Computers don’t think like humans, yet. There needs to be some form of code that
allows for a massive database of possible parameter combinations to contain
data. The idea of one organization
managing all those codes in the world just doesn't make sense. A Global
Unique Identifier, or GUID, is a 128-bit alphanumeric value that is created
by a random generator [1]. If
you are worried that the world will run out of these values, know that there
are about 5.2x10^36 possible combinations.
Still concerned? If each person copied the entire internet every second,
there would only be enough GUID code combinations to last about one billion years [2]. Even if those numbers are a little off, the
concept is that there is a vast space available.
Keeping that in mind, it makes sense for Autodesk to utilize
the system within the B.I.M. software of Revit.
It is critical for Revit to protect the information of a model from
corruption. Using the GUID values helps
accommodate this. With this advantage,
also comes a major disadvantage. If two
shared parameters carry the same Name, yet have different GUID codes, then they
will not populate the same tags or schedules.
The GUID must be exactly the same for parameters to work
collaboratively.
It takes some work to get one company into a standard where
everything works well internally.
However, any Revit Families developed end up being generic for those
families to work from one project to the next.
Families from a Manufacturer don’t tend to work unless someone takes the
time to modify the parameter assignments to fit a specific schedule or tag.
When available time becomes a factor, it is easy to drop schedules completely and
revert back to drafting the information.
If only manufacturers were developing their families using the same
shared parameters that companies are using in representing equipment selections
in the B.I.M. models. With the amount of
possible GUID assignments, it is no coincidence that some Shared Parameters
with the exact same GUID information are showing up in multiple sources.
Standard parameters are out there, are being identified and
placed into the Master Library. As the Master Library is adopted, families and schedules will begin to work together,
regardless of where they come from. Manufacturers
can begin to provide equipment using the Master Library, if not already. Companies would be able to standardize
their own schedules and not have to worry about the fields populating
correctly. No more manually drafted tags
and schedules and the information can be provided that is referenced throughout a
model. Swing by HERE for your own Free copy of the
Master Library.
-Craig
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