Revit utilizes worksets as a collaboration tool that enables multiple users to work on a single model simultaneously by temporarily acquiring ownership of user-defined element groups. When a workset is checked out, it prevents others from editing any part of that workset. Users can then save their changes to the central file, and subsequently release control of the workset.
Recently, Revit introduced a transparent mode for element borrowing. This feature automatically assigns ownership of edited elements to users, facilitating a more intuitive multi-user experience. By selecting elements to edit, users allow Revit to silently manage ownership until they perform the next Synchronize with Central operation. Until synchronization is complete, these edited elements remain accessible to other users of the model.
Worksets play a crucial role in data separation, workflow optimization, and data management. They allow selective opening and closing of various project parts across all views. This control extends beyond view-specific features like filters or visibility/graphics settings, offering valuable flexibility in certain workflows.
While checking out entire worksets remains beneficial in specific scenarios (outlined below), the general best practice is to prefer element borrowing over full workset checkout.
It is recommended that the Revit team organize projects into worksets based on the following categories:
- Individual buildings
- Axis grids and elevations
- Building core
- Building shell
- Furniture and equipment spanning multiple categories
- Distinct areas within a single building, such as a wing
- Linked RVT and DWG files
- Room partition lines (refer to Rooms and Spaces; Partial)
In some cases, checking out a workset is necessary to prevent accidental modifications of critical model elements, such as building grids or linked files. In these situations, BIM managers or team leaders may choose to check out worksets that contain elements which should not be edited or repositioned arbitrarily.
Consider the following recommendations:
- Worksets help manage element visibility, reducing visual clutter during editing and lowering memory usage in Revit.
- Closing unnecessary worksets frees up RAM for memory-intensive tasks like printing, exporting, or upgrading models to the latest Revit version.
- Group linked files and imported items into a single workset and close it when not in use.
- When opening a project in a shared environment, selectively open only the necessary worksets.
- Close worksets that are not required for the current editing session to optimize performance.
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