If you use Revit and want to know what a plugin is, you’re in the right place! In this article, we will explain everything about how this tool works.
A plugin is simply an extension of the Revit software that adds new functionalities, helping user productivity.
There are numerous Revit plugins, each designed for a specific function, such as rendering, families, BIM project management, and much more!
That is, the Revit plugin world is vast, acting as a game-changer for architecture specialists, engineers, interior designers, and Revit enthusiasts.
The company Blocks, which works directly with Revit, understands the importance of plugins.That’s why, in this article, we’ll explain everything about this world. Let ‘s go?
What is a Plugin?
To understand what a Revit plugin is, first of all we need to understand the term “plugin.”
A Revit plugin is a software extension that adds new functionalities to the Autodesk Revit program, a powerful tool for architecture, engineering, and interiors.
There are countless plugins, from tools that facilitate model creation to those that optimize design and collaboration processes.
For example, the Blocks Plugin helps users handle project families more easily, offering over 5,000 varied options.
Another example is the Lumion LiveSync, which allows the synchronization of the Revit 3D model with the Lumion rendering software, enabling a practical export.
In general, Revit plugins are essential for increasing productivity and efficiency when working with Revit, allowing professionals to focus more on creativity and less on technical details.
What is Revit?
Now that you know what a plugin is, let’s learn more about the Revit program!
Revit (Autodesk® Revit) is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software widely used in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.
It allows professionals to create detailed 3D models integrated with project information, such as structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing.
Revit was developed by Revit Technology Corporation and acquired by Autodesk in 2002.
Its ease of collaboration between different disciplines has made it stand out among architects, designers, and engineers, since all project data is interconnected.
This means that the changes in one part of the project are automatically updated in all related parts.
In other words, Revit is a powerful program that has revolutionized the design and construction process, allowing for a better visualization of engineering, architecture, and design projects.
What are the Advantages of Using Revit Plugins?
Revit plugins offer numerous advantages to their users, especially for those who need more convenience in their daily work. The main advantages are:
- Increased Productivity: Plugins can automate repetitive tasks, such as creating architectural, structural, or mechanical elements, saving time and effort.
- Facilitated Collaboration: Some plugins, like BIM Track, help manage and communicate improvements, issues, and tasks among team members, promoting more effective collaboration.
- Integration with Other Software: Plugins like Lumion LiveSync allow real-time synchronization of the Revit 3D model with rendering software like Lumion, making photorealistic project visualization easier.
- Improved Project Quality: With specialized tools, it’s possible to achieve a higher level of detail and accuracy in models, leading to a better final project quality.
- Project Lifecycle Optimization: Plugins can help manage documentation, cost estimation, and energy analysis, contributing to a more efficient project lifecycle.
- Expansion of Revit Functions: They can add functionalities not available in standard Revit, allowing professionals to perform specific and essential tasks to their projects.
These are the main advantages of opting for Revit plugins. In general, they are extremely important for optimizing the work of Revit users.
How to Download a Revit Plugin?
There are some ways to download plugins for Revit, but the most reliable and secure way is through the official Autodesk website. Here’s how to download a Revit plugin:
Access the Autodesk App Store
First of all you must access the official Autodesk® website.
Log In
In the top right corner of your screen, click on “Sign In” and enter your account information. If you don’t have an account, create one by clicking on “Create Account.”
Search for the Plugin
After logging into your Autodesk® account, go to the plugin’s section and select “Revit” from the side menu. Then, use the search bar to find the desired plugin. In this example, we searched for our Blocks plugin for installation.
Install the Plugin
Click on the desired plugin, look for the “Download” button, and proceed with the installation. Finally, open Revit to use the tool.
Simple, right? However, it’s important to note that plugins can only be downloaded if the Revit program is properly installed on the computer.
Are Revit Plugins Free?
Not all plugins are free. Some may offer a free trial version for users to get to know the tool better.
However, to unlock full features, a one-time payment or monthly subscription is usually required.
For example, the Plugin Blocks offers a free version with some test families for users who want to try our tool.
If users like the services, we offer a subscription version with access to over 5,000 families.
This can also happen with other plugins.
Where Are the Plugins Located in Revit?
Finding your installed plugins is quite simple! In just a few steps, you can start enjoying new functionalities. Here’s how:
- Open Revit;
- Run your project;
- Go to “Commands” in the program’s top menu;
- Click on the installed Plugin.
See how easy it is? There’s no secret! The same steps apply to the Plugin Blocks, which is super simple and easy to use.
Plugin Blocks: Access Thousands of Families!
So, you’re interested in Revit plugins and want to try new tools? Then, the Plugin Blocks should be your first step!
Plugin Blocks was born from the idea of making life easier for Revit users who “struggled” to find decent families to use in their projects.
So, we thought: why not create a Revit plugin that has numerous families in one place?
Thus, Plugin Blocks was born! Now, instead of spending hours searching for families on the internet, you can find what you need in just a few clicks.
There are over 5,000 families available, with weekly updates, so you can always create exclusive projects!
Conclusion
Revit alone is already a high-standard program offering numerous functionalities to its users. But who doesn’t like more benefits?
With plugins, you can further enhance your program’s functionalities. For example, with plugins, you can better manage time, gain optimized access to families, improve team communication, and much more!
There are various plugins that can increase your productivity and take your projects to the next level. Isn’t that amazing?
So, don’t wait any longer to enter the world of Revit plugins! Enjoyed this content? For more like this, visit the Blocks blog!
