Need Help with Python Script for Archicad (Excel → Custom Properties)

[369]

Hi everyone,

I’m having some trouble with a Python script (I’m basically just vibe coding it 😅), and I was wondering if anyone here might have the time to help me out.

I’m working with custom properties in Archicad 26 and 28 (although I should probably focus on Archicad 28), and my goal is to create a Python script that can read data from an Excel file and automatically write that information into Archicad properties.

I’m not a very experienced programmer, so I’ve been piecing it together as best as I can, but I’m stuck. If anyone has experience with Python + Archicad API scripting and could help point me in the right direction (or help me get it working), I’d really appreciate it.

I can also offer a service exchange if needed 🙂

I don´t want to publish all files and data here, but if anyone has time, I will send you all on a private message!

I also wonder which AI is best for vibe coding Python scripts. I usually use ChatGPT Pro, and it generally works well, but sometimes it feels like we just can’t figure things out. It also makes me wonder whether what I’m trying to do might not be possible at all—and ChatGPT just doesn’t explicitly say so.

Thanks in advance!

[runxel]

While asking for help is fine in general, its much cooler to do this in the open. 😎 It's a public forum after all, intended so more people can benefit.

I guess your task is pretty easy to set up, but the question is: Where does the Excel come from?

If it's generated from Archicad and then populated you should just do the native ex-/import, made specifically for this endeavour.

[Laszlo Nagy]

Do you know that you can generate a Schedule that lists those Properties you want to fill out using Python, use the File > Interoperability > Classifcations & Properties > Export Property values from Schedule menu command to export the Schedule as Excel, open it in Excel, fill out the values for the Properties (or send it to the person who needs to fill it out), then use the File > Interoperability > Classifcations & Properties > Import Property values into Elements menu command to import them back into the element Properties?

If this solution works for you, there is no need for Python.

[369 · Accepted solution]

Hi,

You’re right! I’m just being very careful since these aren’t my own files — they’re from work. However, I experimented a bit with AI coding and figured out that this isn’t possible with the current Archicad. It does work with third-party software though, for example TAPIR

Using that add-on was actually quite easy, and Python works perfectly. Thank you!