Archicad 28 Migration: Converting from Monolithic Libraries to the Global Library System

[Jan Millan]

IMPORTANT NOTES BEFORE MIGRATION:

• Compatibility Between Library Systems: Mixing objects from the Monolithic and Global Libraries within the same project is not recommended. The Global Library introduces fundamental changes, and placed objects, tool defaults, favorites, and Model View Options (MVO) settings are not compatible between the two systems. For a smoother workflow and to avoid potential issues, it’s best to fully commit to one library system per project.
• When migrating projects that use hotlinking workflows, remember that these need to be migrated as well.
• We strongly recommend backing up your files before initiating the migration process.

 

OVERVIEW

Starting with Archicad 28, the transition from Monolithic Libraries to the Global Library introduces significant changes aimed at simplifying library management and improving future version migrations. This shift represents a major step forward, offering expanded content, improved international collaboration, and a smoother migration path for future updates. Users starting new projects or creating templates are encouraged to use the new system to fully benefit from these improvements. However, for ongoing projects, it is recommended to continue using the Monolithic Libraries to avoid compatibility issues.

Active Project Files

For ongoing project files, we recommend continuing with the Monolith Library. Switching to the Global Library could introduce compatibility issues, which should be avoided to ensure the stability of active projects. 

Template Files

For custom template, you have three options:

1. Continue using the Monolith Library.
2. Upgrade your existing template for compatibility with the new Global Library system.
3. Recreate your template from scratch using the default template available in your region.
   • For regions where it’s available, we recommend starting with the Online Template, so that you can continue using the localized template specific to your region, as you are used to in previous versions of Archicad.

MIGRATION PATHS TO ARCHICAD 28:

1. Migrating to Archicad 28 with Monolith Libraries

If you are migrating your Project or Template file to continue using the traditional Monolith Library system, the migration method remains the same as in previous versions. Simply open your project (versions 17-27) in Archicad 28 and click Migrate Archicad Libraries when prompted. 

2. Migrating to Archicad 28 and Converting to Global Libraries

To start the conversion, open your project (versions 17-27) in Archicad 28, click Migrate Archicad Libraries when prompted.

Once your file is migrated to version 28, follow the next steps to convert your existing Monolith Library-based template for compatibility with the new Global Library system. 

1. Replace the Monolith Library for the Library Packs

   • From the Library Manager, remove the Monolith Libraries from your project and add the new Library Packages you need.

     • See: Default Library Packs in Each Archicad Language Version

2. Updating Favorites

   • Favorites from the Monolith Library are not compatible with the new Global Library system. Therefore, you will need to either recreate your favorites from scratch using the new Global Library, or use the Favorite Converter tool to streamline the conversion process. This tool ensures your favorites are updated and compatible with the latest system. 

3. Updating Tool Defaults

   • Update the tool defaults by applying the relevant favorites within the different Tool Settings Dialogs. It's important to pay special attention to tools that include components, such as stair, railing, and curtain wall components, as these may require additional adjustments to ensure they work properly with the updated library parts.

4. Model View Options (MVO)

   • The Model View Options (MVO) settings have been updated with a new structure. Curtain Wall - Doors & Windows, Skylights, and Elevators, now have their own dedicated sections, each with unique detail level and opening line settings. Additionally, enhancements have been made to the detail level controls for Doors & Windows and Miscellaneous Settings for Library Parts sections.

     • Be sure to review these settings to ensure your project's visual representation aligns with your preferences.

5. Replacing Zone Stamps

   • In the Zone Category settings, replace your old zone stamps with updated versions from the new Library Packages.

6. Replacing Placed Elements

   • Make sure to replace any placed elements, such as elevation and section Markers on floor plans, revision history in master layouts, and any other pre-placed library parts.

7. Grid System Settings Defaults - (Optional)

   • To adjust the Grid System default settings, go to Design > Grid System..., make the necessary changes, and set the "Place at" option to Elements at Grid Line Intersections. After clicking OK, you’ll need to place the grid on the plan to save the default settings. Once the grid and columns are generated, you can delete them if needed, as the settings will remain stored.

8. Library Localization Preferences - (Optional)

   • Use the Library Localization Preferences to set the default language or language order for your library parts. This ensures that library objects display in the correct language.

 

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. Migration Compatibility Chart: When migrating your Projects or Template to Archicad 28, refer to the Migrating to Archicad 28 compatibility chart. This chart highlights key changes based on the version you're migrating from. If you've been migrating for several years without addressing these items, consider reviewing them to ensure your template fully leverages the latest features.
2. Troubleshooting Library Issues: If you encounter any library-related issues during the migration process, such as missing or duplicate parts, unsupported objects, or problems with linked libraries, please refer to the Troubleshooting Library Issues guide.
3. Custom Components: Custom components from the Monolithic Library need to be re-saved for compatibility with the Global Library.