openBIM
A vendor-neutral way for project teams to share BIM data across any software.
Quick Answer
openBIM is an approach to building information modeling, promoted by buildingSMART International, that uses open, vendor-neutral standards so project teams can exchange model data regardless of which software each uses. Key standards include IFC for model content, BCF for issue communication, IDS for information requirements, and bSDD for shared terminology.
The Full Picture
In a closed workflow, everyone on a project must use software from the same vendor, or accept losses when converting between formats. openBIM is built on the opposite idea: use publicly documented standards so data can move between tools from different vendors without being locked to any one product.
buildingSMART International, the standards organization behind openBIM, maintains a family of standards. IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) describes the model itself. BCF (BIM Collaboration Format) carries issues and comments between applications. IDS (Information Delivery Specification) lets a project state, in a machine-readable way, what information a model must contain. The bSDD (buildingSMART Data Dictionary) provides shared names and definitions for building concepts.
These pieces work together. A project can define its information requirements in IDS, exchange models as IFC, coordinate problems through BCF, and align terminology through bSDD. Software vendors can be certified by buildingSMART for specific IFC capabilities, which helps buyers judge how well a tool exchanges data.
openBIM does not remove the need for good practice. An IFC file is only as complete as the export that produced it, and exchange still needs agreed requirements and checking. It is also a complement to, not a replacement for, information-management standards such as ISO 19650.
Real Examples
Common Misconceptions
People assume: openBIM means open-source software.
Actually: openBIM refers to open, published standards and workflows. The tools that use them can be commercial or open source.
People assume: openBIM is just another name for IFC.
Actually: IFC is one standard within openBIM. The approach also includes BCF, IDS, and the bSDD dictionary, among others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who maintains openBIM standards?
buildingSMART International maintains the openBIM standards, including IFC, BCF, IDS, and the bSDD. IFC is also published as an ISO standard.
What is the difference between openBIM and closed BIM?
Closed BIM relies on a single vendor's ecosystem or proprietary formats. openBIM uses published, vendor-neutral standards so teams can use different software and still exchange data.
What is BCF?
BCF, the BIM Collaboration Format, is an open format for sending issues, comments, and viewpoints between BIM applications without sending the whole model.
Does openBIM guarantee perfect data exchange?
No. Quality still depends on how well each tool exports and imports, and on agreed requirements. Certification and checking help, but exchange needs planning and verification.