Overview

The Dusty file preparation workflow is designed to help VDC teams communicate clear, accurate design intent to the field with minimal rework. A well-prepared file leads to:

• Faster setup in the field
• Cleaner, more readable layouts
• Fewer stationing and control issues
• Less back-and-forth between the office and the jobsite

This article walks through the end-to-end workflow, from a model or CAD file to a print-ready Dusty layout.

High-Level Workflow

At a high level, file preparation follows this sequence:

• Prepare the source model or CAD file
• Export layout data using Dusty tools and standards
• Upload and coordinate files in the Dusty Portal
• Publish the print-ready file
• Sync with the Dusty app and print in the field

Each step builds on the previous one. Skipping steps often leads to avoidable field issues.

Step 1: Prepare the Source File (Revit or AutoCAD)

Your goal is to send only the information the field actually needs.

In Revit

• Start from a clean plan view, such as a floor or ceiling plan
• Hide unnecessary categories, including furniture, annotations, and design-only geometry
• Confirm:
  • Correct units
  • Correct orientation and level
• Apply Dusty standards to simplify linework
• Export the plan view to DWG

In AutoCAD

• Confirm drawing units, typically Architectural / Inches
• Hide unnecessary objects and reference geometry
• Clearly name layout layers, ideally using a consistent prefix such as DR-
• Export using the Dusty for Autodesk AutoCAD plugin

Step 2: Assign Meaning to Linework

Your goal is to make printed layout unambiguous in the field.

• Decide which elements are printable, reference-only, or obstacles
• Assign line types and text styles intentionally
• Use enriched line styles (embedded text) when clarity is required
• Avoid overlapping or stacked text whenever possible

Examples:

• Framing: printable solid lines
• Grid lines: reference objects
• Columns: obstacle objects

Step 3: Export and Upload to the Dusty Portal

Once the file is ready:

• Export using the Dusty AutoCAD plugin
• Log in to the Dusty Portal
• Upload control point CSVs, if applicable

In the Portal, verify:

• Scale and orientation
• Layer visibility
• Text size and readability
• No critical geometry is missing

Step 4: Coordinate and Combine Files in the Portal

Your goal is to create a single source of truth for the field.

In the Dusty Portal:

• Confirm all trades share the same coordinate system
• Confirm consistent units across all files
• Combine multiple source files into one print-ready layout
• Review the print visualization with project stakeholders

This step is the final quality check before layout reaches the slab.

Step 5: Publish the Print-Ready File

When coordination is complete:

• Publish the file in the Portal
• Confirm the correct project, building, and level
• Notify the field team that the layout is ready

Once published, the file becomes available in the Dusty app on the tablet.

Step 6: Print in the Field

In the field, the operator will:

• Open the published file in the Dusty app
• Verify layout alignment
• Station the tracker using the defined control
• Begin printing

If file preparation was done correctly, field adjustments should be minimal.

Common File Preparation Mistakes to Avoid

• Exporting entire models without filtering
• Overlapping or stacked text that becomes unreadable on the slab
• Mismatched units between files
• Multiple coordinate systems across trades
• Skipping Portal visualization review before publishing

Most field issues trace back to one or more of these mistakes.

Content Tags

• file prep
• vdc
• revit
• autocad
• dusty portal
• layout files
• workflow
• print ready

Labels

• file_preparation
• vdc_workflow
• cad_to_layout
• portal_coordination
• layout_export
• print_ready_files
• dusty_portal