Revit

Revit. It is a proprietary building information modeling software developed by Autodesk for architects, structural engineers, MEP engineers, designers, and contractors. The platform allows users to design a building and its components in three dimensions, annotate the model with two-dimensional drafting elements, and access building information from the building model's database. Revit is widely recognized for its parametric change engine, where any modification is automatically coordinated throughout the model, ensuring consistency across all views and documentation.

Overview

As a core application within the Autodesk AEC Collection, it is primarily used for architectural design, MEP engineering, and structural engineering. The software facilitates a collaborative workflow through its centralized project file, enabling multiple disciplines to work within a single, shared model environment. This approach supports the integrated project delivery method, which is increasingly standard in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Its model-based process provides insights and tools for more efficient planning, design, construction, and management of buildings and infrastructure.

History

The technology was originally created by Charles River Software, founded in Newton, Massachusetts in 1997 by Leonid Raiz and Irwin Jungreis, who had previously developed parametric modeling tools for PTC. The first version, released in 2000, was named Revit for its promise to "revise instantly." In 2002, Autodesk acquired the company and the software, which became a cornerstone of its BIM strategy. Major development milestones have included the introduction of Revit MEP and Revit Structure, the integration of cloud computing via Autodesk 360, and the shift to a unified platform simply called Revit with discipline-specific toolsets.

Features and functionality

Its core functionality is built around parametric components, which are the basis for all building elements modeled within the software. Key features include its bidirectional associativity, schedules (construction), and phasing (construction) tools for modeling a building's timeline. The software includes robust tools for structural analysis, energy analysis, and rendering (computer graphics), often leveraging the Autodesk Raytracer engine. Advanced capabilities support computational design through the Dynamo (software) visual programming interface, allowing for complex geometries and automation.

File formats and interoperability

The primary native file format is the RVT project file, while RFA denotes individual family (BIM) component files. For collaboration and data exchange, it supports open standards like Industry Foundation Classes for geometry and data, and Construction Operations Building information exchange for delivering asset data. Interoperability with other Autodesk products like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Navisworks is robust, and it can import or export formats including DWG, DXF, and SAT (file format). gbXML is commonly used for exporting model data to specialized energy simulation software.

Industry adoption and impact

Adoption has become pervasive, particularly in markets like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, where BIM mandates, such as those from the UK Government, have driven its use on public projects. It has fundamentally changed workflows in firms like Gensler, SOM (architectural firm), and Arup Group, moving the industry away from purely 2D computer-aided design. The software's impact extends to facility management through data-rich models used for operations, a practice supported by standards like ISO 19650.

Related software and competition

Within the Autodesk ecosystem, related applications include AutoCAD Architecture, Revit LT, and BIM 360. Its main competitors in the BIM software market are Graphisoft Archicad, Bentley Systems' MicroStation and AECOsim Building Designer, and Nemetschek's Allplan. For specialized structural engineering, Tekla Structures is a significant competitor, while Vectorworks Architect and Rhino 3D with Grasshopper 3D compete in architectural design, particularly for complex forms.