Autodesk University 2025 marked a pivotal moment for the AEC and construction industries. With AI soon to be deeply embedded across Autodesk’s platforms, attendees were invited to assess their own readiness for this transformation. Through an AI Readiness Assessment and post-event engagement, we uncovered how firms are navigating this shift—from early exploration to strategic implementation.
1. AI Is No Longer an Add-On, It’s Built In
Autodesk’s announcement of the upcoming Autodesk Assistant for Revit, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D signaled a new era: AI will soon be built directly into the design process. This assistant will use natural language to automate and simplify everyday tasks, helping teams design smarter, faster, and with fewer repetitive steps.
Attendee Insight:
- 62% of respondents rated their organization’s AI readiness as moderate or higher, showing growing confidence in AI’s role.
- Only 12% considered their organization highly ready, revealing a gap between enthusiasm and full-scale adoption.
- “We’re still in the AOL days of AI; it’s fun and exciting, but 3–5 years from now, we all sense the landscape will look completely different.”
Our Take: Before teams can utilize AI holistically, understanding how tools connect and interact is a critical first step.
2. The Rise of the Connected Ecosystem
AU 2025 showcased Autodesk’s evolving ecosystem called Forma is becoming an AI-native platform uniting design, data, and construction. Revit is evolving into a connected client. Autodesk Docs is positioned as the central data hub, breaking down silos and strengthening collaboration.
Attendee Insight:
- 58% of organizations reported some level of system integration across departments.
- Among those in advanced AI maturity stages, over 80% had integrated workflows enabling better data flow and collaboration.
Our Take:
Understanding how your tools connect today sets the stage for scalable AI adoption tomorrow.
3. From Outputs to Outcomes
A core message from AU 2025 was clear: the future is not about producing more, it’s about delivering better. Firms are focusing on how to make smarter, data-driven decisions. enable teams to do more with the teams they already have in place, and create lasting value through continuous learning and optimization.
Attendee Insight:
- 47% of respondents said their organization uses external training to build AI-related skills.
- Organizations with in-house software development capabilities scored 20–30% higher in AI readiness showing a strong link between technical depth and strategic outcomes.
Our Take:
Firms that invest in building internal technical literacy are the ones best positioned to see long-term transformation.
4. Data-First Design Is the Future
Autodesk emphasized the importance of granular, interoperable data; the foundation for smarter automation, analytics, and collaboration.
Attendee Insight:
- 69% of respondents use cloud platforms, with hybrid cloud being most common among AI-mature firms.
- 54% rated their data reliability for decision-making as high or very high, while 46% cited concerns around data quality and consistency.
Our Take:
Understanding the gaps in your data strategy is key to improving reliability and ensuring your firm is ready when the right AI solutions arrive.
5. Sustainability and Lifecycle Intelligence
AU 2025 demonstrated how BIM data now powers digital twins and lifecycle insights connecting design, operations, and sustainability.
Attendee Insight:
- Only 28% currently use BIM for lifecycle or operational insights, but nearly 70% plan to expand into digital twin strategies within 12–18 months.
Our Take:
Owners are now more empowered than ever to turn project data into actionable insights for the full life of their buildings closing the gap between construction and operation.
Conclusion
Attendees at AU 2025 made one thing clear: AI isn’t just the future—it’s the present imperative. While readiness levels vary, the momentum is undeniable. From embedded AI tools to connected ecosystems and data-first workflows, the AEC industry is shifting toward intelligent, outcome-driven design.
With Autodesk leading the way and ARKANCE supporting firms through education, integration, and transformation the path forward is clear: it’s time to turn potential into performance.