Most of the work you do on your Revit project will be done in Revit. The initial design, layout and modeling all occurs from within the Revit program. 3ds Max comes into play when you're ready to produce some higher-end renderings and perhaps add some final details.

Following is a basic description of the expected workflow between Revit and 3ds Max:

1. You've completed most of the design work in Revit and you're ready to add finishing touches and create some presentation renderings.
2. From Revit, export a DWG file.

   Exporting to a DWG file is necessary because the File Link Manager cannot accept the “native” Revit project (RVT) files.

3. Start 3ds Max and use the File Link Manager to link the DWG file.

   Link the drawing using presets that include the linking settings you want as described in the Suggested Settings for Revit Projects section.

4. Adjust materials or make final modifications in 3ds Max in preparation for rendering.

   Depending on the results at this stage, you may find that the Revit project needs to be changed and updated.

5. In Revit, makes changes to the project like moving walls, adding new doors and windows or adding/removing objects.

   For structural changes like adjusting walls, doors, windows, and so on., it's best to make these changes in Revit because those changes need to be included in the originating project. File Link is a one way link so any changes you can make in Revit, should be made in Revit. Otherwise, you'd have to remember to make the same changes in both 3ds Max and Revit.

6. When the changes are completed, export another DWG file with the same name as the original DWG file you exported in step 2.

   If you give a new name to the exported DWG, the File Link Manager will not show that the currently linked file has been updated.

7. In 3ds Max, open the File Link Manager and review the Files panel. Select the updated file link and click the Reload button — Turn on Show Reload Options if you want to change link settings.

   The changed model reloads to 3ds Max and changes made to the model in 3ds Max prior to the reload are retained.

   The symbol means the DWG file has been updated.