A simulation plays your schedule against the model over time. It steps through the schedule using the activity and model object links to show and hide objects as their dates arrive, so the building appears as the Gantt chart progresses.

Use a simulation to:

• Watch construction progress visually instead of reading dates in a list
• Spot sequencing issues
• Communicate the plan without separate 4D software

---

Run a Simulation

To run a simulation, you need:

• View permission or above
• A model added to the schedule
• At least one linked activity. The simulation shows only linked activities.

1. Click Simulate.

   

   Forma Build prepares the simulation by processing the linked activities and model objects. When it's ready, the model appears below the list and Gantt chart.

   

   Use these controls:

   • Play: Plays the simulation.
   • Pause: Pauses the simulation.
   • Change speed: Select 1X (default speed), 0.5X, or 2X.
   • Jump to an activity: Select an activity to move the model to its start date. The marker always shows the current date. Playback pauses at that date until you click Play.
   • Show unlinked objects: The simulation hides unlinked objects by default. Turn on Unlinked objects to show them.