What Is an Information Delivery Specification (IDS)?

An Information Delivery Specification (IDS) is a buildingSMART standard that defines how information requirements for BIM projects should be documented in a computer interpretable format. Unlike traditional spreadsheets or PDFs that describe what data is needed, an IDS creates a machine-readable XML file that can be used to automatically validate whether an IFC model meets the specified requirements.

The IDS standard can have a massive benefit for the construction industry because it removes the ambiguity that has long plagued information delivery on BIM projects. With IDS, teams can clearly define what information is requested, what the allowed values are, and how that information should be structured within the BIM model. This clarity helps every stakeholder on a construction project understand exactly what is expected of them.

An Information Delivery Specification represents a shift from manual, document-based requirements to automated, computer-readable standards. By using an IDS instead of traditional documents, organizations can streamline their BIM process and ensure consistent information delivery across all project phases.

Want a quick visual overview of IDS and how it connects with the buildingSMART Data Dictionary (bSDD)? Watch this short introduction:

IDS Introduction — How Information Delivery Specifications combine with bSDD to power smarter BIM validation.

Why the Information Delivery Specification Matters for BIM Projects

In any BIM process, getting the right information at the right time is critical. Traditionally, information requirements have been documented in lengthy text-based documents that are open to interpretation. This often leads to misunderstandings, rework, and costly delays on construction projects.

The IDS standard solves this by providing a structured, computer interpretable way to specify exactly what information is needed. When you create an IDS, you define your requirements in a format that BIM tools and IDS editors can read and validate automatically. This means you can check whether your IFC models contain all the requested information before files are even submitted.

For teams managing a large asset portfolio across multiple BIM projects, IDS brings consistency and automation to what was previously a manual, error-prone checking process. The importance of IDS in modern construction cannot be overstated, as it directly addresses the need for clearer information requirements throughout the BIM process.

The Business Case for Implementing IDS in Your BIM Process

Organizations adopting Information Delivery Specification standards report significant improvements in project efficiency and model quality. The business benefits of implementing IDS include reduced rework, faster approval cycles, and improved coordination among BIM teams. When information requirements are clearly defined and automatically validated, the entire construction project runs more smoothly.

The delivery specification approach enables BIM projects to track compliance in real time, providing objective metrics on whether deliverables meet stated requirements. This transparency helps project managers make faster decisions and identify issues before they become expensive problems.

How IDS Works: The Technical Basics

At its core, an Information Delivery Specification is an XML file that follows the buildingSMART IDS schema. This XML file contains a set of specifications, where each specification defines requirements for specific elements within IFC models. Here is how IDS works in practice:

• Applicability: Each specification in the IDS defines which IFC elements it applies to (for example, all walls, all doors, or all spaces in the BIM model).
• Requirements: For those applicable elements, the IDS defines what properties, classifications, materials, or attributes must be present and what their allowed values should be.
• Validation: BIM tools that support the IDS standard can then automatically check each IFC model against these requirements, producing a pass/fail report for each specification.

Because the IDS is written as a structured XML file, it eliminates the need for manual checking. The IDS can validate thousands of elements in seconds, identifying missing or incorrect information across your entire BIM model. This makes the IDS a powerful quality assurance tool for any construction project.

Understanding how IDS processes information requirements is essential for teams looking to upgrade their BIM process. The technical foundation of IDS enables rapid validation that would be impossible with traditional, manual approaches to checking.

IDS vs. Traditional Information Requirements

Before IDS, teams typically used spreadsheets, PDF documents, or text-based BIM Execution Plans to define their information requirements. While these approaches work, they have significant limitations in the BIM process:

• Manual checking: Someone has to manually verify that each IFC model meets the requirements, which is slow and error-prone.
• Ambiguity: Text-based requirements leave room for interpretation. What one team considers “complete” information might not match another team’s expectations.
• No automation: Traditional documents cannot be read by BIM tools, so there is no way to automate the validation process.

The Information Delivery Specification addresses all of these issues. By encoding requirements in a computer interpretable XML file, the IDS enables automatic validation, removes ambiguity, and ensures that the information structure of every deliverable matches the project’s specifications exactly.

Making the transition from traditional methods to an IDS-based approach requires changing how teams define and communicate their delivery specification requirements. However, the shift is worthwhile given the substantial improvements in efficiency and accuracy.

Key Components of an IDS File

Every Information Delivery Specification (IDS) file contains several important components that define the information requirements for a construction project. Understanding these components is essential for anyone working with IDS on BIM projects:

Specifications in an Information Delivery Specification

A single IDS file can contain multiple specifications. Each specification targets a specific set of elements in the IFC models and defines what information those elements must contain. For example, one specification might require all walls to have a fire rating property, while another might require all spaces to include area calculations. These specifications form the backbone of how your delivery specification manages information requirements across the BIM model.

Facets and Properties

Facets are the building blocks of IDS requirements. They define the specific attributes, properties, classifications, or materials that must be present. Each facet can include constraints on allowed values, ensuring that the requested information meets the project’s standards. Using facets, teams can create granular, precise specifications for the IFC models that must be delivered.

Optionality and Flexibility

IDS allows you to mark separate requirements as either mandatory or optional. This flexibility is important because not every piece of information is equally critical at every stage of a construction project. Teams can define which requirements are essential for a particular delivery milestone and which are nice-to-have. This capability makes IDS particularly useful for phased BIM projects.

Creating an Information Delivery Specification: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating an IDS does not require programming knowledge. Several BIM tools and IDS editors now support the creation and editing of IDS files through user-friendly interfaces. Here is a typical workflow for creating an IDS:

1. Identify your information needs: Review the project’s information requirements, including what data is needed from each discipline and at what stage of the BIM process.
2. Define specifications: For each requirement, create a specification in the IDS editor that identifies which IFC elements it applies to and what information those elements must contain.
3. Set allowed values: Where appropriate, define the permitted values for each property or attribute. For example, fire rating values might be restricted to specific classifications.
4. Export and share: Save your IDS as an XML file and distribute it to all project stakeholders so they can validate their BIM models before submission.

Tools like Plannerly make this process even simpler by integrating IDS creation into the broader BIM management workflow. With Plannerly, you can define your information requirements using an intuitive interface, export them as IDS files, and track compliance across your entire BIM project.

In the video below, we walk through the full process of creating an IDS and a responsibility matrix from scratch — no coding required:

How to Create an IDS (buildingSMART Information Delivery Specification) — a step-by-step walkthrough using Plannerly.

The process of building an effective delivery specification requires clear communication with your team about information requirements. When stakeholders understand how IDS will be used to validate their work, they can more easily adopt the required standards and procedures.

Using IDS with IFC Models for Quality Assurance

One of the most powerful applications of the Information Delivery Specification is automated quality assurance of IFC models. Once you have an IDS file, you can use it to check any IFC model for compliance. This process works as follows:

The IDS validator reads the XML file and compares the requirements against the data in the IFC models. For each specification, it checks whether the applicable elements contain the requested information and whether the values fall within the allowed ranges. The result is a detailed report showing which requirements pass and which fail, along with specific details about any non-conformances.

This automated checking process is invaluable for construction projects because it catches errors early in the BIM process, before they become costly problems on site. It also provides an objective, repeatable way to assess model quality across different teams and disciplines.

By implementing IDS for quality checks, teams can significantly reduce the time spent on manual BIM checking and focus on more strategic aspects of their BIM projects. The delivery specification becomes a living document that can be refined as lessons are learned.

To see IDS-based quality assurance in action, here is a demonstration of how Plannerly and Solibri work together to check BIM models against an IDS:

BIM Checking with buildingSMART IDS — using Plannerly and Solibri for automated model validation.

IDS and Non-IFC Data

While the Information Delivery Specification is primarily designed for validating IFC models, the principles behind IDS can also be applied to non IFC data. Many construction projects involve information that lives outside of BIM models, such as documents, schedules, and cost data. Teams can use the IDS framework as a reference for defining information requirements across all project deliverables, even if the automated checking is limited to IFC-based content.

BuildingSMART continues to develop the IDS standard, and future versions may extend support for validating non IFC data alongside traditional BIM model content. This evolution will make the delivery specification even more valuable for comprehensive project information management.

IDS in the Context of ISO 19650 and BIM Standards

The Information Delivery Specification fits naturally into the ISO 19650 framework for information management. ISO 19650 compliance requires teams to define their information requirements at the start of a construction project and to verify that deliverables meet those requirements throughout the BIM process. IDS provides the technical mechanism to do exactly this.

When teams use IDS as part of their ISO 19650 workflow, they can automate the verification of information deliveries, track compliance across multiple BIM projects, and provide auditable evidence that requirements have been met. This is particularly valuable for organizations managing a large asset portfolio across multiple construction projects.

The relationship between IDS and BIM standards is symbiotic: standards define the framework, and IDS provides the technical implementation. Together, they create a robust approach to information management in the BIM process.

Popular IDS Editors and BIM Tools Supporting IDS

Several IDS editors and BIM tools now support the IDS standard. Here are some of the most popular options for creating and validating Information Delivery Specifications:

• Plannerly: A comprehensive BIM management platform that integrates IDS creation, validation, and compliance tracking into a single workflow. Plannerly makes it easy to define your delivery specification, export IDS files, and verify IFC models against your requirements. For users of specific BIM tools, Plannerly also offers specialized features like IDS Revit integration and buildingSMART IDS Archicad compatibility.
• buildingSMART IDS Editor: The official open-source IDS editor from buildingSMART, which provides a straightforward interface for creating and editing IDS files. This editor is freely available and forms the foundation for many other tools in the IDS ecosystem.
• Various BIM Checking Tools: Several commercial BIM tools now include IDS validation capabilities through the checking tab or dedicated IDS modules, enabling teams to validate their IFC models directly within their existing workflows.

The variety of available tools makes it easier for organizations to adopt IDS regardless of their existing BIM software stack. Whether you work with Revit, ArchiCAD, or other platforms, there is likely an IDS editor or validation tool that integrates with your current setup.

Wondering how Plannerly fits into the IDS ecosystem? This video explains how we tackled the common challenges teams face when adopting IDS on real projects:

Solving the IDS Challenge with Plannerly — practical strategies for adopting IDS across your organisation.

Getting Started with IDS on Your BIM Projects

If you are ready to implement the Information Delivery Specification on your construction projects, here are the steps to get started:

1. Learn the fundamentals: Familiarize yourself with the IDS standard, its structure, and how it integrates with your existing BIM process. Understanding Information Delivery Specifications and reviewing buildingSMART documentation will provide excellent foundational knowledge.
2. Choose your IDS tools: Select an IDS editor and validation platform that fits your team’s workflow. How to implement IDS from buildingSMART guides can help you make this decision. Plannerly offers an integrated solution that simplifies the entire process.
3. Start small: Begin by defining IDS requirements for a single discipline or a pilot construction project. This allows your team to build confidence with the standard before rolling it out across all BIM projects. Learn about buildingSMART IDS export availability to understand your options.
4. Iterate and improve: As your team gains experience, refine your IDS specifications based on lessons learned. The beauty of the IDS is that each XML file can be reused, adapted, and improved from project to project. Resources like the IDS XML how-to guide can support your team’s learning journey.

The Information Delivery Specification is rapidly becoming an essential standard for anyone involved in BIM projects. By adopting IDS, your team can automate quality checks, eliminate ambiguity in information requirements, and deliver better outcomes on every construction project.

Ready to create your first IDS file? This tutorial shows you exactly how to build a buildingSMART-compliant IDS file using Plannerly, from start to export:

How to Create an IDS buildingSMART File with Plannerly — from defining requirements to exporting your finished IDS.

Additional Resources for IDS Implementation

To deepen your understanding of IDS and its role in modern BIM practices, several resources are available to support your implementation journey. Learn more about creating responsibility matrix IDS RACI to clarify roles and accountability. Explore how BIM model quality verify tools can complement your IDS validation strategy. For those interested in automation, discover simplifying BIM model checking automation with integrated platforms.

Organizations can also benefit from structured training. Consider exploring our BIM training course to build comprehensive skills in IDS, BIM standards, and information management. Additionally, the help resources on how Plannerly supports BIM and ISO 19650 workflows worldwide provide practical guidance for implementation.

For a deeper dive into the full implementation workflow, including how to bring bSDD classifications and IDS validation together in one platform, watch our step-by-step guide:

How to Implement bSDD and IDS with Plannerly — a complete step-by-step guide to integrating both standards.

The Future of Information Delivery Specifications in Construction

As the construction industry continues to embrace digital transformation, the Information Delivery Specification is positioned to become increasingly central to how BIM projects are managed. The IDS standard will likely evolve to support more complex scenarios, including integration with other data formats and expanded capabilities for non IFC data validation.

Organizations that invest in mastering IDS now will gain a competitive advantage. By establishing clear delivery specification processes and automating information validation, teams can operate with greater efficiency, reduce costly errors, and deliver higher quality results on every construction project.

Ready to transform your approach to BIM information management? Try Plannerly for free and see how easy it is to create, manage, and validate your Information Delivery Specifications. You can also explore using Plannerly as a common data environment (CDE) to centralize all your BIM information requirements and project documentation in one place.

Part 1 of the BIM Training Camp Series

If you’ve ever poured your heart into a BIM Execution Plan (BEP) only to watch it vanish into the project’s black hole of forgotten documents… you’re not alone.

Somewhere out there is a landfill filled with orphaned BEPs… next to the unclaimed Tupperware lids and those mystery Allen keys.

Our own project experience shows these challenges are all too familiar:

• Nobody looks at the BEP – because it’s often just a Word document or PDF, copied and pasted from past projects, not collaborative, and circulated like a formality rather than a living document.
• Nobody understands the scope – because it lives in an Excel file so crammed with rows, columns, abbreviations, and hidden rules that only its creator can truly make sense of it.
• It’s difficult to check – because the plan and scope are disconnected from the workflow, making accountability nearly impossible.
• Standards confusion – teams often struggle to interpret, train on, follow, and make the best use of the standards available. Cue the slightly tongue-in-cheek complaint: “What even is ISO-19561?” (Yes, we know it’s really ISO-19650.)

The First Part: BEPs Become Wallpaper

The first part of the challenge is the BIM execution plan itself.

Too often it’s:

• Written in Word,
• Copy-pasted from the last project,
• Circulated as a PDF in an email blast… and then forgotten.

And once that PDF gets beyond 30 pages (sometimes stretching to hundreds), the odds of it being read drop faster than a contractor’s phone battery on site.

The Second Part: Spreadsheet Spaghetti

The trouble doesn’t stop with the BEP.

It’s usually accompanied by a responsibility matrix – the spreadsheet where all the tasks live, sometimes with Levels of Development (LODs) or Levels of Information Need.

That’s where things start to get… sticky:

• The spreadsheet grows so complex that only its original author can truly unpack and use it.
• It’s often not connected to the workflow – sitting in isolation instead of driving project activity.
• Teams sometimes end up with multiple responsibility matrices, each with their own tabs, abbreviations, and quirks.

Soon you’re staring at hundreds or thousands of rows and columns across several files.

And that’s when the real spreadsheet spaghetti sets in.

The Third Part: Standards Challenge

Even with a solid BEP and a tidy responsibility matrix, many teams still hit a wall when it comes to standards.

International frameworks like ISO 19650 provide a powerful foundation for collaboration and consistency – but only if everyone actually understands them.

Too often:

• The language feels overly technical or abstract.
• Training is inconsistent or missing entirely.
• Teams aren’t sure how to translate theory into practical workflows.

The result? Confusion, inconsistency, and missed opportunities to align with best practice – all summed up in that campfire quip: “What even is ISO-19561?”

The Root Cause: A Perfect Storm of Project Pain

It’s tempting to point the finger at one single problem – but the reality is that these issues usually pile up and feed off each other.

Here are the usual suspects we see again and again:

• Disconnected tools – your BEP in one place, scope in another, model checks somewhere else entirely.
• Many conflicting standards – trying to follow multiple frameworks that don’t quite align, leading to confusion.
• Inconsistent project setup – no agreed starting point, so every project feels like reinventing the wheel.
• Spreadsheet spaghetti – responsibility matrices that are so complex they deserve their own Michelin star rating.
• Unclear responsibilities – nobody’s sure who’s actually accountable for what.
• Missing project goals – starting work without clearly defined success criteria.

Put together, this creates the perfect recipe for frustration, delays, and costly rework.

Or as we used to joke back in our industry days: “Welcome to the No Accountability Club”

The Fix: Make It Structured (and Human-Friendly)

Instead of burying critical project processes in PDFs, spreadsheets, and static standards documents:

• Keep requirements clear, connected, and visible to the right people at the right time
• Use tools that integrate your BEP, responsibility matrix, and standards with your Common Data Environment (CDE) and model verification workflows – in the most simple way possible!
• Make updates easy – because nobody loves “Version 9_final_FINAL_reallythisone.xlsx”

Structured BIM project planning isn’t about making more documents. It’s about making the right information accessible and actionable – and standards part of the workflow, not a side note.

Watch the Session 🎥

This blog is part of our BIM Summer Camp educational series.

Grab a coffee and watch Episode 1 – Why Nobody Reads Your BEP (and How to Fix It) – to see the demos, examples, and practical steps we covered:

Key Takeaway

Your BIM Execution Plan should be more than a compliance tick-box.

Make it clear.

Make it connected.

Make it easy to follow

…and maybe, just maybe, people will read it 😉

Your Next Step in BIM

Better Information Management is about how you build clarity, drive accountability, and earn trust.

Three quick paths to better BIM outcomes:

Watch a Demo

Watch a Demo

See the workflows in action

Join BIM Camp

Join BIM Camp

Learn from real projects and proven processes

Get Certified

Free BIM Courses

Prove your expertise in ISO 19650 and beyond

Got a BIM project with lots of moving parts? Without a BIM agreement in a BIM enabled project, misunderstandings can rapidly become huge problems and disagreements. It can get ugly quickly.

However, it can be hard to know what to put in the BIM agreement, and even harder to ensure everyone is on the same page. To safeguard your success, we have compiled ten helpful tips to make your life a lot easier!

Why Define a BIM Contract in Building Contracts?

Why define a BIM protocol agreement?

Defining a BIM agreement is crucial for ensuring that all parties involved in a construction project are on the same page regarding the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technologies.

Building contracts should reflect the integration of BIM within legal and contractual frameworks, addressing the implications and ensuring that the BIM Protocol is properly intertwined with existing contractual terms to avoid conflicts or misunderstandings.

This clarity helps in setting expectations, responsibilities, and deliverables, thereby reducing the risk of disputes and enhancing collaboration among stakeholders.

10 Tips to Create Better BIM Agreements

Here are my ten tips for you to consider when writing and agreeing to BIM requirements:

1. Clarifying the Project’s Purpose

Before you start writing an agreement, it is important to ensure everyone is clear on the project’s purpose.

What are the goals? Are there any existing client requirements?

Write these down using an Organizational Information Requirements framework so that everyone knows what they are starting with.

Being clear on the project’s purpose will help all parties drive towards solutions that directly meet the customer’s needs.

2. Establishing BIM Standards

As early as possible, agree on BIM standards for the project type and location.

Maybe follow ISO 19650 standards for naming conventions & legal BIM protocols.

Make sure everyone is using the same software formats and versions for exchanging data.

This is especially important when many teams are working on the project.

Labeling and classifying elements of the design should be consistent to avoid any confusion later on in the project lifecycle.

It is important to have standards so that everyone understands the process of running a project and keeping things organized.

3. Defining Project Requirements with Level of Information Need

For each project requirement, follow the Level of Information Need framework to clearly define the requirements.

It is essential to understand the motivation behind exchanging information, the Milestone/Phase/Stage it is needed, and recognize the Actors/Teams/Team Members involved.

It is also important to identify what tasks, systems, elements, etc. are required to meet objectives and also where and how information will be exchanged!

Bascially WHY do we need the information?

WHEN is it needed?

WHAT must be completed?

WHO requires the information and who will produce information?

Then WHERE and HOW will information be exchanged?

This will help you not only understand the reasons the information is needed but also what tasks are required to meet the goals.

Tools like Plannerly are designed specifically to simplify the implementation of Level of Information Need.

4. Setting Clear Communication and Roles

Communication is key.

How do project teams connect with each other?

Defining the roles and responsibilities is the first step to make sure that everyone knows the chain of command, from project management to design and construction.

This should be outlined in detail so that each team understands its obligations, who they will contract with and who each team member will report to.

Who is the lead on the project and who are their backups?

Who will be held accountable if something goes wrong?

The BIM Protocol establishes specific duties for the project team members, defining their liabilities and limitations.

5. Managing Data Processes and Workflows

Outline the processes and workflows to dictate how data will be managed, how it will be stored, and how it will be accessed.

This should also include strategies for collaboration, such as whether everyone is working in the same cloud or if they are exchanging files.

It should also note any risks associated with the project such as security concerns or even data loss.

It’s crucial that everyone is on the same page here, so make sure that it is clear to all teams involved.

Make sure that you also specify the data security and confidentiality requirements, including who will have access to the data and how the data will be stored and shared.

A common data environment serves as a centralized digital platform where design consultants can upload and manage all relevant project information, ensuring no loss of information between different stages of the project.

6. Creating Timelines and Setting Expectations

Establish clear timelines and expectations for project deadlines.

Specify how often updated information should be exchanged and make sure stakeholders can access this info in real time if needed.

Establishing clear timelines and expectations encourages accountability and can help expedite the process, resulting in a more efficient and successful result.

7. Ensuring Quality of Deliverables

Detail the expected quality of deliverables.

Make sure you set expectations upfront for everyone involved regarding what is expected from the final product.

This includes accuracy, completeness, and other criteria that should be pre-defined.

Projects rely heavily on accurate data and design models.

BIM deliverables ultimately impact how successful a project will be, so setting up a clear definition of quality is key to meeting everyone’s needs.

The ultimate approach here is to use machine readable model checking rules using something like the new Information Delivery Specification from buildingSMART.

Exporting this from Plannerly can significantly expedite and automate your checking workflow.

8. Establishing Dispute Resolution Protocols

Specify the dispute resolution protocol.

It’s important to have a plan in place for how to handle any disputes that may arise during the project.

Some common approaches include mediation, arbitration, or other legal action – make sure you detail which one will be used and when.

9. Utilizing Templates for Efficient Workflow

Make things easier by using templates from a BIM management platform like Plannerly.

This will make sure that you are following the ISO 19650 standards.

This makes the whole workflow much quicker to get started.

Plannerly templates ensure all necessary details are addressed in BIM agreements and provide an easy way to collaborate and track project progress.

An online, collaborative BIM management tool can clearly detail exactly what to check in the model, ensuring visibility into all roles and responsibilities of participants, and creating agreements that cover all necessary details.

This will help ensure all teams are on the same page and working towards the same goal.

Collaboration among multiple stakeholders is essential, as different legal and contractual considerations must be addressed to enable these stakeholders to share their assets and work together effectively.

10. Securing Agreement Among All Stakeholders

Make sure everyone actually agrees before you start.

This includes the owners, designers, contractors, and technology providers.

They should all understand what they are responsible for.

Begin with the end in mind!

When you are making agreements with others, always think about what the final goal is that you want to achieve.

Make sure to include a process to transfer machine-readable requirements between project teams and also the steps to handover the relevant BIM data to the owner at the end of the project.

The CIC BIM/Information Protocol

The construction industry is increasingly implementing Building Information Modeling (BIM) and its associated protocols, such as the CIC BIM Protocol, to modernize processes and improve efficiency.

The most important part of the BIM agreement is combining all of these essential ingredients into a legally binding contract.

This is typically referred to as a BIM Protocol or Infromation Management Protocol.

The CIC BIM Protocol is a standardized legal agreement designed to facilitate collaboration in Building Information Modeling (BIM) projects, particularly emphasizing its relevance in achieving BIM requirements (now superceeded by ISO 19650 and the UK BIM Framework).

A BIM protocol document will be used to ensure everyone involved understands the project’s expected outcomes and that the project is being done according to the specified standards.

It establishes a direct contractual relationship, ensuring obligations and rights specifically between the employer and the contracted party.

Your BIM protocol should clearly define all parties involved, their roles and responsibilities, required deliverables, timelines, and dispute resolution process.

It should also establish a plan for the transfer of information between parties and enforce data security and confidentiality standards.

Suitable change control procedures should be implemented to manage any changes to the BIM Protocol and its appendices, treating alterations as variations to the contract.

A BIM protocol management tool such as Plannerly (with BIM protocol templates) can simplify the process by providing templates that follow ISO 19650 standards and facilitate collaboration.

Making your BIM Protocol official

BIM Contracts

Making the BIM Protocol official is a significant step in standardizing practices. In the context of construction projects, standardized protocols are essential for managing responsibilities, liabilities, and deliverables effectively.

The Construction Industry Council (CIC) and the Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) provide frameworks that help ensure all parties involved in a project are on the same page.

Summary

It’s important to have control over all aspects of a project to protect all stakeholders.

The UK government’s BIM strategy has been a foundational element in promoting BIM on public projects.

Using these tips, you can ensure that your BIM agreements are complete and that everyone is on the same page.

With the right agreement, you can avoid expensive mistakes and keep the project running smoothly.

Good luck!

Did you know that Plannerly (The BIM Management Platform) is FREE TO JOIN?

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1. Other Interesting Reads ⤵

• BIM CASE STUDY: HOW ONE TEAM SAVED OVER 4 MILLION EUROS (WITH BIM)

• MY 5 REASONS BIM CHECKLISTS ARE A MUST-HAVE FOR EVERY BIM MANAGER

• CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE: MY 10 BEST TIPS TO STREAMLINE YOUR PROCESS

2. The Complete BIM Management Workflow [VIDEO] 🎥

Here’s a video I think you might find valuable 😃 – it covers the complete BIM management workflow:

3. Answers to some related BIM questions that I often get asked 🤔

I’ve also tried to summarize below some answers to the most common questions that I get asked about this subject – I hope you can use them too:

Legal practitioners play a crucial role in the development and updates of the CIC BIM Protocol, ensuring it reflects current industry standards and practices.

I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.

Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!

To hear our views first, Join Free or follow Plannerly!

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Are you looking to get your company compliant with the ISO 19650 standard without a headache? You’re in the right place!

In this post, we’ll share a step-by-step guide that will help your team get trained and your company get ISO 19650 compliant in just 60 days. Yes, 60 days!

ISO 19650, the global standard for information management in construction projects, can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.

We have seen that with the right approach, tools, and guidance, you can breeze through the process and see real improvements in your efficiency and project delivery.

Below, you’ll find an embedded video from our recent BIM Coordinators Summit, where we break down the process into manageable steps, introduce helpful tools like Plannerly, and show you how to navigate audits and certification with confidence.

Watch the video below to learn how you can get ISO 19650 compliant in 60 days!

The 3 Simple Steps to ISO 19650 Compliance

Here’s a quick overview of what we cover in the video, and how you can get started today:

1. Assess & Identify Gaps (Weeks 1-2):
   First, we’ll guide you through an internal assessment to determine where your company stands in relation to ISO 19650 standards. Understanding your compliance gaps is crucial for creating a roadmap to success. We’ll also share templates, tools, and processes to help you fill those gaps quickly and effectively.
2. Prepare for Audit (Weeks 3-6):
   Once you’ve identified where you need to improve, we’ll take a deeper dive into expert-level training to help you refine workflows, implement new processes, and ensure that your company is on track for a successful audit. At this stage, you’ll also be equipped with tools that automate your quality assurance, reducing manual effort and ensuring you’re audit-ready.
3. Certification & Ongoing Support (Weeks 7-8):
   During the final stretch, we’ll help you prepare for your audit and provide ongoing support to address any non-conformances. Our strong partnerships with certification bodies mean that you’ll be fully prepared and confident when the time comes. And the best part? We continue to support you long after certification to help you maintain compliance and improve efficiencies.

Why ISO 19650 Compliance Matters

Achieving ISO 19650 compliance is about more than just ticking boxes.

It’s an opportunity for your company to improve information management, streamline processes, and, most importantly, win more business.

Being ISO 19650 compliant boosts your reputation and gives clients confidence in your ability to deliver high-quality, well-managed projects.

Ready to Get Started with ISO 19650?

Getting ISO 19650 compliant doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

With the right tools, training, and support, you can achieve compliance in just 60 days and set your company up for long-term success.

Want to learn more about how we can help?

Click here for full details on our 60-day compliance program and discover how Plannerly makes the process easy, efficient, and painless!

We’re here to support you every step of the way, so if you have any questions or want to discuss your specific needs, feel free to reach out.

Let’s get ISO 19650 compliant and start winning more work!

Achieve ISO 19650 Compliance in 60 Days

Learn more and get started here!

Did you know that Plannerly (The BIM Management Platform) is FREE TO JOIN?

Did you sign up yet?:

Three Bonus BIM Resources 🥳

1. Other Interesting Reads ⤵

• ISO 19650 CERTIFICATION: THE IMPORTANCE OF ISO 19650 CERTIFICATION AND ASSESSORS
• BIM CASE STUDY: HOW ONE TEAM SAVED OVER 4 MILLION EUROS (WITH BIM)
• ISO 19650: THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING THE RIGHT STARTING POINT

2. The Complete BIM Management Workflow [VIDEO] 🎥

Here’s a video I think you might find valuable 😃 – it covers the complete BIM management workflow:

3. Answers to some related questions 🤔

I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.

Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!

To hear our views first, Join Free or follow Plannerly!

Follow 😍

So, you’ve decided to jump on the buildingSMART IDS bandwagon. Congrats!

You’re about to embark on a journey that will make your BIM projects run smoother, your teams more coordinated, and your headaches significantly reduced.

Well, that’s the goal, anyway 😊

Implementing the buildingSMART Information Delivery Specification (IDS) standard might sound like a daunting task, but trust me, it’s simpler than you think—especially if you’ve got the right tools.

Whether you’re using Archicad or Revit, the workflow we’ll discuss today will help you create, consume, and validate IDS with a little help from Plannerly.

And if that sounds like a lot of techy jargon, don’t worry – I’ll break it down into digestible bits – think of this as your IDS implementation journey, with a bit of dry humour to keep things interesting.

Step 1: Creating IDS in Plannerly—Setting the Stage

First things first, let’s talk about creating your IDS.

If you’re not familiar, IDS is a structured way to define what information needs to be delivered and how it should be delivered throughout your project.

It’s like making a grocery list before you hit the store, except this list is for everything you need from your BIM model—without the impulse buys.

Using Plannerly, creating an IDS is as straightforward as it gets.

Here’s how it works (all of these steps are shown in the video below too!):

1. Set Up Your Project: Start by creating a new project in Plannerly. Let’s say you’re working on an office building. You’d name your project, add the necessary details, and jump into the Scope module.
2. Choose Your Standards: Next, you’ll select your classification and property domains. Plannerly makes this easy by integrating directly with the buildingSMART Data Dictionary (bSDD). It’s like having a cheat sheet for all the industry standards you need to follow—no need to memorize it all.
3. Define Your Requirements: This is where the magic happens. You’ll define the entities you need (like walls, doors, or HVAC systems) and the specific properties for each. Maybe you need a fire rating for your walls/doors or an extended warranty for your air terminals. Whatever it is, you can define it here, ensuring that everyone on your team knows exactly what’s required.
4. Export the IDS File: Once you’ve set everything up, you can export the IDS in both human-readable (PDF) and machine-readable (XML) formats. This is where the fun begins. You’ve just created a roadmap for your project’s information requirements. Congrats!

Step 2: Consuming IDS in Archicad or Revit—Turning Requirements into Reality

Now that you’ve got your IDS file, it’s time to put it to work.

Whether you’re using Archicad or Revit, consuming the IDS is a breeze.

Here’s what you do:

1. Import the IDS File: In Archicad, importing the IDS file is as easy as clicking a button. The software reads the IDS and automatically sets up the required properties and classifications in your project. Gone are the days of manually inputting every little detail.
2. Apply the Requirements: With the IDS imported, you can now apply the requirements to your model. Whether you’re setting fire ratings for slabs or adding carbon content values to wall finishes, the IDS ensures that every piece of information is where it needs to be. It’s a standardized structure for your model’s data, ensuring that nothing is left to chance.
3. Save and Export: Once you’ve applied all the requirements, save your model and export it as an IFC file. This file is now loaded with all the data you need, neatly packaged and ready for the next step.

Step 3: Running Model Checks in Plannerly—The Final Test

With your IFC file ready, it’s time for the moment of truth: checking whether your model meets all the requirements set out in your IDS.

This is where Plannerly comes back into the picture.

1. Import the IFC File: Upload your IFC file (or simply sync it if you are using ACC/BIM 360) back into Plannerly. The software will automatically compare your model against the IDS, highlighting any discrepancies in a way that’s both clear and—dare I say—kind of satisfying 😃
2. Review the Results: Plannerly uses a simple colour-coded system to show you what’s working and what’s not. Green means everything’s good, yellow indicates minor issues, and red—well, red means you’ve got some work to do. It’s like getting your homework graded, but with a lot less red ink 😅
3. Fix and Verify: If there are any issues, you can easily identify where they are and what needs fixing. And if you’re working in a team, Plannerly makes it easy to assign tasks to the right people, ensuring that everything gets sorted out quickly.
4. Sign Off: Once everything checks out, you can sign off on the project with confidence, knowing that your model meets all the IDS requirements. It’s like getting a ⭐️ gold star for your project management skills.

What’s Important?

The IDS workflow provides Human-Readable version for contracting and project management and also a Machine-Readable format for automating your QA workflows:

IDS Webinar Demo Workflow

Watch the webinar to see complete end-to-end demos of this IDS workflow:

Wrapping It Up—Why IDS is a big for Design and Construction

Implementing the buildingSMART IDS standard might seem like a lot of work, but with the right tools, it’s surprisingly straightforward.

For design and construction professionals, time is of the essence.

With tight schedules and strict deadlines to meet, managing tasks like these efficiently is crucial for success.

By using Plannerly to create, consume, and validate IDS, you’re setting your project up for success from day one.

IDS helps you define clear, machine-readable requirements that can be easily shared across platforms like Archicad and Revit. It ensures that your models are built to spec, reducing the risk of errors and rework down the line.

And with Plannerly’s model checking features, you can quickly identify and fix any issues before they become bigger problems.

So, if you’re ready to take your BIM projects to the next level, give IDS a try.

It’s a small investment in time upfront that pays off big in the long run.

Plus, who doesn’t love the feeling of getting everything just right?

Happy BIM’ing!

Did you know that Plannerly (The BIM Management Platform) is FREE TO JOIN?

Did you sign up yet?:

Three Bonus BIM Resources 🥳

1. Other Interesting Reads ⤵

• BUILDINGSMART IDS – UNLOCKING BUILDING EFFICIENCY: PLANNERLY ANNOUNCES IDS EXPORT AVAILABILITY ACROSS ALL PLANS
• HOW TO IMPLEMENT IDS FROM BUILDINGSMART
• UNDERSTANDING INFORMATION DELIVERY SPECIFICATIONS (IDS)

2. The Complete BIM Management Workflow [VIDEO] 🎥

Here’s a video I think you might find valuable 😃 – it covers the complete BIM management workflow:

3. Answers to some related questions 🤔

I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.

Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!

To hear our views first, Join Free or follow Plannerly!

Follow 😍

We think it’s time to simplify BIM quantification and estimating workflows. We want to make it faster and more efficient for everyone!

That’s why we’ve released this new “Methods of Measurement” guidance to our whole AEC industry, for free.

See below how this new industry guidance will improve collaboration and boost accuracy and efficiency for many! (Includes 🎥 Video and 📽️ Slides)

Transforming Industry Standards for a Digital Future

In the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, accurately measuring building elements using Building Information Modeling (BIM) has been a persistent challenge.

To tackle this issue, we are excited to introduce our new “Methods of Measurement” guidance.

This initiative aims to simplify and standardize the process of acquiring precise BIM quantities, revolutionizing traditional practices and promoting industry collaboration.

The Tower of Babel Analogy

To paint a vivid picture of our mission, we likened it to the ancient Tower of Babel saga.

Just as poor communication doomed that colossal project, today’s AEC world faces chaos with varied measurement rules and jumbled traditional vs BIM standards.

Our “Methods of Measurement” guide?

It’s our map to help teams come together, communicate effectively, and accurately calculate BIM quantities for a smoother workflow overall!

The Journey to a Solution

The project began because many industry professionals were frustrated by the inconsistent methods of measuring BIM elements.

Using Plannerly as a collaboration tool, we set out to create clear guidelines as a practical solution for professionals globally.

🎥 BIM Quantities Made Simple

Collaborative Efforts and Expertise

Thankfully the team included experts from academia, industry, and software development – more details below

This collaboration has been crucial in creating detailed guidelines tailored to various stakeholders’ needs.

Leading the efforts, Laura Almeida, a BIM A+ master’s graduate, researched challenges faced by AEC companies and their strategies for aligning traditional measurement rules with BIM practices, with a focus on enhancing BIM quantities.

📽️ Slides from the Webinar

Here are the slides from the hosted webinar.

Key Features of the Guidance

The “Methods of Measurement” guidance offers a wealth of resources designed to simplify and standardize the quantification process.

Here are some of the key features:

• Templates as Pick Lists: the free templates provide a structured approach to quantifying various building elements, allowing users to choose the methods that best suit their projects. These templates are available free on Plannerly, making them easily accessible and customizable.
• Discipline-Specific Guidelines: we shared detailed guidelines for specific disciplines such as plumbing, HVAC, and concrete, addressing the unique quantification methods for each, thereby ensuring accurate BIM quantities.
• Interactive Coolaboration Tools: Plannerly is more than just a basic project management tool – it’s an interactive collaboration platform that brings teams together to work efficiently and effectively. With Plannerly, you can easily communicate with your team, assign tasks, and track progress all in one place.

A Call to Action

While we are proud of the progress made, we recognize that this is just the beginning.

We invite professionals from across the AEC industry to get involved, provide feedback, and help us refine and expand these guidelines.

By working together, we can ensure that our “Methods of Measurement” guidance becomes an invaluable tool for improving BIM quantities and practices worldwide.

Conclusion

The launch of the “Methods of Measurement” guidance marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance BIM quantification practices.

By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, we have created a robust framework that addresses the industry’s most pressing challenges.

We are excited to share these resources with the world and look forward to the collaborative journey ahead.

For more information and to access the guidelines, please jump into the Plannerly app by clicking on the Join Free button to explore the templates and resources:

Together, we can transform the way we approach BIM quantities and build a more efficient and effective future for the AEC industry.

Introducing the Teams Behind the “Methods of Measurement” Guidance

The Beck Group

The Beck Group is a leading construction and architecture firm with a rich history dating back 112 years. Known for its innovative approach to integrating design and construction, Beck has been at the forefront of model-based estimating for over 25 years. Brent Pilgrim, the National Preconstruction Director, emphasized the firm’s dedication to developing scalable, agnostic processes for model-based estimating. Beck’s commitment to innovation and collaboration has been instrumental in shaping the “Methods of Measurement” guidance, ensuring it meets the practical needs of industry professionals and enhances BIM quantities.

KOSMOS

KOSMOS is a specialist digital cost and carbon consultancy founded in 2019 in Copenhagen, Denmark. With a team of experienced quantity surveyors and cost managers, KOSMOS has been pioneering the use of model-based quantities for nearly a decade. The company operates from offices in Copenhagen, Dublin, and Limerick, working exclusively on BIM projects. Ross, a founder of KOSMOS, highlighted the importance of transitioning traditional methods of measurement to fit modern BIM practices and improve BIM quantities. KOSMOS’s expertise in digital quantification and their commitment to sustainability have been vital in developing comprehensive and practical measurement guidelines.

Limsen

Limsen is a forward-thinking company founded by architects with a passion for improving the quantification process in construction. Established five years ago by Sebastian and Filipe, Limsen has grown significantly, doubling its headcount and expanding its services across planning, design, construction, and operations phases. Laura Almeida, a BIM A+ graduate, joined Limsen and played a key role in researching and developing the “Methods of Measurement” guidance. Limsen’s hands-on experience in managing complex projects and their dedication to precision and accuracy have greatly contributed to the project’s success, particularly in achieving standardized methods of measurement for BIM.

Plannerly

Plannerly is an innovative SaaS company that provides an automated platform for managing AEC project information efficiently. Plannerly simplifies the complex process of Building Information Modeling (BIM), making it accessible and achievable for all project stakeholders. With a focus on making it simple to align with ISO 19650 standards, Plannerly offers tools and templates that streamline project planning and ensure effective communication. The platform’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive resources have made it a valuable tool for professionals looking to enhance their BIM practices and achieve accurate BIM quantities.

These four teams, each bringing their unique expertise and perspective, have come together to address a critical need in the AEC industry. Their collaborative efforts have resulted in the development of the “Methods of Measurement” guidance, a resource designed to improve accuracy, efficiency, and communication in BIM quantification. By integrating BIM with construction estimating and adopting accurate BIM measurement techniques, these guidelines serve as essential BIM project planning tools, ensuring effective BIM information management and enhancing BIM workflow with new standards.

Did you know that Plannerly (The BIM Management Platform) is FREE TO JOIN?

Did you sign up yet?:

Three Bonus BIM Resources 🥳

1. Other Interesting Reads ⤵

• BUILDINGSMART AND PLANNERLY PARTNER TO DRIVE STANDARDIZATION IN THE AEC INDUSTRY
• SIMPLIFYING BIM MODEL CHECKING WITH AUTOMATION AND AUTONOMY
• BEST PRACTICES FOR CREATING AN EFFECTIVE BIM EXECUTION PLAN (BEP)

2. The Complete BIM Management Workflow [VIDEO] 🎥

Here’s a video I think you might find valuable 😃 – it covers the complete BIM management workflow:

3. Answers to some related questions 🤔

I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.

Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!

To hear our views first, Join Free or follow Plannerly!

Follow 😍

My comprehensive guide will uncover some BIM implementation challenges and provide a step-by-step processes to optimize your BIM Execution Planning to maximize your project success! 😎

🎥 5 Steps to Better BIM Management (video)

Slides from my presentation:

TLDR summary of the steps I recommend to optimize your BIM implementation:

• Step 1: Establish and Agree on BEP:
  • Set clear model expectations and involve all stakeholders.
  • Define processes, standards, and technology requirements.
  • Use diagrams and images to explain the process.
• Step 2: Define Scope:
  • Clarify who is responsible for modeling what.
  • Determine LOD (Level of Detail) and information requirements.
  • Ensure all teams understand their responsibilities and deliverables.
• Step 3: Create a Schedule:
  • Plan and manage workload with a clear timeline.
  • Coordinate tasks to avoid last-minute rushes and delays.
  • Use milestones to organize and prioritize tasks.
• Step 4: Manage Tasks:
  • Use Kanban boards for task management and updates.
  • Integrate tasks with the project dashboard for real-time progress tracking.
  • Ensure all team members are aligned and updated.
• Step 5: Verification and Compliance:
  • Collect all necessary information for verification in one place.
  • Maintain a checklist for compliance and updates.
  • Regularly review and validate models to ensure they meet BEP requirements.

Ok, before we get into the meat of BIM implementation and BEP workflows, lets start with why BIM is so important for our AEC industry…

The Importance of BIM

BIM is like a digital twin of a building, capturing both its physical features and how it works. It’s basically a shared knowledge hub that helps guide decisions throughout the building’s life, right from the start.

The benefits of BIM are many – some are:

• Enhanced Collaboration: BIM helps architects, engineers, and construction pros work better as a team
• Improved Coordination: It helps to spot and fix problems before they turn into expensive issues on-site
• Cost Estimation: BIM helps with accurate cost estimation, making it easier to handle budgets effectively
• Detailed Models: It offers thorough models that are super useful for managing facilities after they’re built

Despite these advantages, achieving a great BIM implementation needs more than just software.

A great BIM implementation calls for a really well-defined and collaborative BIM Execution Plan (BEP)!

What is a BEP?

A BIM Execution Plan (BEP) is like the blueprint for how BIM gets done on a project. It spells out the steps, rules, and what to expect for handling the model as the project rolls on. Crafting a solid BEP is key to keeping everyone on the same page and hitting those BIM goals smoothly.

Common Challenges in BEP Creation

Creating and managing a BEP is no easy task. Teams usually face a few hurdles:

• Time-Consuming: Creating a BEP can take up quite a bit of time since you’ll need input from various folks and have to keep it updated regularly
• Lack of Engagement: BEPs are sometimes cooked up by one person or copied from old projects, which leads to having info that doesn’t really hit the mark
• Verification Issues: Comparing the BEP requirements with the 3D model can be challenging, leading to inconsistencies and errors

Steps to Optimize Your BIM Execution Plan

To tackle these challenges and make sure your BIM implementation is a success, just follow these five steps:

Step 1: Establish and Agree on BEP

Set Clear Expectations: Begin by defining why you are doing BIM, whats the purpose? Will the BIM be used for 3D coordination, cost estimation, or asset delivery? Ensure all teams, including clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal team members, are on the same page.

Define Processes and Standards: Clearly outline the processes, standards, and technology requirements. Use diagrams and images to explain complex workflows. This helps in creating a common understanding and avoids confusion later on.

Engage All Stakeholders: Collaboration is key. Involve all parties in the development of the BEP to ensure buy-in and adherence. This will foster a sense of ownership and accountability.

During one of my project kickoff meetings, a team member once suggested that BIM stood for “Because It’s Magic,” highlighting the perception that BIM could solve all problems effortlessly. While BIM is powerful, it requires careful planning and collaboration—hence the importance of a well-crafted BEP.

Step 2: Define Scope

Clarify Responsibilities: Clearly show who’s responsible for what aspect of the model. This includes defining the Level of Detail/Development (LOD) and information requirements for each task

Assign Tasks: Create a detailed list of tasks, ensuring each one is assigned to the appropriate team member. Specify deadlines and dependencies to keep the project on track

Use a Collaborative Approach: Engage the team in defining the scope to ensure all perspectives are considered. This helps in creating a comprehensive and practical BEP.

Step 3: Create a Schedule

Plan and Manage Workload: Develop a realistic timeline for completing tasks. Avoid overwhelming teams with last-minute deadlines by planning ahead.

Coordinate Tasks: Ensure that all teams are working in sync by following a shared schedule. This reduces the risk of rework and delays.

Set Milestones: Use milestones to break down the project into manageable phases. This helps in tracking progress and maintaining focus.

On one project, our schedule was so tight that the team joked about installing a coffee IV drip so we could meet the deadline. While caffeine may help, a well-planned schedule is far more effective in keeping the project on track without unnecessary stress 😉

Step 4: Manage Tasks

Use Kanban Boards: Implement Kanban boards for task management. These visual tools help teams update their progress in real-time and ensure transparency.

Integrate with Dashboards: Link tasks to project dashboards for instant visibility. This enables project managers to monitor progress and address issues promptly.

Encourage Team Updates: Foster a culture of regular updates and communication. This ensures that everyone is aware of the project’s status and can make informed decisions.

Step 5: Verification and Compliance

Gather Necessary Information: Collect all required data for verification in one place. This includes LOD, geometry, and information requirements.

Maintain a Checklist: Use a checklist to ensure all tasks meet the BEP requirements. This simplifies the verification process and reduces the risk of errors.

Regular Reviews: Conduct regular reviews and validations of the model to ensure compliance with the BEP. This proactive approach helps in identifying and addressing issues early on.

To sum it up!

A BIM Execution Plan is more than just a document; it’s a dynamic process that ensures the successful implementation of BIM.

By following my five steps, you can optimize your BEP, streamline your workflows, and achieve better project outcomes.

Remember, collaboration, clear communication, and continuous verification are the cornerstones of a successful BIM project.

At Plannerly, we’re committed to helping you succeed with BIM. If you need assistance with your BEP or have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Try Plannerly for Free

The Plannerly platform is designed to simplify and streamline your BIM workflows, ensuring clarity, consistency, and efficiency in your projects.

Ready to experience the power of Plannerly?

Three Bonus BIM Resources 🥳

1. Other Interesting Reads ⤵

• 3 CRITICAL THINGS YOU NEED IN YOUR BIM EXECUTION PLAN BEP
• BEST PRACTICES FOR CREATING AN EFFECTIVE BIM EXECUTION PLAN (BEP)
• HOW TO CREATE PROFESSIONAL DOCUMENTS EASILY WITH PLANNERLY TEMPLATES (PIR, EIR, BEP, ETC.)

2. The Complete BIM Management Workflow [VIDEO] 🎥

Here’s a video I think you might find valuable 😃 – it covers the complete BIM management workflow:

3. Answers to some related questions 🤔

I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.

Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!

To hear our views first, Join Free or follow Plannerly!

Follow 😍

Level of Detail/Development/Definition (LOD), Level of Information Need (LOIN 😉), and Level of Accuracy (LOA) are all important aspects for BIM, but they can be a bit tricky.

This blog (and video) will help you master LOD, LOIN, and LOA, and unveil how Plannerly combines all the best parts to unleash their superpowers!

🎥 LOD, LOIN, and LOA Explained (video)

Slides from the presentation:

Understanding LOD, LOIN, and LOA

Level of Development (LOD)

LOD now refers to the development of a BIM element. However it began with optimizing computer graphics performance in 3D models back in the 1980s. The use of LOD was then expanded to cover reliability definitions and information requirements.

LOD levels go from 100 to 500, showing the shift from conceptual to detailed representations.

Challenges with LOD:

• Inconsistent interpretations across the industry
• Combining too much information into a single scale

Plannerly Solution:

Plannerly simplifies LOD requirements and management by providing clear, standardized templates that help teams consistently interpret, contract to, and apply LOD levels. Plannerly helps everyone collaborate on and understand the requirements and expectations, reducing misalignment and rework.

Level of Information Need (LOIN)

LOIN addresses the limitations of LOD by providing a clearer framework for defining information requirements. It focuses on the purpose, scope, and detailed requirements, encompassing geometry, information, and documentation.

Components of LOIN:

• Purpose: Why the information is needed
• Scope: What information is required
• Detailed Requirements: Specific details for geometry, information, and documentation

Plannerly Solution:

Plannerly allows you to define and manage Level of Information Need in a comprehensive (but flexible) framework. Its intuitive interface helps you specify the purpose, scope, and detailed requirements, ensuring that all stakeholders have a clear understanding of what is needed and when.

Level of Accuracy (LOA)

LOA specifies the accuracy required for different stages of model development, particularly for as-built conditions. It is crucial for ensuring that models are reliable and can be used for precise fabrication or renovation tasks.

Integration with LOD and LOIN:

• Defines accuracy requirements for different stages
• Combines geometric detail with accuracy for comprehensive specifications

Plannerly Solution:

With Plannerly, you can easily integrate LOA into your LOD and LOIN frameworks. Plannerly helps you define accuracy requirements alongside development and information needs, ensuring that your models are both detailed and precise.

The Importance of Combining LOD, LOIN, and LOA

A Single Information Management Framework

Combining these concepts into a cohesive framework is essential for several reasons:

• Clarity: Provides a clear understanding of what is required at each stage
• Consistency: Ensures consistent application and interpretation across teams
• Collaboration: Enhances collaboration by aligning expectations and reducing miscommunication
• Efficiency: Streamlines workflows, reducing rework and delays

Plannerly Solution:

Plannerly’s integrated platform supports the seamless combination of LOD, LOIN, and LOA. It provides tools for defining, managing, and automatiucally checking information requirements, making it easier to align teams and focus on project success.

Practical Implementation with Plannerly

Database vs. Spreadsheets:

Using databases over spreadsheets for managing detailed information requirements is more efficient and less error-prone. Plannerly’s digital platform replaces traditional spreadsheets, offering a more robust and user-friendly solution.

Information Delivery Specification (IDS):

BuildingSMART‘s IDS allows defining, exporting, and checking information requirements in a machine-readable format. Plannerly supports IDS, enabling you to integrate information delivery specifications seamlessly into your workflows.

Open BIM and Collaboration:

Adopting Open BIM principles ensures better standardization and interoperability. Plannerly supports Open BIM, facilitating collaboration across different software and teams.

Further Learning

Plannerly offers a wealth of resources to help you master these concepts:

• BuildingSMART: Explore their website for detailed information on Open BIM and IDS.
• ISO 19650 Standard: Learn more about the international standard for information management.
• Plannerly Training: Access free training videos and tutorials to maximize your use of Plannerly.

Try Plannerly for Free

You can unlock the full potential of LOD, LOIN, and LOA with Plannerly for free.

The Plannerly platform is designed to simplify and streamline your BIM workflows, ensuring clarity, consistency, and efficiency in your projects.

Ready to experience the power of Plannerly?

By integrating LOD, LOIN, and LOA with Plannerly, you can transform your approach to BIM and achieve better project outcomes!

Three Bonus BIM Resources 🥳

1. Other Interesting Reads ⤵

• UNDERSTANDING LEVEL OF INFORMATION NEED (LOIN) IN BIM PROJECTS
• UNDERSTANDING INFORMATION DELIVERY SPECIFICATIONS (IDS)
• UNDERSTANDING LOD SCALES AND ISO 19650 PLAIN LANGUAGE IN BIM

2. The Complete BIM Management Workflow [VIDEO] 🎥

Here’s a video I think you might find valuable 😃 – it covers the complete BIM management workflow:

3. Answers to some related questions 🤔

I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.

Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!

To hear our views first, Join Free or follow Plannerly!

Follow 😍

Learn how Plannerly, a proud partner of buildingSMART, collaborates to support integrated workflows and create intuitive software for AEC teams worldwide.

By aligning with buildingSMART, Plannerly users can efficiently generate robust Information Delivery Specifications (IDS), removing the reliance on time-consuming Excel spreadsheets and enhancing the organization of project information in the AEC industry.

Read further to explore how buildingSMART and Plannerly are uniting teams to innovate the AEC sector with some amazing schemas, services, software, and certifications!

🎥 Interview Snippet

The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) space is a dynamic and diverse industry with teams and professionals spread across different countries.

This diversity brings with it the challenge of standardization!

Each team often has its own set of practices and methodologies, making it difficult to achieve cohesive workflows and leverage the best technologies available.

Promoting Standardization with Plannerly + buildingSMART

At Plannerly, we recognize the importance of standardization in the AEC industry.

We believe that by enabling all teams to adopt common standards, we can promote more integrated workflows and harness the full potential of technology.

That’s why we are proud partners of buildingSMART, an organization that brings people together to facilitate standardization and provides valuable services such as Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) and the buildingSMART Data Dictionary (bSDD).

Efficiency through Integration with the bSDD

One of the key benefits of connecting to the buildingSMART data dictionary is the ability to create more intuitive software for users worldwide.

By leveraging the bSDD, teams can easily generate Information Delivery Specifications (IDS) that can be shared with other software platforms.

This seamless integration makes the user experience smoother by getting rid of the need for tiresome and error-prone manual data entry across multiple Excel spreadsheets.

When teams are standardized using buildingSMART’s protocols and schemas, it eliminates the wasteful duplication of efforts and reduces time-consuming tasks that add no value to our industry.

Empowering Teams with Information Delivery Specifications (IDS)

The buildingSMART Information Delivery Specification (IDS) is a powerful workflow that enables teams to define their data requirements at various Milestones of a project.

By using IDS, teams can communicate their needs effectively, ensuring that the right information is produced and available at the right time.

This level of clarity is starting to prevent miscommunication and misunderstandings, which can lead to costly errors and delays.

Facilitating Interoperability with IFC

The buildingSMART schema, IFC, also plays a crucial role in facilitating interoperability between different software platforms.

IFC serves as the common language that allows information to flow seamlessly across various AEC disciplines.

By adhering to the IFC schema, teams can exchange and collaborate on data with ease, ensuring that all stakeholders have access to the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Plannerly’s Commitment to Industry Standards

At Plannerly, our partnership with buildingSMART enables us to develop software solutions that align with industry standards and best practices.

By tapping into the wealth of knowledge and expertise within the buildingSMART community, we can create tools that are intuitive, user-friendly, and cater to the specific needs of AEC professionals worldwide.

By embracing Plannerly’s toolset, following buildingSMART’s standards, teams can unlock numerous benefits, including:

1. Enhanced Collaboration: Standardization fosters effective collaboration among different teams and stakeholders. By speaking a common language and adhering to consistent processes, communication barriers are eliminated, and coordination becomes seamless.
2. Improved Efficiency: Standardized workflows reduce inefficiencies caused by duplicate work, manual data entry, and information discrepancies. As a result, teams can operate more efficiently, making better use of their time and resources.
3. Mitigated Risks: Standardization minimizes the occurrence of errors and misunderstandings. By following established protocols and using standardized data formats, teams can significantly reduce the risk of costly mistakes and rework.
4. Accelerated Innovation: Standardization creates a foundation for innovation and the adoption of new technologies. When teams are aligned with common standards, they can easily integrate new tools and solutions, driving advancements in the AEC industry as a whole.
5. Global Compatibility: Standardization enables seamless collaboration on a global scale. Regardless of location or native language, teams can work together seamlessly by adhering to established standards and leveraging interoperable technologies.

Our Opportunity

Our AEC industry can thrive on collaboration, efficiency, and innovation!

Standardization plays a vital role in bringing together diverse teams and enabling them to work cohesively with the best technologies available.

buildingSMART, with its commitment to standardization and its valuable services like the bSDD, IFC, and IDS, empowers the industry to achieve its full potential.

At Plannerly, we are proud partners of buildingSMART and are dedicated to creating software solutions that support standardized workflows, enhance user experiences, and drive positive change in the AEC industry.

Together, with buildingSMART, we can build a future where teams seamlessly connect, communicate, and collaborate towards shared success!

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Three Bonus BIM Resources 🥳

1. Other Interesting Reads ⤵

• UNDERSTANDING INFORMATION DELIVERY SPECIFICATIONS (IDS)
• HOW TO IMPLEMENT IDS FROM BUILDINGSMART
• BEST PRACTICES FOR CREATING AN EFFECTIVE BIM EXECUTION PLAN (BEP)

2. The Complete BIM Management Workflow [VIDEO] 🎥

Here’s a video I think you might find valuable 😃 – it covers the complete BIM management workflow:

3. Answers to some related questions 🤔

I blog for the Five BIM Bloggers series.

Every week we share different perspectives on important BIM topics!

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