There has been some confusion recently regarding the rollout of Autodesk Forma. With the rebrand, it is easy to assume that this is simply a new name for Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC). However, Forma represents a much more significant vision from Autodesk for the future of AECO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and Operations).
Here is what you need to know about the current state and direction of Autodesk Forma.
1. Forma is Not the New Name for ACC
The most common misconception is that Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) has been rebranded as Forma. This is incorrect. ACC is part of Forma, true. But assuming Forma is ACC is not true.
While ACC is now a foundational part of the Forma ecosystem, Forma is an umbrella platform that serves much more. Forma is not just a construction management and document control platform. Forma is designed to connect data across the entire project.
I believe this is Autodesk’s solution to unify their different solutions: through the cloud. We’ve seen how we can use Forma Data Management (FDM, formerly Autodesk Docs) to link the surface from Civil 3D. And how we can open aggregated models in Forma Design Collaboration (FDC) directly in Navisworks.
2. Conceptual Design and Site Analysis
One new design capability of Forma is in the conceptual phase.
- Site Design: Quick modeling of site contexts and surrounding environments.
- Building Design: Rapid massing and feasibility studies.
- Environmental Analysis: quick feedback on sun, shadows, wind simulation, and noise.
The former Forma is now Forma Site Design (which is confusing; I surely hope Autodesk chose a different name than Forma), but it is clear now that Forma is not simply the new ACC.
3. Revit as a Forma-Connected Client
There is a lot of anticipation regarding how Autodesk positions Revit with this new platform. While Revit is destined to be a “Forma Connected Client,” we are currently in the early stages of that integration.
Currently, the most notable connection is the ability to perform wind analysis in Forma directly using your Revit model. This workflow allows you to send Revit geometry to the cloud, run wind simulations, and see the results without leaving your design environment. We expect the depth of this “connected” relationship to expand significantly in future updates. At least we can expect all of the Forma Site Design analysis within Revit in the future.
4. Beyond Data Management
Forma is more than just a data management platform or a replacement for Autodesk Docs.
- It unifies Autodesk solutions data on the cloud.
- It provides conceptual design tools
- It offers cloud computing power for connected clients (which is only Revit for now).
The Bottom Line
Don’t think of Forma as a rename; think of it as a unified/integrated cloud solution. Forma is the AEC industry cloud. Forma is intended to become the center for AEC data, intelligence, and decision-making. This is pretty much aligned with the recent AI trend.