Autodesk Build provides a toolset for managing, sharing, and accessing project documents that result in streamlined workflows between the office, trailer, and job site. You can track the quality and safety of the project with issues and forms. Use RFIs, submittals, and meetings to manage the flow of information in the project. You can even track progress as the project evolves.
Autodesk Build also connects to preconstruction workflows in Autodesk BIM 360, BIM Collaborate, BIM Collaborate Pro (Design Collaboration and Model Coordination), and Cost Management for collaborating on designs, coordinating models, and managing costs.
What is Autodesk Build?
Autodesk Build delivers a deep and connected set of field collaboration and project management tools for builders. These tools are delivered in a single, cloud platform that is easy to deploy, adopt and use while keeping information sharing and workflows controlled and configurable.
The Autodesk Build subscription includes:
Autodesk Docs which unifies the Autodesk Construction Cloud platform of products with a common data environment. This centralizes file management, providing users with seamless navigation and integrated workflows to create a single source of truth across the project lifecycle.
Insight: Delivers analytics from the data collected and analyzed, as well as the ability to export that data; encompasses Construction IQ artificial intelligence to identify and mitigate risk.
Administration: Provides centralized user management and permissions, templates, and other tools for project setup, as well as a single authentication method for any unified product.
Autodesk Build also includes the PlanGrid Build mobile app, empowering teams to complete tasks from anywhere on the job site with seamless access to all project data, even when offline.
The Autodesk Build subscription is available in three sheet plans:
Build 550: You can access up to 550 sheets across all projects
Build 5000: You can access up to 5000 sheets across all projects
Build Unlimited: You can access an unlimited number of sheets
Your sheet count is the total number of sheets that you have access to in the Sheets tool across all projects that you are a member of. Add and delete sheets as long as you stay below the maximum number of sheets allowed by your plan. All sheets, including all versions, count toward your sheet plan limit. Files hosted in the Files tool do not count against your sheet limit.
What is Autodesk Build Used for?
Document Management
The following document management releases are exclusive to Autodesk Build:
Files | Minimap on Mobile – Similar to the web functionality, members on mobile can view a 2D map of their model while they navigate in 3D. This 2D minimap appears at the top of your phone screen. Members can also move the blue dot on the 2D model to adjust their viewing of the 3D model.
Files | Gyroscope on Mobile – Members can leverage their mobile device’s built-in gyroscope to experience an immersive interaction with their models while in the field.
Files | Levels Navigation on Mobile – Members can utilize the up and down arrows to easily navigate between levels within their model.
Files | Improved Properties Display on Mobile – While viewing a 3D model on mobile, members can see a list display that highlights the properties (constraints, dimensions, etc.) within the model.
Files | Joystick Toggle for Mobile – While viewing a 3D model on mobile, members can collapse the joystick via the toggle button on the console menu (right-hand side of the mobile screen). This enhancement allows members to maximize their viewing experience.
Sheets | Export links with Markups and Auto-callouts – Members on the web can now see two new checkboxes, “Include hyperlinks” and “Include Auto-callouts” on the sheet export configuration panel. From there, exported PDFs highlight any linked markups to simplify the process of accessing needed information.
Project Management
Meetings | Edit Meetings on Mobile – Members can edit general meeting information on their mobile devices.
Submittals | Watchers Enhancements – Members can add watchers when creating a submittal item, will see the default watcher, and have the ability to bulk add watchers.
Submittals | Cover Pages – Cover pages can now be added to submittal attachments. Members can add a blank page, upload their preferred cover page or leverage the built-in cover page that has all relevant submittal information. Once the cover pages are created, members can annotate and add their own stamps.
Submittals | Status Summary Report – Members can create a new report highlighting the status of submittal items. The Status Summary report summarizes the status of submittal items by company.
Submittals | New Filters – Members can now filter Submittal Items by Responsible Contractor and Manager.
Schedule | Share Schedule Views – Members can share a filtered schedule view instantly from the web with other project members.
Schedule | Filter activities by references (web) – Members can now filter by activities that contain references, as well as filter by specific reference type.
Schedule | Turn on reference column (web) – Members can now enable the reference field as a column when viewing the schedule.
Schedule | Add vertical lines for milestones (web) – Members can now add vertical lines for milestones when viewing the schedule in Gantt view.
Schedule | List Improvement (web) – Members can now sort schedules by name on the thumbnail page as well as view the schedules in the list view.
Schedule | Add References in iOS – Members can now link references to schedule activities in iOS such as Photos, Files, Sheets, Assets, and Issues.
Schedule | View Schedule in Android – Members can now access the Schedule tool on Android.
Photos | Additional Autotags (Beta) – 4 additional tags – wiring, lighting, insulation, and heavy equipment – that will be automatically applied to existing project photos as well as new photos uploaded into the gallery.
Handover/Assets
Assets | Linked Markups on Sheets – When creating a markup on a sheet, members can directly link an asset to the markup.
One of the most significant hurdles for home design professionals in the construction industry is figuring out which software is the right choice for their projects. For compatibility, there are Microsoft and Mac software programs to choose from. These can range from basic, open-source design tools to advanced programs with add-ons and plugins. Some construction software can even be complemented with AI, getting new functionality and allowing for more streamlined processes. Then there is the cost to consider, which can be free to tens of thousands of dollars.
Another issue is that many of these computer-aided design software tools are designed to simulate different things. They work in different phases of the construction process, meaning you need to know how each phase evolves when making the best choice for your workflow. Either way, once you understand the general CAD software principles, it is easier to understand and pick up new CAD software.
There are many different types of construction design software, and they are generally categorized by which profession they are made for.
Top Software
Software for a civil engineer won’t work the same way when the chief architect uses it. You also need to understand building information modeling (BIM), which is the general category that most construction CAD software falls into. However, your choice for architectural design, interior design, and building design software in the industry will always start with your specific situation.
AutoCAD
Software for reliable 2D and 3D drafting
While not specifically built for construction, AutoCAD is the grandfather of professional CAD software. Over the years, it has set the trends in this industry and paved the way for other user-friendly programs such as SketchUp. It has toolkits for many industries, but its architecture toolset is notably quite advanced. With this tool, you can design 2D and 3D models. You can also do things like compare drawings and count objects. AutoCAD also makes it easy to do 2D floor plans, 3D floor plans, elevations, and 3D designs. It gives you all the tools you need to create a useful 3D model that represents what you are trying to create.
Rhino
An affordable entry-level CAD system
Rhino is used by architects and engineers to design, model, present, and analyze various projects. It has multiple editing modes, meaning you can utilize NURBS or traditional geometric tools to create blueprints. It also meshes with a whole host of CAM, engineering, and rendering suites. The best thing about this program is how affordable it is compared to its competition. It even has integration with various digital fabrication tools. For example, it can be utilized with 3D printing equipment.
Autodesk Navisworks Manage
Coordination software that includes clash detection and advanced collaboration
Autodesk Navisworks Manage is an industry leader in advanced collaboration and clash detection. It allows users to combine all design and construction data (architectural, civil, MEP, etc.) into a single model without the dreaded lag common with other programs. This function offers exploration of aggregate models in real-time for advanced visualization and clash detection—a tool that identifies and reports any cross-discipline interferences (clashes). Many users report these features being invaluable both in the early and finishing stages of the design process.
Autodesk Construction Cloud
A construction software bundle for budget-friendly collaboration
Autodesk Construction Cloud is a series of software that supercharges projects with cloud-based collaboration. This different software saves designers time and money by streamlining the entire construction from bid to build—gone are the days of manually tracking changes and managing model updates.
Get your project off to the right start with Autodesk Takeoff to create competitive bids and do in-depth material cost analysis.
Then, once your project is underway, manage construction and field execution with Autodesk Build.
Additionally, the Autodesk Construction Cloud solutions also offer Autodesk Assemble to query and connect BIM data to key workflows. Autodesk Construction Cloud solution is ideal for both large and small businesses—keeping all team members up-to-date throughout the project lifecycle.
Revit
The industry standard for BIM software
Revit is one of the most commonly used tools in the industry. It specifically offers BIM functionality that can be used by construction professionals, civil engineers, and architects. There are many tutorials and walkthroughs available that make it easy to learn, but there is a bit of a learning curve for people just getting started. However, this is mainly because this tool has everything a professional could ever need—meaning it will take many years to master.
There are also plenty of tools for collaboration, meaning you no longer need to be in the same place to work with other engineers and architects on design projects. Additionally, it offers the same simulation and building management functionality you would expect from traditional parametric CAD modelers. If you could only choose one tool to get, this would be the one needed to manage everything in the building lifecycle.
Autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro
Cloud-based collaboration between AEC teams across Autodesk products
Autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro focuses on connecting architectural, engineering, and construction teams. This cloud-based platform makes it easier for AEC teams to connect, collaborate, and create high-quality models in real time on a single platform. The main benefit of this software is that team members can implement changes at any time and from any place in AutoCAD Plant 3D, Civil 3D, Revit, and more.
CAD Pro
2D and 3D home design tools for remodeling and building
Cad Pro provides high-quality drawing tools for remodeling and building. You can even evaluate your designs quickly using built-in tools. This home design software is made for traditional homeowners looking for a powerful CAD solution to help them build or improve their current homes. It offers features that make drawing, visualizing, and collaborating easy. It is the perfect bridge between a powerful professional system and one that doesn’t have the features needed to do anything useful. Finally, it is also an excellent tool for creating landscapes, patios, and other outdoor designs.
Autodesk AEC Collection
A diverse collection of top AEC software
The Autodesk AEC Collection is designed to tackle all design aspects of projects—from design to construction. It bundles the top programs to ensure that designers, engineers, and construction professionals have cloud-based BIM and CAD tools at their fingertips. This collection includes Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Navisworks Manage, InfraWorks, and more. Beyond the cloud-based capabilities and robust tool set, a considerable benefit of this collection is that it saves you thousands of dollars compared to buying the included programs separately.
Conclusion
There are plenty of CAD modeling tools and software for design and construction. However, note that there is generally no need to have them all—a few should be enough for most projects. The key is to determine your needs as a designer and the needs of your project.
If you are looking for the best of the best, you won’t go wrong with Autodesk Revit. Then there is AutoCAD, which is excellent for working with everything from basic 2D designs to 3D renderings. However, beginners may find more value in the budget-friendly Rhino3D. Need to enhance collaboration ease? The Autodesk AEC Collection or Autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro are good choices.
With the diverse software available, there is truly an option for every design situation. Do you have any questions? Contact us.
In the construction industry, being able to manage project documents efficiently has a significant impact on productivity and project success. Construction document control software helps streamline this process, ensuring that every stakeholder, from architects to general contractors, can access the latest version of blueprints, RFIs, submittals, and other essential project files.
By centralizing document management, these tools reduce the risks of miscommunication and errors, which are common in projects involving numerous team members and complex workflows.
Criteria for Selecting Construction Document Control Software
When choosing the right construction document management software for your team, it’s important to focus on features that meet your project’s specific needs. Effective software should enhance your workflows, increase your ability to share documents and manage revisions and permissions seamlessly across all project stages. Here are five key components to consider when choosing a document management program.
A Common Data Environment
A unified platform where all project information is stored not only helps maintain a single source of truth but also simplifies access to the latest data for all stakeholders, thereby minimizing errors and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Integration Capabilities
The best document management solutions offer robust integrations with other systems, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, and various cloud storage options, facilitating a smoother project lifecycle.
User Interface and Mobile Accessibility
An intuitive user interface reduces the learning curve and enhances user adoption. Accessibility across devices ensures that project team members can view and update data from the office or construction site.
Automation and AI Integration
Automating routine tasks such as data entry, document sorting, and version control can save time and reduce human error. AI enhancements can further analyze data to predict project challenges and offer insights, which can be crucial for project management.
Autodesk Docs is part of the Autodesk Construction Cloud, seamlessly integrating with BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools and other Autodesk products. This software supports a comprehensive array of file types and offers extensive markup tools, making it a versatile choice for construction document management. Its integration capabilities guarantee that all stakeholders are working from a consistent data set, enhancing coordination and reducing errors.
Pricing: One-year subscriptions offered by Microsol Resources start at $500.
Pros:
A robust version control system tracks all revisions meticulously.
The intuitive interface simplifies the use of complex features.
Cons:
Pricing may be prohibitive for smaller firms.
A steep learning curve requires significant training for new users.
ProjectReady offers centralized project information management and integrates well with popular platforms like SharePoint, Salesforce, and other CRM software. This software centralizes project documentation, streamlining access and control over project documents across multiple platforms without the need for duplicate data entry.
Pricing: Customizable pricing is available to meet the needs of your firm. Contact ProjectReady for more information.
Pros:
Streamlines document control workflows, enhancing team collaboration.
Seamless integration with existing CRM and project management systems.
Cons:
Limited customization options in some software modules.
PandaDoc excels in document automation, particularly in the quick creation of contracts and proposals with integrated e-sign capabilities. This makes it an ideal tool for obtaining permits and approvals.
Pricing: PandaDoc offers essentials their essentials plan at $19 per month, or their business plan for $50 per month, the ideal plan for documents in bulk.
Pros:
User-friendly platform with efficient automation tools.
Reduces manual work and potential human errors.
Cons:
It is more tailored to document creation and management than detailed construction document control.
Civils.ai leverages artificial intelligence to provide insights that aid decision-making and project management for civil engineering projects. It supports real-time collaboration, allowing team members to work simultaneously on projects with immediate updates.
Pricing: Individual licenses can be purchased from Civils.ai for $250 per year. Customizable rates are also available for larger firms.
Pros:
Innovative AI usage provides predictive insights for project management.
Ideal for large-scale and complex civil engineering projects.
Cons:
Newer software versions may face integration challenges with established systems.
Cloudsfer is designed for seamless cloud data migration and management between different cloud storage services. This flexibility is particularly useful for construction professionals in the field, where data is often dispersed across various systems.
Pricing: Cloudsfer offers plans based on storage space, starting at $25 per month for 25 GB and ranging up to $250 per month for a 250 GB plan, with an added charge of $0.75 per additional GB.
Pros:
Quick setup and user-friendly interface streamline the migration process.
Cons:
Primarily focuses on data migration rather than ongoing document management.
It may not integrate as deeply with construction-specific tools like BIM software.
Primarily focused on jobsite management, FieldWire includes task scheduling, blueprint viewing, and progress tracking. It’s designed to facilitate day-to-day operations on construction sites, supporting real-time updates and communications.
Pricing: With available annual or monthly payment options, FieldWire is incredibly flexible. Basic plans are free and designed “For small teams wanting to try out Fieldwire’s core features.” Pro plans are $54 per month, business plans cost $74, and business plus accounts are available at $94 monthly.
Pros:
Mobile-first design enhances usability in field settings.
Great for real-time management and communication on Jobsites.
Cons:
Focuses less on document control and more on task and site management.
Take Control of Your Construction Documents
Selecting the right construction document control software can transform how your project operates, offering you a competitive edge over your competition. By centralizing document management, automating essential tasks, and ensuring easy access to project documents and blueprints, these tools empower construction teams to focus on the actual building aspects of a project with greater efficiency and less overhead.
Features the latest informative and technical content provided by our industry experts for designers, engineers, and construction firms and facility owners.
