How Are Revisions Managed in Archicad?

Reading time: 9 min.

Revision management is a critical function in the documentation workflow of BIM projects. Archicad provides an integrated system for recording, controlling and viewing layout and Issue revisions. This article gives an overview of how the revision system works in Archicad and serves as a starting point for more detailed technical articles on each part of the process.

What are revisions in Archicad?

Revisions in Archicad are automatic or manual records that document the changes made to layouts over time. They are directly linked to:

• Modified model elements
• Change entries
• Published Issues
• Visible history on layouts

These revisions are managed through schedules, lists and graphic objects that allow precise documentation control.

General Workflow

The revision system operates sequentially. The usual process includes:

1. First Issue
   A base first Issue is generated. From this point on, any relevant modification is automatically recorded.
   
2. Recording Changes
   Changes are associated with model elements and represented graphically on layouts. Each Change gives rise to a new Revision.
   
3. Subsequent Issues
   New Issues are updated and published. Archicad detects which layouts need to be included based on their revision status.
   
4. Revision History
   Layouts can include a history object that shows each Revision with its details.
   
5. Locking and Validation
   Each closed Issue locks its associated Revisions. Only the latest Revision is editable.

Main Components

Recommendation for work teams

We recommend establishing an internal revision management policy that includes:

• Mandatory use of the base template or import of its schedules

• Systematic recording of Changes

• Formal closing of Issues with documentation validation

• Control of the history on official layouts
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What happens if I delete a Change already linked to a Revision?
  The Change disappears from the layout's revision list, but the Revision remains. To preserve traceability, it is best to manually void the Change rather than delete it.
  
• Can I edit a closed Revision?
  No. Once an Issue is closed, all the Revisions included in it are locked. Only the active Revision is editable.
  
• How do I restart the revision numbering on a new layout?
  You need to create a new layout outside the previous Issues and configure the numbering scheme manually, or start a new series of Issues.
  
• Why doesn't a Change appear in the layout's Revision History?
  Check that the Change is linked to an element present on the layout and that the Revision is active. If it is not visible, update the layout and confirm that the history object is correctly placed.
  
• Can I use the same history GDL object on all layouts?
  Yes, as long as it is placed on the master layout. Otherwise, it must be placed individually on each layout to maintain consistency.
  
• How do I know if a layout is included in the latest Issue?
  When generating a new Issue, Archicad automatically identifies the layouts modified since the last Issue. You can review and adjust the selection before publishing.
  

Best Practices and Process Validation

• Best Practices:
  • Always link Changes to model elements.
  • Update the Layout Book before each Issue.
  • Insert the Revision History object on the master layout.
  • Use consistent names and descriptions for Changes and Issues.
  • Create new Issues rather than editing previous ones.
  • Export the lists as documentation backup.
• Process Validation:
  • The layout shows the correct Revision.
  • The GDL object reflects the active Revisions.
  • The Issue list only includes modified layouts.
  • The latest Revision is editable; previous ones are locked.
  • Publishing is generated without errors.

Consultant's Tip

Before closing an Issue, check with the team that all Changes have been recorded. Use the Change list as a visual checklist to confirm traceability.

Related articles

• Which Archicad Tool Best Suits Each Type of Modification in a BIM Project? – My SIMBIM Centre