I generally like to open a model that is similar in nature that already has my load combos and load cases set up.

Although Risa has its canned Load generator, I typically like to set up my own load combos, hopefully reducing the quantity of some based on my different load types. For example, I may not have a non-reducible live load just a reducible live load.. So all of those extra load combinations can be omitted for the LLS combos.

I then just delete all the nodes and start from there, usually importing a CAD dxf or something to speed up nodal input.

On another note, if you do bring in a model from say Revit in to Risa.. I strongly suggest you use the tool that allows you to reduce the signifcant digits in your nodes. I feel that carrying a node accuracy to 6 significant digits when you're already in inches is total overkill.

In my previous life working on heavy industrial / petro-chem project, I would not set up templates. Rather I would use the program defaults as a basic template.

I'd set up my load combinations once to cover all of the common LC's that we'd use on our projects. Sometimes that meant using some of the OL load categories (for loading conditions not covered by typical ASCE/ IBC load definitions). I'd set this up once and then use the "save as defaults" option so that all new models I create from that time forward will contain these pre-built load combinations.

I did the same things with the steel and concrete materials we commonly used (though RISA comes with most of those pre-built now). And, I did the same thing with my global parameters and plot options.