Chapter 1. An Integrated Unity Workflow

In this chapter we will explain, how the Unity game authoring system can be integrated into a CAD or BIM-based workflow. It is very important to learn how changes to the design can be propagated into Unity, by fully understanding the asset-based approach inside Unity. The workflow will be illustrated mostly with examples from Graphisoft ArchiCAD, Trimble SketchUp and Maxon CINEMA 4D, but similar workflows can be followed with Autodesk Revit, Maya and 3ds Max or even the Open Source Blender.

While prior experience with Unity is not required to follow this book, it is recommended that you also follow an introductory Unity tutorial to get started with setting up a project, creating, positioning, and selecting game objects, adjusting properties, and running the game. But don't be afraid, as we will explain the required steps along the road. Some good starting points are given in the first three chapters of the book Unity 3.x Game Development Essentials by Will Goldstone (published by Packt Publishing) and the Beginner Editor official video tutorial series available at http://unity3d.com/learn/tutorials/modules/beginner/editor.

This chapter is mostly about workflow, and while filled with important comments, this is for the most part a read only chapter. However, it is important to get a grip on your workflow from modeling to real-time visualization.

In this chapter, we will cover the following topics: