Interoperability

A schema used for exchanging information and model viewpoints between individuals irrespective of the software tools used. Implemented as both an XML file (bcfXML) format and a RESTful API webservice (bcfAPI), the Open BIM Collaboration Format (BCF) is typically used to highlight issues discovered during model reviews. The schema allows for the exchange of comments and images linked to specific Model Components through their unique Global Unique IDentifiers (GUID)

An international organisation aiming to promote the exchange of interoperable, open and non-proprietary data between software applications used within the construction industry. buildingSMART is involved in the development of Industry Foundation Classes, buildingSMART Data Dictionary (bSDD) and the Information Delivery Manual (IDM)

buildingSMART Data Dictionary (previously IFD) is a standardized terminology for data and products used in virtual design, construction and operation. BSDD identifies the multilingual names and defines the types and properties of many construction 'products' (e.g. doors, HVAC units, etc.). bSDD, Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) and the Information Delivery Manual (IDM) are at the core of buildingSMART deliverables which facilitate the process of generating, exchanging and linking open-standard BIModels to various project and product-specific data. BSDD is based on ISO 12006-3:2007

IFC refers to a neutral/open specification (schema) and a non-proprietary 'BIM file format' developed by buildingSMART. Major BIM Software Tools support the import and export of IFC files (also refer to ISO 16739)

The formal method developed and propagated by buildingSMART to establish Model View Definitions as a standard requirement for exchanging model data within the construction industry. IDM is an ISO standard intended to "facilitate interoperability between software applications used in the construction process, to promote digital collaboration between actors in the construction process and to provide a basis for accurate, reliable, repeatable and high-quality information exchange" (ISO 29481-1:2010)

A computer-interpretable buildingSMART standard for specifying the information requirements that an IFC model must meet (e.g. required classes, properties, values and classifications), allowing a delivered model to be checked automatically. Also refer to Model View Definition and Delivery Specification

The term Interchange refers to 'Interoperable Exchange' between Project Participant. The term applies equally when two or more organizations use the same proprietary data schema (through using same software - e.g. Revit) or use an open non-proprietary data schema (e.g. IFC) to interchange BIModels and other information

A specification which identifies the properties and specifies the Exchange Requirements of Model Views. A 'standard' Model view Definition (MVD) is a subset of the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) schema intended for software developers (not end users) to implement into their BIM Software Tools ...Also refer to Information Delivery Manual

A modelling schema describes the attributes of 'building' entities and how these entities are related to each other. A non-proprietary (open-source) schema has many uses including supporting interoperability between different proprietary software tools

The term generically refers to the process of exchanging non-proprietary BIModels and other data. As a trademark, Open BIM is a "universal approach to the collaborative design, realization and operation of buildings based on open standards and workflows. Open BIM is an initiative of buildingSMART and several leading software vendors using the open buildingSMART Data Model"