AutoCAD MEP

[#1]

I am wondering which of the following approaches is most effective and time-efficient in MEP 2013 (as applied to a single project):

1.  Is it quicker and easier to have a separate construct for each type of system (lighting, power), showing that system's associated circuiting, switching, tags, et cetera, then creating views from those separate constructs?
2. Or is it more effective to do all electrical work on a single construct, toggling between display configurations to isolate which system is being worked on at the time and to create separate views?

Currently I have separate constructs for lighting and power/systems, but was not able to provide a convincing argument as to why I should keep doing it that way.  Bear in mind that our company's construction drawings are almost entirely schematic in nature, without sections or elevations (thus far).

Any suggestions or pros/cons to either approach would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

[#2]

Here in support, I've seen it both ways.  Some break them out because it helps with organization, especially on larger projects.  Some do lighting and power all in one, which makes circuiting and creation of panel schedules easier.

There are some great guys here in these forums with lots of electrical experience.  I invite them to weigh in here and share.

Thanks guys!

Joshua

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[#3]

Just following up and bumping this post back to the top.  Anyone want to weigh in here and share?

Joshua

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[#4 · Accepted solution]

Hi, Joshua.

No noise yet.  I'm currently setting up a project using the single-construct approach for electrical, to compare with the multiple constructs I used on the previous project.  I will be happy to hear from other folks how they go about it, of course.

Thanks again.

[#5]

If your computers can handle it then I think it is always best to get it all in the same drawing and organize everything using layer control, display control, etc.  This is especially true if you use the project management system.  Create different views for the different systems.  With everything in the same drawing it is easier to edit things as you move the project along.  Just be aware of the project size and how it could quickly grow out of control.  I always break my levels up into seperate drawings but try to keep each trade in one single drawing if I am able.