Finch 101: Upload from Forma

In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to upload your building and context from Autodesk Forma into Finch using the Finch Extension—no software installation required.

1. Open Your Project in Forma

Open the project you want to work with in Forma. Your model can include:

  • Context buildings

  • Terrain

  • Trees

  • Your main building mass

Note: The building you want to edit in Finch must be modeled using Forma’s Basic Building or Line Building tools.

Avoid using 3D Sketch for buildings you plan to edit in Finch—it will be treated as context, not editable floor plates.

2. Add the Finch Extension

Open Extensions → Add Extension

  • Click the Extensions icon in Forma.

  • Search for or scroll down to Finch.

  • Click Add Extension.

Log In to Finch

When the Finch panel appears, log in using your Finch account credentials.

3. Select Your Finch Project and Variant

Once logged in:

  • Select the Finch project you want to export to (e.g., Forma to Finch Project).

  • Select the variant (e.g., Forma Upload) where the data will be uploaded.

4. Review Geometry Before Export

Check the Geometry Breakdown

Finch will display the geometry that will be exported:

  • Building Masses (your editable buildings)

  • Context Buildings

  • Context Vegetation

Tip: Make sure your building mass is unified. If your model includes several separate basic buildings, they will be interpreted as multiple volumes in Finch.

5. Open the Variant in Finch

In a separate browser tab (or split-screen), open your Finch project and navigate to the same variant (e.g., Forma Upload). It should appear empty before syncing.

6. Export to Finch

Click "Export to Finch"

  • Once clicked, you’ll see the sync icon animate as the data is transferred.

  • Switch over to your Finch tab to confirm the upload.

7. Confirm Upload in Finch

Once the sync is complete, your model will appear in Finch with:

  • Building mass and floor plates

  • Context buildings

  • Trees and terrain

  • Automatically calculated metrics (e.g., GFA, height, levels)

You're now ready to assign programs and start designing floor plates in Finch.

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