Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across
Disciplines
John Herridge, AIA Autodesk, Inc.

SE204-1

Intended for existing Revit users, this session explores the powerful features within
Coordination Monitoring for managing project changes across multiple disciplines.
Understand the value of effective coordination management by reducing mistakes and
time-consuming rework.
Target Audience:
Architectural and engineering professionals seeking an effective way to collaborate on the
Revit platform
Key Topics:
- The underpinnings of Revit database concepts as they relate to collaboration
- The process of linking and copying work from other Revit models
- Coordination and action-item reviews
- Evaluate coordination scenarios

About the Speaker:

John joined Autodesk in 2006 as the building solutions specialist in education and supports the initiatives for
strategic universities. He has more than 20 years of industry experience, where he has served as an architect,
and as an applications engineer of Autodesk Building Solutions. John has trained and consulted hundreds of
architects and engineers on Autodesk design software. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture.
[email protected]

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines

Introduction
Welcome to this course on multi-discipline coordination monitoring using the Revit platform. The idea was to stretch
broadly across multiple disciplines to bring a common task to light and investigate how the Building Information
Modeling (BIM) process and supporting application tools can better address these increasing challenges.
What comes to your mind when you hear the word coordination? Did you cringe at the thought? One popular way
for architectural and engineering firms to understand the project was to perform pain-staking manual color coding of
building systems of the project to visualize where potential interference conflicts may occur. Then, the process would
repeat all over again when the backgrounds changed. Sound familiar?
What is the true cost benefit of coordination? Is it the net value of errors and omissions avoided or the quantity of RFIs
eliminated? Fortunately, coordination is something that we can manage and control. Preferably, we are seeking ways
of optimizing this process without losing accuracy and quality. I believe we are beginning to see this optimization come
to light using the coordination features integrated into Revit.
If you would like:

To be notified of changes contemplated by another disciplinary group that may impact your work

To have software systematically generate documentation that will facilitate face-to-face coordination meetings

To have an enhanced potential for heading off costly, downstream rework

You have come to the right course.Lets get started!

Multi-discipline Coordination Monitoring Concepts

As engineers and designers, we understand the value of coordination The greatest and most effective impact
designers can have on project success is in the early stages of the project, when the cost of revisions is minimal
compared to the associated cost of potential rework required at later stages.
The following diagram outlines the major concepts essential for developing a coordination strategy (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Multi-discipline Coordination Strategy

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines

Database Strategies
A significant characteristic of Revit is the awareness that all information about the project is captured in one underlying
database**, sometimes this is referred to as the project knowledge base. As a project progresses, so does the
intellectual assets which are entered into the database. Design data is entered once into the database, yet the
information can be represented in many ways depending upon how it is queried.
These elements can take on geometrical representations in 3D Isometric views, plans, sections, elevations, and other
views while non-graphical data are typically displayed in tables or schedules.

Discipline Specific Database Strategy (The Preferred Strategy)

The preferred strategy is to establish a Revit database for each discipline (Figure 2) that will be participating in the
project. In some respects this is similar to the approach taken with CAD based files.

Figure 2. Linking of Separate Discipline Models

Note: The 2008 version now permits nesting of linked models. Nested linked models must manually be set visible in the host model.

Figure 3. Revit Model Linking

**Database. Per Wikipedia, database is a collection of records stored in a computer in a systematic way, so that a computer can
consult it to answer questions.

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines
Even though the databases for each discipline are separate, we are able to see each others database by way of
linking models directly (Figure 3), indicated by the dashed arrows in Figure 2. This is similar to the notion of
xreferences with DWG files.
The linking of discipline specific models is the preferred means of sharing models between architects and engineers.
However, the type of data exchanged in a Revit-based model carries far more intelligence than an equivalent DWG file.
For product series compatibility, this course assumes that all parties are using the 2008 Revit platform for project
implementation. If using older versions, please refer to the product matrix chart in the on-screen Revit help menu on
the Linked Revit Models page. Caution should be taken prior to updating any software to ensure compatibility across
the entire design team.
It is important to note that each discipline retains ownership of their own database while continuing to develop designs
at their own pace while accommodating flexibility.

Shared Database Strategy

Another approach is to share a common project database for all disciplines (Figure 4). The project information is
developed in a single Building Information Model by using worksets. Worksets are logically named subsets of the
overall Building Information Model by which objects are assigned to them. This enables each discipline to develop
their own subsets to satisfy the needs of the project, depending upon the number of team members and their roles.
Each discipline uses their corresponding purpose-built Revit application for working on the Building Information Model.

MEP Worksets
Structural Worksets
Architectural Worksets
Figure 4. Shared Project Database
Each team member is able to work concurrently on a different portion of the same project. The project team is able to
view each others worksets when necessary for contextual backgrounds or for coordination purposes.
Note:

Further discussion of worksets is outside the scope of this course. Please refer to the Resources section at
the end of this document for more information. In addition, any references moving forward regarding a
Shared Database will appear in enclosed boxes to improve the readability of this document.

Starting A Project with Copy / Monitor

Copy / Monitor =

To initiate downstream discipline specific models for structure and building systems, Revit includes efficient tools for
copying architectural elements from linked models and turning them into native engineering discipline elements. The
following categories of objects in (Figure 5) on the following page can be copied from Autodesk Revit Architecture
into other models.

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines
It is important to note that each category in (Figure 5) includes Option settings (Appendix Figures A1-A5) to control how
the respective information will be copied into the model. Copy / Monitor can be started from either the icon shown in
the Tools toolbar or from the Tools pulldown menu (Figure 6).

Figure 5. Categories in Revit Structure

Command: Tools pulldown menu > Copy / Monitor > Select Link

Figure 6. To initiate Copy / Monitor (Tools pulldown menu)

Engineers Copy / Monitor Workflow Diagram

The workflow diagram below (Figure 7) starts with the onetime processes in blue from left to right; then,
moves from top downwards to illustrate the repetitive processes and works in conjunction with the
Design Bar (Figure 8).

One Time Process Model Linking (Start of Project)

Repetitive Process

(Preferred)

(Origin / Origin)

Figure 7. Copy / Monitor Workflow Diagram

Note:
Use Figure 5
for Sequence

Figure 8. Copy / Monitor Design Bar

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines

Copy / Monitor Tips

General
1.

Copy one category of elements at a time (in sequence per Fig. 5), repeat as necessary for other categories

2.

In-Place Model Components cannot be copied into an engineering project using Copy / Monitor

Power Tip:
Use Copy / Paste if necessary to bring In-Place elements across

Levels
1.

When architectural Levels are copied, engineering plan views are not automatically created.
Use the Floor Plan tool from the View design bar to generate engineering plan views.

2.

Create Analytical Views for each Level

Duplicate Level > Rename Level > Apply Default View Template: Structural Analytical Stick

3.

Offset Levels from Architectural if floor finishes are not to be considered, specified in Copy / Monitor Options

Power Tip:
To apply a view template to multiple views, make a selection set in Project Browser, right-click, then
Apply View Template; Select a named view template from the list

Grids
1.

If Scope Boxes are present in Revit Architecture, it is recommended not to associate grid lines to them until
the structural discipline has copied the grid elements. In addition, it is important to note that Scope Boxes will
not be viewable in the linked model.

2.

Therefore, to share region intents for Scope Boxes I would suggest creating a placeholder in the host model
using a custom model line type so that engineering disciplines can trace over them.

3.

Robobat Extensions (Compare Models): Alerts engineer if new grids were added to the architectural model
after using Copy / Monitor in Revit. Use Copy/Monitor to bring new grids across in the structural model.

Columns
1.

For schematic design, use generic column placeholders in Revit Architecture

2.

The Copy / Monitor Option dialog box will list all the shapes and sizes in the architects model.
Verify that the list correlates with the families loaded in the structural project if they are to be re-used.

3.

Custom Structural Column component families can be copied into a structural project

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines

Walls
1.

For schematic design, use structural walls in Revit Architecture with one of the following properties: bearing,
shear, or structural combined. Wall centerline only is recognized. Non-bearing walls are excluded.

2.

The Copy / Monitor Option dialog box will list all the wall types in the architects model

3.

Custom Wall Types can be copied into a structural project

Power Tip:
Copy walls from a 3D isometric view to ensure capturing all walls on the first pass

Floors
1.

For schematic design, use generic floors as placeholders in Revit Architecture

2.

The Copy / Monitor Option dialog box will list all the floor types in the architects model

3.

Custom Floor Types can be copied into a structural project

4.

Architectural Floors require Structural property to be checked to enable analytical properties for analysis

Shared Database Model:

In instances where there is justification for duplicate elements such as walls (architectural and structural), it is
acceptable for the structural designer to place native structural walls in relation to the structural core of an
architectural cavity wall. In this case, a simple monitoring functionality is desired. In addition, verify room
bounding property behavior of structural walls and columns.
Monitoring can be achieved by initiating Copy / Monitor mode, then selecting the Monitor tool in the design bar
area and choosing the host element first then the linked architectural element. If the linked element is moved
or deleted a Coordination Review of the event is generated.

Monitoring Only Downstream Disciplines

For Structural or MEP disciplines creating their own native elements to corresponding Architectural elements and want
to establish a relationship between those elements in the host project and the linked Architectural model; use the
Monitor command from Copy/Monitor Design Bar (Figure 8). Alternatively, discontinuing Monitoring of elements can
occur at any time by selecting the monitored element; then selecting Stop Monitoring. In addition, removing a linked
model effectively stops monitoring all previous elements.

Design
After the elements have been copied, the design and documentation tasks can begin. At this point, each team starts
designing in either their discipline specific model or shared model using worksets. This effort is executed in a normal
fashion using the purpose-built tools within the discipline specific application programs.

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines
In one scenario, after the architectural model elements have been copied into the respective engineering models,
ownership of those elements should now be controlled by the discipline responsible for that scope of work. For
example, structural columns and framing in the architectural model should be turned off or deleted and the linked
structural model should govern. In addition, consideration should be given to monitoring elements from the structural
model inside the architectural model; such as, Levels, Grids, Columns, and Walls.
Another scenario would encourage the structural engineering team to be involved at the inception of the project and
delineate their design to coordinate with the architects design intent without duplication of effort.

Coordination Review
This process facilitates design changes across all disciplines affected by monitored elements discussed above.
Architectural modifications to Levels, Grids, Columns, Walls, and Floors are communicated to the engineers models
through the Coordination Review interface. From the Coordination Review interface, users review modifications made
and determine the appropriate action to take. Coordination Review is not a substitute for verbal or written
communication across the design team, however it does provide a consistent means for taking action.
Command: Tools pulldown menu > Coordination Review > Use Select Link
Once the architectural changes have been saved, the engineer would reload the architectural model to receive those
changes. During the reload process, when a monitored condition changes, a Coordination Review Notification
automatically occurs (Figure 9). The Coordination Review Workflow is captured in (Figure 10).

Coordination Review
Workflow Diagram

Figure 9. Coordination Review Notification

Figure 10. Coordination Review

Process

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines

Shared Database Model:

Coordination Review is available in a shared model also. The user would select Use Current Project when
prompted. While this appears to be more efficient than the linked model approach, it does however require
reloading the latest workset changes to ensure that you have the latest version of the project before
conducting Coordination Review.
While Coordination Review is available, it is presumed that the advantages of a shared model will limit the
need for duplicate elements in general and cause them to be used sparingly or not at all.

Coordination Review Interface

Once Coordination Review has been initiated, the Coordination Review dialog box (Figure 11) appears and displays
the changed information from the models by group properties of the dialog box. From here you would evaluate each
category and perform an action. In addition, you have an opportunity to document your comments (Figure 12) in an
HTML report using the Create Report button in (Figure 11). If you are not sure where the proposed changes occurred
in the project, you may use the Show button to zoom the screen to that location.

Figure 11. Coordination Review Interface

Comment

Figure 12. Partial Coordination Report After Actions

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines

Coordination Review Scenarios

In general, most modifications to the monitored elements in the project model will permit the following actions to be
taken: Postpone, Reject, Accept Difference, or Modify the element to match monitored element. Coordination
Review provides a vehicle for automating the documentation of modifications and promotes discussion with the project
team; refer to (Figure 13).

Resolved

Unresolved

Actions Explained:
Postpone:

In essence, the issue is parked. No real action is taken. The elements will be
different between the two models until the action is escalated. The modified elements
are available for future actions, even across multiple sessions. Postponed items can
be filtered from the list.

Reject:

No modification of your work occurs by accepting this action. Once this action is
accepted it converts to Do nothing. However, the action can be reversed
downstream to either, Postpone, Accept Difference, or Modify the element to match.
Rejected items can be filtered from the list.

Accept:
Difference:

No modification of your work occurs by accepting this action. However, the

difference here compared with Reject is that it is a permanent action with no
reversible actions once it has been applied to the project.

Modify:

As stated, depending on the category of element and modification made, elements will
be moved, sketch copied (walls, floors, or roofs), renamed, or deleted. This is a
permanent action with no reversible actions once it has been applied to the project.

Figure 13. Coordination Review Actions Explained

As you can appreciate with large projects that require more than one author, multiple changes can occur concurrently.
The Coordination Review Interface has the ability to categorize the changes for you after the linked models are
refreshed or the latest worksets are reloaded. Basically, your design efforts are not hampered by any requirements
related to Coordination Review. Multi-category modifications can be processed at one time.
Note:

View dependent properties such as view scale, hidden in view, and other properties do not generate
coordination review notifications.

Interference Checking
Engineers and Architects using the Revit platform can perform interference checks at any time during the design
process by choosing which model-based Engineering and Architectural categories to check for interferences.
Interference checks can be performed on elements within the same file (shared database) or between the host model
(live elements) and one other linked model (Figures 14 and 15). If there are multiple linked models, they will need to
be processed as separate checks. For example, the Architectural model is the host model with Structural and MEP
models linked directly to the host model, the following interference checks would have to be performed to check all
discipline models: Architectural / Structural and Architectural / MEP.

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines
Note: Interference checks cannot be performed between two linked models.
Command: Tools pulldown menu > Interference Check > Run Check

Figure 14. Linked Model / Host Model Comparison Shown

Figure 15. Interference Shown in Red

Best Practices
Communication

Adjust for Building Information Modeling process

File Names

It is recommended that file names for the project should not change after
the models have been linked to maintain the Coordination / Monitoring
relationship between the host and linked models

Databases

Linked Models: Use the fewest number for performance

Shared Model: Use worksets to manage element density of project
Open only those worksets that you absolutely need
Hybrid Combos: (Workset Enabled Model and Single Author Model)
Assign linked models to a dedicated workset

Copy / Monitor

To be used for downstream disciplines workflows primarily

(Either Arch to Struct, Arch to MEP)
Not to be used for upstream disciplines workflows Refer to Monitoring
(Either Struct to Arch or MEP to Arch)
Not a substitution for Interference Checking

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines

Monitor Only

Can be used for downstream discipline workflows as stated previously or

upstream discipline workflows to become aware of proposed changes
from discipline having ownership of those monitored elements
(Either Struct to Arch or MEP to Arch)

Coordination
Reviews

Every other day suggested, use your judgment based upon number of
project changes

Summary
The benefits of coordination are invaluable. Making the coordination process timelier, more automated, and less
painful Priceless! Applying the coordination concept in a new way with 3D building components along with a
systematic means for keeping the team apprised of design changes with Coordination Review presents opportunities
for better quality of design earlier in the project. Remember that in either database approach, retaining ownership of
your work is a strong feature. Help your firm enhance their competitiveness by implementing Revit based 3D
visualization processes for coordination today!

Resources
AUGI (Autodesk Users Group International)
www.augi.com

White Papers:
Coordination Between Revit Structure and Revit Architecture

www.autodesk.com/structure

Multi-User Collaboration with Autodesk Revit Structure Worksharing

www.autodesk.com/revit

From AIA:
BIM: Transforming a Traditional Practice Model into a Technology-Enabled Integrated Practice Model
By H. Thomas McDuffie, AIA, RIBA

Using the Coordination Monitoring Feature in

Revit Structure to Manage Projects Across Disciplines

Appendix A
Option Settings

Figure A1. Levels Option Settings

Figure A2. Grids Option Settings

Figure A3. Columns Option Settings

Figure A4. Walls Option Settings

Figure A5. Floors Option Settings