LIBRARY // REVIT AND BIM

Automating Revit Tasks with Dynamo

If you've ever renumbered two hundred rooms by hand, you already know why Dynamo exists.

Dynamo is a visual programming tool that works with Revit. Instead of writing code, you connect nodes in a graph to read, process and change information in the model. It can automate repetitive tasks and explore design options that would take hours by hand.

What Dynamo can do

• Rename views, sheets or rooms in bulk
• Number elements, such as doors or rooms, by rules
• Transfer parameter values between elements
• Create sheets from a list
• Check models for missing data
• Place elements based on rules
• Generate geometry for design studies

How it works

A Dynamo graph is made of nodes, each performing an action, such as selecting elements, getting a parameter or setting a value. Nodes are connected by wires that pass data along. Packages created by the community add extra nodes.

Dynamo Player

Dynamo Player lets users run prepared scripts without opening the graph. It's a good way to give the wider team access to automation safely.

Getting started

• Start with simple tasks, such as renaming sheets
• Learn how Revit data is structured, such as categories, elements and parameters
• Use official learning resources and community forums
• Save and document every script

Python in Dynamo

Dynamo supports Python scripts within nodes, which helps with more complex logic. Python knowledge isn't required to start but becomes useful as scripts grow.

Managing scripts

• Store scripts in a shared, controlled location
• Name and describe each script
• Note which Revit and Dynamo versions it works with
• Test scripts on copies of models before using them on live projects
• Assign an owner to maintain office scripts

Risks

Scripts can change many elements at once. A mistake can affect a whole model. Always test, and save before running scripts on live models. Dynamo changes can usually be undone, but large changes are easier to prevent than reverse.

Packages

Community packages are useful, but they may stop working after updates. Check package compatibility when upgrading Revit, and limit dependencies for important scripts.

Alternatives

Some tasks are better handled by add-ins or the Revit API, especially for complex or frequently used tools. Dynamo is ideal for quick, flexible automation.

Build a library

Over time, a library of tested scripts becomes a valuable office asset, saving time on every project.

1. 01What Dynamo can do
2. 02How it works
3. 03Dynamo Player
4. 04Getting started
5. 05Python in Dynamo
6. 06Managing scripts

Measure the benefit

Dynamo opens up automation to people who aren't programmers. Start small, manage scripts carefully, and it can remove a lot of repetitive work from Revit production.

If your team needs extra production capacity for work like this, take a look at our Architectural production services, or tell us about your project.