Room data sheets (RDS) are used to communicate client requirements for a specific type of space to the design team. They are typically created during the design or architectural programming stages. The information they include could include general requirements and notes or specifications for finishes, fixtures and fittings (F&F) and electrical and mechanical equipment.

The information is typically presented on one sheet for each room (hence the name) but based on the scope may be spread over more than one sheet. They are typically given to contractors along with the specifications and drawings.

There are many software programs to help you create RDSs. Certain software is designed to link Revit models so that the contents of the model as well as the room data sheet is the same. This synchronisation makes the document easier to manage and avoids duplicate entries in both.

Layer is a powerful tool for managing room data. It has an easy-to navigate interface to collect room information and generate multiple sheets for each type of space. It can also backfill existing Revit projects with their explanation room types and create custom reports. Layer also lets users to specify naming conventions that are applicable to views on sheets and can control properties such as scale, browser organization and naming.

The Layouts panel lets you regulate the layout of the views created on a sheet including margin values and the position of the titleblock. In addition, the option of exclude the view titles from the calculation of the total size of views on a sheet is activated. This will prevent titles from overtaking views on the sheet, and can also allow for more elevation views to be created on sheets.