Explore How ACC Autodesk Cloud is used for BIM coordination
Building Information Modeling (BIM) has revolutionized how construction professionals design, plan, and execute projects. With multiple disciplines contributing to a single project model, seamless coordination becomes crucial. Enter the Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC)—a unified cloud platform that connects project teams and data in real-time across all stages of construction.
This blog explores how ACC Autodesk Cloud is used for BIM coordination, from design collaboration and issue tracking to clash detection and field execution. We will also cover the tool’s history, features, integrations, pricing, and how it’s transforming the way BIM teams work.
What is Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC)?
A Brief Overview
Launched as the successor to BIM 360, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is Autodesk’s flagship cloud platform designed for end-to-end construction management. It unifies the capabilities of BIM 360, PlanGrid, BuildingConnected, and Assemble into a single ecosystem.
ACC connects project stakeholders through a centralized hub where files, models, issues, RFIs, and workflows are accessible in real time from anywhere in the world.
Headquarters and History
Autodesk, founded in 1982 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, is the parent company of ACC. While BIM 360 served as Autodesk’s initial cloud-based BIM coordination platform, ACC was launched in 2020 to offer broader and more integrated solutions across the AEC industry.
What Products Are Included in ACC?
ACC is a suite of tools, including:
- Autodesk Docs – Document management
- Autodesk BIM Collaborate / Collaborate Pro – Design and model coordination
- Autodesk Build – Project management and field collaboration
- Autodesk Takeoff – Quantity takeoffs and estimation
- Autodesk Insight – Data analytics and forecasting
Each product focuses on specific phases of the project lifecycle but integrates seamlessly into a central platform.
Pricing of Autodesk Construction Cloud
Pricing for ACC tools varies based on the number of users, modules, and scope of access. In 2025, typical annual license costs are:
- Autodesk Docs: $400–$600 per user/year
- BIM Collaborate: $1,000–$1,500 per user/year
- BIM Collaborate Pro (with Revit Cloud Worksharing): $1,600–$2,000 per user/year
- Autodesk Build: $1,200–$1,800 per user/year
- Enterprise packages: Custom pricing
Discounts are available for education and bulk licensing.
Key Features of ACC for BIM Coordination
1. Cloud-Based Document Management with Autodesk Docs
Autodesk Docs is the backbone of ACC’s document control system. It offers:
- Centralized cloud repository
- Role-based access permissions
- Version tracking and file comparison
- Support for 2D, 3D, PDF, DWG, RVT, and IFC files
- Approval workflows for document publishing
All stakeholders—from architects to contractors—can view the latest models and documents, eliminating version confusion.
2. Model Coordination with BIM Collaborate
ACC’s Model Coordination module allows users to aggregate models from different trades, detect clashes, and manage issues. Features include:
- Federated 3D model viewing
- Automatic clash detection across disciplines
- Issue tracking integrated with Revit and Navisworks
- Issue assignment, commenting, and status updates
- Model comparison across different design iterations
Coordination can begin as early as schematic design and continue through construction.
3. Revit Cloud Worksharing (via BIM Collaborate Pro)
One of ACC’s most powerful features is its support for cloud-based Revit collaboration. BIM Collaborate Pro enables:
- Real-time Revit model co-authoring
- Synchronization across multiple offices
- Change tracking and rollback
- Team model management in the cloud
Design teams no longer need a shared local server—everything is hosted securely on the cloud.
4. Clash Detection and Issue Management
ACC automates clash detection using its Model Coordination feature. Users can:
- Schedule clash tests
- Visualize and group clashes
- Assign issues to team members
- Export reports and dashboards for coordination meetings
It removes the dependency on external software for many coordination tasks.
5. Integration with Other Autodesk Tools
ACC integrates natively with:
- Revit
- AutoCAD
- Navisworks
- Civil 3D
- Autodesk Desktop Connector
It also supports APIs and third-party integrations like Procore, RIB, Microsoft Teams, and more.
6. Field Collaboration with Autodesk Build
Once on-site, ACC’s Build module connects field teams with real-time BIM data. Features include:
- Viewing 2D/3D models on mobile devices
- Markups, issues, and RFIs
- Daily logs, checklists, and punch lists
- Progress tracking and photos
This closes the loop between design and execution.
7. Analytics with Autodesk Insight
Autodesk Insight provides dashboards for tracking:
- Open vs. resolved issues
- Clash frequency
- Schedule delays
- Submittal and RFI timelines
- Team responsiveness
These insights help in decision-making and continuous improvement.
How ACC Autodesk Cloud is Used for BIM Coordination
1. Early Design Coordination
Designers upload discipline-specific models (architectural, structural, MEP) to ACC. With clash detection and version comparison, teams identify conflicts early—before they impact the budget or timeline.
2. Federated Model Aggregation
Using BIM Collaborate, teams combine various trade models into a single federated model. This provides a holistic view of the project and highlights spatial interdependencies.
3. Automated Clash Detection
Scheduled clash detection runs help identify issues without manual effort. Conflicts are logged as issues and automatically assigned to the responsible stakeholder. This structured process ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
4. Live Collaboration Across Locations
Teams in different offices or countries can work on the same Revit model simultaneously using BIM Collaborate Pro. Changes sync instantly, reducing lag and rework.
5. Field Issue Tracking and Verification
On-site staff access updated models on tablets and can raise issues, update statuses, or complete punch lists. Integration with the main BIM coordination environment ensures that field observations are logged and resolved efficiently.
6. Client and Consultant Review
ACC allows external stakeholders to access live models through role-based permissions. They can view, comment, and participate in coordination without editing the original models.
7. Construction Progress Monitoring
Daily logs, checklists, and model updates are linked in real time, allowing for better monitoring of construction progress against planned schedules.
Benefits of Using ACC for BIM Coordination
- All-in-one cloud platform for BIM
- Real-time collaboration across teams and geographies
- Automated clash detection and issue tracking
- Deep integration with Revit and Navisworks
- Mobile-friendly interface for field coordination
- Dashboards for data-driven decision-making
- Improved version control and approval workflows
Limitations of ACC
- Requires strong internet connectivity
- Subscription cost may be high for small teams
- Learning curve for users transitioning from BIM 360
- Limited customization of certain dashboards
- Some features (like Revit worksharing) require Pro licenses
ACC vs Other BIM Coordination Tools
| Feature | ACC | Navisworks | Revizto |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cloud-Based | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Clash Detection | ✅ (Automated) | ✅ (Manual) | ⚠️ (Imported) |
| Revit Collaboration | ✅ | ⚠️ (Linked only) | ⚠️ (Viewer only) |
| Mobile App | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Issue Management | ✅ | ⚠️ | ✅ |
| Cost Efficiency | ⚠️ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Field Integration | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
ACC provides a full-cycle solution—from design to field to analytics—making it one of the most comprehensive BIM coordination platforms today.
Real-World Case Studies
Case Study 1: Smart Hospital in Europe
The project involved over 40 consultants across 6 countries. ACC facilitated cloud-based Revit collaboration, automated clash detection, and model issue tracking. The team reduced coordination time by 35% and avoided major MEP clashes.
Case Study 2: Mixed-Use Tower in Canada
Using ACC, contractors performed daily coordination meetings with updated federated models. The ability to log and resolve issues directly in the cloud helped reduce change orders by 28%.
Who Should Use ACC?
- Architects and Designers: For real-time Revit collaboration
- BIM Managers: For clash detection and model coordination
- Project Managers: To track progress, RFIs, and submittals
- Contractors: For site validation and mobile access
- Clients and Owners: For transparency and access to live data
Conclusion
The need for efficient BIM coordination is growing rapidly as construction projects become more complex. Autodesk Construction Cloud offers a powerful, unified solution that connects all stakeholders, workflows, and data in a single platform.
By understanding how ACC Autodesk Cloud is used for BIM coordination, AEC professionals can streamline communication, reduce rework, and keep their projects on time and on budget. With real-time collaboration, clash detection, mobile support, and robust analytics, ACC is not just a tool—it’s a digital foundation for smarter construction.
If your firm is ready to embrace a fully connected, cloud-based approach to BIM, Autodesk Construction Cloud is the powerhouse solution that future-proofs your coordination workflows.
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