Speckle’s Next-Gen Connectors: What’s In It For You?

Keeping your data connected across applications and accessible on the web is easier than ever with Next-gen connectors.

But Speckle connectors are not just about sharing data between tools; it’s about making collaboration smoother, data insights clearer, and delivery decisions smarter.

Say That You Remember Connectors From September

A few months ago we unveiled Speckle’s first five Next-Generation connectors, made to boost the your experience and ensure sharing models is faster than ever.

You said hello to the Speckle Beta Next-Gen connectors for: SketchUp, Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino and ArcGIS. We chose these five because they encompass a wide range of use cases from BIM/CAD to GIS.

So it’s been a while since their big debut and it’s time to see they actually performed in real life situations! Spoiler: they’re doing great and decided to develop another bunch. But, more on that later.

Speckle Connector Interface Evolution

Speckle connectors have come a long way since the early days. Each version has been a step forward, but we’ve made a giant leap with the latest interface.

Here’s a quick look back:

v1: We started with a simple UI and limited features—just enough to get you connected.

v2: A more complex interface came with more features, but we heard your feedback loud and clear. So, we went back to the drawing board!

v3: Now, we’re bringing you the best of both worlds: an intuitive, user-friendly interface with powerful features built to handle everything from complex workflows to extensive model management.

With Next-Gen connectors, we focused on creating an experience that’s easier to navigate and more consistent across all our connectors and the Speckle web app.

This design overhaul now gives you the same familiar experience wherever you work, whether in a desktop app or online!

Speckle Next-Gen Connectors: A Need For Speed

We know performance is crucial for you, especially as model sizes grow. That’s why Speckle’s Next-Gen connectors are not only about new features but also about speed.

With Next-Gen connectors, you can send and receive models faster than ever:

The Next-Gen Speckle connectors are much faster than the previous version connectors when publishing and loading.

If you've made changes to your model and need to republish, the next-gen connectors process only the changes, making it over 1000% faster than before!

Next-Gen Connectors: Easy on Your Device

Next-Gen connectors are more efficient, using less memory and storage on your device. This means faster performance without losing any data quality.

Here's what you can expect:

Your Speckle data is now lighter than ever and with that, more efficient! You’re sending the same amount of data, but it takes up less space, so your device can handle more tasks without slowing down.

New Next-Gen Connectors: It’s About Workflows

Our focus is now on designing workflows that empower you to do more with your models at every level.

By structuring workflows into tiers, we’re making it clear what each connector can help you achieve. Let’s break this down!

Base Level: Data Extraction

This is your foundational data level; the foundation of your company’s BIM data pipeline.

It enables you to understand and use your data in your model, helping all stakeholders make better decisions.

Data extraction is the starting point for each connector, giving you easy access to the information within your models.

You can achieve the Data Extraction workflow with: Revit, Rhino, SketchUp, AutoCAD, ArcGIS, Tekla, Archicad, Civil3D

Level 1: Real-Time Coordination

Real-time coordination means you can consume Speckle models directly in your desktop app as reference models, complete with basic geometry and key properties.

This gives you fast, effective collaboration without needing to dive into complex workflows. It’s perfect for quick checks or project reviews.

You can achieve the Real-Time Coordination workflow with: Revit, Rhino, SketchUp, AutoCAD, ArcGIS‍

Level 2: Multiplayer Modeling

Multiplayer modeling is the highest workflow level. It lets you and your team work on the same model across different applications, without relying on traditional file sharing. Very Speckly!

This workflow supports high-fidelity native geometry, making it ideal for collaborative projects where everyone needs to stay in sync.

You can achieve the Multiplayer Modeling workflow with: Revit, Rhino, SketchUp

Speckle Connectors Level Logic

As connectors mature, they start at the foundational data extraction level, which is easy to implement.

As the need for quality, stability, and performance grows, we’ll slowly upgrade the connectors to higher levels to make sure they can handle the added functionality needed for smooth and efficient workflows.

Next-Gen Connectors: Archicad, Civil3D and Tekla

After SketchUp, Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino and ArcGIS got their Next-Gen connector versions, we’re announcing three new additions to the list of the fastest and smoothest Speckle connectors to date: Tekla, Archicad, and Civil3D.

These connectors are now available for data extraction workflows (see previous segment if you zoned out and need a reminder of the logic behind this).

But this is just the beginning—our team is actively working on more connectors, so stay tuned for future updates.

To explore and install these new connectors, head over to releases.speckle.systems.

GeoSpeckle: The Coolest Connector That Isn’t a Connector

Now, all the above mentioned workflows are valid beyond the architectural design space.

That’s why we started expanding the usage of Speckle data into Geospatial field. It also helped to have a Ph.D. GIS Software engineer in our team who can actually bridge this gap.

As most of design and architectural data is by default geospatial, we thought it's about time to treat it as such!

With GeoSpeckle  (alpha) we've set up a separate piece of infrastructure that acts as an entry point for any desktop or web-based GIS app or map publishing platform, to request Speckle data and get it back in a geospatial format.

Just after sending your data to Speckle from your software of choice, you will be able to share your already geo-located model via URL, just like your usual Speckle URL.

Because we are making use of the data standards in geospatial field, such as OGC API, you will be able to add your Speckle data as a layer to any web map without any external plugins or extensions.

And finally, you will be able even to map the comments other users have left in your project, as it is also a part of Speckle data.

What’s Ahead: The Speckle Connectors Roadmap

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the exciting developments you can expect in the near future:

Embedded Speckle Automate

Imagine having your Automate results integrated directly within your desktop models.

Soon, you’ll be able to troubleshoot and analyse these results on the fly, without leaving your design environment.

Even Faster Fundamentals

We’re constantly pushing the boundaries of performance, and our commitment to speed (and need for it) doesn’t stop here.

Expect continuous improvements to our baseline performance, allowing you to send, receive, and manage even larger models with ease.

Integrated Web and Desktop

Collaboration shouldn’t be limited by the tools you’re using.

We’re working to create a seamless connection between Speckle’s web and desktop platforms, so you can switch between environments effortlessly.

This integration will close the loop on collaboration, giving you full flexibility to work wherever and however you need.

We’re focused on giving you fast, reliable tools that adapt to the changing needs of the AEC industry.

Stay tuned for more updates as we keep building the next generation of Speckle!