We are new to Revit, and have done a couple of projects in Revit. We have seperate models for arch, mech and elect (no struct, this is done outside our office). We currently linke models to each other as needed, the architect will link mech and elec. The mech eng. will link arch and elec and so on. I over hear someone mention the use of a blank model onto which you link all models. I never got a chance to ask the individual how they use it or how it would benifit the process. Any ideas?
Here's an few links that may help:
Best Practices (Scroll down to Collaborate with others)
http://wikihelp.autodesk.com/Revit/enu/2012/Help/Revit_User's_Guide/3143-Best_Pra3143
http://wikihelp.autodesk.com/search?source=help&product=Revit&q=links&language=ENU&version=2013
http://www.dccadd.com/papers/Best%20Practices%20for%20Revit%20Model%20Management.pdf
Linking into a blank file is one options, however, typically each discipline will link all other discipline into their main model. Depending on size as the above docs mention you may need to split up the file.
I suggest talking to like sized firm that do similar work to see how/what they do. Invite them over for lunch, you'd be amazed how much info you can get on a few pizza's. Other than that I recommend reading up, and/or researching on-line.
Thanks for posting,