Auditing and Comparing Model Groups in Revit 2014

I have been searching for a quick and easy way to compare exclusions between Group instances - and nothing really exists at this point.  So, I have developed a method to do this by using Revit and some schedules.  It doesn't require add-ins, macros or extensions - but it does require full Revit 2014.

Part A - create a Shared Parameter, applied to all Categories, that can vary by Group instance


Part B - To automatically create selection sets for each group instance

1. Open a new 3D view
2. Edit the most complete version of the Group (the one with the least exclusions, ideally none)
3. Select everything
4. Save Selection set
5. Finish Group - Revit will automatically create a unique Selection Set for each Group instance

Part C - fill the parameter from Part A with appropriate values for each Group instance:

1. Load one of the automatically created selection sets
2. Determine what parameter value represents that Group instance (for example "Level 8")
3. Filter the Selection - you will need to untick Lines, Wall Openings and Curtain Wall Grids (these items do not accept parameters)
4. Make Elements Editable
5. Edit the Shared Parameter with the appropriate value and Apply (ie. "Level 8")
6. While the elements are still selected, save the filtered Selection Set
7. Deselect everything
8. Select the Group instance and Isolate it
9. Load the Selection Set from step 6 and Temporary Hide
10. Any elements left over will need to be selected and have the same parameter from step 2 applied to them
11. Rinse and Repeat steps 1 to 10 for each Group instance you want to audit / compare.