What is and should I be using an Archicad template

Issue description

Should I use an Archicad Template and How Do I Start Creating One?

Solution

Using an Archicad template is highly recommended as it ensures consistency with your company's graphic standards and workflow methodology. It contains all project preference settings, default tool options, and possibly some placed elements.

• An Archicad template is completely independent of the work environment profiles.

Here’s how to get started with creating one:

1. Open a new project:

Start by opening Archicad and creating a new project. This will be the base for your template.

2. Set up project preferences:
   • Project information: Go to File>Info>Project Info and fill in the details relevant to your project.
   • Work units: Set your desired measurement units under Options>Project Preferences>Working Units.

3. Configure tool defaults:
   • Select each tool (e.g., Wall, Door, Window) and set the default parameters. These settings will be saved in your template.

4. Import attributes:
   • Use the Attribute Manager Option>Element Attributes>Attribute Manager to import attributes (layers, materials, composites, profiles) from other projects or templates.

5. Set up layers and layer combinations:
   • Define your layers and layer combinations under Options>Element Attributes>Layers.

6. Create and organize views:
   • Set up your view map in the Navigator with the desired views, including floor plans, sections, elevations, and 3D views.

8. Configure layouts and the layout book:
   • Design your title blocks.

9. Set dimension preferences and calculation units:
   • Configure dimension preferences Options>Project Preferences>Dimensions and calculation units Options>Project Preferences>Calculation Units.

10. Establish model view options:
    • Define model view options under Document>Model View>Model View Options. 

11. Save the template file:
    • Once everything is set up, save your project as a template file File>Save As a TPL file
    • Choose a location to save your template file, typically within the Archicad templates folder for easy access.

12. Optional - Add to default templates:
    • To have your template appear in the default template list when creating a new project, place a copy in the following folder:
      • Windows: This PC > Local Disk (C:) > Program Files > GRAPHISOFT > Archicad XX > Defaults > Archicad
      • macOS: Applications > Graphisoft > Archicad XX > Defaults > Archicad

Tips:

• Test your template: Before rolling it out, test your template by starting a new project with it to ensure all settings and preferences are correctly applied.
• Update regularly: As your standards evolve, update your template to reflect any changes in your workflow or company standards.
• UKI Template guide 

Not Recommended:

• Migrating a template file from one version to another.
• Copying and pasting elements from a different version or another file.