Thanks to James I found this image on THIS SITE, some crazy stuff here!
Monday, September 08, 2008
Wish - Stair Configuration
We need the stair and railing tool to support the creation of this sort of stair type more easily!
Thanks to James I found this image on THIS SITE, some crazy stuff here!
Thanks to James I found this image on THIS SITE, some crazy stuff here!
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Revit Web Library/Libraries
Autodesk posted the content libraries for Revit Structure and Revit MEP on their Web Library Site. This is in addtion to the Revit Architecture content that has traditionally been available here.
Note you can access the content for older versions of Revit by clicking Archived Libraries.
They have also added a link for the new Autodesk Seek Content.
Note you can access the content for older versions of Revit by clicking Archived Libraries.
They have also added a link for the new Autodesk Seek Content.
Worksets as a "Security Guard"
Just remember when you use the Workset feature as a "security guard". It works only a little bit better than this fence!
Thanks to this site for inspirational "Revit" images!
Thanks to this site for inspirational "Revit" images!
Working in the Central File - Breaking the Rule
You've probably been warned a multitude of times to stay out of the central file. You may have even had this angry baby tell you off? When is it okay to work in the central file? Never...except...
Keep in mind, most of these examples should only be done while others are NOT working in local files!
Security Guard mode - You want to make Revit interfere with users who seem determined to delete or move important elements repeatedly. This can be done by checking out a specific workset like Shared Levels and Grids for example. Then when you STC you "refuse" to return the User-Created Workset. This should be done in the central file using a special username, different than the rest of the team like Super Admin for example. Keep in mind that this is merely a modest hurdle for an experienced user to get past but it should deter the average user enough to point out that they were getting in harms way.
Managing Linked Files - Linked cad files and Revit models have a way of "disappearing" when they are managed in local files. At issue is the assumption by Revit that a linked cad file or Revit model should not be loaded into other user's local files for them. Revit expects the user to decide when to load them. If these linked files are managed in the central file the changes to the central file are taken more "seriously" by Revit when others use STC to publish and acquire any changes to the project. Users should avoid using File Manage links in local files. Use Visibility/Graphics or Temporary Hide/Isolate to manage the short term visibility of linked data files instead. Naturally any such links that are not needed should be removed as soon as possible.
Making a new Central File - You can use Detach From Central (DFC) to create a new central file instead but it still involves at least selecting the original central file. If you don't use DFC then you use File menu > Save As > Click the Options Button and check the option: Make this a Central file after save. This dialog option:
Note: You can also use DFC on a local file.
Working by yourself - If you are the only person working on this project routinely and you just want to take advantage of collateral benefits of using worksets then you can just work in the central file. There is nothing wrong with working in a local file instead however and it is even a good idea as it gives you some additional redundancy should something go wrong with your network or computer(s).
Clean Up after Others - Sloppy workset use means lots of elements on the wrong worksets. It is easiest to clean up after everyone when nobody is working in any local files. Open the central file, borrow every workset and get to work.
[Tip: Check all four workset "show" check boxes, select any workset, then use keyboard combination CTRL + A to select All worksets, then click the Editable button.]
When you are done be sure to STC and return everything you borrowed.
Did I forget any? Lemmeno!
Keep in mind, most of these examples should only be done while others are NOT working in local files!
Security Guard mode - You want to make Revit interfere with users who seem determined to delete or move important elements repeatedly. This can be done by checking out a specific workset like Shared Levels and Grids for example. Then when you STC you "refuse" to return the User-Created Workset. This should be done in the central file using a special username, different than the rest of the team like Super Admin for example. Keep in mind that this is merely a modest hurdle for an experienced user to get past but it should deter the average user enough to point out that they were getting in harms way.
Managing Linked Files - Linked cad files and Revit models have a way of "disappearing" when they are managed in local files. At issue is the assumption by Revit that a linked cad file or Revit model should not be loaded into other user's local files for them. Revit expects the user to decide when to load them. If these linked files are managed in the central file the changes to the central file are taken more "seriously" by Revit when others use STC to publish and acquire any changes to the project. Users should avoid using File Manage links in local files. Use Visibility/Graphics or Temporary Hide/Isolate to manage the short term visibility of linked data files instead. Naturally any such links that are not needed should be removed as soon as possible.
Making a new Central File - You can use Detach From Central (DFC) to create a new central file instead but it still involves at least selecting the original central file. If you don't use DFC then you use File menu > Save As > Click the Options Button and check the option: Make this a Central file after save. This dialog option:
Note: You can also use DFC on a local file.
Working by yourself - If you are the only person working on this project routinely and you just want to take advantage of collateral benefits of using worksets then you can just work in the central file. There is nothing wrong with working in a local file instead however and it is even a good idea as it gives you some additional redundancy should something go wrong with your network or computer(s).
Clean Up after Others - Sloppy workset use means lots of elements on the wrong worksets. It is easiest to clean up after everyone when nobody is working in any local files. Open the central file, borrow every workset and get to work.
[Tip: Check all four workset "show" check boxes, select any workset, then use keyboard combination CTRL + A to select All worksets, then click the Editable button.]
When you are done be sure to STC and return everything you borrowed.
Did I forget any? Lemmeno!
Saturday, September 06, 2008
Central File in "Four Easy Steps"
Step One - Good Location/Name (server folder and nice name)
Step Two - Enable Worksets (adds two parameters to DB)
Step Three - Save your Work (commit the DB changes)
Step Four - Synchronize with Central (SWC, return your "books")
If you scroll first you'll realize that these four easy steps seem quite long. It takes me some time to explain them but they don't in practice. The variable in how long it will take has to do with when you decide to start the process. Doing it earlier with little in the model will take less time than later with most of the project modeled.
Edit April 21, 2017 - The above is still true conceptually. With the release of Revit 2017 this process has changed a bit. Please refer to THIS NEW POST instead.
Step One - Good Location/Name
File Menu > Save or Save As - Browse to your server and project folder. Use a "good name". This is the most important step, if done incorrectly you can still fix it now. If you wait until after step three, you have to "start over".
Keep in mind, a central file must be created in the correct folder at the outset. If you create a central file in the wrong folder and then try to move it Revit will regard the file as a Local File instead. That might be confusing but that is how Revit is "wired". It records the original folder location and if it is moved the file is treated as a Local File instead.
Similarly you must use the name you really want, now...no changing your mind or the same thing happens, Revit considers the new file a Local File.
Pick your location and name carefully and then act. If you make a mistake, Fix it NOW...assuming you realize it is wrong.
Step Two - Enable Worksets
File menu > Worksets or Worksets Toolbar > "Puzzle Icon"
Revit opens this dialog to confirm your intentions.
Clicking OK causes Revit to add two parameters to every item in the database, Workset and Edited By. Using the Library metaphor I like, this is the "book shelves" and the "library card" user information. It will take less time to do this step if done early in the project. It takes longer the more "model" there is to process.
I recommend you keep the two default worksets that Revit offers you. If you need others you can create them once Revit offers you this dialog box (as soon as it finishes adding the two parameters to the database).
Revit won't let you delete "Workset1" now or in the future. You can rename it but you might find yourself confused later if you want to delete "that" workset and Revit won't let you. For this reason I tend to keep it as a "catch-all" workset for items that I can't decide how to organize yet. You can delete "Shared Levels and Grids" if you like or rename it but again it serves an "obvious" role. Obvious worksets work better as a organization tool.
Step Three - Save your Work
File menu > Save - This is your last chance to "run away". This dialog confirms that you are going to commit your changes to the database and your project will become a real "central" file.
This commits the changes to the database structure that we made in the previous step. The file is now a Central File and you've gone beyond the point of no return. Any changes to the file location or name are going to require special action on our part to keep our team collaborating.
Step Four - Synchronize with Central (SWC)
When we started this process, once we moved beyond Step Two we became the "owner" of everything in the database. When we did Step Three Revit returned most of the elements we borrowed for us but it did not return the User Created worksets. We need to STC in order to return everything so that the whole team can begin working on the project. This is the dialog Revit presents to SWTC when you use the File menu > Synchronize with Central. Note that you don't get a dialog when you use the toolbar button instead. That is a quick SWC and it does not return User Created worksets either.
Note the check in User-Created Worksets and the comment. Do yourself and anyone else who works on your project with you a favor, add a comment. Put something meaningful in each time you bother to SWC. This helps track down a problem later or to determine how far back to go when you must start "over" again at an earlier point in the project's design phase. These comments are visible when using the File menu > Show History or Backups features.
You now have a Central file ready for your team to begin collaborating!
Okay...you got me! There is a fifth step!
Step Five - Close the Central File!
File menu > Close - This closes the central file and from now on nobody should work directly in the central file, as a rule. There are exceptions to the rule but that is a different post.
Now on to creating your Local Files!
Revit Workset Quick Reference
Step Two - Enable Worksets (adds two parameters to DB)
Step Three - Save your Work (commit the DB changes)
Step Four - Synchronize with Central (SWC, return your "books")
If you scroll first you'll realize that these four easy steps seem quite long. It takes me some time to explain them but they don't in practice. The variable in how long it will take has to do with when you decide to start the process. Doing it earlier with little in the model will take less time than later with most of the project modeled.
Edit April 21, 2017 - The above is still true conceptually. With the release of Revit 2017 this process has changed a bit. Please refer to THIS NEW POST instead.
Step One - Good Location/Name
File Menu > Save or Save As - Browse to your server and project folder. Use a "good name". This is the most important step, if done incorrectly you can still fix it now. If you wait until after step three, you have to "start over".
Keep in mind, a central file must be created in the correct folder at the outset. If you create a central file in the wrong folder and then try to move it Revit will regard the file as a Local File instead. That might be confusing but that is how Revit is "wired". It records the original folder location and if it is moved the file is treated as a Local File instead.
Similarly you must use the name you really want, now...no changing your mind or the same thing happens, Revit considers the new file a Local File.
Pick your location and name carefully and then act. If you make a mistake, Fix it NOW...assuming you realize it is wrong.
Step Two - Enable Worksets
File menu > Worksets or Worksets Toolbar > "Puzzle Icon"
Revit opens this dialog to confirm your intentions.
Clicking OK causes Revit to add two parameters to every item in the database, Workset and Edited By. Using the Library metaphor I like, this is the "book shelves" and the "library card" user information. It will take less time to do this step if done early in the project. It takes longer the more "model" there is to process.
I recommend you keep the two default worksets that Revit offers you. If you need others you can create them once Revit offers you this dialog box (as soon as it finishes adding the two parameters to the database).
Revit won't let you delete "Workset1" now or in the future. You can rename it but you might find yourself confused later if you want to delete "that" workset and Revit won't let you. For this reason I tend to keep it as a "catch-all" workset for items that I can't decide how to organize yet. You can delete "Shared Levels and Grids" if you like or rename it but again it serves an "obvious" role. Obvious worksets work better as a organization tool.
Step Three - Save your Work
File menu > Save - This is your last chance to "run away". This dialog confirms that you are going to commit your changes to the database and your project will become a real "central" file.
This commits the changes to the database structure that we made in the previous step. The file is now a Central File and you've gone beyond the point of no return. Any changes to the file location or name are going to require special action on our part to keep our team collaborating.
Step Four - Synchronize with Central (SWC)
When we started this process, once we moved beyond Step Two we became the "owner" of everything in the database. When we did Step Three Revit returned most of the elements we borrowed for us but it did not return the User Created worksets. We need to STC in order to return everything so that the whole team can begin working on the project. This is the dialog Revit presents to SWTC when you use the File menu > Synchronize with Central. Note that you don't get a dialog when you use the toolbar button instead. That is a quick SWC and it does not return User Created worksets either.
Note the check in User-Created Worksets and the comment. Do yourself and anyone else who works on your project with you a favor, add a comment. Put something meaningful in each time you bother to SWC. This helps track down a problem later or to determine how far back to go when you must start "over" again at an earlier point in the project's design phase. These comments are visible when using the File menu > Show History or Backups features.
You now have a Central file ready for your team to begin collaborating!
Okay...you got me! There is a fifth step!
Step Five - Close the Central File!
File menu > Close - This closes the central file and from now on nobody should work directly in the central file, as a rule. There are exceptions to the rule but that is a different post.
Now on to creating your Local Files!
Revit Workset Quick Reference
Friday, September 05, 2008
Revit Building or Revit "Sweet" - A Survey
Hi...as you probably know already, I don't like surveys...unless they are mine.
We currently have three versions of Revit; Architecture, Structure and MEP. You all know this unless you've just found about this new Revit thing recently. Glad you've been jarred out of your current software doldrums (uh oh, getting dangerously close to picking on other software and its users).
This is my point! Do you want a single complete version of Revit to purchase, install and use? If so how much will you pay?
I realize that this is not a simple question and there are potentially many permutations this could devolve into. Consider that Autodesk is a big corporation and every "product" iteration requires effort, planning, legal considerations, committees and ...well you get the idea.
Chad Smith at AUGI has been lobbying for this issue at AUGI (and Autodesk) for quite some time now. He has described the issue pretty well so let me paraphrase him.
We buy RAC 2009, we pay for "Revit" and get Architectural features. Now we buy RST 2009 and we pay for "Revit" (AGAIN) as well as get Structural features. Now we buy RME 2009 and we pay for...yes "Revit" (AGAIN yes AGAIN) as well as get mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection tools. This does not begin to address subscription fees.
Personally I'd like to see a Revit Building or Suite (the Sweet combo) offered at "such a deal". I know many of the firms I meet feel the same way. Let's say we buy two and get the third for free. Put another way two thirds (2/3) of the full price of three separate versions.
The key is to deliver a single product that the "EyeTee" folks can install once per computer and the user can access any tool they need at any time. This is great for small shops, it is great for AEC firms, it is great for contractors, and it is great for Autodesk, only they don't seem to realize it. If you agree, show them, tell them!!
I'd like to know whether this concept matters to you or not. If it does...how $$much$$ does it matter? I've added a poll that asks if you want a "Sweet" Revit. I've posted second one that asks you how much you'd pay. I've limited the answers to what I "want" to ask or suggest but feel free use comments here to explain other ideas.
For example Dick Barath (at AUGI too) posted that he thought it might make sense to give us access to the other tools for a limited number of hours per month for the same purchase price. More and we'd have to pony up some more money. Bentley offers any single "flavor" of their verticals on top of Microstation included in the price of Microstation (at least they used to last time I checked) as part of their "Maintenance" program (think Autodesk's Subscription program).
I think it would be an excellent way to buy "Revit", the proverbial "win win" for everyone or nearly everyone. Well, what do YOU say?
We currently have three versions of Revit; Architecture, Structure and MEP. You all know this unless you've just found about this new Revit thing recently. Glad you've been jarred out of your current software doldrums (uh oh, getting dangerously close to picking on other software and its users).
This is my point! Do you want a single complete version of Revit to purchase, install and use? If so how much will you pay?
I realize that this is not a simple question and there are potentially many permutations this could devolve into. Consider that Autodesk is a big corporation and every "product" iteration requires effort, planning, legal considerations, committees and ...well you get the idea.
Chad Smith at AUGI has been lobbying for this issue at AUGI (and Autodesk) for quite some time now. He has described the issue pretty well so let me paraphrase him.
We buy RAC 2009, we pay for "Revit" and get Architectural features. Now we buy RST 2009 and we pay for "Revit" (AGAIN) as well as get Structural features. Now we buy RME 2009 and we pay for...yes "Revit" (AGAIN yes AGAIN) as well as get mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection tools. This does not begin to address subscription fees.
Personally I'd like to see a Revit Building or Suite (the Sweet combo) offered at "such a deal". I know many of the firms I meet feel the same way. Let's say we buy two and get the third for free. Put another way two thirds (2/3) of the full price of three separate versions.
The key is to deliver a single product that the "EyeTee" folks can install once per computer and the user can access any tool they need at any time. This is great for small shops, it is great for AEC firms, it is great for contractors, and it is great for Autodesk, only they don't seem to realize it. If you agree, show them, tell them!!
I'd like to know whether this concept matters to you or not. If it does...how $$much$$ does it matter? I've added a poll that asks if you want a "Sweet" Revit. I've posted second one that asks you how much you'd pay. I've limited the answers to what I "want" to ask or suggest but feel free use comments here to explain other ideas.
For example Dick Barath (at AUGI too) posted that he thought it might make sense to give us access to the other tools for a limited number of hours per month for the same purchase price. More and we'd have to pony up some more money. Bentley offers any single "flavor" of their verticals on top of Microstation included in the price of Microstation (at least they used to last time I checked) as part of their "Maintenance" program (think Autodesk's Subscription program).
I think it would be an excellent way to buy "Revit", the proverbial "win win" for everyone or nearly everyone. Well, what do YOU say?
Smarter Local Files - Build Checking
When I posted this earlier I didn't really go into much detail about the application. One particularly nice feature that was added by David based upon inspiration from James Vandezande (SOM) was the notion of checking the build of Revit that the user is running compared with the version that was used to create the central/local originally.
David Baldacchino, David Kingham and James Vandeszande have contributed most of the actual code. The AUGI thread and comments on David's blog have provided feedback and some inspiration as well. This is a perfect example of why the Revit AUGI community works!
I must say AutoHotKey is a pretty quick "study". After downloading and installing it I was able to modify the existing script provided by David to do what I needed it to do within 10 minutes.
I still believe Autodesk should enhance this work flow directly themselves but grateful to people like David "squared" and James for creating it, and more importantly, for making it available to the rest of "us".
You can visit the AUGI thread or download the script file from HERE. If you download the script you still need the AutoHotKey software to compile it into an executable file you can use.
For another more recent option, read this MORE RECENT POST.
David Baldacchino, David Kingham and James Vandeszande have contributed most of the actual code. The AUGI thread and comments on David's blog have provided feedback and some inspiration as well. This is a perfect example of why the Revit AUGI community works!
I must say AutoHotKey is a pretty quick "study". After downloading and installing it I was able to modify the existing script provided by David to do what I needed it to do within 10 minutes.
I still believe Autodesk should enhance this work flow directly themselves but grateful to people like David "squared" and James for creating it, and more importantly, for making it available to the rest of "us".
You can visit the AUGI thread or download the script file from HERE. If you download the script you still need the AutoHotKey software to compile it into an executable file you can use.
For another more recent option, read this MORE RECENT POST.
Acuity Brands Lighting - Content Update
According the date on their blog I've been napping for month and missed this. Tim Hogan posted this "Starter Set Expanded and Improved" post on August 1, 2008.
The post starts with:
Based on your feedback from the models we released last month, we’ve made a round of improvements and expanded the number of models now available.
The post starts with:
Based on your feedback from the models we released last month, we’ve made a round of improvements and expanded the number of models now available.
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Steel Tonnage Technique - Link to Tip
At the Revit Structure User Group (STRUG) meeting (Irvine, CA) last night Ed Tallmadge of Kelar suggested that I post a link to a recent post on an Autodesk Blog called Connected. They've provided a tutorial to allow users to report the tonnage of the steel they've modeled in their project.
It was also mentioned on the BIM and BEAM blog naturally.
Done Ed!
It was also mentioned on the BIM and BEAM blog naturally.
Done Ed!
New Blog - The Revit Clinic
Scott Davis let me know earlier today about this one but I was out most of the day until tonight so I'm a bit late to the table.
Harlan Brumm with Autodesk has started a blog called The Revit Clinic. Read THIS POST to find out all about why he started the blog.
He writes:
Welcome to the Revit Clinic. My Name is Harlan Brumm and I am the Global Technical Lead – Revit for Autodesk Product Support and I will be the primary contributor to this blog.
About this blog, its name and purpose:
Where do you go when you have a physical problem?, A Doctor. Where do you go when you have a BIM problem? Well, I’m not a doctor, but I hope that you will start to come here. I will be focusing this blog on the Autodesk Revit platform of Products, Revit Architecture, Structure, and MEP and trying to prevent BIM problems and provide you rehab if they happen.
I have to admit, I won’t always know the answer to your problem. I am more of a generalist, like your family physician, but like a good generalist, I know who to send you to, so I may refer you to a specialists or I may even recommend another hospital (blog or web site).
Welcome to the blogosphere!
Harlan Brumm with Autodesk has started a blog called The Revit Clinic. Read THIS POST to find out all about why he started the blog.
He writes:
Welcome to the Revit Clinic. My Name is Harlan Brumm and I am the Global Technical Lead – Revit for Autodesk Product Support and I will be the primary contributor to this blog.
About this blog, its name and purpose:
Where do you go when you have a physical problem?, A Doctor. Where do you go when you have a BIM problem? Well, I’m not a doctor, but I hope that you will start to come here. I will be focusing this blog on the Autodesk Revit platform of Products, Revit Architecture, Structure, and MEP and trying to prevent BIM problems and provide you rehab if they happen.
I have to admit, I won’t always know the answer to your problem. I am more of a generalist, like your family physician, but like a good generalist, I know who to send you to, so I may refer you to a specialists or I may even recommend another hospital (blog or web site).
Welcome to the blogosphere!
Stairs and Railings - Quick Reminder
A railing follows its host stair until you edit the sketch of the Railing. At this point Revit "sighs in relief" and says to itself, "once less thing to manage!", and hands the Railing Sketch responsibility off to you/me/someone. Revit is finished with that Railing. Any changes to the stair and your railing stays put. Revit is loathe to mess up your lovely Railing modifications.
Wish - Recent Files Window
This feature appeared with the release of 2009 in response to frequent criticism of the standard Windows compliant behavior of opening a template when the application is started. Ironically a fair number of users don't like this new behavior either despite Revit opening a bit faster.
Here are three items I've heard in my travels.
Office Customization - Let us create our own border or at least add to the stock border to include office links to important help documentation/standards/news.
Icon/List/Detail - Display options similar to Windows Explorer that permit us to view more files as icons (current method) or list and detail view.
Browse/New - Currently these options appear at the bottom of the list which makes using them inefficient because we must scroll to access them. They take up very little space so put them at the top instead. They won't hurt picking our last project or family or second/third and now they are more accessible. Faster (a little) now than just using the File menu or the Open icon on the toolbar.
For a nice tip and example of what I'm suggesting that uses the now more or less typical Drafting View approach, check out THIS POST by Craig.
Here are three items I've heard in my travels.
Office Customization - Let us create our own border or at least add to the stock border to include office links to important help documentation/standards/news.
Icon/List/Detail - Display options similar to Windows Explorer that permit us to view more files as icons (current method) or list and detail view.
Browse/New - Currently these options appear at the bottom of the list which makes using them inefficient because we must scroll to access them. They take up very little space so put them at the top instead. They won't hurt picking our last project or family or second/third and now they are more accessible. Faster (a little) now than just using the File menu or the Open icon on the toolbar.
For a nice tip and example of what I'm suggesting that uses the now more or less typical Drafting View approach, check out THIS POST by Craig.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Wish - Revit Dimension Features
This is dedicated to two perhaps minor wishes but I hear them echoed everywhere I go.
"Glue" - Permit two separate co-planar dimension strings to become one string. If separate dimension styles the first pick defines the "good" string, the style to use.
"Split" - The opposite, create two separate strings by selecting a point along the dimension string. The pick point defines which string the section selected remains attached to. In other words you split near the side you want the split segment to remain connected to. Maybe images would be clearer?
Or the reverse, but either way I'd take it!
Include the "Delete Inner Segment" option on the Options Bar! This way we just remove the selected segment and any between the first selection and a second, just like it works on walls/lines etc.
"Glue" - Permit two separate co-planar dimension strings to become one string. If separate dimension styles the first pick defines the "good" string, the style to use.
"Split" - The opposite, create two separate strings by selecting a point along the dimension string. The pick point defines which string the section selected remains attached to. In other words you split near the side you want the split segment to remain connected to. Maybe images would be clearer?
Or the reverse, but either way I'd take it!
Include the "Delete Inner Segment" option on the Options Bar! This way we just remove the selected segment and any between the first selection and a second, just like it works on walls/lines etc.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Dimension Text Leader - No Leader
No matter how many times you tell users to "remember the Options Bar" you find a feature slipping by users. I was catching up on the user forum at RUGS (Revit User Group Sydney) and saw a question asked and answered regarding removing the little rubber band leader that pops up when you drag a dimension text away from its home position.
When you remove the check for Leader Revit hides/removes the leader. However if you want a leader elsewhere along a string of dimensions you lose them too. You might want to limit such an override to individual strings.
Don't forget to "Remember the Options Bar"...
When you remove the check for Leader Revit hides/removes the leader. However if you want a leader elsewhere along a string of dimensions you lose them too. You might want to limit such an override to individual strings.
Don't forget to "Remember the Options Bar"...
Monday, September 01, 2008
Selling Product versus Productivity
I read a post on Evan Yares' blog where he comments on an article written by Matt Lombard. Seems to me that though discussing CAD the discussion really is the same when you swap CAD for BIM (as a "product" at least). It is focused on Solidworks but you could easily put Autodesk in its place.
Evan quoted this portion of the original article on the blog Matt Writes and I like his selection so I'll include it here too.
"What’s the difference between CAD and Productivity? CAD is just a tool. In the same way that a hammer sitting on a bench isn’t putting a new roof on your house, CAD itself is just a static tool. Productivity is the combination of a tool and the ability to use it. It’s like a two part epoxy - either part on its own is just a sticky mess that you can’t do anything with, but put them together, and you’ve got something of value. If I buy a CAD product and have no idea how to use it, the software itself has no value to me. Ironically, the value is created by the customer, not the vendor, when the customer learns how to use the tool. So often, the customer has to pay extra for training on the tool. It is only when the abilities conferred by the training are combined with the software that you have something of value - productivity." [Matt Lombard - 2007]
If you aren't prepared to just read the rest yourself the article is asking Solidworks to focus their energy on providing better resources to help make the users of their product(s) more productive, the real value.
Evan added his own comment: "Advanced capabilities do far less to help make typical CAD users productive than do improvements in baseline usability."
I can hear someone using that as an excuse to stick with AutoCAD instead of moving to Revit. I can hear that twisted into an excuse to barely use AutoCAD Architecture features. I can hear someone say that I posted this because I provide training services and want to preach. No not at all, I think the point is to endeavor to recognize inefficiency (and do something about it, added in response of Evan's comment) wherever you might find it, it is all around us, you just need to look.
Evan quoted this portion of the original article on the blog Matt Writes and I like his selection so I'll include it here too.
"What’s the difference between CAD and Productivity? CAD is just a tool. In the same way that a hammer sitting on a bench isn’t putting a new roof on your house, CAD itself is just a static tool. Productivity is the combination of a tool and the ability to use it. It’s like a two part epoxy - either part on its own is just a sticky mess that you can’t do anything with, but put them together, and you’ve got something of value. If I buy a CAD product and have no idea how to use it, the software itself has no value to me. Ironically, the value is created by the customer, not the vendor, when the customer learns how to use the tool. So often, the customer has to pay extra for training on the tool. It is only when the abilities conferred by the training are combined with the software that you have something of value - productivity." [Matt Lombard - 2007]
If you aren't prepared to just read the rest yourself the article is asking Solidworks to focus their energy on providing better resources to help make the users of their product(s) more productive, the real value.
Evan added his own comment: "Advanced capabilities do far less to help make typical CAD users productive than do improvements in baseline usability."
I can hear someone using that as an excuse to stick with AutoCAD instead of moving to Revit. I can hear that twisted into an excuse to barely use AutoCAD Architecture features. I can hear someone say that I posted this because I provide training services and want to preach. No not at all, I think the point is to endeavor to recognize inefficiency (and do something about it, added in response of Evan's comment) wherever you might find it, it is all around us, you just need to look.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Shared Parameter - No you Can't -Yes you Can
When you are making an annotation symbol family you occasionally want to use a shared parameter. In 2009 you'll find the Family Types dialog route does not offer the option to choose a Shared Parameter.
It is "hard wired" to choose Family Parameter. All is not lost however. When you place and/or select a Label, choose Edit Label (Options Bar)then take notice of the "Add Parameter" button at the bottom left portion of the Category Parameters frame. You'll be presented with a different version of the Parameter Properties dialog whose focus is on Shared Parameters instead.
It is "hard wired" to choose Family Parameter. All is not lost however. When you place and/or select a Label, choose Edit Label (Options Bar)then take notice of the "Add Parameter" button at the bottom left portion of the Category Parameters frame. You'll be presented with a different version of the Parameter Properties dialog whose focus is on Shared Parameters instead.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Revit Structure Meeting - Sept. 3, 2008 - SoCal
If you use Revit Structure, are reading this, live in or will be in Southern California AND have time on September 3, 2008 you ought to visit this relatively new Revit Structure user group.
Meeting Details:
Host: Avan Amalsad & KPFF Engineers
Location: KPFF Consulting Engineers
18500 Von Karman Avenue., Irvine, CA 92612 US
When: Wednesday, September 3, 6:00PM
Phone: 949-252-1022
Parking: Kindly do not park your vehicle in the building premises as you will be charged. You can park across the street at 2500 Michelson Plaza.
After hours the elevators will only allow access to the 10th floor.
Topic One - Exporting from Revit
Presented by: Matthew Gonzalez
Topic Two - Revit Phase Features
Presented by: Behzad Sanikhatam and Edward Tallmadge (Kelar)
Topic Three - Revit Design Options
Presented by: Behzad Sanikhatam and Edward Tallmadge (Kelar)
This is an Autodesk and Kelar sponsored event hosted by KPFF Consulting Engineers - Irvine.
Want to get on their mailing list? Contact Avan Amalsad
If these topics interest you perhaps we will see you there!?!
Meeting Details:
Host: Avan Amalsad & KPFF Engineers
Location: KPFF Consulting Engineers
18500 Von Karman Avenue., Irvine, CA 92612 US
When: Wednesday, September 3, 6:00PM
Phone: 949-252-1022
Parking: Kindly do not park your vehicle in the building premises as you will be charged. You can park across the street at 2500 Michelson Plaza.
After hours the elevators will only allow access to the 10th floor.
Topic One - Exporting from Revit
Presented by: Matthew Gonzalez
Topic Two - Revit Phase Features
Presented by: Behzad Sanikhatam and Edward Tallmadge (Kelar)
Topic Three - Revit Design Options
Presented by: Behzad Sanikhatam and Edward Tallmadge (Kelar)
This is an Autodesk and Kelar sponsored event hosted by KPFF Consulting Engineers - Irvine.
Want to get on their mailing list? Contact Avan Amalsad
If these topics interest you perhaps we will see you there!?!
Building Explorer - Product Plug
Thursday night (08/28/08) I attended the South Coast Revit User Group (SCRUG), my alma mater user group of sorts that Jim Balding (WATG) started "moons" ago when Revit wasn't fashionable. I got to see some old friends naturally and it was good to catch up on the latest news.
Will Harris (Micro Desk) gave a nice demonstration of Revit Family Editor concepts that every Revit user needs to know.
Then Building Explorer co-founders Sinisa and Veljko (sp from memory and it isn't what it used to be) demonstrated their product and then entertained a wide variety of questions. These included some very insightful questions from a mechanical contractor in attendance as well as a few less intelligent questions from yours truly.
Their product is very interesting, powerful, if not perhaps even overwhelming. As Scott Davis uses in his signature at AUGI, "You're on the Road to BIM, not just crossing BIM Street.", this product can significantly enhance how you do business if you are serious about Revit and BIM. BIM/Revit and Building Explorer require you to challenge any preconceptions you may have about the purpose/importance of the model, how it is modeled and how the traditional product/contract documents consisting of drawings and specifications is viewed. The premise is this: An accurate model that represents how the building will actually be constructed is more valuable than the documentation/process we currently rely on. Keep in mind that these comments are mine and I'm imposing my own world view on what I heard. You'd need to speak with the guys at Building Explorer yourself to determine how accurately I've represented them and their product's influence.
I intend to learn more about this product myself, I encourage you to do so as well!
Thanks to the SCRUG sponsers:
U.S. CAD
Kelar
Chuck with Autodesk
Thanks also to LPA for hosting and Jay and Miguel for keeping SCRUG running!
Will Harris (Micro Desk) gave a nice demonstration of Revit Family Editor concepts that every Revit user needs to know.
Then Building Explorer co-founders Sinisa and Veljko (sp from memory and it isn't what it used to be) demonstrated their product and then entertained a wide variety of questions. These included some very insightful questions from a mechanical contractor in attendance as well as a few less intelligent questions from yours truly.
Their product is very interesting, powerful, if not perhaps even overwhelming. As Scott Davis uses in his signature at AUGI, "You're on the Road to BIM, not just crossing BIM Street.", this product can significantly enhance how you do business if you are serious about Revit and BIM. BIM/Revit and Building Explorer require you to challenge any preconceptions you may have about the purpose/importance of the model, how it is modeled and how the traditional product/contract documents consisting of drawings and specifications is viewed. The premise is this: An accurate model that represents how the building will actually be constructed is more valuable than the documentation/process we currently rely on. Keep in mind that these comments are mine and I'm imposing my own world view on what I heard. You'd need to speak with the guys at Building Explorer yourself to determine how accurately I've represented them and their product's influence.
I intend to learn more about this product myself, I encourage you to do so as well!
Thanks to the SCRUG sponsers:
U.S. CAD
Kelar
Chuck with Autodesk
Thanks also to LPA for hosting and Jay and Miguel for keeping SCRUG running!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Subject Matter Experts - Steel Reinforcement - USA
Wai Chu (Revit Structure Product Manager) posted the following inquiry on the AUGI forum. I've posted here just to echo the request...echo....echo... he writes:
Hi all!
Our structural product's team is currently searching for some USA steel reinforcement subject matter experts. We would like to do on-site research with you. We would conduct an extensive interview consisting of three (3) full days on site with one (1) day follow-up by phone or email. We want to do this during September 2008.
Very important:
The ideal candidate should be familiar with other software programs for reinforcement detailing in the USA. They should have lot of experience in detailing and reinforced concrete design, rebar modeling, shop drawing and fabrication drawing generation.
Our team has some budget to pay the candidate for the time they will spend with us for this research and interview.
If interested, please contact Wai Chu and Dariusz Kwolek
Thank you
Wai Chu + Dariusz Kwolek
Autodesk Structural Products Team
Hi all!
Our structural product's team is currently searching for some USA steel reinforcement subject matter experts. We would like to do on-site research with you. We would conduct an extensive interview consisting of three (3) full days on site with one (1) day follow-up by phone or email. We want to do this during September 2008.
Very important:
The ideal candidate should be familiar with other software programs for reinforcement detailing in the USA. They should have lot of experience in detailing and reinforced concrete design, rebar modeling, shop drawing and fabrication drawing generation.
Our team has some budget to pay the candidate for the time they will spend with us for this research and interview.
If interested, please contact Wai Chu and Dariusz Kwolek
Thank you
Wai Chu + Dariusz Kwolek
Autodesk Structural Products Team
Double Negative - Equality Constraint and Padlocks
This one trips up new family editors as well as project modelers but I see it more often in the context of the family editor.
When you create a dimension string between three or more elements Revit displays the EQ icon/control/grip/toggle.
Clicking on this EQ icon will create a constraint between the elements that tells Revit that you want the spacing between each of them to remain equal at all times. This assumes that you intend to "flex" or change the distance between some of them or the overall distance at some point. Thus the reason I encounter it with family editors more often.
At the same time the Padlock icon/control/grip/toggle shows up underneath each dimension value.
You DO NOT need or want to click on the padlocks, which locks the dimension value. Doing so is similar to a "double negative", like, "I ain't not going to do that?"
Poor Revit is confused when you do this because you just told it to make sure the distance between each element should remain equal. Then you told Revit not to change them either! Adding a dimension and parameter to allow for flexing them makes matters worse! Up till now Revit tolerated your mistake...but trying to change the parameter will push Revit too far, it snaps and "yells" at you!
I suggest that we might be better off if Revit did not display the padlocks when the EQ constraint is invoked? In the meantime, just remember, double negatives ain't good English and it isn't not good for Revit neither.
When you create a dimension string between three or more elements Revit displays the EQ icon/control/grip/toggle.
Clicking on this EQ icon will create a constraint between the elements that tells Revit that you want the spacing between each of them to remain equal at all times. This assumes that you intend to "flex" or change the distance between some of them or the overall distance at some point. Thus the reason I encounter it with family editors more often.
At the same time the Padlock icon/control/grip/toggle shows up underneath each dimension value.
You DO NOT need or want to click on the padlocks, which locks the dimension value. Doing so is similar to a "double negative", like, "I ain't not going to do that?"Poor Revit is confused when you do this because you just told it to make sure the distance between each element should remain equal. Then you told Revit not to change them either! Adding a dimension and parameter to allow for flexing them makes matters worse! Up till now Revit tolerated your mistake...but trying to change the parameter will push Revit too far, it snaps and "yells" at you!
I suggest that we might be better off if Revit did not display the padlocks when the EQ constraint is invoked? In the meantime, just remember, double negatives ain't good English and it isn't not good for Revit neither.
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