Benefits of Revit in Architectural Industries

Since its release in 1997, Revit has revolutionized the field of architecture and construction. The software changed the way architects and engineers develop and interact with models by introducing automation, useful functionalities, and new approaches. Revit allowed professionals to visualize construction models in ways never before seen, thus changing the entire workflow of architectural projects.

In this article, we will take a closer look at Revit and how it works. We will also present you with the most important benefits of Revit for the fields of architecture, construction, and engineering.

Introduction to Revit

Autodesk Revit is a building information modeling (BIM) software developed by Autodesk. It allows for the creation of 3D models used for the planning, design, and management of construction projects. Revit helps teams collaborate better on designing both interior and exterior elements while improving the time and cost-efficiency of the project as a whole. The software acts as a single database where different stakeholders can work simultaneously on a design.

The program can be used for projects of all scopes and sizes and is an exceptionally powerful tool for the entire lifecycle of a project — from the early stages and construction to maintenance and decommissioning. There was once three separate Revit products (Revit Architecture, Revit Structure, and Revit MEP), which were suited for a particular field of work.  However, today all disciplines are housed within the same Revit product.

Revit works by combining objects in groups called “families”. There are three types of families that can be utilized:

• System Families — such as floors, walls, ceilings, roofs, and furniture built inside the project itself
• Loadable Families — objects built with primitives, created separately from the project, and loaded into it
• In-Place Families — objects built within a project by using the same tools as loadable components

Benefits of Revit for Architecture

Nowadays, it is nearly impossible to imagine any project in the construction industry being executed without the help of BIM software. Revit has been the leader in the field ever since its release and the tool keeps on receiving updates that improve its functionality. The platform offers a variety of options that are not available with other similar tools. Let’s take a look at the key benefits of Revit that make it the best BIM software in the business.

Diversity in Designing

Revit is a versatile tool that allows users to work on a project from a variety of view types. You can view structural and architectural floor plans, different elevation perspectives, and orthographic 3D models. Revit has advanced rendering capabilities that can be used to create incredibly realistic and detailed 3D images. The platform essentially lets you take a virtual tour of the Revit model and experience its materials, lighting, and textures as if they were real. The powerful 3D design tools make Revit an ideal solution for both presentations and actual construction documentation.

Collaboration Abilities

One of the biggest benefits of Revit is that it lets multiple teams work simultaneously on a model and contribute easily and effectively. The program utilizes different models and views that can be accessed and updated by each team member in real-time. The database and the main project file can be kept either on a local network or in the cloud so that they can be accessed easily by anyone. Revit also provides a variety of tools for communication, annotation, and collaboration on different levels.

For organizations which have teams and/or users across multiple offices or locations, the best solution would be to use the Autodesk Construction Cloud (or its predecessor BIM 360) in conjunction with Revit in order to take advantage of cloud technologies that let you co-create models, manage construction documentation, and monitor communications.  These cloud-based platforms provide the perfect tool for efficient collaboration between teams with different tasks, areas of expertise, or even physical locations.

Outstanding Parametric Data

Revit is renowned for its capabilities to present parametric data for complex 3D construction models. It allows you to easily scale projects and fine-tune where specific objects go. Revit helps you properly define each aspect of a project and ensure that each design meets the required specifications before actual construction begins. What is more, the software allows teams to arrange schedules, manage deadlines, and perform project management tasks in the most effective way.

With Revit, users can assign various parameters to each object included in a building model. For example, you can assign energy exploitation values, information regarding maintenance, or data regarding materials, logistics, or suppliers. Being able to define such parameters for complex projects is quite useful, as it allows you to keep all relevant information in one single tool.

3D Modeling

When it comes to the benefits of Revit for architectural design, we cannot skip highlighting the high-quality 3D modeling features that the platform offers. Revit comes equipped with a plethora of tools and functionalities that take 3D modeling to the next level. These include clash detection, energy efficiency analysis, embedded design data, and multi-monitor support. Another useful feature is the ability to generate “as-built” models for construction projects. They can be used for the renovation of existing structures, facility management, designing new buildings, and even planning demolition schedules.

Overall, Revit allows you to edit, customize, and review 3D models in exceptional detail. While similar BIM tools also offer advanced 3D rendering, Revit’s modeling process is the standard by which all others are measured. The platform’s 3D modeling has wide applications in all phases of a construction project.

Time and Cost Efficiency

In addition to being a powerful tool for visualization and 3D rendering, Revit is also essential when it comes to time, cost efficiency, and risk management. The software lets you optimize your schedule and automate some of the mundane and repetitive tasks associated with 3D modeling. With Revit, you also get zero redundancy — since all project data is saved on a single model, any changes are immediately transferred to all other areas. This optimizes production time and also minimizes errors in the design process. Revit also allows you to easily extract both 3D and 2D drawings, saving you even more time.

Issues that are not discovered and addressed during the design phase of a construction project can have devastating results. By using BIM software like Revit, you will be able to analyze all aspects of the project before construction begins. The various tools that Revit offers help with error detection and mitigation, which can end up saving you a lot of money for remodeling and reconstruction.

Conclusion

Even though there are many BIM software tools out there, Revit is still considered the best option. Since its initial release more than 20 years ago, the platform has radically changed the way construction projects are executed. Nowadays, it is an exemplary piece of software that combines 3D modeling and various tools that help professionals plan, design, and manage their projects. The software keeps on receiving regular updates that expand its capabilities even more. Revit allows large teams to collaborate efficiently, leading to shortened production times and better overall results.

In this article, we presented you with the benefits of Revit for the architectural industry. However, the platform has so much more to offer in terms of functionality and tools. It is not just a 3D version of AutoCAD — it is an invaluable asset for both small and large construction projects. On top of that, it comes with competitive pricing. If you have yet to try out the best BIM software in the AEC industry, we highly recommend you do it as soon as possible.

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