Table of Contents
Introduction to Forma Build Essentials
On March 25, 2026, Autodesk officially launched Forma Build Essentials, a Build-category product within the Autodesk Forma platform, delivered under a quantity-based licensing model (per number of users). This solution focuses on core on-site tools, enabling construction teams to set up projects quickly and efficiently.
Key Benefits of Forma Build Essentials:
- Fast deployment: Streamlined project setup with minimal administrative effort, allowing teams to get started quickly.
- Field-focused workflows: Provides essential tools such as daily reporting, issue tracking, form management, and access to drawings, models, and project documents.
- Simplified user experience: A clean, intuitive interface that helps site teams adopt the system quickly without extensive training.
- Mobile support: Enables viewing of drawings, 3D models, and documents on mobile devices, even in offline mode.
Product Transition Roadmap and New Naming
Starting March 24, 2026, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) has been rebranded as Forma, leading to updates in the Build product portfolio as follows:
- Build - 550 becomes Forma Build 550
- Build - 5000 becomes Forma Build 5000
- Build - Unlimited becomes Forma Build
Detailed information on the transition roadmap:
At the same time, from May 7, 2026, Forma Build 550 and Forma Build 5000 (including packages bundled with PlanGrid or BIM 360 entitlements) will be officially discontinued for both new purchases and renewals. Customers planning to renew these products will be guided to transition to Forma Build Essentials or Forma Build, depending on their needs.
Feature Comparison: Forma Build Essentials vs. Forma Build
Forma Build Essentials focuses on essential on-site functionalities, while Forma Build provides a full suite of construction project management tools.
- Both versions operate within the same Forma project environment and share a unified data platform.
- When users with a Forma Build Essentials account attempt to access features not included in their plan, the system will display access restriction notifications.
For more details and a full feature comparison, please visit:
Recommendations for Customers Using Forma Build 550 and 5000
Ahead of the discontinuation of Build limited-sheet packages, OneCAD recommends that customers consider the following options:
- Option 1: Renew Forma Build 550 and 5000 in April 2026 (prior to the distribution end date) for licenses that will expire within the next 90 days. Upon renewal, the system will automatically extend the subscription term accordingly, ensuring no loss of remaining usage time even when renewed early. However, Autodesk and OneCAD do not recommend this option for long-term planning, as these packages come with sheet limitations and will not be eligible for renewal in 2027.
- Option 2: Transition to Forma Build (Recommended) or Forma Build Essentials when your current Forma Build 550 or 5000 licenses approach expiration. These newer offerings provide greater flexibility and are not limited by the number of sheets, allowing teams to scale more effectively based on project needs.
