We first computerized our drawings in 1981. There were no databases that one could buy, or manufacturer drawings that one could download and insert, as there was no internet at that time. So we had to create and en tire data base. If we needed a door, we created all doors. If we needed a window, we did all windows. These were in symbols (now blocks in AutoCad). All symbols were cataloged in CSI MasterFormat numbering system. For instance, wall sections can be fully drawn and noted in as little as 2 hours for a one to 3 story building because all of the parts that one would need can be called in: the roof insulation is a symbol in section, same for all types of roof decking, if a steel building, all shapes are in section and 4' long elevation, masonry shapes are in individually and in pre-assembled heights in section (2', 4', 8'), the same for pre-assembled sections of wood stud and metal stud walls, foundation slabs, grade beams and footings the same. Drawing is more a matter of selecting from a kit of parts and assembling them. Most of the drawing we do now is of plans and elevations, not sections or details.
When details were done, they were done the same way, by Masterformat numbering system applied creatively. For instance, door details are numbered by division number, then wall type, then frame type, then door type in an 8 digit numbering system. Details were developed for database first, them the drawing sheet mocked up with database details. In effect, the data is "atomized" and then re-assembled for each job. If the specific door detail does not exist, then an existing one that is close will be edited to suit the project - but it goes to database first, then to the project. Consequently, the database grows and the project can be fully detailed without taking short-cuts as was done on hand drawings. On door details, each and every detail can afford to be drawn, and instead of taking 40 to 50 man hours per sheet, 2 to 3 hours per sheet is now the norm.
We were able to port over our database when we changed to AutoCad in 1996, and we will move it again, because we are NOT going to utilize /contract with a new partner by the name of AutoCad, paying them a monthly stipend to access the "cloud" (someone else's computer) regardless of the state of our business. The writers of software have contempt for their customers and continuously alter file formats on supposed "upgrades" that attempt to negate the validity of the database, when in fact, the database is worth much more than the software if it is organized properly. We are still using details that we originally developed circa and subsequent to 1981, because they are still valid and they are accessible, no thanks to the writers of the software.
We don't use Revit, because it is a database managed by someone else not under our control.
Ladd P. Ehlinger, AIA