Mike -
For little jobs that don't have much of a production drawing phase, I
still do just as you do: put all plan information in one model (with
layers for site, arch, mech, elec -- the works), and use multiple
layouts, all in the same file. Elevations are in a separate file with
its own layouts. Details are in a separate file with its own layouts.
Easy to understand, transmit, save to earlier versions, etc. No
visretain issues. No organizational overhead to have to keep in mind --
nothing to OBEY.
For a 40-sheet structural set that will be part of a larger bid package,
though, I play by the rules -- constructs, elements, views, sheets -- to
be sure that all the useful production-time options like detail- and
sheet-renumbering, batch plotting, etc., are readily available. I kind
of resent the organizational overhead, but can't pass up the benefits
thereof.
The only drawback to using two modes like this, I guess, comes on days
when I am working with both types of projects -- "Why didn't that
callout update? Oh, yeah, I'm working old-school this morning..."
-Bill
=============
mikeshick wrote:
> I typically have small projects: 1 & 2 story residential plans. I have used the project navigator on several projects, but have found that smaller projects are rather cumbersome to use the navigator with, especially with regard to annotation. Over the last few years, I just used layer control and put everything in one model with several layouts. Annotation goes very quickly.
>
> Don't get me wrong, I see great value in the navigator, especially for larger/commercial projects. But it seems to be a little cumbersome for the smaller residential projects. Do others share this perspective? If not, what's your suggestion? Thanks.
>