Revit, developed by Autodesk, is a powerful Building Information Modeling (BIM) software widely used in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. Publishing a Revit model involves sharing the model with stakeholders, ensuring it is accessible, accurate, and in the correct format for its intended use. This process is crucial for collaboration, project management, and documentation. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to publish a Revit model effectively.

Preparation Before Publishing

1. Clean Up the Model
   • Audit and Purge: Before publishing, audit the model to ensure there are no errors and purge any unnecessary elements to reduce file size.
   • Check for Warnings: Resolve any warnings that might affect the model’s integrity or performance.
   • Coordination Review: Use the Coordination Review tool to check for clashes or issues with linked models.
2. Set Up Views and Sheets
   • Create Views: Set up the necessary 2D and 3D views that stakeholders will need to review.
   • Organize Sheets: Arrange the sheets in a logical order and ensure they include all required information like plans, elevations, sections, and details.
   • Annotations and Tags: Ensure all annotations and tags are in place and legible.
3. Check Visibility and Graphics
   • Visibility/Graphics Settings: Adjust the visibility and graphics settings to ensure all elements are displayed correctly.
   • View Templates: Apply view templates to maintain consistency across similar views.
4. Ensure Proper Worksets Management
   • Worksharing: If using worksharing, ensure all changes are synchronized and relevant worksets are appropriately managed and closed.

Publishing the Revit Model

1. Exporting to Common Formats
   • Export to DWG/DXF: For stakeholders who use CAD software, export the model to DWG or DXF formats. Ensure you adjust export settings to maintain accuracy.
   • Export to IFC: Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) is a common open standard for BIM data exchange. Export to IFC to facilitate interoperability.
   • Export to DWF/DWFx: For lightweight viewing and markup, export the model to DWF or DWFx formats.
2. Using Autodesk BIM 360
   • Upload to BIM 360: BIM 360 is Autodesk’s cloud-based platform for AEC projects. Upload your Revit model to BIM 360 for collaboration and review.
   • Manage Permissions: Set appropriate permissions for different users to control access and editing rights.
   • Coordinate with Other Models: Use BIM 360 for clash detection and coordination with other project models.
3. Publishing to Revit Server
   • Set Up Revit Server: Revit Server allows multiple users to work on the same model in different locations. Ensure the server is set up correctly and the model is synchronized.
   • Monitor Performance: Regularly monitor the performance and connection to the Revit Server to ensure smooth operation.
4. Creating a Central Model
   • Central Model Setup: If using worksharing, ensure the central model is correctly set up and accessible to all team members.
   • Local Copies: Instruct team members to create local copies from the central model to work on.
5. Generating PDF Documentation
   • Print to PDF: Generate PDFs of all relevant views and sheets. Ensure settings are configured for optimal quality.
   • Combine PDFs: Use PDF software to combine individual PDFs into a comprehensive document set.
6. Sharing via A360
   • Upload to A360: Autodesk A360 allows you to share and collaborate on models online. Upload your Revit model and invite team members for collaboration.
   • Cloud Rendering: Utilize A360’s cloud rendering capabilities for high-quality visualizations.

Post-Publishing Steps

1. Review and Feedback
   • Stakeholder Review: Share the published model with stakeholders and gather feedback.
   • Address Comments: Address any comments or issues raised by stakeholders and update the model accordingly.
2. Version Control
   • Maintain Versions: Keep track of different versions of the model to manage changes and updates effectively.
   • Document Changes: Maintain a log of changes made between versions for reference and accountability.
3. Archiving
   • Archive Old Versions: Archive old versions of the model securely for future reference.
   • Backup: Ensure regular backups are taken to prevent data loss.

Tips for Effective Model Publishing

1. Clear Communication
   • Communicate clearly with all stakeholders about the format and purpose of the published model.
   • Provide guidelines on how to view and interact with the model.
2. Regular Updates
   • Regularly update the published model to reflect the latest changes and developments in the project.
3. Training
   • Provide training to team members and stakeholders on how to access and use the published model and any associated platforms like BIM 360 or A360.
4. Quality Assurance
   • Implement a quality assurance process to review the model before publishing. This includes checking for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with standards.

Conclusion

Publishing a Revit model is a critical step in the project lifecycle that ensures effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Revit model is accurate, accessible, and useful for all parties involved. From preparing the model and exporting to various formats, to using cloud-based platforms and managing post-publishing activities, each step is crucial for the successful dissemination of your Revit model.