Leading software provider Autodesk recently unveiled its new Forma cloud platform with the goal of revolutionising workflows in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. Forma, a comprehensive solution for AEC professionals that focuses primarily on the planning stage of building projects, was introduced at the Autodesk University trade show. It is not a file-based working environment; instead, it uses cloud-based APIs to operate with precise design data.
Design iterations can be streamlined with Forma, which also makes teamwork easier. Analysis results for lighting, energy, and noise are presented earlier in the design process rather than later. This is accomplished by utilising Forma's artificial intelligence tools, which make sure that the desired results materialise. To assist engineers and architects in the early phases of a project, the platform also uses site information and other data from Autodesk's data repository.
The ability of Forma to create design concepts in a matter of minutes as opposed to days is one of its key advantages. Automating analyses of the wind, daylight, and other environmental factors enables this. Forma is a group of tools intended to assist users in producing higher-quality results rather than just one AI system.
In addition to hosting data created by Forma's own tools, it also hosts Revit data as well as federated data that comes from the Internet of Things and other sources. In the future, Forma will natively support granular data models from all of Autodesk's product lines, including Revit, enabling Forma to interact with these model entities directly without the need for conversion.
The Forma platform is based on technology from Spacemaker, which Autodesk purchased in 2021. To increase its flexibility in conceptual and manual modelling, it also incorporates elements of Autodesk's FormIt conceptual modelling tool. A Forma subscription costs $180 per month, $1,445 per year, or $4,335 for three years.
Forma has many advantages, but it also may have some disadvantages or restrictions. While the platform can ingest data output from other Autodesk tools like AutoCAD and Revit, the connection does require converting between the Forma and Revit formats using plugins. The platform is still primarily focused on the planning phase. Autodesk intends to fix this problem in upcoming releases, though.
Additionally, according to Autodesk, Forma's upcoming releases will include tools for estimation and construction as well as brand-new technology created specifically for preconstruction and building operations. This suggests that Autodesk is devoted to enhancing and extending the capabilities of the Forma platform on a constant basis.
In conclusion, Autodesk's Forma platform, with its emphasis on data-driven decision-making, automation, and collaboration, offers a promising new approach to AEC workflows. But as it is used and tested by professionals in the industry, it is likely to encounter difficulties and criticisms, just like any other new technology. It will be intriguing to watch how Autodesk resolves these problems and develops the platform moving forward.
Q: What makes Forma different than other AEC design software?
A: Forma is unique in its approach to AEC workflows. Unlike traditional file-based work environments, Forma operates with design data on a granular level via cloud-based APIs. It also provides outcomes for noise, energy, and lighting analysis at the beginning of the design process, not at the end, using artificial intelligence tools to ensure these outcomes become reality.
Q: How can Forma benefit AEC firms of different sizes?
A: Forma can benefit AEC firms of all sizes by streamlining design iterations and facilitating collaboration among team members. Its ability to develop design concepts in minutes rather than days can save significant time, and its data-driven approach can help engineers and architects make better decisions in the early stages of a project.
Q: What level of technical expertise is required to use the Forma platform?
A: While the exact level of technical expertise required to use Forma is not specified in the source article, it's reasonable to assume that users would need a basic understanding of AEC workflows and Autodesk's software ecosystem. However, the platform is designed to be user-friendly and to streamline the design process, suggesting that it may be more accessible than traditional design software.
Q: What are the costs associated with using Forma?
A: The cost of a Forma subscription is $180 monthly, $1,445 annually, or $4,335 for 3 years.
Q: How is Autodesk addressing data security concerns with Forma?
A: The source article does not specifically address how Autodesk is handling data security concerns with Forma. However, as a leading software company, Autodesk likely has robust security measures in place to protect user data.
Q: What future developments or updates can we expect to see with Forma?
A: Autodesk has stated that future releases of Forma will have tools for estimation and construction, as well as entirely new technology developed around the processes of preconstruction and building operations. This suggests that Autodesk is committed to continually improving and expanding the capabilities of the Forma platform.