Now that we know how to configure data shortcuts and set our project design up from the get-go, let’s dive into creating and linking specific Civil 3D modeled objects from one drawing to another. We’ll also look into some quick management tips and recommended practices for sharing Civil 3D modeled objects.

As we create Civil 3D objects (i.e., surfaces, alignments, gravity/pressure networks, corridors, etc.), we can begin to think through what additional types of model and reference files will be needed for the detailed design in preparation for sheet file creation.

Thinking through what that may look like, let’s use the example of an existing surface created in our survey file. What other types of design files (model and/or reference) will need to reference and display the existing surface for detailed design purposes? A quick analysis would determine that the existing surface would need to be present in the proposed...