Back to basics (I)
This is the first in a series of articles that intends to demonstrate how a traditional Excel spreadsheet can be integrated and linked to a BIM Model in order to get automatically a quantity take-off and cost estimate unique schedule in Revit.
We shall use two software for this: Revit and Excel.
There should be no need to add that if both tools are being used in our company or daily routine, no more than a few workflow adjustments will be required for full link.
As a BIM methodology, aspects like processes, technology and people will be included in this article.
Processes are referred to changes throughout the time. In this case in particular, we should witness how a BIM model and a spreadsheet turn to be automatically connected, when previously they were isolated and with no apparent mutual relationship. And here is where the concept “only-one information path” comes into play.
But, what does “only-one information path” mean?
To make information consistent in space-time turns to be a very hard task, as a lot of “things” tend to happen along the way. In front of such an adversity, Excel wouldn’t be precisely the solution we expect to hear (or read). We would be far from inferring something like that.
However, from a process point of view, Excel has certain pros: for example, the fact that (almost) everyone can use it, and even if they don’t, its remarkable low learning curve outstands. It's easy-to-use and efficiently proven.
But let’s get back to the point. If strictly entered data in Excel (period and comma included) like chapters, items or some other information were “replicated” automatically to the Revit model, we would be facing the first step towards an “only-one information path”.
Let’s give an example: an architect includes officially “white Porcellanato floor” in their project. All of the input data are entered on the Excel matrix sheet: the item name, quantity per area, unit cost and/or some other required technical specification. The process was done at that moment. It’s the starting point.
From then on, it’s not necessary to link to external files, associate or take off quantities. Just to manage seamlessly the right input data on demand.
Revit (and Dynamo) will take care of the rest.
In the next article I will focus on how information follows the path. ?
?#BIM #Revit #Dynamo #Excel