Before You Begin a Project

Before you start adding content to a Revit project, consider the following approaches to the design process:

• Using levels and grids. Begin the design process by defining levels and grids for the model. See Levels and Grids.
• Importing data. If you started the design process using another CAD program (such as AutoCAD), you can import existing data. Revit imports various CAD formats, including DWG, DXF, DGN, and ACIS SAT files, as well as Trimble® SketchUp® (SKP) files and Industry Foundation Classes (IFC). See Import/Link Overview.
• Massing. You can start a project by designing a conceptual model. After you create basic shapes with the massing tools, you can convert mass faces to building elements. See Massing Studies and Conceptual Design Environment.