Revit 2017 Multi-Category Schedules

BIM is an evolving process and as such we are always looking at how to improve the workflows and processes we are already adopting to gain that advantage. However, whilst many of us are forever looking to the horizons, there are often many things that are right under our noses that we often overlook, but might just be the thing you are looking for. Revit provides many environments where buttons and icons can easily be overlooked or missed. I’m sure there are some that I have been overlooking for many years, but am blissfully unaware. One of the really nice tools available within Revit is the ability to create Multi-Category Schedules. Here is a great example from James Philip in capturing equipment within rooms. 

By James Philip

Revit 2017 Multi-Category Schedules

I was asked on a training course recently whether it was possible to schedule a number of different category items in a particular location. If I’m honest I wasn’t sure and so I replied that I would investigate and report back. The solution is a much under used feature of Revit, Multi-Category Schedules.

The delegate wanted to group together a number of selected items. They weren’t in the same space or room.

First, I created a Shared Parameter called Assembly and applied it to all the categories. (Fig 1) 

Fig 1

Fig 2

I made it an instance Parameter because we need to select individual objects. (Fig 2)

Select the objects you wish to be in the required Assembly and in the Properties palette give them an appropriate Assembly number. (Fig 3)

Fig 3

Repeat the procedure for all the groups of items.

To create the schedule, go to Schedules on the View Tab and choose Schedules/Quantities.

Select Multi-Category Schedule, then OK. (Fig 4) 

Fig 4

In the Schedule Properties dialogue box choose the fields you wish to appear in your schedule, including the Assembly field we created earlier. (Fig 5) 

Fig 5

Use the filter Tab to only include the Assembly items in the schedule. (Fig 6) 

Fig 6

In the Sorting and Grouping Tab, sort by Assembly first, then by Family and Type. You can add a Blank line and a Header for clarity and uncheck Itemise every Instance. (Fig 7) 

Fig 7

In the Formatting Tab make the Assembly a Hidden field. We will accept the Appearance defaults so select OK. (Fig 8)

Fig 8

The resulting Schedule is shown below. (Fig 9)

Fig 9 

So you can see from James’ concise explanation that it is easy to group together components with a common shared parameter in a schedule for detailed reporting. This functionality is great not just for MEP equipment but also for furniture and fittings as well. If you would like to learn more about this type of detailed reporting, speak to your account manager about the training we can offer.