Introduction to Central Files in Revit 2020
Creating a central file in Revit 2020 is an essential step for enabling collaboration among team members working on a project. A central file acts as the primary repository for your workshared project, ensuring that all users can access and contribute to the model.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Central File
Step 1: Prepare Your Project
Before creating a central file, ensure that your project is complete and structured appropriately. Begin by opening an existing Revit project that you wish to convert into a central file. This project will serve as the foundation for the central file.
Step 2: Access the Save As Dialog
Once your project is open and ready, navigate to the File tab located in the upper left corner of the interface. From the dropdown menu, select the option labeled “Save As,” then choose “Project.” This action will open the Save As dialog, allowing you to designate a location and name for your central file.
Step 3: Designate the Saving Location
In the Save As dialog, you will need to navigate to an appropriate location on your network or local drive where the central file will be stored. It is recommended to store central files in a location accessible to all team members, such as a shared server.
Step 4: Name Your Central File
In the dialogue box, provide a descriptive name for your central file. This name should reflect the project’s purpose or title, making it easier for team members to identify it later on.
Step 5: Enable Worksharing
Before finalizing the save, ensure you activate the worksharing feature. This is done by checking the option labeled “Detach from Central”, which will allow Revit to treat this file as a new central model. This step is crucial as it establishes the file’s parameters for collaborative work.
Step 6: Save the Central File
After confirming the naming and location, click on the “Save” button. The file will be saved as the central model, complete with the necessary worksharing settings, allowing other team members to create local copies as needed for editing.
Step 7: Communicate the Central File’s Location
Once the central file is created, communicate its location and guidelines for accessing and working with it to your team. Clear communication ensures that everyone knows how to connect to the central file and emphasizes the importance of saving their changes back to this central location.
Additional Considerations
It is important to regularly synchronize changes with the central file to keep the model up to date. Encourage your team to follow best practices for worksharing, such as regularly syncing, avoiding workset conflicts, and being aware of who has ownership of different elements within the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of a central file in Revit?
A central file serves as the master repository for all project data in a workshared environment. It allows multiple users to access and modify the project while ensuring that changes are tracked and shared.
2. How can I ensure that my central file is secure?
To secure your central file, store it in a controlled and backed-up location on a network server. Implement permissions and access controls to regulate who can modify the central file.
3. What should I do if I encounter issues with the central file?
If you experience problems with the central file, check the Revit Worksharing Monitor. You can also detach a local copy for troubleshooting or consult your IT support if the issue persists.
