Autodesk Forma is a cloud-based platform for early-stage building and site design that runs real-time environmental analysis, sun, wind, noise, daylight, and embodied carbon, as an architect adjusts a massing model. Autodesk launched Forma on May 8, 2023, merging the AI analysis engine from its acquired Spacemaker product with the conceptual modeling tools from FormIt.
A designer sets up a geolocated project pulling in real-world contextual data, then builds a 3D massing model directly in the browser; instead of exporting to separate analysis software and waiting on results, Forma recalculates environmental impact as the model changes, catching problems during concept design rather than after detailed drawings are underway. The platform now covers early-stage site planning under Forma Site Design, with building-design and industry-cloud extensions rolling out as Autodesk expands the product line.
Architects, urban planners, and AEC firms doing pre-design and schematic-phase work are the target users, particularly teams already inside Autodesk's ecosystem. Forma Site Design runs standalone at roughly $185/month, $1,500/year, or $4,500 for three years, or bundles into Autodesk's AEC Collection (with Revit, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D) at around $430/month or $3,430/year; there is no free tier.
