This is by far the best video for describing work-sharing in Revit with all in and out. Thank you for filling in some memory gaps I had when working on work-sharing.
I know this video is now a few years old, but it was mentioned that you may make a video in the future about bim 360 and worksets/collaboration? I didn't see an old video, maybe I missed it? I guess bim360 is now ABC pro (autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro)...they keep changing the names. I am going to be starting my first work set project and we are going straight into ABC pro (no local worksharing, all remote work), this video was really helpful.
Yes I never really got around to a series on BIM360, and then decided against it as Autodesk updates their systems too frequently (they can't even pick a name to stick to). CZcams videos don't age well, so I'd probably end up making a video that isn't relevant in a years' time and would get heaps of questions that are difficult to answer in context of the updated system. On average I have found Autodesk is TERRIBLE at making their cloud offerings easy to understand and set up. I'd suggest looking at the BIM360 Basics channel - it's a bit out of date as well but it's a good reference for this thing still.
I am a student and I have a very heavy project which is causing me issues and errors, I am trying to implement worksets but I wonder if using links would make easier to handle, or well, just worksets
Typically links are the more common approach out in practice, just easier to visually understand and ensure model breakdown works. Worksets require users to be very diligent in active workset (which most users aren't unfortunately).
Hi Gavin! I have seen a tutorial created central file like this: 1. Architecture Model 1.1. Block 1 (Central file) 1.1.1. Basement 1.1.2. Podium 1.1.3. Tower 1 1.1.4. Tower 2 1.2. Fence and Gate 1.3. Auxiliary Construction 2. Structure Model 3. MEP Model Is that the right way? Thank you so much.
Hi, thank you for your video . I work at a company where we are just a few people. I am trying to set up worksharing environment to improve our workflow when working two or more people on the same project. The problem I found recently, is that, for some reason, a local file is saved somewhere else, out of my local folder, which it's creating a mess, duplicating local files. I have to be careful when I see this problem and look for the date and time of the most recent file. This is making me asking to myself, if, for a small company with just two or three employees, where we work on the same project, but not on daily basis, the worksharing environment is the proper workflow. We are ending having a lot of backups, and our server can be esily cluttered with a lot of files. It's there any other option?. When worksharing is good for workflow improvement, and when is it not good? I guess, the answer is it depends, but I would like your feedback on that. All our Revit files and projects are stored on a Server and accessed through the Network., so, they are not in the local computers, and everybody in the company can access the project files through the network. Thank you
Typically best practice is to store local files in a nonserver based location to put less strain on the server. Centrals go on the server though. You can configure where local files get saved in the options menu, and can overwrite locals rather than make new datestamped ones to save space. Usually it's good practice to rewrite central models and backup folders once each week or two, and delete your local files every few days. It's up to you if you need worksharing, but if you have multiple members trying to access models at once it's usually necessary.
Hi BIM Guru, If we need to need to work in a Workshare environment in MEP Project What would I need to do first ??? Should I link the ARCHITECTURE model first, create levels and then make it a central file ??? I have created the Architecture model as a central model but when I link it into Revit it says that both the central model and link file are the same so you cant link it . Kindly tell steps to start working in MEP project in a workshare environment.
Assuming your architect is working separately, most engineers would begin from their own template. Then they would link in the architect's model and position it to suit the project setup. If shared coordinates are being used you might acquire the coordinates after that. Finally you would use the copy/monitor tool to make a copy of relevant grids and levels. You would not begin with a copy of the architect's model, as they have their own template/setup that would not suit an MEP or structural engineer's needs.
I never use worksharing or worksets (I work at a small company) but sometimes I receive a model from a third party that does. I always detach it from central to make it work for me as a single user. Today I got a model with a lot of worksets, and it had a lot of in-place geometry in it but for some reason the nested cut voids seem to be absent when I tried to edit the geometry to see how they’ve modelled it. Normally the cut geometry is orange in a nested in-place family but here it was totally absent but still it must be there somehow, but it didn’t show up in the session but it’s still affected by something that cuts it. Is it possibly that this can be hidden on some obscure workset? I have never encountered this behaviour before eventhough I use a lot of in-place modelling myself to create complex shapes. It is a model of a bridge, so in-place stuff is kind of required here. I’m just not used to all that workset jazz. My employer only has two people that work with Revit and we work on our own projects so everything is always a local model for us. It seems that larger companies do “weird” things with their models.
Hrm I guess the only way to deal with things like that is to ask the team members not to use worksets for anything that they couldn't do should they not be there. They're pretty important for some large project workarounds such as the one you came across where some workflows require cutting forms to be used but put on hidden worksets. Some structure engineers use floor joins and hidden worksets to do slab pockets for example - not orthodox but quite effective when done right. In the longer term I'd say just use worksharing if you can as it doesn't take that much more work to enable and will get you in good habits should you ever switch to working at a larger firm.
Chances are you are on a system which isn't networked. It should work if you are on the same network/system as the central file once you have made a central model and closed it.
here a silly question, i made a central model in bim collab pro. how do i go about making a local file from that model? so me and my coworkers are not altering the central one in bim collab.
You should be able to open this file via BIM360 in Revit assuming they all have access to the project and the permissions/modules to access models available.
@@AussieBIMGuru one more question, I’m trying to link a revit file into the central model. Do I have to upload link to bim360 through revit first then I can link it? Because I tried dragging the file to bim360 specific folder but when I go to link revit and go to bim360 folder the revit file that I want to link does not show :/
You need to either be on a server environment that they can access (whether via local wired connection or a VPN to a remote server), or you would need to use an environment like BIM360 instead. This wont work if you just use a file storage system like Google Drive or Dropbox unfortunately.
@@pawanpanthi7681 not reliably. The speed will sometimes lead to issues with central model syncs and if multiple users sync it wont work. Try revit server maybe if you're using legitimate lisences.
By using a Revit server and VPN setup most likely. These days I'd just recommend ACC if your company can afford it at a business level. There isn't really any low budget options though if you're not able to access a server setup. More info on revit server: help.autodesk.com/view/RVT/2023/ENU/?guid=GUID-4DE9A327-583E-40DA-81EB-1150D60E6887
Great video, thank you for this. In a classroom setting I have students working together in a central model on a very simple project. I am not sure if we really need to take advantage of worksets or just leave workset1 in their by default. Basically they are creating a set of CD's for the installation of residential appliances (just getting them use to writing notes and such). Do we need to fret about getting worksets set up for such a simple thing?
You're welcome Dan! I would say if worksharing isn't the focus of your course it's probably OK to just use Workset1; that way the class can focus on the learning material.
@@danstevens64 nice one - better to teach them in a standard professional office setting if it doesn't take much more time. I hope the classes go well!
@@danstevens64 ah, the key will be a server based setup on Windows, from there the central should be accessible from any machine with access to the same server drive. BIM360 is becoming more common these days as the server environment, but a lot more complex for a student environment.
Hi BIM Guru, Thanks for sharing. I wonder if it is necessary to set up a Revit Server instead of use Worksharing for design collaboration for my firm's situation, most of the scenarios we just collaborate within our LAN, sometimes we will need to collaborate with colleagues from other city. If we use Revit Server to all of these projects, what's the downside? Thank you!
Whilst I believe Revit server is still available, I'm not sure how long it will be before Autodesk forces everyone onto BIM360. From next year I believe Docs is included in the AEC subscription, so this is a sign of things to come I expect. If this is not viable right now, then Revit server is the next best thing. You could keep the noncollaborative jobs on your LAN and keep the server based ones on the Revit server - I've used this setup before, although quite a while ago now. The disadvantage is that sometimes I found the Revit server speed was slow, and it seemed that guests to the server had slower access compared to the original server owner. There are far less security options on a server as well vs BIM360 (visibility, access, read/write).
It's not designed for it so I've heard people often lose work or ability to sync if they try to use it. Generally the only fully functional solution is ACC.
hi, glad to learna lotof detail from your video, So, im having issues about worksharing on Revit (mine is v2020,2021), few days ago ive made a central file (with v2020) on a local network (LAN) within central file was at my local drive setup as shared folder and mapped it as \\PC\Central\file.rvt, and everything was fine, everyone work as local file, synch etc.. but unfortunately, yesterday i tried the same way to create a cental file using v2021, again i made cental within my local drive folder and mapped it as shared (read/write to everyone) but others just cant open it as a local file, the "create new local file" check box was greyed ouy, revit said it was moved or copied to another loc... what does it mean?? i really appreciate if u could help this out, many thanks
This sounds like the sharing process might not actually give users access to the file (maybe it is writing the file to a separate location for sharing purposes). Typically I've had to use a server in the past for central file sharing as opposed to LAN/file sharing services.
correct me : I COPY THE CENTRAL FILE AND PUT IT IN A DIFFERENT SYSTEM(same folder documents) AND follow create a local copy.. but its showing the error shearing violation , file not saved
@@rustyphilip7826 Also check for solutions here, it seems to be a common problem for some; forums.autodesk.com/t5/revit-mep-forum/encountered-a-sharing-violation-while-accessing-revit-issue/td-p/5847295
@@AussieBIMGuru Thanks, It happens to me the central file are done in Architectural Template and I ask to do a Electrical works but the Central file has no Electrical components that i need, everything electrical are empty.
@@AussieBIMGuru That' why if I ask to make a Central File I always use a System Template so it will not be a problem for the other user they can work in any discipline in a workset.
I want to make central model for other users what should i use BIM 360 Docs or BIM 360 Design, and Fusion 360 also can use instead of BIM 360?. I need to prepare for my Group Presentation for my Coordination Class. Please kindly answer. Thanks
Great question Aung! If you are using BIM360, it is typically best to use Design as this is the module which supports model sharing and also provides access to Docs.
@@AussieBIMGuru Yes, now i am trying with BIM 360 Design (already created trial account), but don't know how to continue in revit. My revit software version is student 2018.3, does BIM 360 Design support for this version?. I already searched in your video list, but i didn't see it. If you don't mind, cloud you please kindly upload how to make central model on BIM 360 Design account. And one more, my Revit software only can choose LAN network, why i can't choose BIM 360 Cloud?. Thanks for your precious time.
@@aungkyawkyawhtun2872 i would try the steps in this guide by imaginit; blogs.rand.com/support/2020/04/step-by-step-guide-to-sign-up-.html You may need to set up admin and a portal for your account/b360 before you can save projects there. If you are on student version this wont support bim360 unfortunately.
Unfortunately most viewers dont have the patience! I suggest setting video speed to x0.75 or 0.5 speed to slow the pace down. A lot of my viewers do this to keep up, especially those with english not as first language. For basics and fundamentals videos there are some other channels too like balkan architect which teach at this level more often.
This is by far the best video for describing work-sharing in Revit with all in and out.
Thank you for filling in some memory gaps I had when working on work-sharing.
You're very welcome!
What a legend of a video. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
You're welcome!
He did a very good job imo. Explaining the basics step by step. English is not my first language and I have no experience in using DAWs
Glad you found it helpful Amit, thanks for the feedback!
Great video! Very informative and to the point. Its amazing that you are sharing all of this for us fresh starters 🤓
Glad it was helpful!
Clear and to the point, best I have seen on the subject. Thank you
Thanks Felix!
I wish more BIM tutorials had cats mewing in the background
Haha they make appearances from time to time!
You're welcome :)
This video is so so clarifying! I'm not a beginner in Revit but your tutorials gives me an order in my revit mind:)
Glad it was helpful!
great video, much needed info well summarized
Thanks!
Thank you for a sensational and methodical review!
Glad it was helpful!
Although you are super fast and I had to slowdown the video :) , but that was precious video typical of yours
God bless you man!
Yep the video speed setting is a godsend for me haha!
Thank you
You're welcome!
I know this video is now a few years old, but it was mentioned that you may make a video in the future about bim 360 and worksets/collaboration?
I didn't see an old video, maybe I missed it? I guess bim360 is now ABC pro (autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro)...they keep changing the names.
I am going to be starting my first work set project and we are going straight into ABC pro (no local worksharing, all remote work), this video was really helpful.
Yes I never really got around to a series on BIM360, and then decided against it as Autodesk updates their systems too frequently (they can't even pick a name to stick to). CZcams videos don't age well, so I'd probably end up making a video that isn't relevant in a years' time and would get heaps of questions that are difficult to answer in context of the updated system. On average I have found Autodesk is TERRIBLE at making their cloud offerings easy to understand and set up.
I'd suggest looking at the BIM360 Basics channel - it's a bit out of date as well but it's a good reference for this thing still.
Restore/ rollback is when some people start throwing dynamo graphs they don’t understand.
Yep they can do a fair bit of damage sometimes!
I am a student and I have a very heavy project which is causing me issues and errors, I am trying to implement worksets but I wonder if using links would make easier to handle, or well, just worksets
Typically links are the more common approach out in practice, just easier to visually understand and ensure model breakdown works. Worksets require users to be very diligent in active workset (which most users aren't unfortunately).
Hi Gavin! I have seen a tutorial created central file like this:
1. Architecture Model
1.1. Block 1 (Central file)
1.1.1. Basement
1.1.2. Podium
1.1.3. Tower 1
1.1.4. Tower 2
1.2. Fence and Gate
1.3. Auxiliary Construction
2. Structure Model
3. MEP Model
Is that the right way? Thank you so much.
There isnt really one right way, but it seems OK. Generally it comes down to how the team wants to work and what suits the job needs.
Really you done good job bro
Cheers!
Hi, thank you for your video
. I work at a company where we are just a few people. I am trying to set up worksharing environment to improve our workflow when working two or more people on the same project. The problem I found recently, is that, for some reason, a local file is saved somewhere else, out of my local folder, which it's creating a mess, duplicating local files. I have to be careful when I see this problem and look for the date and time of the most recent file. This is making me asking to myself, if, for a small company with just two or three employees, where we work on the same project, but not on daily basis, the worksharing environment is the proper workflow. We are ending having a lot of backups, and our server can be esily cluttered with a lot of files. It's there any other option?. When worksharing is good for workflow improvement, and when is it not good? I guess, the answer is it depends, but I would like your feedback on that. All our Revit files and projects are stored on a Server and accessed through the Network., so, they are not in the local computers, and everybody in the company can access the project files through the network.
Thank you
Typically best practice is to store local files in a nonserver based location to put less strain on the server. Centrals go on the server though. You can configure where local files get saved in the options menu, and can overwrite locals rather than make new datestamped ones to save space.
Usually it's good practice to rewrite central models and backup folders once each week or two, and delete your local files every few days.
It's up to you if you need worksharing, but if you have multiple members trying to access models at once it's usually necessary.
Hi BIM Guru, If we need to need to work in a Workshare environment in MEP Project What would I need to do first ??? Should I link the ARCHITECTURE model first, create levels and then make it a central file ??? I have created the Architecture model as a central model but when I link it into Revit it says that both the central model and link file are the same so you cant link it . Kindly tell steps to start working in MEP project in a workshare environment.
Assuming your architect is working separately, most engineers would begin from their own template. Then they would link in the architect's model and position it to suit the project setup. If shared coordinates are being used you might acquire the coordinates after that. Finally you would use the copy/monitor tool to make a copy of relevant grids and levels.
You would not begin with a copy of the architect's model, as they have their own template/setup that would not suit an MEP or structural engineer's needs.
@@AussieBIMGuru Got it .Thanks
I never use worksharing or worksets (I work at a small company) but sometimes I receive a model from a third party that does. I always detach it from central to make it work for me as a single user. Today I got a model with a lot of worksets, and it had a lot of in-place geometry in it but for some reason the nested cut voids seem to be absent when I tried to edit the geometry to see how they’ve modelled it. Normally the cut geometry is orange in a nested in-place family but here it was totally absent but still it must be there somehow, but it didn’t show up in the session but it’s still affected by something that cuts it. Is it possibly that this can be hidden on some obscure workset? I have never encountered this behaviour before eventhough I use a lot of in-place modelling myself to create complex shapes. It is a model of a bridge, so in-place stuff is kind of required here. I’m just not used to all that workset jazz. My employer only has two people that work with Revit and we work on our own projects so everything is always a local model for us. It seems that larger companies do “weird” things with their models.
Hrm I guess the only way to deal with things like that is to ask the team members not to use worksets for anything that they couldn't do should they not be there. They're pretty important for some large project workarounds such as the one you came across where some workflows require cutting forms to be used but put on hidden worksets. Some structure engineers use floor joins and hidden worksets to do slab pockets for example - not orthodox but quite effective when done right.
In the longer term I'd say just use worksharing if you can as it doesn't take that much more work to enable and will get you in good habits should you ever switch to working at a larger firm.
I found that using work sets made it a lot easier to adjust graphics in nested linked models.
if create a new local is not available why is that ? thank you so much !
Chances are you are on a system which isn't networked. It should work if you are on the same network/system as the central file once you have made a central model and closed it.
here a silly question, i made a central model in bim collab pro. how do i go about making a local file from that model? so me and my coworkers are not altering the central one in bim collab.
You should be able to open this file via BIM360 in Revit assuming they all have access to the project and the permissions/modules to access models available.
@@AussieBIMGuru one more question, I’m trying to link a revit file into the central model. Do I have to upload link to bim360 through revit first then I can link it? Because I tried dragging the file to bim360 specific folder but when I go to link revit and go to bim360 folder the revit file that I want to link does not show :/
@@Noneyaviz13 yes best practice is publishing the model via revit.
hi. I really still don't know how to share my project what to do after I create a central file how will my friends get it and be able to work on it
You need to either be on a server environment that they can access (whether via local wired connection or a VPN to a remote server), or you would need to use an environment like BIM360 instead.
This wont work if you just use a file storage system like Google Drive or Dropbox unfortunately.
@@AussieBIMGuru can we use google drive as server?
@@pawanpanthi7681 not reliably. The speed will sometimes lead to issues with central model syncs and if multiple users sync it wont work. Try revit server maybe if you're using legitimate lisences.
So what if we live in different homes how can we work together
By using a Revit server and VPN setup most likely. These days I'd just recommend ACC if your company can afford it at a business level.
There isn't really any low budget options though if you're not able to access a server setup.
More info on revit server:
help.autodesk.com/view/RVT/2023/ENU/?guid=GUID-4DE9A327-583E-40DA-81EB-1150D60E6887
Great video, thank you for this. In a classroom setting I have students working together in a central model on a very simple project. I am not sure if we really need to take advantage of worksets or just leave workset1 in their by default. Basically they are creating a set of CD's for the installation of residential appliances (just getting them use to writing notes and such). Do we need to fret about getting worksets set up for such a simple thing?
You're welcome Dan!
I would say if worksharing isn't the focus of your course it's probably OK to just use Workset1; that way the class can focus on the learning material.
@@AussieBIMGuru well it turns out that we could get a central model to work from the get go.
@@danstevens64 nice one - better to teach them in a standard professional office setting if it doesn't take much more time.
I hope the classes go well!
@@AussieBIMGuru I meant couldn't, sorry for the typo! We are still looking into how to properly create a central model and find out how to share it.
@@danstevens64 ah, the key will be a server based setup on Windows, from there the central should be accessible from any machine with access to the same server drive.
BIM360 is becoming more common these days as the server environment, but a lot more complex for a student environment.
Thanks for a good video.
You're welcome!
Hi BIM Guru,
Thanks for sharing. I wonder if it is necessary to set up a Revit Server instead of use Worksharing for design collaboration for my firm's situation, most of the scenarios we just collaborate within our LAN, sometimes we will need to collaborate with colleagues from other city. If we use Revit Server to all of these projects, what's the downside?
Thank you!
Whilst I believe Revit server is still available, I'm not sure how long it will be before Autodesk forces everyone onto BIM360. From next year I believe Docs is included in the AEC subscription, so this is a sign of things to come I expect.
If this is not viable right now, then Revit server is the next best thing. You could keep the noncollaborative jobs on your LAN and keep the server based ones on the Revit server - I've used this setup before, although quite a while ago now.
The disadvantage is that sometimes I found the Revit server speed was slow, and it seemed that guests to the server had slower access compared to the original server owner. There are far less security options on a server as well vs BIM360 (visibility, access, read/write).
@@AussieBIMGuru thanks, as for LAN collaboration, do I need to setup Revit server? Or should I stick to worksharing on the ftp server.
@@JL68667 it depends on whether you need to collab externally. Server is better if you do, LAN server is better for local worksharing.
What cloud-based server you use to store ur central file ?
These days I am using ACC/BIM360. There is no cloud alternative on the market currently.
@@AussieBIMGuru what about google drive ?
It's not designed for it so I've heard people often lose work or ability to sync if they try to use it. Generally the only fully functional solution is ACC.
am getting soft from your video, thx alot. how do i make my soft more than 50sec long? I clicked loop recording, pressed the record
Sorry I'm not quite sure what you mean, what are you recording, and what do you mean by 'soft'?
hi, glad to learna lotof detail from your video,
So, im having issues about worksharing on Revit (mine is v2020,2021), few days ago ive made a central file (with v2020) on a local network (LAN) within central file was at my local drive setup as shared folder and mapped it as \\PC\Central\file.rvt, and everything was fine, everyone work as local file, synch etc..
but unfortunately, yesterday i tried the same way to create a cental file using v2021, again i made cental within my local drive folder and mapped it as shared (read/write to everyone) but others just cant open it as a local file, the "create new local file" check box was greyed ouy, revit said it was moved or copied to another loc...
what does it mean??
i really appreciate if u could help this out, many thanks
This sounds like the sharing process might not actually give users access to the file (maybe it is writing the file to a separate location for sharing purposes). Typically I've had to use a server in the past for central file sharing as opposed to LAN/file sharing services.
correct me : I COPY THE CENTRAL FILE AND PUT IT IN A DIFFERENT SYSTEM(same folder documents) AND follow create a local copy.. but its showing the error shearing violation , file not saved
It sounds like you don't have the right permission level to write to that folder, or your model is corrupted.
@@AussieBIMGuru do i need to place it in document exactly
@@rustyphilip7826 i dont understand what you mean, can you be more specific
@@rustyphilip7826 Also check for solutions here, it seems to be a common problem for some;
forums.autodesk.com/t5/revit-mep-forum/encountered-a-sharing-violation-while-accessing-revit-issue/td-p/5847295
thanks
What if the Central files was done in Architectural Template and I want to open a local file in MEP template, is it possible?
No templates cannot be reapplied to an existing model. You would need to bind the model as a link.
@@AussieBIMGuru Thanks, It happens to me the central file are done in Architectural Template and I ask to do a Electrical works but the Central file has no Electrical components that i need, everything electrical are empty.
@@AussieBIMGuru It's a headache for me.
@@Ahlotski limitation of revit i guess, not much that can be done.
@@AussieBIMGuru That' why if I ask to make a Central File I always use a System Template so it will not be a problem for the other user they can work in any discipline in a workset.
I want to make central model for other users what should i use BIM 360 Docs or BIM 360 Design, and Fusion 360 also can use instead of BIM 360?. I need to prepare for my Group Presentation for my Coordination Class. Please kindly answer. Thanks
Great question Aung! If you are using BIM360, it is typically best to use Design as this is the module which supports model sharing and also provides access to Docs.
@@AussieBIMGuru Yes, now i am trying with BIM 360 Design (already created trial account), but don't know how to continue in revit. My revit software version is student 2018.3, does BIM 360 Design support for this version?. I already searched in your video list, but i didn't see it. If you don't mind, cloud you please kindly upload how to make central model on BIM 360 Design account. And one more, my Revit software only can choose LAN network, why i can't choose BIM 360 Cloud?. Thanks for your precious time.
@@aungkyawkyawhtun2872 i would try the steps in this guide by imaginit; blogs.rand.com/support/2020/04/step-by-step-guide-to-sign-up-.html
You may need to set up admin and a portal for your account/b360 before you can save projects there.
If you are on student version this wont support bim360 unfortunately.
@@AussieBIMGuru Thanks for your answers.
Over speed
Reduce video playback to 50 or 75% speed if you need.
you too fast when you describe something on revit....please i have request you to describe slowly & describe each and any function of revit
Unfortunately most viewers dont have the patience! I suggest setting video speed to x0.75 or 0.5 speed to slow the pace down. A lot of my viewers do this to keep up, especially those with english not as first language.
For basics and fundamentals videos there are some other channels too like balkan architect which teach at this level more often.