Revit Tip: Establish Shared Coordinates for Accurate Revit Model Coordination

Shared coordinates are essential for aligning models with survey data and consultant files. Set them up early to avoid rework and guarantee reliable exports.

When to use:

• Coordinating building models with a civil/survey base.
• Combining multiple discipline models (ARCH/STR/MEP).
• Placing multiple buildings on a single site with unique positions.

Core workflow (safe, repeatable):

1. Pick the “coordinate owner.” Typically, the Site model (with verified survey) is the source of truth. Document this choice in your BIM Execution Plan.
2. Link using Origin to Origin first. In each model, Link the other RVT “Auto – Origin to Origin.” Do not move clipped survey or base points.
3. Acquire or Publish—choose one:
   • Acquire Coordinates: Open the building model, link the Site model, then Manage > Coordinates > Acquire Coordinates. The building now adopts the Site’s survey coordinate system.
   • Publish Coordinates: Open the Site model, link the building, position it correctly, then Manage > Coordinates > Publish Coordinates. The Site pushes its survey coordinates into the building and creates a named Shared Site entry for that link.
4. Name your placements. Use Manage > Project Location > Location > Site tab to manage named “Shared Sites” (e.g., Bldg A – Phase 1, Bldg B – Final).
5. Set True North. Use Manage > Position > Rotate True North to align to survey bearings without disturbing Project North documentation.
6. Reload with By Shared Coordinates. In each host, set the Revit link’s Positioning to “By Shared Coordinates” and reload so the alignment locks in.
7. Verify. Place a Spot Coordinate and Spot Elevation on known control points. Confirm angle to True North and easting/northing against survey.

Best practices:

• Never move clipped points. Unclip the Survey Point before adjusting; keep the Project Base Point near the building for stable modeling.
• Minimize large coordinate effects. Keep model geometry close to the internal origin. Let the Survey Point carry the large easting/northing values.
• One source of truth. Acquire/Publish once; avoid mixing methods across teams.
• Document the site setup. Record the responsible model, site name, and rotation in Project Information and your BIM standards.

Troubleshooting:

• Link shifts after reload: Change Positioning to “By Shared Coordinates,” then reload.
• Acquire disabled or incorrect: Confirm the link is pinned in place and you used Origin to Origin initially.
• Unexpected rotation: Check Rotate True North vs. Project North usage and Site tab active site name.
• Performance hits: Crop heavy links, use worksets, and keep model extents tight.

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