How Automation is Transforming Construction and Manufacturing Workflows

Something we are seeing more and more is the need to automate the repetitive, time-consuming tasks that take valuable engineering time away from higher-value work. Examples include project handovers, TIDPs in the construction sector, manufacturing transmittal requirements, and many other manual processes.

Within the construction industry, we are making increasing use of Autodesk Forma Connect, built on the low-code Workato platform. This enables us to create automations through the Autodesk Forma API as manual processes, scheduled jobs, or event-triggered workflows.   The possibilities are extensive. For example, information within a file can be automatically processed as soon as it is uploaded, triggering subsequent actions based on its contents. Recently, we worked with a client who needed to ensure that every file received from a subcontractor was reviewed and approved before updating links and Xrefs within their own design files. Using Autodesk Forma Connect, we created a workflow that detects when a subcontractor uploads a file, automatically changes its status to indicate that it requires review, and initiates an internal approval workflow assigned to the appropriate team member. This not only helps manage workloads more effectively but also significantly reduces the risk of unapproved files being linked into live projects before any issues have been identified and resolved.  

On the manufacturing side, we recently delivered a solution that automatically adds a QR code to every Autodesk Inventor drawing. The QR code links directly to the Autodesk Vault Professional Thin Client or Vault App, making it easy for shop floor personnel to verify they are using the latest approved documentation.

Manufacturing from outdated printed drawings remains an ongoing challenge. By introducing a simple QR code that can be scanned in seconds, users can instantly confirm whether a drawing is current, helping to reduce costly errors, wasted materials, and unnecessary production delays.

Using Man and Machine PDM Booster, we can create a wide range of automations that can be run manually, triggered by events, or scheduled to run automatically. In this example, the automation updates each Inventor drawing upon release to include a QR code that serves two purposes. Firstly, it directs the user straight to the latest version of the drawing within Autodesk Vault Professional Thin Client. Secondly, it immediately indicates whether the printed drawing in hand is the current revision.

If you have processes that could benefit from automation within Autodesk Forma or Autodesk Vault, we’d love to hear from you.

We’re always interested in understanding the bottlenecks facing design, construction, and manufacturing teams—no matter how small they may seem. By taking the time to understand why these challenges exist, how they are currently managed, and where manual effort is being spent, we can identify practical opportunities to streamline your workflows. Whether through Autodesk Forma Connect, PDM Booster, or bespoke automation solutions, we can help remove repetitive tasks and allow your teams to focus on more valuable work. Get in touch with your account manager today to arrange a conversation and explore what’s possible.