From Abyla to Graphlake — frequently asked questions
This section concerns organisations moving from Abyla, the earlier plan management, to Graphlake, or preparing to.
What is Graphlake?
It is the Stonal plan management interface. It runs entirely on the Datalake, which replaces the Abyla databases.
The data model built in the Datalake makes the process of digitising your portfolio significantly simpler.
Why this change?
To let you decide faster and better, we have strengthened the way your data is structured.
Through REVIT and the Datalake, you keep a familiar framework and your existing data, with simpler tools to view the technical management data, update your portfolio, query it in every form, and build new uses on top of it (digital continuity, open data sources, and so on).
What does it change for my users?
Plans are read in the platform's Plans tab, no longer in a separate application.
You will find the main uses of the former Model interface there, on more direct screens. So the impact on day-to-day navigation stays limited.
Added to that are applications that did not exist before:
- an alphanumeric description of the portfolio, built into the platform;
- a query tool usable without technical skills;
- reports built into the journey, which make the data being used visible.
For everyday users the change is mostly visual. Data administration and data quality work, however, used to happen in the Abyla core: those change tool, and call for support.
What are the prerequisites?
Two, both aimed at sharing a common framework across clients:
- using the Stonal metalibrary;
- using REVIT as the deliverable for future modelling.
How does the transition happen?
Moving your base to the Stonal metalibrary is prepared beforehand with our teams. The transition then happens in three steps:
- the technical synchronisation of your data;
- opening Graphlake to your users, moving from the Model interface to the Plans tab;
- validating the connectors tied to Abyla, where there are any.
When will my organisation move?
Organisations deployed from 2025 onwards are already on this version.
For organisations with a history of using Abyla, the schedule is set with you, taking your own calendar constraints into account. Speak to your usual contact to know where you stand.
Will there be any service interruption?
The transition follows our continuous deployment process, like any other change to the platform. The steps are planned with you, favouring outside business hours.
Is the move charged for?
No. Stonal does not pass the cost of upgrading its platform on to its clients.
Do users need retraining?
The change of interface changes habits: your training material will need updating, and the change communicating to your users.
Our teams support you through this and provide suitable material.
How do I update my plans?
Everyday updates, on your own
- File import from the query tool: adding or changing properties, replacing a piece of equipment (the new symbol takes the old one's place), creating one (the symbol is created at the centre of the element it attaches to).
- Field reports from EDIT, the survey app.
Heavier graphical changes
These go through REVIT. A tool built by Stonal generates a REVIT file holding the Datalake data; you edit it; a second tool loads the edited model back into the Datalake.
Can I be autonomous on graphical updates?
Yes, provided you or your contractors hold a compatible REVIT licence and have command of the Stonal export and import tools.
These tools have been tested with our partners since 2025, and opening them to other external parties is planned.
Are the import and export tools charged for?
They do not change the data quality contract in force with your organisation.
Using them on your own, or through your contractors, does call for workshops and a support plan suited to your situation: speak to your usual contact about it.
How do I get access to the Stonal metalibrary?
Access is open to anyone who wants to use it:
- Go to BIM&CO Onfly.
- Click "Not a member? Ask for access!".
- Wait for a Stonal administrator to confirm your account, then activate it.
You can then browse the metalibrary or download it.
Where do I find the REVIT / BIM charter?
It is freely available: BIM ↔ Platform charter (Datalake / Graphlake).
The link always points to the latest version: the charter evolves continuously.