How to Manage Workflows with Linked Revit Models

Workflow of Revit Linked Models

What is the purpose of a linked model? Linked models are primarily used to connect independent buildings, such as those within a campus setting. The types of models that can be linked include architectural, structural, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) models.

For example, the site plan below shows four building models linked into a single project model.

When a model is linked into a project, Revit opens the linked model and loads it into memory. The more linked models a project contains, the longer it takes to open. Linked models appear under the Project Browser > Revit Links section. You can convert linked Revit models into groups, and vice versa.

Below is a typical workflow for working with linked models. The exact steps may vary depending on the project requirements.

Establishing Model Links

1. Create smaller, separate projects for each individual part of the overall project.

For example, in a school project, create a separate Revit project for each building. In large-scale construction, create individual projects for each separately managed portion of the job. For instance, if a large building has two towers, create a distinct project for each tower.

2. Create a main project that will link to the individual projects.
3. Open the main project and link the individual projects into it.

   Open an existing model or create a new main model. Other models will then be linked into this main model.

   Go to the Insert tab → Link panel → select Link Revit.

   In the Import/Link RVT dialog box, select the model you want to link.

   Note: If you are using Revit Cloud Worksharing, only models within the current cloud project can be linked.

   Specify the positioning options. In most cases, choose Automatic – Origin to Origin.

   If the current model uses shared coordinates, select Automatic – By Shared Coordinates. Then click Open to add the link.

4. Place the linked model in the desired location.

When linking the model to the main project, shared coordinates can be used to ensure the linked model is correctly positioned.

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