Esri and Autodesk Strengthen Partnership with ArcGIS for Autodesk Forma, Empowering AECO Professionals with Seamless Spatial Data Integration
Esri, the global leader in geographic information system (GIS) technology and location intelligence, has announced the launch of ArcGIS for Autodesk Forma®, a groundbreaking integration that brings authoritative geospatial data directly into the design phase for architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO) professionals. This new development is part of Esri’s longstanding partnership with Autodesk®, further solidifying their shared commitment to transforming how spatial data is utilized in the AECO industry. By embedding Esri’s rich GIS content into Autodesk Forma, this integration creates a unified design environment, enabling seamless collaboration and eliminating the need to switch between platforms.
Bridging GIS and Design for Enhanced Project Outcomes
The integration of ArcGIS for Autodesk Forma represents a significant leap forward in connecting GIS data with the design process. This tool serves as an Autodesk extension, incorporating geographic data and geospatial services to provide deeper analytics and insights within Autodesk’s offerings. By integrating Esri’s authoritative geospatial reference data, professionals across the AECO spectrum can now access a more holistic understanding of their projects, linking them to the social, built, and natural environments.
“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.”
With ArcGIS for Autodesk Forma, users gain access to Esri’s ArcGIS basemaps and select data layers from the ArcGIS Living Atlas of the World, the premier repository of globally sourced geographic information. These resources empower both GIS specialists and non-specialists alike, enabling them to incorporate maps, layers, and other spatial data directly into their workflows within Forma. This accessibility ensures that every design benefits from the most accurate and up-to-date geographic information available.
Transforming Early Design and Planning Stages
One of the key advantages of this integration is its ability to enhance early design and planning stages by combining GIS and building information modeling (BIM) technologies. By leveraging GIS data during the conceptual design phase, AECO professionals can design with location in mind, leading to projects that are more sustainable, resilient, and supportive of local communities.
“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.”
For example, teams can visualize how proposed structures interact with existing infrastructure, natural landscapes, and community needs. This advanced understanding allows them to identify potential challenges earlier, reduce costs, and streamline timelines. Additionally, designs enriched with GIS data can be seamlessly shared from Autodesk Forma to Autodesk Revit® and other Autodesk solutions, ensuring continuity throughout the project lifecycle.
User-Friendly Interface for Broader Adoption
Another standout feature of ArcGIS for Autodesk Forma is its user-friendly interface, which makes spatial data accessible even to those with limited or no prior GIS experience. The tool’s intuitive design ensures that AECO professionals can easily incorporate public and proprietary spatial data into their workflows without requiring extensive training.
“Our augmented reality technology hinges on visualizations that function as counterparts to the physical world, so the seamless use of public and proprietary spatial data is critical for customers,” said Dana Chermesh-Reshef, founder and CEO of inCitu. “ArcGIS for Autodesk Forma’s interface is easy to use and responsive, while accessing data is intuitive for AECO professionals with even limited to no GIS experience.”
This accessibility democratizes the use of GIS data, empowering a broader range of professionals to leverage its benefits. Whether designing urban infrastructure, planning transportation networks, or developing sustainable buildings, users can now make informed decisions based on real-world geographic context.
Driving Sustainability and Resilience in AECO Projects
The integration of GIS data into the design process is not just about improving efficiency—it’s also about fostering sustainability and resilience. By incorporating location intelligence into early-stage planning, AECO professionals can create projects that align with environmental goals, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance community well-being. For instance, GIS data can help identify optimal locations for renewable energy installations, assess flood risks, or evaluate the impact of construction on local ecosystems.
Moreover, the ability to visualize and analyze spatial relationships enables teams to design projects that better integrate with their surroundings. This leads to outcomes that are not only functional but also harmonious with the natural and built environments.
Autodesk
Autodesk, the Autodesk logo, Autodesk Forma and Revit are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders.
About Esri
Esri, the global market leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, helps customers unlock the full potential of data to improve operational and business results. Founded in 1969 in Redlands, California, USA, Esri software is deployed in hundreds of thousands of organizations globally, including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, and universities. Esri has regional offices, international distributors, and partners providing local support in over 100 countries on six continents. With its pioneering commitment to geospatial technology and analytics, Esri engineers the most innovative solutions that leverage a geographic approach to solving some of the world’s most complex problems by placing them in the crucial context of location. Visit us at esri.com.
