Model processing enables property extraction, rule checking, and high-performance model interrogation inside Plannerly.
This guide explains what happens when you click “Process now” after uploading a model - how long it takes, and when processing is required.
Processing converts your uploaded model into structured, indexed data. Without it, auto-checking and requirement validation cannot run.
What Happens When You Click “Process Now” in Plannerly?
When you upload a model file into Plannerly - whether it is a Revit (.rvt), DWF (.dwf), IFC (.ifc), DWG (.dwg), DWFx (.dwfx), or one of the other supported file types - you will see a prompt asking:
“Process now?”
This step is optional unless you are checking the model against defined information requirements.
What happens during processing?
If you click OK, Plannerly runs several background steps to prepare your model for advanced workflows.
- File conversion - the model is converted into a lightweight, web-viewable format.
- Property extraction - all elements, properties, and values are extracted.
- Indexing - data is structured for fast searching and filtering.
- Requirements checking - rules are matched against your defined information requirements.
- Email notification - you are notified once processing is complete.
"Processing runs entirely in the background."
"You can continue editing documents, managing scope, or reviewing other models."
"No interruption to your workflow."
How long does processing take?
A 150MB Revit file typically takes between 5 and 20 minutes to process.
The time varies because file size alone does not determine complexity.
Many 150MB files include:
- Hundreds of thousands of elements
- Hundreds of properties per element
- Millions of total data points
All of this data must be extracted, structured, indexed, and checked.
"Heavier geometry and richer property sets increase processing time."
"Background processing ensures your user experience remains smooth."
What if you choose “Not now”?
You can still use the model viewer without full processing.
Available features include:
- First-person walkthrough
- Element measurement
- Cross-sections
- Model tree browsing
- Property inspection
The main difference is that automated rule checking and requirement validation will not be available until processing is complete.
You can process the file later
Return to the file at any time and click “Process now”. You will receive an email once processing is complete.
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FAQs
Is processing required to view a model?
No. You can view and navigate the model without processing. Processing is required only for automated checking and rule validation.
Why does processing take time?
Plannerly extracts and structures every element and property in the model so it can be searched, filtered, and validated against requirements.
Will processing slow down my work?
No. Processing runs in the background and does not interrupt your session.
