Introduction

Why Collaboration in Revit Matters

Collaboration in Revit is essential for successfully delivering complex building projects. As architectural, structural, and MEP teams often work simultaneously on the same model, an effective collaboration system ensures that all disciplines stay coordinated, reducing errors and rework. Revit‘s worksharing feature provides a robust framework for this, enabling multiple users to contribute to and manage a single model efficiently.

Two Primary Worksharing Options
Revit offers two main approaches to enable multi-user collaboration:
1. Central Model (On-Premises Collaboration)
Overview: A Central Model is a shared file hosted on a network location (e.g., LAN, WAN, or VPN), allowing users to work on Local Models and synchronize changes with the central file. This option is best suited for teams in the same office or with reliable network access.
Use Case: Localized teams or firms with in-house IT infrastructure who prefer to avoid cloud dependency.
2. Cloud Model (Cloud-Based Collaboration)
Overview: A Cloud Model is hosted on Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) or BIM Collaborate Pro. It enables remote team members to access and edit the model in real time, using Autodesk Docs for versioning, permissions, and collaboration.
Use Case: Distributed teams or projects requiring seamless integration, real-time updates, and automated version control.
 
Key Differences Between Central Models and Cloud Models
1. Infrastructure
Central Model: Requires on-premises infrastructure such as shared network drives, high-speed LAN/WAN setups, or VPN for remote access. These setups demand IT resources and maintenance.
Cloud Model: Utilizes Autodesk-managed cloud storage, eliminating the need for internal server setups. It relies on internet connectivity and subscription to Autodesk services.
2. Accessibility
Central Model: Limited to users with access to the network. Collaboration for remote users is possible but often slower due to VPN/WAN latency.
Cloud Model: Accessible globally with an internet connection. Real-time syncing enables immediate updates across all users, regardless of location.
3. Scalability
Central Model: Scalability is constrained by network bandwidth, storage limits, and IT infrastructure. Adding more users or remote locations may require significant investment.
Cloud Model: Highly scalable, as Autodesk handles storage and performance. Ideal for large or geographically dispersed teams.
Choosing between a Central Model and a Cloud Model depends on your project needs, team setup, and resource availability. While the Central Model is cost-effective for localized teams, the Cloud Model’s scalability and accessibility make it a powerful solution for modern, collaborative workflows.

1. Creating a Central Model
Instructions:
Step 1: Enable Worksharing
Open your Revit model.
Navigate to the Collaborate tab.
Select Worksets to enable worksharing.

Step 2: Define Worksets

1. Create worksets (e.g., Architecture, Structure, MEP, Interior Design, Kitchen Design, Landscape, etc) to divide the model into manageable sections for team collaboration.

Step 3: Save as Central Model

1. Save the model to a shared network location (LAN, WAN, or VPN).
2. In the Save As dialog box, check Make this a Central Model after save.
3. Click Save.

Step 4: Create Local Models

1. Team members open the Central Model and save it as a Local Model on their machines by checking Create New Local.

Step 5: Synchronize with Central

1. Regularly synchronize changes with the Central Model via Collaborate > Synchronize with Central. (Alternative option > Quick Access Toolbar > Synchronize)

Best for:

1. Teams working in the same office or with reliable network infrastructure.

2. Creating a Cloud Model

Instructions:

Step 1: Enable Revit Cloud Worksharing

1. Save your project locally first.
2. Go to the Collaborate tab.
3. Click Collaborate in the Cloud and sign in to your Autodesk account.

Step 2: Choose a Host Location

• Select a project within Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) or BIM Collaborate Pro and select the folder path where you would like to save the Cloud Model

Step 3: Save the Cloud Model

• Revit uploads the model to the cloud. This is now the central version.

Step 4: Share Access

• Use Autodesk Docs to invite team members and set permissions for the Cloud Model.

Step 5: Work in the Cloud

• Team members can open and edit the Cloud Model directly. Synchronization happens seamlessly in real time.

Best for:

• Distributed teams, remote collaboration, or projects requiring robust versioning and permissions.

A Detailed Guide for Step 4 (Creating Cloud Models): Share Access

Once your Cloud Model is hosted on Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) or BIM Collaborate Pro, sharing access with your team is essential to ensure everyone can collaborate effectively. How to set permissions and share the model:

1. Access Autodesk Docs

• Navigate to Autodesk Docs via the Autodesk Construction Cloud platform.
• Ensure you are in the correct project space where your Cloud Model is stored.

2. Invite Team Members

• In the project folder or file location:
  1. Click the Invite or Add Members option.
  2. Enter the email addresses of the users you want to invite.
  3. Assign them to the appropriate project role (e.g., Architect, Structural Engineer).

3. Set Permissions

• Define the level of access each user or group will have:

• View Only: Users can view but not edit the model.
• Editor: Users can make changes and synchronize updates to the Cloud Model.
• Admin: Users can manage permissions and project settings.
• Permissions can be set at the project level, folder level, or file level for greater control.

4. Notify and Guide Team Members

• Team members will receive an email with an invitation to the project.
• Ensure they have Revit installed and know how to open the Cloud Model:
  1. Open Revit.
  2. Log in to their Autodesk account.
  3. Navigate to the Open from Autodesk Docs option in the Revit interface.

5. Monitor and Adjust Permissions

• As the project evolves, you might need to update permissions:

• Use Autodesk Docs’ Permissions Management to modify access for individuals or groups.
• Review activity logs in Autodesk Docs to track model access and updates.

This structured approach ensures a secure, streamlined collaboration process while maintaining control over model access and integrity. For more information, refer to Autodesk Docs Help.

Conclusion

Choosing between a Central Model and a Cloud Model for Revit worksharing depends on the project scope, team structure, and available infrastructure. Each method has its strengths:

• Central Model:

• Excels in localized setups with teams working from the same office or connected through robust LAN/WAN networks.
• Offers a cost-effective solution for firms with existing on-premises IT infrastructure.
• Best for projects with minimal need for remote collaboration.
• Cloud Model:

• Ideal for distributed teams or projects requiring global accessibility.
• Enables seamless real-time collaboration, enhanced security, and automated version control through Autodesk Construction Cloud.
• Scales easily as teams grow or project complexity increases.

When deciding, consider your team’s workflow, the need for remote access, and the resources available for either a network-based or cloud-based setup.

Take the time to explore both options and evaluate which approach aligns best with your project needs. Whether you’re optimizing for cost, performance, or scalability, Revit’s worksharing capabilities can support your goals.

For more detailed guidance on setting up Central Model or Cloud Models, visit Autodesk’s official documentation:

• Revit Central Model Setup
• Revit Cloud Worksharing Best Practices

Explore these resources to ensure a successful start to your collaborative projects!

Still looking for answers? Start a discussion with other professionals in your industry!