Archicad lacks a system for defining global variables that can be referenced throughout the project. This would be a Variable Manager, similar to the Attribute Manager, allowing users to:
- Define custom variables (e.g., zoning limit, roof pitch angle, floor‑to‑floor height).
- Use these variables in element parameters (roofs, beams, walls), ensuring one change updates all linked elements.
- Reference these variables in labels, texts, schedules, and expressions.
- Optionally, define calculated variables (derived from schedules or expressions) to make model behavior data‑driven (e.g., set building heights automatically based on volumetric limits).
Example use cases:
- A single variable for roof pitch, controlling multiple beams and layered roof structures.
- A planning regulation variable (e.g., max GFA) used for live compliance checks and dimension constraints.
- A ventilation area variable, derived from effective openable window sizes, used in multiple calculations and labels without manual updates.
- Variables controlling design option parameters, enabling quick scenario testing.
Why this is useful:
- Introduces true parametric modeling without requiring complex GDL scripting.
- Reduces manual, repetitive edits across the project.
- Makes urban planning and regulatory compliance more efficient.
- Brings Archicad closer to rule‑based BIM, where design can adapt to changing conditions via shared variables.
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