Cloud beta lets non‑Revit users append and write custom model properties

AEC Data Model API Beta: GraphQL extensibility and multi‑tool collaboration

The central idea of the new beta is to extend the element‑level data that a project holds, using a GraphQL extensibility approach that lets teams add custom properties to model elements via API connections. This capability is designed to work not only inside the Revit environment but across multiple experiences and tools, including cloud interfaces, so information can be authored and read without modifying the Revit file directly. In practice, this means stakeholders can contribute data to a model element from external systems—such as a costing database or scheduling tool—without inflating the underlying model file and compromising its integrity.

Autodesk positions this as a first step toward decoupling some authorship activities from the constraint of a single authoring application. The AEC data model is described as cloud native, enabling the collaborative definition and management of model data that lives beyond individual desktop files. The beta includes a public pathway for developers and customers to try writing data back into models through API calls, expanding beyond the current read access that has already been demonstrated. A video demonstration shows how non‑Revit users can update important project information in a controlled, API‑driven manner.

In simple terms, the beta aims to unlock meaningful changes in how properties are created and populated across tools like Revit and other design or construction platforms. By allowing external systems to append information to a model element or its properties, teams can reduce the tendency for data to duplicate in multiple places and improve consistency across the project data ecosystem. Autodesk notes that this approach can support increasingly data‑driven delivery requirements and more efficient data governance across AECO workflows.

From read to write: expanding API capabilities and governance

Current API capabilities already support reporting on properties and values, but the new beta is positioned to enable two‑way data exchange. The write capability is described as robust and intended to enhance model data management practices, aligning with broader digital delivery goals in AECO projects. At the same time, customers are invited to participate in the Extensibility Public BETA, providing feedback to shape the future direction of data modeling features. Autodesk maintains an active public roadmap for the AEC data model, inviting users to explore upcoming plans and vote on requested functionality.

As part of the ecosystem shift, Autodesk emphasizes that customers retain control of where data resides. External appended data can live outside the core Revit file, potentially reducing file size and helping protect sensitive information when models circulate among stakeholders. Aimed at broadening participation, the beta and related tools are described as accessible to a wider set of project contributors, not just those with Revit expertise.

Content Catalog integration: a cloud‑based single source of truth

Content Catalog is presented as a cloud‑based digital asset management tool designed to provide a singular source of truth for BIM content, including Revit families. It serves as the integrated Autodesk version of UNIFI Pro and is available to Autodesk Docs subscribers at no extra cost, with geographic storage limitations at launch. Initially, access is limited to customers storing data in the US data storage location, with EU and Australia storage access to follow.

The central aim of Content Catalog is to simplify management, distribution, and discovery of up‑to‑date BIM content. Centralization helps enforce firm‑wide standards and improves the accuracy of deliverables by ensuring teams access vetted assets from a common repository. A fast demo and a knowledge base are provided to help administrators install and configure Content Catalog, manage content strategy, and handle ongoing governance. The catalog is designed to reduce the time teams spend locating BIM content, freeing more time for design and coordination tasks.

AutoCAD and the broader Autodesk ecosystem: productivity and AI enhancements

AutoCAD remains a cornerstone tool for precision 2D drafting and 3D modeling, with cross‑platform support across desktop, web, and mobile. AutoCAD’s toolkit includes APIs, AutoLISP, and add‑on apps, with seven industry‑specific toolsets aimed at electrical, plant, architecture, mechanical, and other disciplines. The product line emphasizes automation of drafting tasks, AI‑assisted features, and integrated workflows that enable design sharing and markup capture without altering the original design. A related push highlights AutoCAD’s AI‑assisted capabilities, with transparency notes describing which features rely on machine learning and where data handling occurs. Students and educators can access free educational licenses for a limited period, reinforcing Autodesk’s ecosystem‑wide emphasis on accessibility and learning.

The AutoCAD ecosystem also highlights productivity boosts through toolsets, AI‑driven drafting aids, and cross‑device collaboration, including secure link sharing and streamlined publishing to Autodesk Docs. A variety of system requirements, versions, and platform support details are provided to help users plan deployments and transitions between desktop, web, and mobile environments.

Manufacton and ALLPLAN: a strategic move in offsite construction

In parallel with new data‑centric features, the market saw a notable move in the construction software landscape: ALLPLAN’s acquisition of Manufacton, a platform focused on prefabrication and off‑site construction (DfMA/OSC). The integration is described as strengthening ALLPLAN’s presence in the United States and expanding opportunities for work across Europe and the Asia Pacific region. Manufacton’s cloud platform emphasizes real‑time visibility for offsite production workflows, supported by analytics and data‑driven decision making. Its modules cover project planning, production management, materials control, and logistics, and the platform already integrates with major tools in the AECO software stack, including Oracle Primavera Cloud and software from Autodesk, Procore, Trimble, and others.

Industry observers note that rising labor shortages in western economies are pushing more projects toward modular and offsite approaches. The acquisition is framed as aligning with broader trends toward industrialized construction, robotics, and AI‑assisted processes. The move is expected to broaden Manufacton’s reach into Europe and the Asia Pacific region as part of a broader Nemetschek Group strategy.

Roadmaps, engagement, and how to participate

Autodesk has published a public roadmap for the AEC data model, inviting users to explore upcoming capabilities and to vote on new features. The Extensibility Public BETA provides early access for testing and feedback, with participants agreeing to receive the AEC newsletter and to privacy terms upon subscribing. Activation instructions are available for enabling the AEC data model on a hub, and there are guidance resources for Docs users who want to take advantage of Content Catalog and related experiences. The ecosystem encourages ongoing customer input as a vital driver for product development.

Overall, the announcements reflect an intent to expand access to model data, improve collaboration across tools and teams, and accelerate data‑driven project delivery within a common data environment. As these features move toward wider release, users can expect additional demonstrations, knowledge articles, and deeper integrations across Autodesk Docs, AutoCAD, and partner platforms.

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