Understanding the Four Types of Parameters in BIM Techniques Using Revit

In Revit, parameters are categorized into four main types: Family Parameters, Project Parameters, Shared Parameters, and Built-in Parameters.

Parameters in Revit play a vital role in enabling parametric design. They directly influence the type of information entered during the modeling phase and the data output during drafting, such as detailed schedules and tags. Essentially, parameters determine the depth and scope of building information modeling throughout the entire project lifecycle. If we consider a Revit model as a database, the various parameters define the data it contains, while their categories govern how this data relates to model components and how it is presented.

Therefore, parameters are a key aspect of setting up project template files.

Overview of the Four Types of Revit Parameters

1. Family Parameters: These are created within the family file. Once the family is loaded into a project file, family parameters do not appear in schedules or tags. This means they cannot be used for data extraction or annotation through schedules.

2. Project Parameters: Project parameters are specific to an individual project file. By assigning these parameters to multiple categories of elements, views, or drawings, the elements can hold this parameter information. They can then be used to create schedules, as well as for sorting and filtering within the project.

3. Shared Parameters: Shared parameters can be applied across multiple families or projects. Once a shared parameter is defined and added to a family or project, it can function as either a family parameter or a project parameter. These parameters are stored in an external shared parameter file (.txt), which protects them from modification. Shared parameters can also be tagged and included in schedules.

4. Built-in Parameters: Built-in parameters come predefined with the family file templates and are automatically created by the system. Users cannot modify or delete these parameters, although they can rename them. Built-in parameters are available for use in detailed schedules and tags.

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