The Little Things - A Proper Layer Manager

[gavinNZz]

Layers are a huge part of how we organize our BIM models and how elements relate to each other in the model space we work within. I open the layers window and toggle them probably about 200+ times a day. There are not many other functions in Archicad that are used as much as layers.

Yes there are more 'BIM' orientated ways of setting the visibility of elements but I feel layers will still form a part of how we go about modeling for some time yet.

I did a quick search and found an image of the layers window in AC11 ( for the record that's just about to be 12 versions ago) and it is exactly the same as what we have now! So one of the most used functions in Archicad hasn't been touched for 12 years, why not GS? It is just absurd.

Layers need to have a hierarchical management system like view sets or layouts. We need to be able to categorize them into folders which can be expanded and contracted. View control could be by 'folder' or by individual layer. Layer combinations need to remain but could also be managed in the same way.

For a working example... When modelling a midfloor structure I may want to turn on all my roof structure related layers to see specific load paths. Presently I open the layers window and then navigate through my 100+ layers to get to my roof section where I proceed to click on the 5 layers I want to view. Had these 5 layers been in a folder that would have just required 1 click on the parent folder visibility toggle. done.

Also the layers window needs to be a 'live' palette that permanently stays open. Why should I have to open a layers palette each and every time I want to adjust layers.

While on the topic of visibility, the graphic override functionality needs to have simple 'visible' toggle option added to it. Its great that we can override all the visual aspects of the element but the addition of a function to allow us to turn the element(s) off entirely would be great. This would allow us to use the criteria filtering to determine visibility of elements irrelevant of what layer they are on.

Please GS, spend some time on some of these basic functions that have been neglected. They are heavily used by all AC users so need to be prioritized as such.

[Anonymous]

A good program work process is about using the right method in a flexible process that is easy reachable and readable. This means implementing various methos for doing a similar or a similar kind of task(s).

Totally agree with the following:

- 'live' [layer manager] palette that permanently stays open.
- 'using folders and subfolders for organizing layers is one of the ESSENTIAL things to add to ArchiCAD !'
- 'At leeeeeeeast give us a search bar in the layer manager'
> 'Please GS, spend some time on some of these basic functions that have been neglected. They are heavily used by all AC users so need to be prioritized as such.'

Would like to add the following that would be nice within a dockable layer manager.

- Search for a layer(s)
- Filter layer(s)

For a paid software with some promises...

... (note from the website: Archicad is a professional building information modeling software solution complying with all digital-delivery requirements, offering an intuitive design environment, accurate building information management, open collaboration and automated documentation.)...

... there may be some valid basic expectations and there may be some valid addition of more value.

[Anonymous]

- sort by active layers
- show only (in)active layers

[Nuge]

Totally agree,
Graphisoft needs to "update" the layer manager, currently its a time warp back to the 1990's

at the very least it needs the following

always on "live" floating palette
folders
search bar

Come on Graphisoft start making some basic changes that will improve workflow for everyone