The Bottom Line

Use the Phasing tools to create, demolish, and propose a new design. Time is such an important element to the design process and nearly impossible to capture with traditional CAD tools. Don't use phasing for construction sequencing (there's a better way). Embrace phasing for communication, not just illustration.

Better uses for groups. Groups are great for creating collections of both host and family component geometry. Just remember to use best practices and you'll avoid a lot of common roadblocks. Everything still schedules, as you'd expect. And creating exceptions in groups allows you to make subtle changes without creating a new group.

Create and use groups to manage big design ideas. Like groups, design options work great when you follow the rules. Design options are intended for design iteration that is bounded and well defined—not for putting multiple buildings in one project file. Remember that links, groups, and phasing can exist within design options. Always keep hosted elements with their host when using design options.