Ductwork fabrication and HVAC construction software manufacturers Trimble and Autodesk have entered into an interoperability agreement that company officials say will save contractors time reduce project workflow costs.

The agreement calls for Trimble and Autodesk to exchange application programming interfaces and tools for developers to create software that works with each other’s products. That will give users of either company’s software the ability to share project files, models and data from anywhere. The change will especially benefit those involved in building information modeling, officials added.

"The strength of a company is best measured by its willingness to do what is right for its customers and the industry at large,” said Autodesk Senior Vice President Amar Hanspal. “This interoperability agreement, like others we've signed, speaks to Autodesk's commitment to openness. This collaboration with Trimble speaks to our shared dedication to making the building process more efficient and productive for all involved."

Trimble officials said the agreement would be good for its customers as well.

"This collaboration demonstrates our mutual commitment to provide design and construction professionals with a seamless experience from both Autodesk and Trimble design-build-operate solutions," said Bryn Fosburgh, vice president at Trimble. "As a result all stakeholders across the construction lifecycle can optimize their workflow efficiency."