How Vault becomes Cloud Compatible - A Game Changer

Do you remember when Autodesk replaced the classic menu and toolbar with the Ribbon in AutoCAD? Overnight, a 20-year-old application looked modern and fresh. A similar transformation has happened with Vault 2025.2, but this time on the backend, benefiting developers rather than end users.

With Vault 2025.2, Autodesk introduced the Vault Data API, a new REST API that is simpler, faster, and more modern. This API opens up new possibilities for integrating Vault with cloud-based applications and external platforms.

Exploring the Vault Data API

As part of the beta program, we had the opportunity to test the Vault Data API and provide feedback. Instead of building a traditional web or desktop application, we explored the potential of Microsoft’s low-code/no-code platforms, such as Power Apps and Power Automate, to create a simple app that accesses Vault data. The goal was to integrate Vault directly into Microsoft Teams, making it more accessible to users beyond the engineering department.

The results were impressive. Autodesk showcased our proof-of-concept in their Vault What’s New video:

Here is the full video of our proof of concept

The video shows how to access Vault data from Teams, such as the list of files pending review and approval. The app displays the file list in a simple and engaging way and uses the Autodesk Large Model Viewer to display the 2D drawings and 3D models, allowing users to apply markups and then either approve or reject the files. This was just a proof of concept, and with the new API, the concept has been proven!

What Can You Do with the New API?

The Vault Data API unlocks two major areas of innovation:

1.) Mobile and Web Applications
With the RESTful nature of the API, it's now easier to develop mobile-friendly apps for phones and tablets, enabling users to access Vault data and perform tasks on the go. Additionally, lightweight web applications can be built to extend Vault’s capabilities to users who don’t need the full Vault client but still require tailored access.

For example, our Teams-integrated app allows users to:

• View a list of files pending review and approval.
• Open and mark up 2D drawings and 3D models using Autodesk’s Large Model Viewer.
• Approve or reject files directly from Teams.

2.) Simplified System Integrations
Previously, Vault offered a SOAP-based web services API, which, while powerful, was complex and difficult to integrate with cloud systems. The new REST API simplifies connectivity between Vault and external systems such as ERP, PLM, and Microsoft Teams, enabling seamless cloud-based integrations.

This capability is further enhanced by Vault Gateway, a technology Autodesk introduced a few years ago. Vault Gateway allows secure, remote access to Vault without a VPN. Now, the Vault Data API can leverage this secure connection, enabling external applications to interact with Vault effortlessly.

The new Vault Data API in combination with Vault Gateway is a game changer for connecting Vault to cloud systems and for developing web-based applications that access Vault data.

The Bigger Picture

With Vault Data API and Vault Gateway working together, accessing Vault data from anywhere is now a reality. This combination also enhances Vault’s Job Processor, allowing complex tasks to be automated in response to cloud-based triggers.

For example:

1.) Printing & File Bundling - A mobile app triggers a job request, and the Job Processor within the company network handles printing, file bundling, and reporting.

2.) ERP Integration - The ERP system sends a request via the Vault Data API, and the Job Processor retrieves data, formats it, and sends it securely.

Unlocking New Possibilities

With these advancements, Vault is no longer confined to on-premise workflows. It can now integrate into broader enterprise ecosystems, improving efficiency and accessibility. Whether it’s creating custom applications, enabling collaboration across teams, or automating complex workflows, the possibilities are limitless.

Let’s explore these opportunities together.

Reach out to us to discuss how we can help you integrate Vault into your cloud strategy!