Creating a shared parameter file in Revit allows you to define custom parameters that can be used across multiple families and projects, ensuring consistency in your data.
To create a new shared parameter file in Revit, follow these steps:
- Access Shared Parameters: Navigate to the Manage tab. In the Settings panel, click on Shared Parameters.
- Initiate Creation: In the Edit Shared Parameters dialog box that appears, you have two options:
- Click Create to make a brand new file.
- Click Browse if you need to locate and link to an existing file instead. For creating a new one, you will click Create.
- Define File Details: The Create Shared Parameter File dialog box will open. Here, you need to:
- Enter a descriptive file name for your shared parameters (e.g.,
MyCompany_SharedParameters.txt). - Navigate to the desired location on your computer or network where you want to save the file. Saving it in a central, accessible location is recommended for team collaboration.
- Enter a descriptive file name for your shared parameters (e.g.,
- Save the File: Click Save to create the empty shared parameter file (.txt extension) at the specified location.
- Add Groups and Parameters: Once the file is created and linked, the Edit Shared Parameters dialog box will show it's loaded. You can now proceed to:
- Add groups to organize your parameters logically (e.g., "Door Parameters", "Electrical Data").
- Within each group, add new parameters, defining their discipline, type, and other properties.
Example:
Let's say you want to create a shared parameter for "Manufacturer Model Number".
- After completing steps 1-4 above, your new file is ready.
- In the Edit Shared Parameters dialog, click "New Group". Name it "General Properties".
- Select the "General Properties" group, then click "New Parameter".
- Name the parameter "Manufacturer Model Number".
- Choose the discipline (e.g., Common) and type of parameter (e.g., Text).
- Click OK.
This parameter is now defined in your shared parameter file and can be loaded into families and projects.
Key Considerations:
- Shared parameter files are simple text (.txt) files. Do not edit them manually outside of Revit.
- Store the shared parameter file in a location accessible to all users who need to use those parameters. A network drive is common for teams.
- Maintain a backup of your shared parameter file.
- Good organization using groups is crucial for managing large numbers of parameters.
By following these steps, you can successfully create and start populating a shared parameter file in Revit, laying the groundwork for consistent data management across your models.
