In the world of construction, design and collaboration are more intertwined than ever. With complex architectural models, engineering inputs, and coordination across multiple teams, getting everyone on the same page is no small feat. That’s where Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) comes in—a powerful suite of tools designed to bridge the gap between design and site execution.
But is Autodesk Construction Cloud right for your business? And what if your needs go beyond what off-the-shelf platforms can offer? Let’s take a closer look—and explore how a custom-built software solution might be the more sustainable option.
What Is Autodesk Construction Cloud?
Autodesk Construction Cloud is a collection of integrated tools built for the entire construction lifecycle—from preconstruction planning and design to on-site execution and project handover. At its core, it aims to improve collaboration, data sharing, and coordination across teams.
Key features include:
- BIM Collaborate – Centralise building information modelling (BIM) data, streamline clash detection, and enable real-time design reviews.
- Build – Manage RFIs, submittals, punch lists, and site diaries to keep everyone aligned on project progress.
- Takeoff – Perform 2D and 3D quantification for accurate estimating and scope analysis.
- Docs – Store, manage and share all project documentation in a controlled environment with version history and access rights.
- Insight – Analyse project data to identify risk, delays, or bottlenecks with predictive analytics.
With tight integrations into AutoCAD, Revit, and other Autodesk design tools, ACC is a natural fit for firms heavily invested in Autodesk’s ecosystem.
Where Autodesk Construction Cloud may fall short
There’s no doubt ACC is feature-rich, but it’s not without limitations—especially for contractors or businesses whose needs don’t fit neatly into the Autodesk model.
- Complexity and training requirements – ACC is not a plug-and-play system. It often requires significant training time and dedicated staff just to manage the system.
- High cost of licensing – Particularly for smaller firms or subcontractors, the cost of seats, modules, and training can become difficult to justify.
- Rigid workflows – While ACC supports structured processes, it can struggle to accommodate non-standard workflows or business-specific requirements without custom development.
- Overdependence on the Autodesk ecosystem – If your business uses other design, scheduling, or document tools, integrating them into ACC can be limited or costly.
When to consider custom software instead
If you find yourself working around the limitations of Autodesk Construction Cloud—or simply not using all of what you’re paying for—it may be time to think about a bespoke software solution built to suit your exact needs.
A custom system allows you to:
- Streamline collaboration your way – Whether you’re using BIM, CAD, or simpler visual tools, build a platform that suits your team—not just Autodesk’s ecosystem.
- Simplify interfaces – Strip out unnecessary complexity so your project managers, engineers and clients can all navigate the system with ease.
- Work across platforms – Seamlessly integrate with the design, ERP, accounting or site management tools you already use.
- Lower your overheads – Avoid ongoing licence costs for unused modules and focus on a lean, effective tool that delivers real value.
- Own your data – With a custom platform, you have complete control over your project data, reporting, and access levels.
Shoothill: Building smarter systems for smarter construction firms
At Shoothill, we specialise in designing and developing bespoke software solutions that help construction companies reduce friction, eliminate duplication of effort, and gain a competitive edge.
If you’ve outgrown the rigid structure of Autodesk Construction Cloud—or simply need something more focused on your way of working—get in touch. We’ll help you scope, build and launch a system that supports your business from design through delivery.
Talk to Shoothill today about your custom construction software.
