Two Different Approaches
Arkan and Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) serve construction management from different starting points: Arkan as a purpose-built project management platform for UAE, ACC as part of Autodesk's design-to-construction ecosystem.
Platform Overviews
Autodesk Construction Cloud
Background:
- Part of Autodesk's AEC portfolio
- Evolved from BIM 360 platform
- Integration with Autodesk design tools
- Global enterprise presence
Components:
- Autodesk Build (project management)
- Autodesk Docs (document management)
- Autodesk Takeoff (quantity takeoff)
- Additional modules
Approach: Design-centric platform leveraging Autodesk ecosystem.
Arkan
Background:
- Purpose-built for UAE/GCC construction
- Project management focused
- Regional workflow specialization
- Local support presence
Approach: Project execution platform built for regional construction practices.
Feature Comparison
Document Management
| Feature | Arkan | ACC |
|---|---|---|
| Version control | Yes | Yes |
| Transmittals | Yes | Yes |
| BIM viewing | Basic | Advanced |
| Arabic support | Native | Limited |
Project Management
| Feature | Arkan | ACC |
|---|---|---|
| Submittals | Comprehensive | Yes |
| RFIs | Full workflow | Yes |
| Inspections | Mobile-first | Yes |
| UAE approval chains | Native | Configuration |
BIM Integration
| Feature | Arkan | ACC |
|---|---|---|
| Model viewing | PDF/Basic | Native 3D |
| Design coordination | Limited | Advanced |
| Clash detection | No | Via Navisworks |
| Revit integration | No | Native |
Use Case Alignment
ACC Strength: BIM-Heavy Projects
Best for:
- Projects with extensive BIM requirements
- Design-build delivery
- Heavy Autodesk toolchain usage
- Coordination-intensive design
Arkan Strength: UAE Project Execution
Best for:
- UAE workflow requirements
- Multi-stakeholder collaboration
- Cost-effective access for all parties
- Rapid implementation needs
Pricing Considerations
Autodesk Construction Cloud
Model: Per-user subscription
- Module-based pricing
- Different tiers available
- Additional cost for premium features
Consideration: Full access for all project participants can be expensive.
Arkan
Model: Per-project licensing
- Unlimited users included
- All modules included
- Predictable costs
Consideration: Better value for multi-stakeholder UAE projects.
Integration Landscape
ACC Integration
- Native Autodesk tools (Revit, Civil 3D, Navisworks)
- Partner integrations
- API availability
Arkan Integration
- Primavera P6 (critical for UAE)
- API for custom integration
- Growing ecosystem
Decision Factors
Choose ACC If:
- BIM is central to your workflow
- Heavy Autodesk tool usage
- Design coordination is primary need
- Budget accommodates per-user pricing
Choose Arkan If:
- UAE project management is primary need
- Multi-stakeholder access required
- Regional workflow fit matters
- Cost-effective collaboration needed
Complementary Use
Some organizations use both:
- ACC for design coordination
- Arkan for project execution
This approach leverages strengths of each but adds complexity.
UAE Market Considerations
BIM Adoption Reality
While BIM is growing in UAE:
- Many projects still 2D-centric
- BIM requirements vary by client
- Practical needs often outweigh BIM aspirations
Workflow Priority
For most UAE contractors:
- Submittals, RFIs, payments are daily work
- BIM coordination is periodic activity
- Access for all parties matters most
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ACC better because it has BIM?
Not necessarily. If your primary need is project management and collaboration, purpose-built tools may serve better than BIM-centric platforms.
Can I use Arkan with Autodesk design tools?
Yes, through document exchange. Deep BIM integration would require ACC or similar.
Which is easier to implement?
Arkan typically implements faster due to regional workflow alignment. ACC may require more configuration.
What about future BIM requirements?
Consider your realistic BIM needs versus aspirations. Start with current workflow requirements.
Conclusion
ACC excels for organizations heavily invested in Autodesk design tools and BIM workflows. Arkan excels for UAE project execution with multi-stakeholder collaboration needs. Choose based on your primary requirements rather than feature count.
Ready to evaluate Arkan for your projects?