IMAGINiT Utilities for Revit: DWFplus

After a bit of a hiatus, I’d like to welcome you all back to my series on IMAGINiT’s Utilities for Revit. Today, we’re diving into the DWFplus utility, a robust tool that enhances Revit’s native capabilities for exporting to DWF or DWFx formats. Unlike the standard DWF export in Revit, which limits the inclusion of element parameters and view information, the DWFplus utility allows users to generate files enriched with additional data. This is a game-changer for teams needing to share comprehensive model information with stakeholders or for workflows requiring more detailed file outputs. Let’s take a closer look at how this tool works and the benefits it offers.

Overview of the DWFplus Utility

The DWFplus utility expands the capabilities of Revit’s standard DWF/DWFx export by allowing users to embed additional element parameters and view-specific metadata in their exported files. This enhanced functionality makes it easier to share detailed project information with collaborators, clients, and other stakeholders who rely on these formats for viewing and interaction.

By incorporating this extra information, the utility supports workflows that require access to parameters not typically included in standard exports—streamlining data exchanges and reducing the need for separate documentation or additional steps.

Key Features of DWFplus

1. Enhanced Data Export:
• Include additional Revit parameters in your DWF/DWFx files, such as custom parameters, shared parameters, and view-specific metadata.
• Tailor your exports to meet the specific requirements of your project or collaborators.
2. Customizable Export Settings:
• Control which parameters and data categories are included, giving you flexibility to produce files that suit different purposes (e.g., client presentations, design reviews, or construction documentation).
3. View-Specific Information:
• Incorporate details specific to the exported view, ensuring that 2D and 3D exports maintain relevant contextual information.
4. Improved Collaboration:
• Generate enriched DWF/DWFx files that contain more detailed data, allowing team members and stakeholders to access critical information directly from the file without requiring access to the Revit model.

How to Use the DWFplus Utility (Example Workflow)

Using DWFplus is straightforward, and its intuitive interface ensures that users can quickly configure exports to meet their needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Access the Utility:
• Open your Revit model and navigate to the IMAGINiT Utilities tab. Select the DWFplus tool from the available options.

2. Select Views and Sheets:
• Choose the views and sheets you want to include in the export. You can select individual views, multiple views, or an entire set of sheets depending on your requirements.

3. Define Parameters to Include:
• Use the utility’s configuration options to specify which parameters should be embedded in the exported file. Options include standard Revit parameters, shared parameters, and custom project parameters.

4. Customize Export Settings:
• Adjust additional settings, such as view-specific data inclusion, to tailor the DWF/DWFx file output to your specific needs.

5. Generate the File:
• Click Export to create the DWF/DWFx file. The utility will process the data and generate a file containing the specified parameters and metadata.
6. Review the File:
• Open the exported DWF/DWFx file in a viewer (for example: Autodesk Design Review) or share it with collaborators to confirm that it contains the required information.

Benefits of Using DWFplus

• Enhanced Data Sharing:
  Share richer information with stakeholders by embedding parameters and metadata directly into exported files.
• Improved Collaboration:
  Enable teams to access relevant model information without requiring Revit or additional documentation.
• Customization Flexibility:
  Tailor exports to suit specific workflows, whether for design review, client presentations, or field use.
• Streamlined Workflows:
  Reduce the need for separate processes to document and share parameter data.

Practical Applications

1. Design Coordination:
• Export enriched DWF/DWFx files for design review meetings, ensuring all team members have access to critical model data.
2. Client Presentations:
• Provide clients with interactive DWF files containing detailed view-specific and parameter information.
3. Construction Documentation:
• Share enhanced DWF files with contractors and site teams, including parameters crucial for on-site decision-making.

The DWFplus utility is a must-have for Revit users who need to create more detailed and informative DWF/DWFx files. Whether you’re coordinating designs, presenting to clients, or providing documentation for construction teams, this tool ensures your files contain the information necessary to support your workflow.

Stay tuned for the next installment in this series, where we’ll explore another utility from IMAGINiT’s powerful toolkit for Revit users. Until then, try out the DWFplus utility and see how it can enhance your Revit exports!

About the Author

Scott Green is a Senior Applications Expert with IMAGINiT under the Building Solutions team. Scott focuses on Autodesk products, primarily with Revit, Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC / BIM 360), and AutoCAD. Scott previously was an Enterprise Technical Support Specialist for nine years at Autodesk before joining us at IMAGINiT. Scott's other areas of expertise includes Navisworks, ReCap, and Tandem.

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