continue to evolve, adaptive reuse allows cities to realign their built environments with contemporary patterns of life and work.

How BIM-enabled Workflow can support Adaptive Reuse

Throughout this transformation, Building Information Modeling (BIM) can play a pivotal role in making office-to-residential conversions more efficient, coordinated, and predictable. A robust BIM process allows project teams to capture existing conditions in rich 3D models, test multiple unit layouts against structural constraints, and simulate daylight, egress, and MEP routing before any demolition begins. Clash detection, phasing, and quantity takeoffs can be managed within a shared digital environment, helping owners, architects, engineers, and contractors make informed decisions about what to keep, what to remove, and where to invest. As cities push for more adaptive reuse, BIM-enabled workflows can reduce risk, compress schedules, and support better design outcomes, turning yesterday’s cubicle farms into tomorrow’s resilient neighborhoods with greater confidence and clarity.

Interested in using Revit in your Office?

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Cloud-Based Collaboration: The New Era of Architectural Teams

Cloud-Based Collaboration: The New Era of Architectural Teams

by | Jun 2, 2025 | Architecture, Autodesk, BIM, Cloud Services, Collaboration

In an era where architectural teams are increasingly distributed and project timelines are tightening, the adoption of cloud-based collaboration tools has become essential. Cloud-based Building Information Modeling (BIM) is transforming the way architects, engineers, and other stakeholders interact with project data, offering unprecedented flexibility, efficiency, and transparency. By moving design workflows to the cloud, firms can break free from the constraints of traditional file-sharing methods and embrace a future where real-time collaboration is the norm.

At the heart of this transformation is the ability for multiple stakeholders to access, edit, and review the same digital model simultaneously—regardless of their location. This real-time interaction eliminates the delays and errors associated with outdated file versions and manual updates. Cloud-based BIM platforms, such as Autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro, enable teams to co-author models, track progress, and resolve issues in a unified environment. The result is a streamlined workflow that keeps everyone on the same page and reduces the risk of costly rework.

One of the most significant advantages of cloud-based collaboration is improved data accessibility. Team members can log in from any device with an internet connection, whether they are in the office, on-site, or working remotely. This flexibility is particularly valuable in today’s globalized work environment, where project teams often span multiple time zones and locations. Cloud storage solutions also provide robust data management features, including automatic backups, version control, and enhanced security measures, ensuring that project information is always up-to-date and protected.

Scalability is another key benefit of cloud-based BIM. As projects grow in complexity and size, cloud infrastructure can easily accommodate increased data and user demand. This scalability is cost-effective, as it eliminates the need for significant upfront investments in physical servers and IT infrastructure. Moreover, cloud solutions offer flexibility in terms of software updates and integrations, ensuring that users always have access to the latest features and improvements. This adaptability makes cloud-based BIM an attractive option for firms of all sizes.

Project transparency is greatly enhanced through cloud-based collaboration. All team members have visibility into issues, status updates, and communications, which fosters inclusion and problem-solving. Cloud platforms also provide a comprehensive issue trail, allowing teams to track feedback, evaluate processes, and maintain legal documentation. This level of transparency not only streamlines project management but also builds trust among stakeholders, ultimately leading to better project outcomes.

The integration of advanced analytical tools within cloud-based BIM platforms further empowers architectural teams. These tools can process large datasets quickly and efficiently, generating insights that optimize design, construction, and maintenance activities. For example, cloud-based BIM can facilitate energy performance simulations, structural analysis, and cost estimation, providing valuable information for decision-making. This analytical capability helps architects deliver more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective designs.

Cloud-based collaboration also democratizes access to project information, enabling junior team members, consultants, and even clients to participate more actively in the design process. With intuitive feedback tools and easy-to-use interfaces, cloud platforms lower the barrier to entry for non-technical users, fostering a more inclusive and collaborative project culture. This shift not only accelerates timelines but also improves the quality of design outcomes by incorporating diverse perspectives and expertise.

As the architectural industry continues to evolve, cloud-based collaboration is poised to become the standard for project delivery. The ability to work together in real time, access data from anywhere, and leverage powerful analytical tools is reshaping the way architects approach their work. By embracing cloud-based BIM, firms can position themselves at the forefront of innovation, delivering better projects faster and more efficiently than ever before.

Getting Started with Cloud-Based Solutions: How Robotech CAD Solutions Can Help

For firms new to cloud-based collaboration, Robotech CAD Solutions offers comprehensive support to ensure a smooth transition. As an Autodesk Gold Partner and authorized training center, Robotech provides expert guidance on software selection, implementation, and best practices for cloud-based workflows. Their team delivers tailored training sessions, covering everything from basic setup to advanced coordination and issue management. With Robotech’s support, new users can quickly become proficient in platforms like Autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro, unlocking the full potential of cloud-based collaboration for their architectural projects.

If you would like to see a Demo or Learn More about how to incorporate Cloud-Based Solutions to your company, reach out to us over phone or email us at TheTeam@RobotechCAD.com

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From CAD to BIM: Revolutionizing AEC Technology

From CAD to BIM: Revolutionizing AEC Technology

by | Feb 26, 2025 | AEC, Architecture, Autodesk, BIM

The architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry has undergone a seismic shift over the past few decades, driven by the evolution of technology from Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to Building Information Modeling (BIM). This transformation has not only revolutionized how buildings are designed and constructed but has also redefined collaboration, efficiency, and sustainability in the industry. From the early days of 2D drafting to the sophisticated 3D modeling and data-rich environments of today, the journey from CAD to BIM is a testament to the power of innovation in shaping the future of construction.

The Timeline of CAD to BIM: A Journey Through Innovation

1960s: The Birth of CAD

The story begins in the 1960s, when the first CAD systems emerged. These early tools, such as Sketchpad developed by Ivan Sutherland, allowed designers to create digital 2D drawings. While revolutionary at the time, these systems were limited in scope and required significant computational power, which was expensive and inaccessible to most.

 

1980s: The Rise of 2D CAD

By the 1980s, CAD software became more accessible and widely adopted. Programs like AutoCAD, introduced by Autodesk in 1982, enabled architects and engineers to create precise 2D drawings more efficiently than manual drafting. This era marked the beginning of the digital transformation in the AEC industry, as firms began to transition from paper-based workflows to digital ones.

 

1990s: The Emergence of 3D Modeling

The 1990s saw the introduction of 3D modeling capabilities in CAD software. Tools like Autodesk’s 3D Studio and Bentley Systems’ MicroStation allowed designers to create three-dimensional representations of buildings. While this was a significant step forward, these early 3D models were primarily visual and lacked the data-rich features that define modern BIM.

 

2000s: The Dawn of BIM

The concept of BIM began to take shape in the early 2000s. Unlike traditional CAD, BIM is not just about creating drawings or models; it’s about creating a digital representation of a building that includes both geometric and non-geometric data. Autodesk Revit, launched in 2000, was one of the first BIM platforms to gain widespread adoption. Revit allowed architects, engineers, and contractors to collaborate on a shared model, integrating design, construction, and operational data into a single platform.

 

2010s: BIM Goes Mainstream

The 2010s marked the mainstream adoption of BIM across the AEC industry. Governments and organizations worldwide began mandating BIM for public projects, recognizing its potential to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance collaboration. During this time, Autodesk Revit continued to evolve, adding features like parametric modeling, cloud collaboration, and integration with other tools such as Navisworks for clash detection and analysis.

 

2020s: BIM and Beyond

Today, BIM is no longer just a tool but a foundational element of the AEC workflow. The integration of BIM with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and the Internet of Things (IoT) is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. For example, AI-powered tools can now analyze BIM data to optimize building performance, while VR allows stakeholders to visualize and interact with BIM models in immersive environments.

 

The Essential Role of BIM in Modern AEC Workflows

BIM has become indispensable to the AEC industry, transforming how projects are planned, designed, constructed, and managed. Unlike traditional CAD, which focuses primarily on geometry, BIM provides a holistic approach by embedding critical data into every component of a building model. This data-driven methodology enables better decision-making, reduces errors, and improves collaboration among stakeholders.

One of the standout BIM platforms in the industry is Autodesk Revit. Revit’s robust features, such as parametric modeling, real-time collaboration, and interoperability with other software, make it an ideal choice for architects, engineers, and contractors. Its ability to create detailed, data-rich models ensures that all project stakeholders are working from the same information, minimizing misunderstandings and rework. Furthermore, Revit’s integration with Autodesk’s ecosystem, including tools like BIM 360 for cloud-based collaboration, enhances its utility in modern construction projects.

 

The Future is BIM

The evolution from CAD to BIM represents more than just a technological shift; it signifies a fundamental change in how the AEC industry approaches building design and construction. BIM’s ability to integrate data, improve collaboration, and enhance efficiency has made it an essential tool for modern construction projects. As the industry continues to embrace digital transformation, platforms like Autodesk Revit will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of construction, enabling smarter, more sustainable, and more innovative buildings. The journey from CAD to BIM is far from over, and the possibilities for what comes next are as exciting as the progress we’ve already made.

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How Gen Z is Shaping the Future of Sustainability

How Gen Z is Shaping the Future of Sustainability

by | Dec 12, 2024 | Architecture

In a rapidly changing world, Gen Z has emerged as a driving force for a greener and more sustainable future. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) has grown up with increasing awareness of environmental issues and the visible impacts of climate change. With their unique perspectives and a deep sense of urgency, this generation is not only advocating for sustainability but also actively shaping how businesses, governments, and communities approach environmental challenges. The influence of Gen Z on sustainability is profound, and it is only growing stronger.

A Generation Born Into Environmental Crisis

One of the key reasons Gen Z is more focused on sustainability is that they have grown up witnessing the effects of climate change firsthand. From severe weather events to shrinking biodiversity, this generation has seen how unsustainable practices have harmed the planet. For Gen Z, the climate crisis isn’t a distant threat; it’s a present reality. This has fostered a heightened level of environmental awareness and responsibility. Unlike their predecessors, who may have treated environmental issues as a secondary concern, Gen Z considers sustainability a core value, influencing everything from their consumption habits to career choices.

Driving Demand for Eco-Friendly Products and Services

Gen Z’s preference for sustainable products and brands is reshaping markets across the globe. Research shows that this generation is willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly options and expects transparency from companies regarding their sustainability practices. According to a survey highlighted by Autodesk, nearly 75% of Gen Z respondents stated they would prefer to buy from sustainable brands even if it costs more. Their demand for ethical, environmentally friendly products is pushing businesses to adopt green practices, rethink their supply chains, and reduce their carbon footprints. Companies that ignore this shift risk losing a significant share of this influential consumer base.

Leveraging Technology for Sustainable Solutions

Digital natives by nature, Gen Z is using technology as a powerful tool in their fight for sustainability. They are leveraging social media platforms to raise awareness, advocate for change, and hold corporations accountable. Additionally, this generation is embracing innovations such as renewable energy, sustainable design, and the circular economy. Tools like AI-driven software, green building solutions, and eco-friendly product design, as discussed in Autodesk’s article, are becoming popular among young creators who are determined to make a positive impact. Gen Z’s tech-savvy approach is accelerating the adoption of sustainable practices and encouraging the development of cutting-edge solutions for environmental challenges.

Advocating for Policy and Systemic Change

Beyond influencing consumer behavior, Gen Z is also making waves in the political sphere by advocating for systemic changes that support sustainability. They are vocal about the need for comprehensive environmental policies and regulations, from reducing single-use plastics to advancing renewable energy initiatives. This generation has a strong presence in grassroots movements, climate strikes, and advocacy groups, using their collective voice to push for government action on climate issues. By prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term profits, Gen Z is helping to steer policy discussions towards a more sustainable future.

Redefining Success for a Sustainable Future

Gen Z’s vision of success goes beyond personal wealth and career achievements; it’s rooted in creating a positive and lasting impact on the world. This generation is redefining what it means to be successful by emphasizing social and environmental responsibility. They are more likely to pursue careers in green industries, support businesses that prioritize sustainability, and engage in activism to address climate change. As a result, their values are setting new standards for companies and policymakers, urging them to prioritize sustainable development. Gen Z’s commitment to sustainability is a powerful force that promises to reshape our world for the better, making it greener, more equitable, and more resilient.

The future of sustainability looks promising with Gen Z at the forefront. Their passion, technological proficiency, and collective action are paving the way for a more sustainable world, inspiring individuals, businesses, and governments to adopt greener practices. As this generation continues to rise in influence, their impact on the planet will likely be one of the defining legacies of our time.