The construction industry has been transformed by digital tools that enhance collaboration, improve accuracy, and streamline project management. Two of the most prominent platforms at the forefront of this transformation are Autodesk BIM 360 and the Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC). While they are often mentioned together and even share many features, they are distinct solutions with their own evolution, capabilities, and ideal use cases.
In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the key differences, similarities, and use cases of BIM 360 and Autodesk Construction Cloud, helping you decide which platform suits your construction or BIM workflow best.
What is BIM 360?
BIM 360 is a cloud-based platform made by Autodesk that helps people working on construction projects stay connected and organized. It’s mainly used by architects, engineers, and construction teams to share designs, manage documents, and keep track of project quality—all in one place.
Think of it like a digital hub where everyone involved in a project can work together, even if they’re not in the same office or on the same job site. It comes with different tools like BIM 360 Docs, Design, Coordinate, and Build, each focusing on a different part of the construction process. For example, some tools help teams share and review drawings, while others help manage day-to-day construction tasks or spot clashes in the design before building even starts.
BIM 360 was created to solve a big problem in construction: miscommunication between teams. In the past, designers and builders often worked separately, which led to delays, mistakes, and wasted time. With BIM 360, everyone works on the same updated files in real time. So when someone makes a change to a model or drawing, everyone else sees it too. That means fewer errors, better teamwork, and smoother projects from start to finish.
What is Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC)?
Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is basically the next step after BIM 360. It’s an all-in-one platform that helps manage the entire construction process, from the very first design to the final building operation. It brings together all the stages of a project, making it easier for everyone involved to stay on the same page.
ACC includes several newer tools like Autodesk Docs, Autodesk BIM Collaborate, BIM Collaborate Pro, Autodesk Build, Autodesk Takeoff, and Autodesk Insight. These tools focus on different parts of the construction process, such as managing documents, collaborating on designs, building plans, tracking progress, and even analyzing project performance.
One of the biggest advantages of Autodesk Construction Cloud is that it offers a much smoother and more modern user experience than its predecessor, BIM 360. It’s designed to be more scalable, so it can easily grow with your project’s needs, and it performs better with faster speeds and improved integration between different tools. In short, it’s all about making construction projects run more efficiently, with everything you need in one place.
The Evolution: From BIM 360 to ACC
Autodesk first introduced BIM 360 back in the early 2010s. At the time, it quickly became one of the most popular platforms for cloud collaboration in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. It helped project teams stay connected and share important project information more easily. But as time went on, the needs of construction professionals changed. There was more demand for stronger data management, better integrations with other tools, and smoother, more efficient workflows. To meet these needs, Autodesk launched the Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC).
Here’s a quick timeline of how it all unfolded:
- 2018–2020: Autodesk started releasing new cloud-based tools under the ACC name. These tools offered more features and a better way to handle the growing demands of the construction industry.
- 2021: Autodesk officially started positioning ACC as the future of its cloud construction platform. They wanted to make it clear that this was the next generation of their platform, built to handle everything from design to operations more effectively.
- 2022 and beyond: Autodesk began encouraging users of BIM 360 to make the switch to ACC. While they still continued to support BIM 360 for a while, the focus shifted to ACC as the new and improved solution for managing construction projects.
Core Features Comparison of BIM 360 and ACC
When comparing BIM 360 to Autodesk Construction Cloud, both platforms offer many of the same core features, but ACC takes it to the next level with more advanced tools and a smoother experience.
| Core Features | BIM 360 | Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) |
|---|---|---|
| Document Management | Uses BIM 360 Docs to manage and share documents. | Uses Autodesk Docs, which is more streamlined and better integrated with other tools. |
| Design Collaboration | Uses BIM 360 Design, a tool for collaborating on design models. | Upgraded to BIM Collaborate Pro, offering enhanced design collaboration features and real-time feedback. |
| Coordination/Clash Detection | Uses BIM 360 Coordinate to spot clashes or coordination issues in designs. | Uses BIM Collaborate, which offers improved clash detection and model coordination. |
| Field Management | Field management is handled with BIM 360 Build. | Now uses Autodesk Build, which is more robust and user-friendly for field workers. |
| Project Insights | Offers BIM 360 Insight, giving basic project performance analytics. | Offers BIM 360 Insight, giving basic project performance analytics. |
| Quantity Take-off | Does not have a built-in quantity takeoff tool. | Includes Autodesk Takeoff, which allows teams to estimate and track quantities directly from the design models. |
| Schedule Management | Offers basic scheduling tools. | Comes with advanced scheduling tools that allow for better tracking and updates throughout the project. |
| User Permissions | Permissions are based on user roles and folders. | Provides more granular control over permissions, so you can manage access more precisely. |
| Integration | Integrates with a limited number of Autodesk and third-party tools | Offers extensive integration, working smoothly with a wide range of Autodesk products and external software. |
| Mobile Support | Has a native app specifically for BIM 360. | Offers a native app as well, but with a better user experience and more features. |
| Platform | Built on Autodesk’s Forge platform. | Also built on Forge, but with an improved and more powerful architecture. |
While both platforms cover similar needs, Autodesk Construction Cloud shines when it comes to large projects with lots of stakeholders. It’s more refined and gives you a smoother, unified experience across different stages of construction.
User Interface and Experience of ACC and BIM 360
When it comes to the look and feel of the platform, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) has made some big improvements over BIM 360. The interface in ACC feels fresh, clean, and much easier to use. Everything is laid out in a more organized and intuitive way, which makes it quicker to find what you need—even if you’re not super tech-savvy. Navigation has been simplified, so you don’t have to click through multiple layers just to access a tool or document. The dashboards are unified across different tools, which means everything looks and works in a more consistent way no matter which module you’re using.
ACC also comes with better filtering and search options, making it easier to find specific files, issues, or data without wasting time. Plus, you get more ways to customize your views and reports, so teams can tailor the platform to suit their workflow or preferences.
On the other hand, BIM 360’s interface, while still functional, feels a bit outdated in comparison. Since its modules were developed at different times, each one has its own slightly different look and layout. This can sometimes make the platform feel a bit disconnected or harder to get used to—especially for new users. Overall, ACC offers a much smoother and more user-friendly experience.
Data Management and Workflows of BIM 360 and ACC
BIM 360 has been known for offering solid data management features. It supports detailed file versioning, which means you can easily track changes and go back to earlier versions if needed. It also allows users to add markups, coordinate models, and leave feedback directly within the platform. User roles, permissions, and project settings are handled through a tool called Project Admin, which works well but can feel a bit separate from the rest of the workflow.
One of the challenges with BIM 360 is that each of its modules—like Docs, Build, or Coordinate—kind of operates in its own space. They’re not fully integrated, which can sometimes lead to data silos. That means some information might get stuck in one module and not flow smoothly to others, causing confusion or duplicated work.
Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) changes that in a big way. It’s built on a Common Data Environment (CDE), which simply means that all tools and teams are working from the same central set of data. Whether you’re in design, preconstruction, or out in the field, everyone is accessing the same information in real time. This reduces the chances of errors and ensures that everyone is working on the most up-to-date version of the project.
ACC also brings in stronger workflow automation for things like RFIs (Requests for Information), submittals, and transmittals. These tasks are more connected and easier to manage, which helps keep the project moving forward without delays. Since all data and tools are tightly linked, transitions between phases—like moving from design into construction—feel much more seamless.
This kind of interconnected system not only saves time but also makes it easier to audit changes, avoid duplication, and keep every team member aligned from start to finish.
Integration with Autodesk Products
One of the big improvements in Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is how well it integrates with other Autodesk tools and even third-party platforms. Back in the day, BIM 360 Design was the go-to option for teams using Revit Cloud Worksharing—a feature that lets multiple users work on the same Revit model at the same time, from different locations. Now, in ACC, that same functionality is available through BIM Collaborate Pro. It not only does what BIM 360 Design did but does it faster and more reliably. Plus, it connects better with other ACC tools, making the whole experience smoother and more efficient.
When it comes to AutoCAD, Navisworks, and other tools, ACC steps things up with more powerful and flexible integrations. It uses APIs and something called Autodesk Construction Cloud Connect to link up with a wide range of apps and platforms. That means you can easily connect your work with tools like Power BI, Procore, Box, Dropbox, Plangrid, and many others. Whether you’re analyzing data, sharing files, or managing tasks, ACC makes it easier to bring everything together in one place.
Autodesk has also been investing in technologies like Forge and Data Exchange, which help teams share data across different platforms and even automate certain workflows. This makes life a lot easier for teams working on complex projects, because they can keep all their tools in sync without jumping through hoops.
Pricing and Licensing of BIM 360 and ACC
When it comes to pricing, BIM 360 used to follow a more traditional approach. You had to buy licenses separately for each module—like Docs, Design, Build, or Coordinate—depending on what your team needed. It was a subscription-based model, and the cost would vary based on how many users you had and how much you used the platform. While it gave teams some flexibility, managing multiple subscriptions could get a bit confusing or expensive over time.
On the other hand, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) still works in a modular way, but it gives you more options and flexibility. You can still purchase individual modules like Build, Takeoff, or BIM Collaborate, but there’s also the option to get everything bundled through the AEC Collection. This is great because Autodesk Docs, the core document management tool, is included by default when you get the AEC Collection—so you’re already starting with a solid base.
ACC also introduces more flexible pricing tiers, especially for tools like Build, Collaborate, and Takeoff, which allows teams of different sizes and budgets to choose what works best for them. Over time, this model gives better value for money because you’re getting more features, smoother performance, and stronger integration with other tools—all in one ecosystem.
So while both platforms require a subscription, ACC makes it easier to scale up or down, depending on your project needs, which is a big plus for growing companies or firms handling multiple projects at once.
Security and Compliance
When it comes to keeping your project data safe, both BIM 360 and Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) are built on Autodesk Forge, which is Autodesk’s secure cloud platform. That means both offer enterprise-level security, making sure your files, models, and communications are protected at all times.
Both platforms share several important security and compliance standards. For example, they are compliant with ISO 19650, which is a global standard for managing information through the lifecycle of a construction project. They’re also SOC 2 Type II certified, which means they’ve been audited for how well they handle data securely over time. On top of that, both are GDPR compliant, helping companies meet strict data privacy laws, especially in Europe. Other shared features include role-based access controls, which let you control who can see or edit what, and encryption both in transit and at rest, meaning your data is protected whether it’s being sent or stored.
Where ACC really stands out is in the extra layer of detail and control it offers. ACC includes enhanced audit logs, which means you can see exactly who did what and when. This kind of user activity tracking is super helpful when you need to troubleshoot an issue or review how a decision was made. ACC also comes with stronger admin tools, making it easier for enterprise-level teams to manage users, permissions, and projects across the entire organization.
In short, while both platforms are secure and compliant, ACC gives you more visibility and control, especially if you’re managing large or complex projects.
Which One Should You Use?
Choosing between BIM 360 and Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) really depends on where you are in your project journey and what your team needs right now.
You might want to stick with BIM 360 if you’re already deep into a project that’s been running on it. Maybe your files, workflows, and team are all set up there, and switching platforms in the middle of things could slow you down or cause confusion. If your team is already trained and comfortable with BIM 360’s layout and tools, it might make sense to finish out the current project before moving on. BIM 360 still works well and is being supported, especially for existing users.
But if you’re starting a new project, it’s a great time to choose Autodesk Construction Cloud. ACC gives you more powerful tools, smoother workflows, and stronger collaboration across different teams—from design and planning all the way to construction and final handover. It’s built to connect every stage of a project in one shared environment, which helps avoid confusion, reduces rework, and keeps everyone on the same page.
ACC also offers new modules that you won’t find in BIM 360, like Takeoff for estimating quantities and Insight for smart project analytics. These tools can make a big difference, especially for growing teams or firms handling complex builds.
Autodesk has been clear about it: ACC is the future. It’s more scalable, better integrated, and designed to meet the needs of modern construction projects. So if you’re planning ahead and want to get the most out of your technology, ACC is the way to go.
Conclusion
BIM 360 really changed the game when it first came out. It was one of the first platforms to bring cloud collaboration to the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) world, and it helped teams work together in ways that weren’t possible before. For years, it’s been a solid, reliable choice—especially for teams already working on long-term projects.
But as construction projects have become bigger, faster, and more complex, the need for a smarter, more connected platform has grown. That’s where Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) steps in. ACC isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a whole new experience built for the way modern teams work today. It connects every phase of a project, from planning to building to handover, in one smooth, data-driven environment.
To put it simply:
- BIM 360 is still dependable, especially if you’re mid-project or your team is already used to it.
- But ACC is the future. It’s more powerful, better integrated, and full of tools designed to improve teamwork and productivity.
- If your company wants to stay ahead, improve workflows, and work smarter—not harder—it’s worth making the switch to ACC.
And the good news? Autodesk is constantly updating and improving ACC. That means more automation, better insights, and even AI features that help you make smarter decisions as you go.
Whether you’re an architect designing the vision, an engineer solving technical challenges, a contractor managing the build, or an owner overseeing it all—choosing the right platform makes a huge difference. Now that you know what each one offers, you’re in a great spot to choose what fits your team best.
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