Changes to Viewing Files Uploaded by Desktop Connector FAQ

There are important upcoming changes as to how files uploaded through Desktop Connector are processed for viewing in the Files tool.

How is viewing in the Files tool changing when uploading files through Desktop Connector?

We're updating how files uploaded to the Files tool using Desktop Connector are processed for viewing.

These files will still upload and display in the Files tool, however they will no longer be automatically processed for viewing. Instead, you can initiate processing for viewing on unprocessed files when needed.

Note:

  • There are no changes as to how Desktop Connector uploads or syncs files between the Files tool and the local environment.

Will uploading files directly to the Files tool also be affected?

No. The current upload methods which don't involve Desktop Connector (including web, mobile, Revit Cloudworksharing etc) will not be affected and will continue to process files automatically.

Can I still work with unprocessed files?

You can still work with unprocessed files except for:

What happens if I try to view unprocessed files on mobile devices?

Files must be processed for viewing to be viewable on iOS and Android devices. When a Desktop Connector user intends to publish files for mobile access, they can use the Create Viewable option when uploading the files to Docs. Any user with access to the files in Docs on web can select the select the choose the Process option to process the files for viewing.

Will any files uploaded through Desktop Connector be automatically processed for viewing?

The following files will still be automatically processed for viewing when uploaded through Desktop Connector:

When is my account affected by these changes?

This will be a phased release starting in early September with the complete deployment anticipated within a few months.

There is no action you need to take as the new processing options will be visible once your account is updated.

Why are these changes being made?

Today, nearly all files uploaded to the Files tool for design, preconstruction, and construction workflows are automatically processed for viewing. That behavior is not only desired but also required to support key AEC workflows such as design review, coordination, and publishing for construction.

However, during specific phases throughout the project lifecycle, teams often save work-in-progress versions to the Files tool using Desktop Connector. These files aren't always ready for review or collaboration, and processing every version by default can slow down access to files that truly need to be viewed.

This change gives teams more flexibility and better performance when managing work-in-progress files. By shifting to on-demand processing, we're optimizing workflows for teams using Desktop Connector, while still supporting automated processing for files uploaded directly to the Files tool on web and Mobile.

How has this approach been tested?

A select set of Autodesk Docs users have been involved in a beta testing phase and provided positive feedback on this approach. In addition, Autodesk Fusion has always embraced an on-demand processing model, giving users the flexibility to upload files without automatically triggering viewing workflows.

Fusion users have shown us that this approach works. It's fast, flexible, and built around real workflows that improve performance and de-clutter queues. Now, Docs users can benefit from the same thoughtful design, one that enables them to:

How can I process files for viewing on demand?

Once your account is updated with these changes, you can process files for viewing in two ways:

How long will it take to process a file on demand?

Processing time depends on file type and complexity. For example: