Microsol Resources, a leading provider of technology solutions for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) firms, is proud to announce that it will join its parent company, Graitec Group, at Autodesk University (AU) 2025 in Nashville, TN, from September 16–18, 2025.
This year’s conference theme, The New Era of Making, will highlight the latest advancements in AI, data-driven decision-making, sustainable practices, and achieving more with less. As a Diamond Sponsor of AU 2025, Graitec will showcase the power of innovation and implementation on the show floor—bringing the future of BIM, automation, and project delivery to life.
The event also marks an important milestone for Microsol Resources, following its recent acquisition by Graitec Group.
Exclusive Discount Offer
Register through Graitec for a special discounted rate of $1,799 (regularly $2,250). Request your discount code today and email microsolinfo@graitec.com!
Visit Us at Booth #220
Attendees can connect with Microsol Resources and Graitec experts at Booth #220 in the Expo Hall to explore:
Live Demos: See how Graitec solutions supercharge Autodesk workflows—from design to fabrication and beyond.
Tech Talks: Gain practical tips for both long-standing customers and new users.
Innovative Tools: Experience solutions spanning Autodesk software integrations, Ideate Software, Strucsoft, Advance Design, File Sync, and more.
Prizes & Giveaways: Enter for a chance to win Meta Glasses, a custom cowboy hat, cowboy boots, and other exciting prizes.
Presentations: Check out the various sessions led by Graitec’s thought leaders, including Manuel Liedot, CEO of Graitec, and other industry experts.
VIP Party: BIM & Boots
Don’t miss Graitec’s exclusive VIP Party: BIM & Boots, an evening of networking, entertainment, and Nashville flair.
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Time: 6:30–9:30 PM
Location: Nashville Live! (just steps away from Music City Center) Expect live country music, line dancing, games, an open bar, great food—and yes, even mechanical bull riding.
Extended Reality (XR) is an umbrella term that encompasses other immersive visualization technologies, such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). It integrates digital information with the real world in real-time, creating environments ranging from slightly augmented to entirely virtual.
In the construction industry, XR technologies are becoming increasingly useful, not just as visualization tools but as comprehensive solutions for enhancing productivity, safety, and collaboration. Now, with the recent releases of state-of-the-art AR headsets like Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest 3, there has never been a better moment for construction companies to adopt XR into their daily workflows. Let’s take a look at some of the specific benefits that design and construction firms can expect by adopting XR into their daily workflows.
Benefit 1: Enhanced Visualization and Planning
Extended Reality provides the incredible ability to create and interact with 3D models, leading architects, and engineers to a better understanding of spatial relationships and the impact of their designs within the actual environment. Augmented reality (AR) overlays project detailed architectural designs directly onto the construction site, providing a live, interactive view of how proposed structures interact with existing landscapes. This immediate, on-site visualization helps identify and rectify potential design conflicts early, reducing costly reworks and ensuring structural integrity.
Integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM) with XR technologies allows all project stakeholders to visualize complex structures in detailed virtual environments. Stakeholders can inspect architectural elements from multiple perspectives, simulate different scenarios, and see the real-time effects of changes, enhancing collaborative decision-making and planning accuracy. This level of detail and precision extends to assessing how new construction projects will affect existing buildings and infrastructure, an essential component for planning approvals and community relations.
Benefit 2: Improved Collaboration
Effective collaboration is essential for engineers, architects, contractors, and clients. XR tech significantly enhances the way these parties communicate and coordinate, moving past traditional barriers like physical distance and differing technical backgrounds. By utilizing mixed reality headsets, team members can enter a shared virtual environment where they can interact with a project’s digital twin. This virtual representation includes real-time updates and data overlays, providing a comprehensive and common understanding of the project’s progress and challenges.
This immersive XR environment facilitates real-time problem-solving and decision-making, allowing changes to be visualized and assessed instantly by all stakeholders.
For example, in a group review session, if an engineer spots a potential issue with the HVAC system’s layout, adjustments can be made immediately, and the architect and client can review their implications simultaneously. Interactions like these streamline the design and construction processes and foster a more cohesive project environment, leading to fewer misunderstandings and delays.
Benefit 3: Streamlined Progress Capture
Keeping track of a construction project’s progress is crucial for managing timelines, budgets, and labor. XR technologies are transforming how progress is monitored and recorded, offering tools that allow real-time comparison of the actual construction against its digital twin. Managers can virtually walk through the construction site, viewing overlaid 3D models that highlight deviations from the original design, enabling immediate corrections and updates.
Digital twins also serve as an important tool in this process, providing a detailed virtual replica of the construction site that can be analyzed at any time. This continuous virtual presence on-site helps identify discrepancies early, preventing minor issues from becoming costly overruns. The ability to document and share progress in a virtual format also streamlines reporting processes, ensuring all stakeholders stay well-informed and can quickly make decisions based on the most current data.
Benefit 4: Enhanced Safety and Training
Safety is another top concern in the construction field. Extended reality offers practical tools to enhance safety protocols and training programs. Immersive XR technologies simulate various site conditions and potential hazards within a controlled, virtual environment.
New employees can experience realistic work scenarios before ever stepping foot on-site, from navigating complex construction landscapes to handling emergency situations. These simulations are designed to closely mimic real-world conditions, providing practical training that prepares workers for the physical and mental challenges of the construction environment.
Additionally, ongoing safety training can be conducted regularly with XR to address new risks or procedures, reinforcing safe practices without exposing workers to actual danger. This approach helps reduce workplace accidents and ensures compliance with safety regulations, ultimately fostering a safety-first culture within the workforce.
Challenges of XR Implementation in Construction
Adopting extended reality in construction offers substantial benefits but also presents several challenges. Overcoming these challenges requires both financial investment and a significant shift in organizational culture to fully embrace digital transformation.
Initial Investment Costs: The initial expenses for VR and AR hardware can be substantial, which may deter some construction companies, especially smaller firms, from investing in these technologies.
Specialized Training: Effective use of XR tools requires specialized training. Workers need to be proficient in handling advanced technological tools, which can add to project costs and complexity.
Integration with Existing Systems: XR technologies should seamlessly integrate with existing systems and workflows. This integration can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring updates or replacements of current systems.
Cultural Shift: Construction and design firms must undergo a cultural shift to adopt and adapt to new technologies. Resistance to change can be a significant barrier to leveraging the full potential of XR technologies.
FAQ’s
What Is Extended Reality Development?
Extended Reality development involves creating applications that blend virtual and real environments. This process includes programming, designing, testing, and deploying construction software that can run on various XR hardware like headsets and AR glasses.
What Is the Difference Between XR and AR?
XR, or extended reality, is the overarching term that includes all forms of combined real and virtual environments (including AR and VR). AR, or augmented reality, specifically refers to a technology that overlays digital information onto the real world, enhancing a user’s perception of reality.
Can XR Technology Improve Project Sustainability?
Yes, XR technology can significantly enhance construction sustainability. By enabling precise simulations and virtual visualizations, XR helps optimize material usage and minimize waste. It facilitates energy-efficient building designs through advanced modeling techniques. Additionally, virtual meetings and site visits reduce the need for travel, lowering carbon emissions. Together, these practices ensure better adherence to environmental standards, contributing to more sustainable construction outcomes.
What are the Best XR Programs for Design and Construction?
Enscape and Autodesk Workshop XR are two great options for enhancing design and construction processes with XR.
Enscape: This real-time rendering and VR plugin works with popular modeling software like SketchUp and Autodesk Revit. It allows for easy creation of immersive 3D walkthroughs, helping designers and clients visualize projects in a realistic environment without complex programming.
Autodesk Workshop XR: Workshop XR focuses on collaborative project review and management within a first-person virtual environment. It allows construction teams to interact with their models in a shared virtual space, facilitating real-time adjustments and discussions, making Workshop XR ideal for complex project coordination.
How Does XR Benefit Cost Management in Construction?
XR can significantly impact cost management by reducing errors through improved visualization, enhancing communication to prevent rework, and streamlining the monitoring of project timelines and resources. These efficiencies ultimately lead to better budget adherence and reduced financial risk.
Over the past few years, companies like OpenAI and Nvidia have redefined what AI (artificial intelligence) is capable of. Little by little, AI tech is making its way into nearly every modern industry, and construction is no exception. With its capacity for machine learning, automation, and predictive strategies, software engineers have started embedding AI into construction planning and management programs, which has proven to be a huge benefit for modern contractors.
What Should You Look For in AI Construction Software?
Choosing the right AI-powered construction software can have a direct impact on the success of your projects. When choosing a program, look for one that balances automation, real-time data analysis, customization, and scalability.
Automation Capabilities
The primary benefit of AI in construction is its ability to automate repetitive tasks, which saves time and reduces human error. Automation can apply to various aspects of the construction process, such as:
Scheduling and Planning:AI tools can automatically generate and adjust project schedules based on real-time data and resource availability.
Cost Estimation: Automated cost estimation ensures accuracy and helps in budgeting and procurement.
Document Management: AI can manage and organize project documents, reducing the time spent on administrative tasks.
Real-Time Data Analysis
Real-time data analysis is crucial for making informed decisions quickly. AI construction software should provide the following:
Live Updates: Real-time insights into project progress, resource utilization, and potential issues.
Predictive Analytics: Tools that use historical data and AI algorithms to predict future trends, helping you anticipate and mitigate risks.
Dashboards and Reports: Customizable dashboards and reports that present data in a user-friendly manner for straightforward interpretation.
Scalability and Customization
As your projects grow, your software should be able to scale accordingly.
Scalability: The software should handle increasing amounts of data and users without compromising performance.
Customization: Look for tools that allow you to customize features and workflows to suit your specific project needs.
Let’s Review Each Tool
These AI-powered tools cover a range of applications, including design, planning, and management, helping construction managers optimize their workflows and enhance productivity.
Autodesk Forma is a cutting-edge AI-driven tool designed for the early stages of planning and design. It uses advanced simulations to analyze building performance, focusing on sustainability and energy efficiency. By utilizing AI technology, Forma helps architects and planners make data-driven decisions that enhance the overall performance and sustainability of their projects. This tool is especially useful for urban planning and large-scale construction projects where early-stage design decisions can significantly impact long-term outcomes.
Key Feature:
AI-driven simulations for energy efficiency and sustainability.
Benefits:
Enhances project planning with real-time data
Improves building performance and sustainability
Reduces planning time
User Experience:
Users appreciate the robust analytics and the ability to make data-driven decisions early in the project lifecycle.
Pricing:
Microsol Resources prices begin at $190 per month or $1500 for a yearly subscription.
Autodesk Fusion 360 is a robust cloud-based tool that combines CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) in a single platform. AI gives Fusion 360 generative design capabilities, allowing engineers and designers to explore multiple design alternatives simultaneously.
Key Feature:
Generative design capabilities that leverage AI to explore design alternatives.
Benefits:
Streamlines the design process
Reduces material costs and waste
Enhances collaboration with cloud-based features
User Experience:
Fusion 360 is praised for its intuitive interface and comprehensive features, making it a favorite among design professionals.
Pricing:
Subscription-based pricing starts at $85 per month or $680 per year for a single-user license.
Procore
Procore is a comprehensive construction management platform that integrates various aspects of project management, from planning to execution. The AI features in Procore enhance project management by providing predictive analytics that help forecast project timelines, costs, and potential risks.
Key Feature:
AI-powered predictive analytics for project timelines and cost management.
Benefits:
Improves project visibility and control
Enhances communication among stakeholders
Reduces risk of delays and cost overruns
User Experience:
Procore is known for its robust feature set and ease of use, making it a go-to choice for construction firms of all sizes.
Pricing:
Pricing varies depending on the field of construction.
OpenSpace
OpenSpace is an AI-powered tool that automates site documentation and project tracking using 360-degree photo capture. This technology allows for effortless documentation of the construction site’s progress, which can be accessed and reviewed remotely. OpenSpace is ideal for construction managers who need to keep track of multiple job sites or complex projects. The AI algorithms in OpenSpace analyze the captured images to provide insights on project progress, safety compliance, and potential issues, ensuring that project stakeholders are always informed.
Key Feature:
Automated progress tracking and documentation.
Benefits:
Saves time on site documentation
Enhances project transparency
Reduces safety hazards through better site monitoring
User Experience:
Users love the ease of capturing and accessing site data, which improves overall project management.
Pricing:
Contact OpenSpace for a customized quote.
Joist
Joist AI is a specialized tool aimed at improving cost estimation and procurement processes in construction. AI algorithms help Joist provide highly accurate cost estimates and takeoffs, which are crucial for budgeting and resource planning, making it ideal for contractors and project managers who need precise financial projections to ensure project feasibility and profitability. Joist AI also streamlines the procurement process by providing real-time data on material costs and availability.
Key Feature:
AI-powered cost estimation and takeoffs.
Benefits:
Accurate and fast cost estimates
Simplifies procurement processes
Reduces risk of cost overruns
User Experience:
Joist AI is valued for its accuracy and the significant time savings it provides during the preconstruction phase.
Pricing:
Joist is available in three versions. The Basics plan is free, while Pro plans cost $14 per month, and Epic plans cost $32 per month.
Zepth
Zepth is an AI-driven project management tool designed to optimize construction workflows and reduce project risks. It offers a comprehensive suite of features that include risk management, schedule optimization, and real-time communication tools. Zepth’s AI capabilities help construction professionals and stakeholders anticipate and mitigate risks, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Key Feature:
AI-powered risk management and workflow optimization.
Benefits:
Improves project planning and execution
Reduces risks and enhances safety
Streamlines communication and documentation
User Experience:
Zepth is praised for its comprehensive features and ability to improve project outcomes through AI insights.
Pricing:
Zepth is available in three price brackets. The Basic plan is free, the Pro plan is $99 per month, and the Enterprise plan is customizable to fit the needs of large-scale projects.
AI Tools are Setting New Standards for Architectural Design
As machine learning improves and software engineers develop new algorithms, AI-powered tools will become a standard for competitive construction companies. If you are interested in how AI can push your construction firm forward into the digital age, check out Microsol Resources’ extensive library of available software from the leading brands in architectural, engineering, and construction AI tools.
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