New cloud tools let non‑Revit users add and write custom properties to model elements
A major update to a cloud AEC data model has entered a public beta that lets teams add and write custom properties to model elements without opening or changing the Revit file itself. The change aims to make it easier for more project participants to contribute data to models, reduce file size growth, and keep sensitive authoring files cleaner and smaller.
What changed and why it matters
Project information needs are growing fast. As buildings and infrastructure projects collect more types of data, the old habit of stuffing everything into one Revit file is showing limits. To respond, the cloud‑native AEC data model now offers a GraphQL‑enabled API in a public beta that allows users to extend element‑level data and attach new properties through the cloud.
The most important effect is that contributors who do not use Revit can append or write data tied to specific model elements without making copies or editing the original file. That means cost estimates, production details, or site observations can live alongside model elements but outside the authoring file, cutting model bloat and helping to protect intellectual property when models are shared.
How the extensibility works
The beta expands the AEC Data Model API with GraphQL extensibility. This lets systems and apps add custom fields and populate them via direct API calls. Reading and reporting on element properties already exists; the new write capability moves beyond read‑only access and allows changes to be pushed back into the cloud data layer.
Those updates are available both through APIs for integrators and within the construction cloud product interface so teams can use the approach that fits their workflows. The vendor frames this as a first step to separate model information access from the original authoring tool, opening model data to a broader set of stakeholders.
Practical benefits for project teams
- More stakeholders can add or use model data without learning or opening Revit.
- External systems — for example, costing databases — can append cost data to model elements without inflating the Revit file.
- Smaller authoring files reduce transfer time and exposure of sensitive content when sharing with partners.
- Cloud‑native permissions and data management extend common data environment (CDE) control to granular element data.
How to get involved
The extensibility feature is in a public beta that invites customer testing and feedback. Interested teams can sign up for the Extensibility Public BETA. Joining the beta typically includes receiving product updates and agreeing to privacy terms. A public roadmap is also available so users can see planned work and vote on future ideas.
Content Catalog: the new integrated UNIFI Pro
Alongside the API beta, a cloud‑based Content Catalog rolled out as an integrated version of an existing third‑party content manager. It centralizes vetted BIM content and Revit families in a single place inside the Docs environment, helping teams find the right objects faster and enforce firm standards.
Content Catalog is included at no extra cost for Docs subscribers but is limited at launch to hubs using the US data storage location. Support for other storage regions such as the EU and Australia will arrive later. The vendor provides demos and a knowledge base with setup and content strategy guidance.
Other product updates in the release set
Product notes also call out updates to a major 2D/3D drafting product that highlights improved productivity tools, AI assist features, and broader cross‑platform support for desktop, web, and mobile. The drafting product includes automation for repetitive tasks, AI tools for markups and block suggestions, and a set of industry toolsets designed to speed common workflows. Studies cited by the vendor suggest significant productivity gains for specialized toolsets, though results may vary by user and system.
Industry context and related market moves
The update comes amid broader industry activity: a construction software provider focused on prefabrication and off‑site construction was acquired by a larger group expanding its construction portfolio. That deal emphasizes the market shift toward modular and off‑site methods as labor shortages and productivity pressures drive adoption of industrialized construction, robotics, and data‑driven production tools.
Availability and scope
The cloud AEC data model has been active on thousands of projects since its launch and is available to all Docs subscribers. The vendor notes continuing expansion of features and encourages customers to activate the data model on their project hub to use the new capabilities inside the environment teams already use.
Where to learn more
The announcement includes links to beta signups, demos, a knowledge base, and a public product roadmap. These resources are intended to help teams test the API, explore the Content Catalog, and plan adoption in existing project workflows.