COBie
A structured spreadsheet-style handover of equipment and space data to the building owner.
Quick Answer
COBie, short for Construction Operations Building information exchange, is a data standard for delivering the facility information an owner needs to operate and maintain a building. It organizes spaces, equipment, systems, warranties, and maintenance data into structured tables, commonly a spreadsheet, so it can load into facility management software.
The Full Picture
When a building is turned over, owners traditionally received boxes of paper manuals, O&M binders, and as-built drawings. The information they actually need, such as which equipment is in which room, who supplied it, when the warranty ends, and what maintenance it requires, was scattered across them. COBie was created to deliver that information as structured data that can be loaded into a computerized maintenance or facility management system.
COBie is a subset of the IFC data model and is part of the National BIM Standard-United States. It is usually delivered as a set of linked spreadsheet worksheets covering facility, floors, spaces, zones, types, components, systems, jobs, and documents. The idea is that the information is collected progressively during design and construction rather than assembled in a rush at closeout.
Responsibility for filling in COBie is spread across the project. Designers typically populate spaces and equipment types, and contractors and subcontractors add serial numbers, installation dates, warranty terms, and product data as items are installed. The owner defines what is required, often in the contract documents, since a COBie deliverable only has value if it matches what the owner's operations team can use.
COBie is mainly a closeout and operations concern, so its direct role in preconstruction is small. It still shows up at bid time when contract documents require a COBie deliverable, because the cost and coordination of collecting that data should be understood before the work is priced.
Real Examples
Common Misconceptions
People assume: People assume COBie is a type of BIM model.
Actually: COBie is a data exchange format for facility information; it can be generated from a model but is typically delivered as structured tables.
People assume: People assume COBie data can be filled in at the end of the job.
Actually: it is far more accurate when collected progressively as equipment is specified, submitted, and installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does COBie stand for?
COBie stands for Construction Operations Building information exchange. It is a standard for delivering facility asset information from design and construction to the owner.
What information does COBie include?
COBie covers facility, floor, and space data, along with equipment types and components, systems, zones, warranties, maintenance jobs, and linked documents.
What format is COBie delivered in?
COBie is most often delivered as a spreadsheet with linked worksheets, though it can also be exchanged in IFC-based formats.
Who fills out COBie data?
The data is collected from several parties. Designers usually supply spaces and equipment types, and contractors add installed-product details such as serial numbers and warranty dates.
Is COBie relevant to preconstruction?
Only indirectly. It is a closeout deliverable, but contract documents that require it affect scope and cost, so it should be identified before bid.