Esri, a provider of geographic information system (GIS) technology and location intelligence, has released ArcGIS for Autodesk Forma. Part of a longstanding partnership with Autodesk, this new integration introduces Esri’s authoritative geospatial reference data into Autodesk Forma to transform design and planning for architecture, engineering, construction and operations (AECO) professionals. ArcGIS for Autodesk Forma will allow easier collaboration by providing users with a single design environment without switching between platforms.
“We’re excited to strengthen our partnership with Autodesk in creating a more cohesive project experience for the AECO industry,” said Kathleen Kewley, Esri director for AEC global business development. “This will improve operational efficiency and drive better business outcomes by bringing Esri’s rich collection of data into Autodesk Forma.”
ArcGIS for Autodesk Forma will serve as an Autodesk extension, incorporating geographic data and geospatial services that enable greater analytics and insights into Autodesk offerings. With ArcGIS as a key part of design and construction, professionals will have deeper, more holistic understanding of projects connected to the social, built, and natural worlds, the company said. The new application empowers GIS and non-GIS specialists with access to maps, layers and other spatial data within Forma. Included are Esri’s ArcGIS basemaps and select data layers from ArcGIS Living Atlas of the World — a collection of globally sourced geographic information.
“AECO professionals who use Autodesk Forma will now be able to quickly update projects with the most up-to-date GIS data available,” said Eric DesRoche, director of infrastructure business strategy at Autodesk. “With access to the most accurate and current geographic information during the conceptual design stage, users can design with location in mind and ultimately deliver projects that are more sustainable, resilient and can better support local communities.”
The combination of GIS and building information model (BIM) technologies during early design and planning stages will also bring teams advanced understanding and visualization of projects. This will enable them to more effectively reduce costs and timelines.
