BIM Dictionary Terms

A Model Use representing how 2D Drawings are extracted from information-rich 3D models. 2D Documentation typically include 2D plans, 2D section, 2D elevations and 2D details

A Model Use representing how three-dimensional details are extracted from information-rich 3D models. 3D Detailing typically include hybrid 2D-3D annotated views

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used as a base to generate 3D Prints either directly from within the main BIM Software Tool or through specialised 3D printing software

A Model Use where 3D models are used to assess whether a Facility allows direct (unassisted) or indirect access for people with disabilities, or special needs such as vision, hearing and mobility impairment

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to conduct sound studies, test the placement of sound equipment, simulate sound insulation/attenuation, and inform the choice of materials used within a space

An actor that voluntarily promotes the adoption of a tool, system, or process within an organisation, project, industry, or across a market. An adoption champion may be an individual, a formal/informal group, or an institute

The person, group, or entity assigned by an authority (e.g. government or senior management) the role of leading the efforts to encourage the adoption of a system or process within an organisation or across a market

A Model Use where 3D models are used to design, detail and fabricate modular units (e.g. bathroom units or whole houses) for later installation/assembly on site…Also refer to Prefabrication

A Model Use where 3D models are generated to serve as temporary As-Built Models or more permanent Record Models. As-constructed Representation are based on either manual means (e.g. using a tape measure) and/or semi-automated processes (e.g. Laser Scanning)

A Model Use where 3D models are used to manage the maintenance of Assets by linking objects to external databases through specialised middleware. Asset Maintenance is a subset of Asset Management

A Model Use where 3D models are used to manage the procurement of operational Assets (e.g. replacement parts and Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment). Asset Procurement includes valuation, negotiations, tendering, purchasing, leasing, long-term hiring, stock-take, and asset disposal…Also refer to Asset Acquisition

A Model Use where 3D models are used to track the location of fixed and movable assets. Asset Tracking is a subset of Asset Management and may include the use of RFIDs and other tracking/tagging technologies

A Model Use where 3D models - combined with other technologies - allow users to experience virtual objects superimposed on top of physical objects or places. As opposed to Virtual Reality Simulation, Augmented Reality (AR) is only partial 'immersive' thus allowing images from the physical and virtual worlds to appear as one. AR is typically experienced through hand-held screens, wearables, holograms and projections

BIM Adoption refers to either BIM Implementation, BIM Diffusion, or a mixture of the two terms. Please refer to Point of Adoption

BIM Adoption refers to either BIM Implementation, BIM Diffusion, or a mixture of the two terms. Please refer to Point of Adoption

BIM Competency is a specialized type of Competency representing the ability of an individual or team to generate pre-defined BIM Deliverables

BIM Competency is a specialized type of Competency representing the ability of an individual or team to generate pre-defined BIM Deliverables

BIM implementation refers to the set of activities undertaken by an organizational unit to prepare for, deploy or improve its BIM deliverables (products) and their related workflows (processes). BIM implementation is made of three phases: BIM Readiness, BIM Capability, and BIM Maturity

A set of Information Exchange and delivery requirements stipulated by a recognised authority (e.g. a government or a ministry) across a country or a state/region. These Information Requirements include the enforceable use of Building Information Modelling tools and workflows on projects of specified size/value or the delivery of specified Digital Assets at one or more Asset Life Cycle phase. A BIM Mandate is typically based on published BIM Guides, BIM Protocols, or local/international standards. A BIM Mandate is in effect from the date it is enforced rather than the date it was announced. Enforcement may be through a procurement directive, applicable codes, or a dedicated law.

Description unavailable for "BIM Peformance".

A term referring to the combined effects of BIM Capability and BIM Maturity. BIM Performance is measured by a large set of metrics covering organizational, group/unit, individual and project performance

BIM Readiness is the first phase of BIM Implementation preceding the Point of Adoption. BIM Readiness represents the preparedness of an organization or organisational unit to adopt BIM tools, workflows and protocols

The software applications which can author an object-based, data-rich, 3D model. These software applications often link to other Specialized Software Tools to generate a variety of Model-based Deliverables

Training which is dedicated to the use of BIM Software Tools and the workflows associated with them

A Model Use representing the integration of data residing within BIModels (e.g. component and space metadata) with data managed by multiple Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) modules (e.g. finance, HR, and inventory modules)

A Model Use representing the integration of BIM technologies and processes with Facility Management deliverables, databases and workflows

A Model Use representing how BIModels are used to populate and/or integrate with Geographic Information Systems

A Model Use representing how BIModels are used as an interface for the Internet of Things, a network of equipment, sensors, wearables, and benefit from the data feeds for Building Automation, Real-time Utilization and Asset Tracking

A Model Use representing how BIModels are used to populate and/or integrate with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)

A Model Use representing how BIModels are used to populate and/or integrate with online product specifications. Such a link between Model Components and product databases may be live, asynchronous, one-way or two-way

A Model Use representing how BIModels are linked with financial networks, booking systems, and a variety of web-based services

Building Information Model (BIModel) is the object -based, data-rich, 3D digital model generated by a Project Participant using a BIM Software Tool

A Model Use where BIModels are used to monitor or control a Facility through its Building Management System

A Model Use where 3D models are used as the medium to inspect and report on a building's condition, completion, and whether it meets applicable codes and standards

BIMe Topic under Operation Competency: Using software tools and specialized equipment to capture and represent physical spaces and environments

A Model Use where 3D models are used to design, detail, drive the fabrication and per-assembly of casework units for later installation/assembly on-site…Also refer to Prefabrication

A Model Use representing the use of 3D Models to coordinate different disciplines (e.g. structural and mechanical) and to identify/resolve possible clashes between virtual elements prior to actual construction or fabrication

A distribution of classes or categories created according to a common relation. In construction, there are several classification systems covering elements, spaces, disciplines, materials, among others (OmniClass is an example of a widely used classification system)

Description unavailable for "Classification Systems".

A Model Use representing the process of inspecting a file, document or BIModel for compliance against predefined specifications or established design, performance or safety codes. Also refer to Model Validation

Conceptualization is a Model Use allowing the initial investigation of design possibilities and spatial requirements. Conceptualization occur during the Conceptual Design sub-phase and may utilize specialized Spatial Analysis Tools

A Model Use where 3D models are used to design, detail and guide the pre-casting of concrete panels for later installation/assembly on site…Also refer to Prefabrication

A Model Use where the 3D model is used to review construction processes/methods during the Design Phase. The aim of Constructability Analysis is to identify potential obstacles, design flaws, schedule delays and cost overruns

BIMe Topic under Operation Competency: Using BIModels for the specific purposes of construction and fabrication

A Model Use where 3D models are used to plan crew/equipment movement on the construction site, compare construction systems, and plan when/where to place/remove temporary structures. Construction Logistics also refer to analysing construction materials' flow, placement, and storage...Also refer to Lift Planning

A Mode Use where 3D models are used to visualize and analyse construction operations: distribution of trades, Location Based Scheduling, linking construction activities to Model Components and to human resources, etc…

A Model Use where the BIModel is used to plan, organise or test construction activities against constraints (e.g. time, human resources and materials)…Also refer to Construction Management

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used for the purposes of (i) identifying potential construction waste, and (ii) avoiding/reducing the use of materials and methods that contribute to construction waste. By generating or utilising BIModels, it is possible to (iii) quantify the waste that may be generated, (iv) simulate the onsite storage and offsite transport of waste, and (v) identify the materials and components that can be reused

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to generate feasibility studies and compare different budgetary options

A Model Use where 3D models are used to plan or monitor demolition activities of existing structures (or parts of existing structures)

A Model Use representing the process of developing Generative Models or Parametric Models for design exploration, design communication and design iteration purposes. Design authoring is a key BIM activity leading to model-based 2D Documentation, 3D Detailing and other model-based deliverables

A Model Use where 3d models are used to simulate a building fire, an explosion, an earthquake or similar. The behaviour of building systems, individuals and crowds are included within this term (see also Egress and Ingress)

An educational structure with defined learning outcomes to guide teaching, learning, and qualifications within higher education, vocational/trade, and training organisations

A Model Use where 3D models are used to simulate individual/crowd behaviour within a Facility, either during normal operations or during emergency situations. Egress and Ingress simulations assist in identifying and improving access, circulation and exit routes...See also Disaster Planning

A Model Use and a Building Performance metric measuring how and how-much a Facility consumes energy. High-performance buildings typically consume less energy (electricity for lighting, fossil fuels for heating, etc…) than other comparable buildings

A Model Use representing how 3D models and related databases are accessed in the field (i.e. on the construction site). Through a tablet, laptop, smart phone or wearable equipment, the user would inspect designs, send requests for clarifications, mark drawings/models, complete a checklist, report an issue, or conduct information-rich, site-based activities

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to conduct virtual analysis of structures and materials to discover if/when/how they bend or twist before they are actually built or manufactured. For structural analysis, FEA can be used to discover distributions of stresses and possible load displacements

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to simulate the behaviour of fire and smoke within a Facility to help design/modify building circulation, ventilation, fire-fighting systems or similar

A Model Use where BIM Software Tools and other specialised software are used to algorithmically explore design form or function….Also refer to Generative Model

The financial actions taken by a government to influence the market towards its Policy Objectives. Government incentives can take many forms including tax deductions and rebates, grants and free resources, direct infrastructure investment, and low-cost financing

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to bridge Construction Phase deliverables with Operation Phase requirements. Handover and Commissioning comprises the documents (e.g. manuals, certificates and warranties) to be submitted, and activities to be completed (e.g. testing and operational training) before an asset (or asset component) is transferred from its builder/supplier to its owner/operator

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 collection, classification, storage and redistribution of information in digital, audio-visual or paper form. Information Management also refers to the ability of an organization to harvest and make-use of information to drive its decision-making process

A "specification for what, when, how and for whom information is to be produced" ISO 19650-1 (3.3.2) which is generated primarily by the Appointing Party and then extended by the Appointed Party. There are complementary types of information requirements including: Organizational Information Requirements (OIR), Asset Information Requirements (AIR), Project Information Requirements (PIR), Exchange Information Requirements (EIR), and Security Information Requirements ISO 19650-5

The ability of diverse systems (and organizations) to work together seamlessly without Data loss and without a special effort. Interoperability may refer to systems, processes, file formats, etc. Interoperability is not synonymous with openness. For example, interoperable file formats can be proprietary-closed (e.g. RVT), proprietary-open (e.g. DWF) and non-proprietary (e.g.IFC)

A Model Use representing the process of rapid generation of Point Cloud data of as-built structures, terrain and vegetation using a fixed, mobile or airborne 3D Laser Scanner

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to minimise waste of materials, time, and effort so to generate maximum value…See also Lean Construction

A Taxonomy of structured, learning-focused statements intended to inform the design of teaching programmes and the delivery of training, assessment, and certification materials

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a Model Use representing how multiple methods are applied to BIModels to identify and assess the environmental impacts (e.g. waste) of building products and materials over their whole life

A Model Use where 3D models are used to plan the erection of steel columns, pre-cast panels, curtain-wall units and modularised items during construction…Also refer to Construction Logistics

A Model Use where 3D models are used to simulate natural and artificial lighting levels. This Model Use is a form of Building Performance analysis and is not primarily intended for rendering or visualization

BIMe Topic under Operation Competency: Linking BIModels and their components to other databases

A Model Use where 3D models are used to design, detail and fabricate mechanical modules (e.g. riser/shaft units, ducting systems, or plant room sections) for later installation/assembly on site…Also refer to Prefabrication

A virtual element representing a physical object. Model Components may be parametrically driven, 2D or 3D, and may also represent abstract items (e.g. North Arrow)

A collection of Model Components which conform to a unified set of naming structures and use the same underlying data schema (e.g. Industry Foundation Classes). A Model Component Library may also refer to product libraries hosted online by suppliers, software companies or specialised third-parties

The intended or expected Project Deliverables from generating, collaborating-on and linking Models to external databases. A Model Use represents the interactions between a User and a Modelling system to generate Model-based Deliverables. There are tens of Model Uses including Clash Detection, Cost Estimation, and Space Management

A list of Model Uses organised under three categories and nine series: General MUs (series 1000), Domain MUs (series 2000-8000), and Custom MUs (series 9000)

BIMe Topic under Operation Competency: Using models to monitor Building Performance or control its spaces, systems and equipment

BIMe Topic under Operation Competency: Using models to operate, manage and maintain a Facility

A Model Use where 3D models are used to plan an operational response to a scheduled event or potential incident. Operations Planning aims to avoid/minimise disruptions to the normal operations of a Facility (e.g. plan how default circulation/operational patterns need to change during a major sporting event)

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to monitor and manage Energy Utilisation and other Building Performance metrics

A Model Use representing the automatic or semi-automatic process of generating 3D models through photography and image analyses

BIMe Topic under Operation Competency: Using software tools for conceptualization, planning and design

Player Groups refer to clusters of industry stakeholders. There are nine Player Groups: Policy Makers, Educational Institutions, Construction Organizations, Individual Practitioners, Technology Developers, Technology Service Providers, Industry Associations, Communities of Practice, and Technology Advocates. Player Groups include numerous Player Types

A published directive conveying a Policy Maker's overall vision, mission, strategy, roadmap, or Policy Objectives

The intended outcome from developing, announcing, and implementing a defined policy through specific Policy Actions. Typically included in a high-level strategy or roadmap, policy objectives are explicit, measurable, and often distributed over defined phases, stages, or levels

A Product Data Template (PDT) is an Excel-based form representing an equipment/product type (e.g. Radiant Panel or Cooling Coil). A PDT harvests the general data - not the project-specific information - needed for specifying, operating, decommissioning and replacing each equipment/product. Once the template/form is completed by a manufacturer, it is then referred to as a Product Data Sheet (PDS)

A qualification earned by an individual signalling his/her ability to perform a specific job, activity or task. A Professional Certification is typically offered by an established Professional Body, integrated with a CPD program and - to keep the certification status - must be renewed periodically

The highest-level, time-based subdivisions of a project across several Organizational Scales. At the highest 'scale', Project Lifecycle Phases (PLPs) include Design Phase [D], Construction Phase [C] and Operation Phase [O]. Phases are subdivided into Sub-phases, which are in return subdivided into smaller parts

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to calculate the quantity of Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment or building materials for the purpose of generating Cost Estimates

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to display information fed in real-time from sensors distributed around a building or site. Information may include current occupancy, temperature, humidity, toxicity and energy consumption…Also refer to Building Management Systems and Internet of Things

A Model Use representing how 3D models are generated and maintained as Record Models

A Model Use where 3d models are used to simulate the impact (angle and intensity) of sunlight reflected of building surfaces. Reflectivity analysis is based on Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations…Also refer to Solar Analysis

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to plan and manage the relocation of movable assets within a Facility

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used for (i) identifying, (ii) analysing, and (iii) evaluating operational risks and hazards. For example, a BIModel may be generated or utilised to identify and analyse construction site ‘hazards’ (e.g. potential falls, moving vehicles, corrosive chemicals or exposed wiring) and then evaluating the high/low ‘risks’ of these hazards actually causing harm to workers and passers-by

A Model Use where 3D models are used to investigate spaces and simulate actions for the purpose of establishing the safety of workers and lack of health hazards. As an example, a static human figure or an Avatar are used to establish whether the dimensions of a maintenance pit or a ceiling void are adequate for the safe movement of a maintenance person. Models can also be used to analyse the safety of installing procedures at congested, elevated and other high-risk areas

A Model Use where 3D models are used for conducting virtual security audits. These may include assessing vulnerability to terrorist attacks, analysing access points, security signage locations, traffic routes, locking/unlocking systems, and locations/coverage of security cameras

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used for elemental/material identification, selection, specification and procurement

A Model Use where 3D models are used to generate Computer Numerical Control instructions to conduct a number of forming processes on metal sheets. These processes include bending, curling, perforating, cutting (laser or water jet), and stamping

BIMe Topic under Operation Competency: Using software tools to conduct various types of model-based simulations and estimations

A Model Use where BIM Software Tools and/or Geographic Information System tools are used to decide on optimal site for a building project and/or to decide the optimal building location within a specified site

A Model Use where BIModels and specialized field equipment are used to pinpoint where to install pre-fabricated elements onsite (e.g. where to dig a hole, open a wall, or place duct hangers before casting a roof)

A Model Use where 3D models are used to conduct shadow studies, simulate solar radiance on building envelops, and analyse the effect of building location/shape on solar heat loads...Also refer to Reflectivity Analysis

A Model Use where 3D models are used to manage the occupancy of rooms and spaces within physical assets. Space Management is a subset of Asset Management

Space Programming is a Model Use where the 3D models are used to investigate the client's spatial requirements. Space Programming occur during the Conceptual Design sub-phase and may utilize specialized Spatial Analysis Tools

A Model Use representing the utilisation of 3D models to coordinate the placement of objects and account for their spatial requirements (e.g. access panels and keep-clear areas) within a 3D space. Also refer to Clash Avoidance and Clash Detection

A set of criteria used to define or judge the Quality of products (e.g. object dimensions or data richness) and services (e.g. timeliness). Specifications may or may not be a Standard. COBie is an example of BIM-related specifications which may become a service/delivery standard over time. The term 'Specification' is sometimes confused with other Knowledge Content Labels

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to analyse the behaviour of the structural system. Structural analysis typically includes the study of the effects of static/dynamic loads on buildings and how building design can be subsequently optimized

A Model Use where 3D models are used to identify current structural health - and potential structural damage - by interpreting data streams from photos, radars, Wi-Fi signals, laser scans, or from arrays of sensors installed on/within a structure (e.g. bridge or dam). Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) is conducted to check the health of a structure against the inevitable effects of ageing and potential degradation from environmental incidents (e.g. an earthquake) or changing operating environments

A Model Use where 3D models are used to establish the dimensional relationships, including horizontal distances, elevations, directions, and angles, on the earth's surface. Surveying is typically used to locate property boundaries, generating maps and establishing construction layout

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to calculate the environmental impact of a new construction project or an existing Facility. These calculations may include Carbon Footprint, Life Cycle Assessment, Embodied Energy and other sustainability metrics

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to analyse thermal loads, inform Mechanical Systems' Design and relevant Materials' Selection. Thermal Analysis is part of overall Building Performance analysis and measurement

A Model Use where 3D models are used for planning urban spaces, transportation systems and recreational areas. Model-based Urban Planning may integrate data from several databases including property information, land parcels, zoning and traffic

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to conduct Value Management exercises

A Model Use where 3D models are part of an Immersive Environment where users experience simulated places, objects and processes. As opposed to Augmented Reality Simulation, VR may require full 'immersion' within multi-projection rooms (CAVE) and/or through stereoscopic goggles and other specialized gear

A Model Use where 3D models are generated or enhanced for the purposes of communicating visual, spatial or functional qualities through renderings, fly-throughs, scenography and holography

A Model Use representing how 3D models are used to simulate the effects of wind on structures. The simulation is intended to inform the design process by identifying optimal orientations and shapes. BIModels of existing structures may also be used for the purposes of performing Wind Studies