Collaboration Tools in 3ds Max
In this article, I’ll be demonstrating some of the tools that can be used in 3ds Max® for collaboration.
First, we’ll talk about xrefs. Xrefs are a powerful way to allow multiple people to work on a single project to ensure it proceeds quickly. This naturally creates collaboration as users introduce ideas and concepts as each person reviews the work of others dynamically and shares his or her thoughts. With 3ds Max 2016 and up we can apply modifiers, transform or add materials to referenced objects without having to merge the xref object into our particular scene. These are all completed non-destructively, leaving the master file intact. See Figure 1, for example. I xrefed a creature that had several modifiers applied to it. By selecting “Merge” for modifiers shown in Figure 1, I am able to change the modifiers in my new scene while keeping the original file intact. This is particularly powerful for reviewing multiple options quickly, allowing more time for the collaborative process and ultimately a better product.
Figure 1
Another particular useful tool for collaboration is the File Link Manager, which allows us to connect to Autodesk® Revit®, AutoCAD®, FBX, and DFX files, review designs while they are in progress, and populate environments while particular structures are worked on by others. The options to connect are located under the main file menu shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2
While linking, 3ds Max provides us some options to take advantage of the connection. For example, when connecting to a Revit file we are asked to select a particular view and preset option, shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3
The beauty of this particular connection is that it allows us to apply materials, import lights, and create cameras based on the various Revit views available during import. This allows us to review and discuss the Revit work while working to present it using the animation and rendering power built into 3ds Max.
I’d like note that if you are a design professional using 3ds Max and working with Revit files it might be helpful to know that Autodesk has provided a workspace specific to your needs. This is called the “Design Workspace.” To select the Design Workspace, use the drop-down menu provided next to the File Menu icon shown in Figure 4. The ribbon will be updated to reflect tools helpful to work with this particular connection type.
Figure 4
One useful item might be the ability to turn on the Revit materials in our scene. To do this we select Realistic under Materials shown in Figure 5.
Figure 5
In conclusion, I’d like to discuss collaboration in general. As professionals, we grow when working with various files and sharing with one another. While that’s true, it’s important to keep in mind there is more to collaboration than that. We must put aside our egos to accept ideas that we might not particularly agree with (learn the shrug of a professional), allow others to explore new ideas even with our own work, and be open to sharing what we’ve learned with others. In my opinion, the key to ensure the best effort is applied during collaboration is to lead it.
“Lead with your own participation in a way that you believe will create value and will invite others to do the same.” – Suzanne Mayo Frindt
