Which building information is best conveyed in 3D, and which still requires 2D?
3D is useful for understanding the overall building shape, spatial relationships, and how different parts of the building connect. However, 2D drawings are still necessary to show dimensions, clearances, and construction details. In my project, the 3D model looked complete, but I found several issues when preparing the floor plans. For example, some demising walls did not connect properly to the exterior walls, and I had to check the railing height and restroom clearances. These details were much easier to identify and verify in 2D drawings.
The same location needs to be shown differently to different audiences.
View templates enforce consistency across a set.
Your schedules pull information straight out of the model.
Schedules are useful because they automatically organize quantities and information from the model. However, I learned that the information is only as accurate as the model itself. For example, my Unit Mix schedule shows six three-bedroom units on Level 8, but one of those units has a bedroom without a window. It would actually work better as a two-bedroom unit with a den. The schedule also helped me understand the unit distribution. Studios and one-bedroom units make up 60% of the total units but only about half of the residential area. This was something I had not fully recognized from looking at the floor plans alone.
You published two versions and compared them.
Comparing Version 3 and Version 5 helped me see how much my model had changed during the documentation process. The comparison showed 802 added elements, 100 removed elements, and 28 modified elements. Most of these changes came from developing the floor plans and adding more detailed building components. I learned that tracking model versions is important because it helps identify what has changed and makes it easier to coordinate with others. I also realized that a model should be reviewed before sharing it, especially when others may use it for coordination or construction.