Weekly Link
Autodesk and Bentley Announce Interoperability Agreement
posted July 11, 2008
The big news in AEC interoperability this week was Tuesday's announcement of a new agreement between Autodesk and Bentley to exchange software libraries, allowing the products of both companies to read and write the DWG and DGN file formats. The announcement was met with excitement, as well as scepticism about the motives behind the decision. A thoughtful article on AECBytes outlines the history of relations between Autodesk and Bentley, the reasons why this decision is important and surprising, and a discussion of why this decision may not end up being good news for advocates of open file formats (such as the IFC). There's also an article on Cadalyst addressing the implications of the decision for Bentley's commitment to the Open Design Alliance and its OpenDWG specification.
posted July 11, 2008
The big news in AEC interoperability this week was Tuesday's announcement of a new agreement between Autodesk and Bentley to exchange software libraries, allowing the products of both companies to read and write the DWG and DGN file formats. The announcement was met with excitement, as well as scepticism about the motives behind the decision. A thoughtful article on AECBytes outlines the history of relations between Autodesk and Bentley, the reasons why this decision is important and surprising, and a discussion of why this decision may not end up being good news for advocates of open file formats (such as the IFC). There's also an article on Cadalyst addressing the implications of the decision for Bentley's commitment to the Open Design Alliance and its OpenDWG specification.
Edges Newsletter for Summer 2008
posted July 04, 2008
The Edges newsletter of the AIA Technology in Architectural Practice Knowledge Community (TAP) has several articles related to interoperability. Kristine Fallon presents insights from Charles Matta, Director of Federal Buildings and Modernizations at GSA, on the keys to GSA's success in implementing BIM ('Charles Matta Discusses GSA’s BIM Success'). The results of an AIA TAP interoperability survey with 215 respondants are presented in this article; and there's a summary of the May 2008 TAP annual conference, 'Change the World', on this page; or visit the conference web site to see the program and download the presentations.
posted July 04, 2008
The Edges newsletter of the AIA Technology in Architectural Practice Knowledge Community (TAP) has several articles related to interoperability. Kristine Fallon presents insights from Charles Matta, Director of Federal Buildings and Modernizations at GSA, on the keys to GSA's success in implementing BIM ('Charles Matta Discusses GSA’s BIM Success'). The results of an AIA TAP interoperability survey with 215 respondants are presented in this article; and there's a summary of the May 2008 TAP annual conference, 'Change the World', on this page; or visit the conference web site to see the program and download the presentations.
IFD Library continues to Grow
posted June 20, 2008
The IFD ('International Framework for Dictionaries') Specification aims to provide flexibility for an IFC-based Building Information Model (BIM), and is based on ISO standard 12006-3, published in April 2007. A concise description of the standard and its aims is available on the IFD Library Developers Wiki. A recent (April) workshop brought the various partners in IFD Library development together for three days, and focused on the relations between IFD and the Industry Foundation Class (IFC) and Information Delivery Manual/Model View Definition (IDM/MVD). CSI has posted a summary of the IFD Library's goals, and an outline of the workshop agenda (pdf); and this article (pdf) in the Construction Specifier reviews recent advances in development of the IFD Library.
posted June 20, 2008
The IFD ('International Framework for Dictionaries') Specification aims to provide flexibility for an IFC-based Building Information Model (BIM), and is based on ISO standard 12006-3, published in April 2007. A concise description of the standard and its aims is available on the IFD Library Developers Wiki. A recent (April) workshop brought the various partners in IFD Library development together for three days, and focused on the relations between IFD and the Industry Foundation Class (IFC) and Information Delivery Manual/Model View Definition (IDM/MVD). CSI has posted a summary of the IFD Library's goals, and an outline of the workshop agenda (pdf); and this article (pdf) in the Construction Specifier reviews recent advances in development of the IFD Library.
AECOO Testbed Launched by OGS, buildingSMART
posted June 13, 2008
The Open Geospatial Consortium and buildingSMART launched a new Testbed on May 2 to foster business transformation through interoperability based on the BIM standards set forth in the National Building Information Modeling Standard, Part 1 (NBIMS). The AECOO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Owner and Operator) Testbed was initiated with an open call for participation; more information is available here. As described in the Call for Proposals (CFP), "Testbeds are short-term, intensive, multi-participant 'spiral engineering' activities to develop, test, and promote the use of open standards for building information and related software technologies."
posted June 13, 2008
The Open Geospatial Consortium and buildingSMART launched a new Testbed on May 2 to foster business transformation through interoperability based on the BIM standards set forth in the National Building Information Modeling Standard, Part 1 (NBIMS). The AECOO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Owner and Operator) Testbed was initiated with an open call for participation; more information is available here. As described in the Call for Proposals (CFP), "Testbeds are short-term, intensive, multi-participant 'spiral engineering' activities to develop, test, and promote the use of open standards for building information and related software technologies."
ISO Announces Release of New Standard for Sustainability in Building Construction
posted June 06, 2008
The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) announced recently the release of a new standard, ISO 15392:2008, which defines international sustainability principles for building construction. The standard provides general principles, and is part of a suite of standards which together define a detailed framework for sustainability in building construction (see ISO 21930:2007, ISO/TS 21929-1:2006, and ISO/TS 21931-1:2006). The new standard addresses the topic of sustainability across the whole of the building's lifecycle, and aims to facilitate communication between the various stakeholders in building design, construction and facility management.
posted June 06, 2008
The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) announced recently the release of a new standard, ISO 15392:2008, which defines international sustainability principles for building construction. The standard provides general principles, and is part of a suite of standards which together define a detailed framework for sustainability in building construction (see ISO 21930:2007, ISO/TS 21929-1:2006, and ISO/TS 21931-1:2006). The new standard addresses the topic of sustainability across the whole of the building's lifecycle, and aims to facilitate communication between the various stakeholders in building design, construction and facility management.
Public Review of Open Automated Demand Response Communication Standards
posted May 26, 2008
The California Energy Commission's Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) program has launched a public review of its standards for Open Automated Demand Response Communication. The standards address the need for a system that allows commercial and industrial facilities to respond in real time to fluctuations in the cost of energy, automating reductions in energy usage during power shortages. This is accomplished by establishing an automated system of demand response (DR) in buildings, which adjust building environmental systems in reponse to standardized electricity price signals. The goal of this project was to improve the robustness and reliability of such systems, and to promote interoperability.
posted May 26, 2008
The California Energy Commission's Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) program has launched a public review of its standards for Open Automated Demand Response Communication. The standards address the need for a system that allows commercial and industrial facilities to respond in real time to fluctuations in the cost of energy, automating reductions in energy usage during power shortages. This is accomplished by establishing an automated system of demand response (DR) in buildings, which adjust building environmental systems in reponse to standardized electricity price signals. The goal of this project was to improve the robustness and reliability of such systems, and to promote interoperability.
ICC Tutorials on SMARTcodes
posted May 09, 2008
The International Code Council (ICC) is offering a series of web-meeting tutorials on SMARTcodes, a standard for automated code checking of BIM models. The SMARTcodes project uses the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) as a basis for simplifying code compliance checking; check this article for more details on the concept. The next tutorial is scheduled for May 29 at 11:30 AM EDT (registration information here).
posted May 09, 2008
The International Code Council (ICC) is offering a series of web-meeting tutorials on SMARTcodes, a standard for automated code checking of BIM models. The SMARTcodes project uses the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) as a basis for simplifying code compliance checking; check this article for more details on the concept. The next tutorial is scheduled for May 29 at 11:30 AM EDT (registration information here).
CEC Report on Green Building in North America
posted April 18, 2008
The Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) is an international organization that addresses environmental concerns faced by Canada, Mexico and the United States. The CEC recently issued a new report that touches on the role of international standards as a driver of change in the construction industry; there's an online articles summarizing the report here. Among other topics, the report discusses green building rating systems in use in North America including LEED, Green Globes, GoGreen, Built Green and the residential green standard currently under development by NAHB and the International Codes Council. The report calls green building the "fastest, cheapest and most effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in North America".
posted April 18, 2008
The Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) is an international organization that addresses environmental concerns faced by Canada, Mexico and the United States. The CEC recently issued a new report that touches on the role of international standards as a driver of change in the construction industry; there's an online articles summarizing the report here. Among other topics, the report discusses green building rating systems in use in North America including LEED, Green Globes, GoGreen, Built Green and the residential green standard currently under development by NAHB and the International Codes Council. The report calls green building the "fastest, cheapest and most effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in North America".
Vela Systems and Tekla Announce Software for Supply Chain Management
posted April 11, 2008
A new software for AEC supply chain management was announced last week by Vela Systems and Tekla Corporation. Vela Systems develops field software for construction site management, and Tekla is a pioneering BIM software company. The new joint product integrates field management of the supply chain for a construction project with Tekla Structures, making management of building components on the construction site part of the builing information model and its associated visualizations. The software takes advantage of RFID tagging to track building components and materials through the manufacturing and construction process. RFID tags on the components can be read by workers in the field using tablet pc's equipped with an RFID reader, and this data is then directly integrated in the 4D building information model. There's a detailed description of the new software on the Earth Times site, as well as a short Cadalyst article.
posted April 11, 2008
A new software for AEC supply chain management was announced last week by Vela Systems and Tekla Corporation. Vela Systems develops field software for construction site management, and Tekla is a pioneering BIM software company. The new joint product integrates field management of the supply chain for a construction project with Tekla Structures, making management of building components on the construction site part of the builing information model and its associated visualizations. The software takes advantage of RFID tagging to track building components and materials through the manufacturing and construction process. RFID tags on the components can be read by workers in the field using tablet pc's equipped with an RFID reader, and this data is then directly integrated in the 4D building information model. There's a detailed description of the new software on the Earth Times site, as well as a short Cadalyst article.
National Green Building Standard Nearing Completion
posted April 04, 2008
The National Green Building Standard is a joint project of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the International Code Council (ICC) and the NAHB Research Center. The goal of the project has been to provide an ANSI approved standard for green buildings, which could then be adopted as part of local building code. This will be the first ANSI-accredited standard that specifically addresses green design practices in multi-family residential construction. The public comment period on a draft of the National Green Building Standard closed on February 4, 2008, and it is expected to be released this spring. The draft is available here, and the ICC (International Code Council) has posted a summary of the standard (PDF, 28 kb). Here are a few articles that discuss the high points of the new standard: Womble Carlyle Construction Industry Blog, NAHB GreenBiolding Update, and FineHomebuilding.com.
posted April 04, 2008
The National Green Building Standard is a joint project of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the International Code Council (ICC) and the NAHB Research Center. The goal of the project has been to provide an ANSI approved standard for green buildings, which could then be adopted as part of local building code. This will be the first ANSI-accredited standard that specifically addresses green design practices in multi-family residential construction. The public comment period on a draft of the National Green Building Standard closed on February 4, 2008, and it is expected to be released this spring. The draft is available here, and the ICC (International Code Council) has posted a summary of the standard (PDF, 28 kb). Here are a few articles that discuss the high points of the new standard: Womble Carlyle Construction Industry Blog, NAHB GreenBiolding Update, and FineHomebuilding.com.
BimStorm in Journal of Building Information Modeling
posted March 28, 2008
The spring 2008 issue [pdf - 4MB] of the Journal of Building Information Modeling features an article on BimStorm, a series of design charettes involving large geographically distributed teams, open data standards, BIM software, and a variety of CAD and visualization tools to address a specific design challenge. Participants use web-based tools to support real-time collaboration and decision making. Recent BimStorm events have taken place in Boston, Rotterdam and Los Angeles; and future events are planned in New Orleans (April 1, 2008) and Vancouver (July 21, 2008).
posted March 28, 2008
The spring 2008 issue [pdf - 4MB] of the Journal of Building Information Modeling features an article on BimStorm, a series of design charettes involving large geographically distributed teams, open data standards, BIM software, and a variety of CAD and visualization tools to address a specific design challenge. Participants use web-based tools to support real-time collaboration and decision making. Recent BimStorm events have taken place in Boston, Rotterdam and Los Angeles; and future events are planned in New Orleans (April 1, 2008) and Vancouver (July 21, 2008).
TAHI Interoperability Framework Initiative Launched
posted March 14, 2008
TAHI (The Application Home Initiative), a group "dedicated to accelerating the uptake of smart home technologies and services", recently sponsored a forum in London on 'Interoperability: The Challenge and the Opportunities for the Digital Home'. Many of the presentations from the forum are now available on the event web site (morning session, afternoon session), including details of the launch of an Interoperability Framework Initiative that aims to provide the framework for standardization of systems and applications in the digital home. A useful FAQ page outlines the challenges and benefits of interoperability in the digital home.
posted March 14, 2008
TAHI (The Application Home Initiative), a group "dedicated to accelerating the uptake of smart home technologies and services", recently sponsored a forum in London on 'Interoperability: The Challenge and the Opportunities for the Digital Home'. Many of the presentations from the forum are now available on the event web site (morning session, afternoon session), including details of the launch of an Interoperability Framework Initiative that aims to provide the framework for standardization of systems and applications in the digital home. A useful FAQ page outlines the challenges and benefits of interoperability in the digital home.
COBIE Implementation Meeting Report
posted March 07, 2008
A meeting was held at the U. S. Army, Corps of Engineers, Chicago District Office in February to discuss the implementation of the COBIE standard. A meeting report is here, and the meeting presentations are linked at the bottom of this page. COBIE (Construction Operations Building Information Exchange) is a standard for the exchange of IFC-based facility management data. The COBIE pilot implementation standard is an appendix to the NBIMS (National Building Information Model Standard), available for download here. The COBIE standard has been designed to facilitate the capture and organization of product information such as warranties, maintenance manuals, spare parts, special tools, etc., and to provide a format for the exchange of this information.
posted March 07, 2008
A meeting was held at the U. S. Army, Corps of Engineers, Chicago District Office in February to discuss the implementation of the COBIE standard. A meeting report is here, and the meeting presentations are linked at the bottom of this page. COBIE (Construction Operations Building Information Exchange) is a standard for the exchange of IFC-based facility management data. The COBIE pilot implementation standard is an appendix to the NBIMS (National Building Information Model Standard), available for download here. The COBIE standard has been designed to facilitate the capture and organization of product information such as warranties, maintenance manuals, spare parts, special tools, etc., and to provide a format for the exchange of this information.
OGC Approves Sensor Web Observations and Measurements Encoding Standard
posted February 29, 2008
The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) has approved version 1.0 of the OpenGIS® Observations & Measurements (O&M) Encoding Standard. This standard is one component needed for the creation of a Sensor Web, an online web service that provides access to sensor data for applications and services. There's a detailed (technical) description of the OGC Sensor Web on the Cover Pages. Microsoft is also developing a standard for sharing sensor data on the web with its SenseWeb project, which offers a map-based interface for browsing the sensor data. The open source Extended Environments Markup Language (EEML) is an XML-based protocol for sharing sensor data over the web, and has a Processing library for creating dynamic visual representations of the sensor data (Processing is an open source programming language for artists and designers, based on Java).
posted February 29, 2008
The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) has approved version 1.0 of the OpenGIS® Observations & Measurements (O&M) Encoding Standard. This standard is one component needed for the creation of a Sensor Web, an online web service that provides access to sensor data for applications and services. There's a detailed (technical) description of the OGC Sensor Web on the Cover Pages. Microsoft is also developing a standard for sharing sensor data on the web with its SenseWeb project, which offers a map-based interface for browsing the sensor data. The open source Extended Environments Markup Language (EEML) is an XML-based protocol for sharing sensor data over the web, and has a Processing library for creating dynamic visual representations of the sensor data (Processing is an open source programming language for artists and designers, based on Java).
BIMForum Meeting in Miami
posted February 22, 2008
BIMForum, a BIM advocacy group which also hosts a fine web site, held its Building Division Meeting in Miami, FL on January 23rd and 24th. There's a good summary of January 23rd presentations, including links to some of the presentation Powerpoint files, on the bimX blog; there's also a schedule of events here. There's also a recap of the event on the BIMForum site. The next meeting is scheduled to happen in April. For full access to the conference materials you need to complete a free registration here.
posted February 22, 2008
BIMForum, a BIM advocacy group which also hosts a fine web site, held its Building Division Meeting in Miami, FL on January 23rd and 24th. There's a good summary of January 23rd presentations, including links to some of the presentation Powerpoint files, on the bimX blog; there's also a schedule of events here. There's also a recap of the event on the BIMForum site. The next meeting is scheduled to happen in April. For full access to the conference materials you need to complete a free registration here.
Articles on BIM Management
posted February 18, 2008
An AECbytes article, co-authored by Chuck Eastman, Paul Teicholz, Rafael Sacks and Kathleen Liston, explains new management roles in AEC firms that are already appearing due to the implementation of BIM technology. The authors give a summary of the changes BIM is bringing to the process of project management, and describe the roles of the key players in BIM implementation. Another article by Dominic Gallello, Graphisoft President and CEO, describes the responsibilities and qualifications of the BIM manager, explaining the similarities and differences between this role and that of the CAD Manager.
posted February 18, 2008
An AECbytes article, co-authored by Chuck Eastman, Paul Teicholz, Rafael Sacks and Kathleen Liston, explains new management roles in AEC firms that are already appearing due to the implementation of BIM technology. The authors give a summary of the changes BIM is bringing to the process of project management, and describe the roles of the key players in BIM implementation. Another article by Dominic Gallello, Graphisoft President and CEO, describes the responsibilities and qualifications of the BIM manager, explaining the similarities and differences between this role and that of the CAD Manager.
Articles on Liability and BIM
posted February 09, 2008
An article posted in January on the AIA Soloso site ('Liability and BIM') outlines a few liability issues that architecture firms engaged in BIM projects should be aware of. As the article points out, BIM puts the architect on uncertain ground because the legal implications of BIM have yet to be tested in the courts. Among the issues covered are ownership and control of the model, standard of care questions, licensure matters, copyright protection, contractual protection and insurance. On a related topic, the Womble Carlyle Construction Industry Blog has a post discussing a draft addendum to the ConsensusDocs standard form contract software, aimed at addressing BIM-specific concerns. The ConsensusDocs project aims to create a set of contract documents which provide balanced and fair risk-allocation for all parties in the design and construction process.
posted February 09, 2008
An article posted in January on the AIA Soloso site ('Liability and BIM') outlines a few liability issues that architecture firms engaged in BIM projects should be aware of. As the article points out, BIM puts the architect on uncertain ground because the legal implications of BIM have yet to be tested in the courts. Among the issues covered are ownership and control of the model, standard of care questions, licensure matters, copyright protection, contractual protection and insurance. On a related topic, the Womble Carlyle Construction Industry Blog has a post discussing a draft addendum to the ConsensusDocs standard form contract software, aimed at addressing BIM-specific concerns. The ConsensusDocs project aims to create a set of contract documents which provide balanced and fair risk-allocation for all parties in the design and construction process.
AISC/SSPC Draft Certification Standard Available for Public Review and Comment
posted February 01, 2008
The AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction) has posted on their web site a draft certification standard for public review. The standard addresses the shop painting of structural steel; its full title is 'Certification Standard for Shop Application of Complex Protective Coating Systems (Enclosed, Covered, or Open Shop)'. The standard was prepared by the AISC and the SSPC (The Society for Protective Coatings). The primary goal of the standard is to assure that shop painting contractors have the appropriate qualifications for 'surface preparation and application of complex painting systems in a shop facility'.
posted February 01, 2008
The AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction) has posted on their web site a draft certification standard for public review. The standard addresses the shop painting of structural steel; its full title is 'Certification Standard for Shop Application of Complex Protective Coating Systems (Enclosed, Covered, or Open Shop)'. The standard was prepared by the AISC and the SSPC (The Society for Protective Coatings). The primary goal of the standard is to assure that shop painting contractors have the appropriate qualifications for 'surface preparation and application of complex painting systems in a shop facility'.
Case Study on E-Leasing with Adobe Intelligent Documents
posted January 23, 2008
The PISCES site has a link to an interesting case study on the use of 'E-Leasing' in real estate. The term refers to the distribution of lease documents in digital formats that facilitate and standardize the processing of leases. The case describes how the simple substitution of Adobe PDF's for Microsoft Word documents provided considerable time savings by eliminating the manual entry of data into a property management system. Using the 'LiveCycle Reader Extensions' software, a PDF is created that activates functionality of the Adobe Reader software that's normally disabled, like the ability to digitally sign a document. Once the document is returned, the content can be exported directly into a database using XML and even SOAP-based web services. There are more details here.
posted January 23, 2008
The PISCES site has a link to an interesting case study on the use of 'E-Leasing' in real estate. The term refers to the distribution of lease documents in digital formats that facilitate and standardize the processing of leases. The case describes how the simple substitution of Adobe PDF's for Microsoft Word documents provided considerable time savings by eliminating the manual entry of data into a property management system. Using the 'LiveCycle Reader Extensions' software, a PDF is created that activates functionality of the Adobe Reader software that's normally disabled, like the ability to digitally sign a document. Once the document is returned, the content can be exported directly into a database using XML and even SOAP-based web services. There are more details here.
Case Study on Archiving of Digital Design Files
posted January 18, 2008
A new case study from the Canadian Center for Architecture (CCA) describes the technical difficulties involved in the long-term preservation of digital architecture and art. The case describes an effort to preserve the files associated with a work by Greg Lynn that had been acquired by the CCA, and the strategies followed for assuring that model data in multiple proprietary and open formats would still be readable into the foreseeable future. An article in the most recent issue of the Edges newsletter addresses the same topic, and links to an excellent blog discussion of this topic, including suggestions for using current data exchange formats such as PDF-E as archival formats.
posted January 18, 2008
A new case study from the Canadian Center for Architecture (CCA) describes the technical difficulties involved in the long-term preservation of digital architecture and art. The case describes an effort to preserve the files associated with a work by Greg Lynn that had been acquired by the CCA, and the strategies followed for assuring that model data in multiple proprietary and open formats would still be readable into the foreseeable future. An article in the most recent issue of the Edges newsletter addresses the same topic, and links to an excellent blog discussion of this topic, including suggestions for using current data exchange formats such as PDF-E as archival formats.
Articles on CAD Data Translation
posted January 11, 2008
One important aspect of interoperability is the capacity of CAD applications to exchange files with other applications, allowing easy collaboration between multiple participants in the design, construction, and facility maintainance stages of the building lifecycle. This exchange between applications is rarely error-free or loss-free, and in reality imposes multiple constraints on collaboration, even where file exchange is supported through the application itself or third-party plugins. Datakit is a French company that provides data translation services; an excellent interview with Francis Cadin, CEO of Datakit, provides a good introduction to CAD data translation. Another article provides a good summary of the reasons why data translation is important; and a recent article by the COO of Elysium Inc, another CAD data translation company, offers a quick summary of the challenges in this field.
posted January 11, 2008
One important aspect of interoperability is the capacity of CAD applications to exchange files with other applications, allowing easy collaboration between multiple participants in the design, construction, and facility maintainance stages of the building lifecycle. This exchange between applications is rarely error-free or loss-free, and in reality imposes multiple constraints on collaboration, even where file exchange is supported through the application itself or third-party plugins. Datakit is a French company that provides data translation services; an excellent interview with Francis Cadin, CEO of Datakit, provides a good introduction to CAD data translation. Another article provides a good summary of the reasons why data translation is important; and a recent article by the COO of Elysium Inc, another CAD data translation company, offers a quick summary of the challenges in this field.
McGraw Hill Construction Publishes Interoperability Report
posted January 03, 2008
McGraw Hill Construction Research and Analytics has published a report on 'Interoperability in the Construction Industry', available online as a free PDF download. The report summarizes research conducted in late-Spring 2007, including interviews with industry leaders and a survey of 295 architects, engineers, contractors and owners. The report presents an argument for benefits of software interoperability in the construction industry, summarizes the current state of interoperability, and then identifies two drivers of AEC/O interoperability: BIM software and Automated Code Checking. There are also two short case studies, and a collection of links.
posted January 03, 2008
McGraw Hill Construction Research and Analytics has published a report on 'Interoperability in the Construction Industry', available online as a free PDF download. The report summarizes research conducted in late-Spring 2007, including interviews with industry leaders and a survey of 295 architects, engineers, contractors and owners. The report presents an argument for benefits of software interoperability in the construction industry, summarizes the current state of interoperability, and then identifies two drivers of AEC/O interoperability: BIM software and Automated Code Checking. There are also two short case studies, and a collection of links.
PISCES Publishes Lease Delivery Standard
posted December 18, 2007
PISCES (Property Information Systems Common Exchange Standard Limited) is a European non-profit organization set up to administer and promote the standards developed by the OSCRE Consortium. The lease delivery standard is designed to "enable the exchange of electronic Lease information when a new Lease is granted, or when Leases are acquired through the purchase of a Commercial property." The standard was released on December 17, and is available for free download, although it's apparently necessary to apply via email for access to the content (as described here). The standard is "targeted at organisations receiving or reporting on Lease information, particularly Legal Advisors and their clients or clients’ agents, such as property owners, fund managers or investors".
posted December 18, 2007
PISCES (Property Information Systems Common Exchange Standard Limited) is a European non-profit organization set up to administer and promote the standards developed by the OSCRE Consortium. The lease delivery standard is designed to "enable the exchange of electronic Lease information when a new Lease is granted, or when Leases are acquired through the purchase of a Commercial property." The standard was released on December 17, and is available for free download, although it's apparently necessary to apply via email for access to the content (as described here). The standard is "targeted at organisations receiving or reporting on Lease information, particularly Legal Advisors and their clients or clients’ agents, such as property owners, fund managers or investors".
Interoperability Case Studies from Harvard's Berkman Center
posted December 12, 2007
In November Harvard's Berkman Center for Internet and Society published a white paper and three case studies on the topic of interoperability. All four papers are available online, and there's a summary of the research here. The white paper begins by defining interoperability, or rather by presenting the mutiple definitions that were encountered. While embracing a core definition of interoperability as "the ability to transfer and render useful data and other information across systems (which may include organizations), applications, or components", the study also identifies several different definitions held by the variety of stakeholders interviewed in the study. The paper continues with an overview of the cases, and an assessment of the potential benefits of interoperability for innovation, competition, autonomy and access. It is interesting that the study also identifies potential drawbacks of interoperability, and concludes with a nuanced and case specific view of the role of open standards, market processes and government intervention in achieving an optimal type of interoperability for a given technology or industry. Although the cases do not address the AEC industry specifically, many of the conclusions should be relevant to an AEC audience, especially the benchmarks used to measure interoperability, the discussion of legal aspects and the assessment of market forces and role they can play in the establishment of standards. The study is part of a collaborative project between the Berkman Center and the Research Center for Information Law at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland.
posted December 12, 2007
In November Harvard's Berkman Center for Internet and Society published a white paper and three case studies on the topic of interoperability. All four papers are available online, and there's a summary of the research here. The white paper begins by defining interoperability, or rather by presenting the mutiple definitions that were encountered. While embracing a core definition of interoperability as "the ability to transfer and render useful data and other information across systems (which may include organizations), applications, or components", the study also identifies several different definitions held by the variety of stakeholders interviewed in the study. The paper continues with an overview of the cases, and an assessment of the potential benefits of interoperability for innovation, competition, autonomy and access. It is interesting that the study also identifies potential drawbacks of interoperability, and concludes with a nuanced and case specific view of the role of open standards, market processes and government intervention in achieving an optimal type of interoperability for a given technology or industry. Although the cases do not address the AEC industry specifically, many of the conclusions should be relevant to an AEC audience, especially the benchmarks used to measure interoperability, the discussion of legal aspects and the assessment of market forces and role they can play in the establishment of standards. The study is part of a collaborative project between the Berkman Center and the Research Center for Information Law at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland.
The Future of Professional Practice Conference
posted November 28, 2007
Organized by the AIA and taking place in Washington D.C. December 2-4, the Future of Professional Practice conference will address numerous issues faced by contemporary AEC practitioners. The issues to be addressed in a series of concurrent workshops over the three days include: the GSA National BIM Program, Training Your Staff to Be Effective with BIM, Digital Project Workflow, Quantifying BIM, and BIM: The Value Proposition. There's a helpful description of the conference schedule by Michael Bordenaro on the AIA Edges Newsletter, and a complete schedule on the conference web site.
posted November 28, 2007
Organized by the AIA and taking place in Washington D.C. December 2-4, the Future of Professional Practice conference will address numerous issues faced by contemporary AEC practitioners. The issues to be addressed in a series of concurrent workshops over the three days include: the GSA National BIM Program, Training Your Staff to Be Effective with BIM, Digital Project Workflow, Quantifying BIM, and BIM: The Value Proposition. There's a helpful description of the conference schedule by Michael Bordenaro on the AIA Edges Newsletter, and a complete schedule on the conference web site.
Gehry Technologies Digital Project: Case Study
posted November 14, 2007
Digital Project is a BIM application developed by Gehry Technologies, and based on Dassault Systemes' CATIA, a powerful parametric modeling application known primarily for its use in the automotive and aerospace industries. Once parametric rules have been defined to describe the relationship between the various components of the model, it becomes possible to rapidly generate multiple design variations by changing a few parameters. An article on the AEC Magazine web site presents the benefits of the software in a short case study.
posted November 14, 2007
Digital Project is a BIM application developed by Gehry Technologies, and based on Dassault Systemes' CATIA, a powerful parametric modeling application known primarily for its use in the automotive and aerospace industries. Once parametric rules have been defined to describe the relationship between the various components of the model, it becomes possible to rapidly generate multiple design variations by changing a few parameters. An article on the AEC Magazine web site presents the benefits of the software in a short case study.
Nemetschek Allplan BIM 2008
posted November 08, 2007
In a recent article on cadalyst.com, Jerry Laiserin provides a brief overview of Nemetschek AG and its new BIM offering, Allplan BIM 2008. As the article points out, Nemetschek is by any measure one of the most significant global players in AEC software, and will now present serious competition for Autodesk Revit and for Bentley's BIM software products. A press release on the Nemetschek web site describes some of the features of the new release including data transfer using Industry Foundation Classes (IFC's), CAD data import via PDF (with layers and 3D), and data access management. Allplan BIM 2008 Engineering offers the same promised interoperability features plus built-in catalogs of 3D fixtures, and new functions for calculating reinforcements for structures with complex geometries.
posted November 08, 2007
In a recent article on cadalyst.com, Jerry Laiserin provides a brief overview of Nemetschek AG and its new BIM offering, Allplan BIM 2008. As the article points out, Nemetschek is by any measure one of the most significant global players in AEC software, and will now present serious competition for Autodesk Revit and for Bentley's BIM software products. A press release on the Nemetschek web site describes some of the features of the new release including data transfer using Industry Foundation Classes (IFC's), CAD data import via PDF (with layers and 3D), and data access management. Allplan BIM 2008 Engineering offers the same promised interoperability features plus built-in catalogs of 3D fixtures, and new functions for calculating reinforcements for structures with complex geometries.
Zigbee Alliance Announces New Standard
posted October 28, 2007
According to their mission statement, the Zigbee Alliance is "an association of companies working together to enable reliable, cost-effective, low-power, wirelessly networked, monitoring and control products based on an open global standard." Zigbee products are used in many 'smart buildings' to facilitate the implementation of data collection systems using wireless sensor networks; there are multiple examples of AEC applications of the Zigbee standard on the Ember Corporation site. The Zigbee Alliance recently announced an update of the Zigbee standard called 'Zigbee Pro', which will offer features for optimizing the performance of large networks. According to one report, the standard will soon undergo a rigorous testing procedure to assure interoperability between devices from different manufacturers.
posted October 28, 2007
According to their mission statement, the Zigbee Alliance is "an association of companies working together to enable reliable, cost-effective, low-power, wirelessly networked, monitoring and control products based on an open global standard." Zigbee products are used in many 'smart buildings' to facilitate the implementation of data collection systems using wireless sensor networks; there are multiple examples of AEC applications of the Zigbee standard on the Ember Corporation site. The Zigbee Alliance recently announced an update of the Zigbee standard called 'Zigbee Pro', which will offer features for optimizing the performance of large networks. According to one report, the standard will soon undergo a rigorous testing procedure to assure interoperability between devices from different manufacturers.
Cadalyst article: 'Standards Evolve Slowly'
posted October 16, 2007
An article on the Cadalyst site describes the gradual evolution of AEC standards in terms of the benefits and obstacles of adopting the National CAD Standard and/or the National BIM Standard. The article also outlines barriers to the further development of the National BIM Standard, and cites examples of organizations that are taking a lead in implementing and defining standards, such as the GSA and American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).
posted October 16, 2007
An article on the Cadalyst site describes the gradual evolution of AEC standards in terms of the benefits and obstacles of adopting the National CAD Standard and/or the National BIM Standard. The article also outlines barriers to the further development of the National BIM Standard, and cites examples of organizations that are taking a lead in implementing and defining standards, such as the GSA and American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).
AECbytes Survey: Top Criteria for BIM Solutions
posted October 11, 2007
AECBytes has published the results of a survey assessing user needs for BIM solutions. The survey was completed by 651 professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and related disciplines. The questions addressed the relative importance for users of several aspects of BIM software such as the ability to work on large projects, IFC compatibility, and the built-in capacity to generate photorealistic renderings and animations. The most highly-ranked criterion was the ability to produce construction documents, followed by the availability of smart objects (defined as objects that 'maintain connectivity, associativity and relationships with other objects') and object libraries. IFC compatibility was near the bottom of the priority list, somehwat less important to respondents than direct integration with analysis and project management tools.
posted October 11, 2007
AECBytes has published the results of a survey assessing user needs for BIM solutions. The survey was completed by 651 professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and related disciplines. The questions addressed the relative importance for users of several aspects of BIM software such as the ability to work on large projects, IFC compatibility, and the built-in capacity to generate photorealistic renderings and animations. The most highly-ranked criterion was the ability to produce construction documents, followed by the availability of smart objects (defined as objects that 'maintain connectivity, associativity and relationships with other objects') and object libraries. IFC compatibility was near the bottom of the priority list, somehwat less important to respondents than direct integration with analysis and project management tools.
Report on the ISO 15926 Semantic Web
posted October 3, 2007
An August 2007 report describes two ongoing projects that use the ISO 15926 standard to facilitate the exchange of facility lifecycle information in the process industries. The two projects referenced in the report are ADI Project at FIATECH and the POSC/Caesar IDS Project. Both aim to use aspects of the semantic web to structure the transfer of information.
posted October 3, 2007
An August 2007 report describes two ongoing projects that use the ISO 15926 standard to facilitate the exchange of facility lifecycle information in the process industries. The two projects referenced in the report are ADI Project at FIATECH and the POSC/Caesar IDS Project. Both aim to use aspects of the semantic web to structure the transfer of information.
General Buildings Information Handover Guide
posted September 24, 2007
In August, NIST and FIATECH released a joint report, 'General Buildings Information Handover Guide: Principles, Methodology and Case Studies'; Kristine Fallon of Kristine Fallon Associates, Inc and Mark E. Palmer of NIST were the Project Leaders. The document offers an overview of the cost benefits of interoperability in the AEC industry, and a detailed description of the information handover process, including descriptions of the standard formats for electronic information exchange. Six case studies illustrate the concepts of the project.
posted September 24, 2007
In August, NIST and FIATECH released a joint report, 'General Buildings Information Handover Guide: Principles, Methodology and Case Studies'; Kristine Fallon of Kristine Fallon Associates, Inc and Mark E. Palmer of NIST were the Project Leaders. The document offers an overview of the cost benefits of interoperability in the AEC industry, and a detailed description of the information handover process, including descriptions of the standard formats for electronic information exchange. Six case studies illustrate the concepts of the project.
Bentley’s Integrated Structural Model
posted September 20, 2007
An article in AEC Magazine outlines the challenges faced by the developers of Bentley's Integrated Structural Model, an upcoming product which will be a "Building Information Model for structural engineers". As the author describes, having acquired RAM International and the STAAD suite of structural evaluation tools nearly two years ago, Bentley was faced with the task of making these new products interoperable with each other and with its existing suite of applications. In addition to providing import/export capability between these applications, Bentley is developing a database-centric system which will offer automatic update of related files in each of the applications; this is due for release next year.
posted September 20, 2007
An article in AEC Magazine outlines the challenges faced by the developers of Bentley's Integrated Structural Model, an upcoming product which will be a "Building Information Model for structural engineers". As the author describes, having acquired RAM International and the STAAD suite of structural evaluation tools nearly two years ago, Bentley was faced with the task of making these new products interoperable with each other and with its existing suite of applications. In addition to providing import/export capability between these applications, Bentley is developing a database-centric system which will offer automatic update of related files in each of the applications; this is due for release next year.
Discussion: Autodesk's Acquisition of Navisworks
posted September 10, 2007
Autodesk's announcement of its planned acquisition of Navisworks in May was followed by a show of considerable interest on the web and in the blogosphere. Architectural Record published an article on its site soon after the announcement that expressed concerns about the acquisition in terms of the continued interoperability of the Navisworks product line. There were also responses at the AIA TAP Blog, bimX, and WorldCAD Access, among others. The acquisition was confirmed by Autodesk in August.
posted September 10, 2007
Autodesk's announcement of its planned acquisition of Navisworks in May was followed by a show of considerable interest on the web and in the blogosphere. Architectural Record published an article on its site soon after the announcement that expressed concerns about the acquisition in terms of the continued interoperability of the Navisworks product line. There were also responses at the AIA TAP Blog, bimX, and WorldCAD Access, among others. The acquisition was confirmed by Autodesk in August.
More BIM blogs
posted August 27, 2007
The field of blogs dedicated to BIM-related topics continues to grow, with new appearances every week. Here are a few of the notable blogs that have emerged since the last weekly link on this topic. Two blogs maintained by HOK address BIM topics: HOK CAD Solutions touches on practical CAD topics with a strong emphasis on Revit, and HOK Green BIM covers a wider range of topics including software, standards, and events. Revit Zone is a UK-based site with good, current tutorials and an active blog; and Revit3D has an actively maintained collection of links and frequent news postings.
posted August 27, 2007
The field of blogs dedicated to BIM-related topics continues to grow, with new appearances every week. Here are a few of the notable blogs that have emerged since the last weekly link on this topic. Two blogs maintained by HOK address BIM topics: HOK CAD Solutions touches on practical CAD topics with a strong emphasis on Revit, and HOK Green BIM covers a wider range of topics including software, standards, and events. Revit Zone is a UK-based site with good, current tutorials and an active blog; and Revit3D has an actively maintained collection of links and frequent news postings.
GSA paves way for IT-based buildings
posted August 20, 2007
An article on the Government Computer News web site describes how the GSA plans to merge building control systems and IP networks across their portfolio of buildings in order to centralise building control and realize energy savings through increased efficiency. The article lists several vendors with products for building automation over IP networks including Cisco Systems, Gridlogix, and Richards-Zeta Building Intelligence. Using these products, building services such as HVAC, lighting, central chilled and hot-water plants, and electrical can be monitorred and controlled on the same IP network as voice, video and data services. The article mentions that the GSA has already implemented computer maintenance management systems in 8 of its 11 regions using BACtalk, a project based on the ASHRAE BACnet standard. According to the article these systems are not currently running over IP networks, but could be adapted to do so in the future.
posted August 20, 2007
An article on the Government Computer News web site describes how the GSA plans to merge building control systems and IP networks across their portfolio of buildings in order to centralise building control and realize energy savings through increased efficiency. The article lists several vendors with products for building automation over IP networks including Cisco Systems, Gridlogix, and Richards-Zeta Building Intelligence. Using these products, building services such as HVAC, lighting, central chilled and hot-water plants, and electrical can be monitorred and controlled on the same IP network as voice, video and data services. The article mentions that the GSA has already implemented computer maintenance management systems in 8 of its 11 regions using BACtalk, a project based on the ASHRAE BACnet standard. According to the article these systems are not currently running over IP networks, but could be adapted to do so in the future.
Two articles touch on standards in Intelligent Buildings
posted August 13, 2007
Two articles posted this summer touch on standards-related issues in the implementation of 'Intelligent Buildings', a term that can be used to describe buildings equipped with IP-based control of services (HVAC, lighting, fire, access control) and devices (such as audio-visual equipment). 'Sending the Troops to Boot Camp' describes training programs for electrical contractors interested in supervising the installation of IP-based control systems, and lists some of the standards and standards-based platforms currently available such as LonWorks, BACnet, and Modbus. Standards organizations operating in this field include ASHRAE and CABA. 'Minding Intelligent Buildings' introduces short case studies in building automation, and mentions interoperability challenges faced by this industry.
posted August 13, 2007
Two articles posted this summer touch on standards-related issues in the implementation of 'Intelligent Buildings', a term that can be used to describe buildings equipped with IP-based control of services (HVAC, lighting, fire, access control) and devices (such as audio-visual equipment). 'Sending the Troops to Boot Camp' describes training programs for electrical contractors interested in supervising the installation of IP-based control systems, and lists some of the standards and standards-based platforms currently available such as LonWorks, BACnet, and Modbus. Standards organizations operating in this field include ASHRAE and CABA. 'Minding Intelligent Buildings' introduces short case studies in building automation, and mentions interoperability challenges faced by this industry.
STAND-INN Project Reports and Newsletter
posted August 7, 2007
STAND-INN ('Standards for innovation in construction and fm') is a two-year project funded under the European Innova Program, and aims to support the integration of performance-based building standards into business processes; partners included IAI and CIB (International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction). The project has produced three newsletters; the most recent newsletter was released in July, and focuses on sustainable housing. The second newsletter (April 2007) looked at the STAND-INN work packages: work package 1 focuses on 'Integrating IFC-Based Building Standards into Business Processes', and aims to identify differences in procurement routes and value chains across Europe. The first newsletter gives an introduction to the project.
posted August 7, 2007
STAND-INN ('Standards for innovation in construction and fm') is a two-year project funded under the European Innova Program, and aims to support the integration of performance-based building standards into business processes; partners included IAI and CIB (International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction). The project has produced three newsletters; the most recent newsletter was released in July, and focuses on sustainable housing. The second newsletter (April 2007) looked at the STAND-INN work packages: work package 1 focuses on 'Integrating IFC-Based Building Standards into Business Processes', and aims to identify differences in procurement routes and value chains across Europe. The first newsletter gives an introduction to the project.
2007 Integrated Practice Pre-Convention Conference presentations
posted July 30, 2007
The presentations from the May 2 Integrated Practice Conference are available online, and several offer valuable insights on AEC interoperability; the Edges newsletter has a summary of the conference and its topics. A presentation by Paul Cote, Geographic Information Systems and BIM--Implications in Planning and Design, gives an overview of CityGML, a model for the representation of 3D urban objects. The presentation describes how this CityGML project addresses interoperability between geospatial and AEC models; there are also detailed information, examples, and downloads on the CityGML web site.
posted July 30, 2007
The presentations from the May 2 Integrated Practice Conference are available online, and several offer valuable insights on AEC interoperability; the Edges newsletter has a summary of the conference and its topics. A presentation by Paul Cote, Geographic Information Systems and BIM--Implications in Planning and Design, gives an overview of CityGML, a model for the representation of 3D urban objects. The presentation describes how this CityGML project addresses interoperability between geospatial and AEC models; there are also detailed information, examples, and downloads on the CityGML web site.
Comment on the NBIMS Effort
posted July 23, 2007
The current issue of the Edges newsletter, a publication of the AIA Technology in Practice Group, includes a discussion of the National BIM Standard, an initiative coordinated by the National Institute of Building Science (NIBS). The National BIM Standard (NBIMS) committee released a first version of the standard for public comment in March 2007, and the Edges article includes an interesting memorandum produced by the AIA Board Knowledge Committee in response to this first version of the NBIMS. The comment period on the NBIMS v1 ended on May 21, 2007.
posted July 23, 2007
The current issue of the Edges newsletter, a publication of the AIA Technology in Practice Group, includes a discussion of the National BIM Standard, an initiative coordinated by the National Institute of Building Science (NIBS). The National BIM Standard (NBIMS) committee released a first version of the standard for public comment in March 2007, and the Edges article includes an interesting memorandum produced by the AIA Board Knowledge Committee in response to this first version of the NBIMS. The comment period on the NBIMS v1 ended on May 21, 2007.
Solibri Releases a Free IFC Viewer
posted July 14, 2007
Solibri released in March of this year a free viewer for Open Standard IFC files and Solibri Model Checker files. The software can be used to view analysis results generated using the Solibri Model Checker, an application that can be used to analyze Building Information Models for integrity, quality and physical safety. This document gives a quick overview of Solibri's approach to BIM and to software interoperability.
posted July 14, 2007
Solibri released in March of this year a free viewer for Open Standard IFC files and Solibri Model Checker files. The software can be used to view analysis results generated using the Solibri Model Checker, an application that can be used to analyze Building Information Models for integrity, quality and physical safety. This document gives a quick overview of Solibri's approach to BIM and to software interoperability.
FIATECH BIM Standard for the Process Industry
posted July 09, 2007
FIATECH announced recently the development of a publicly-available online database for browsing ongoing development of a BIM Standard for the Process Industry. Based on the ISO 15926 standard, this FIATECH project addresses the integration of life cycle data for process plants. The project is a collaboration between the POSC Caesar Association, USPI, the DNV company and FIATECH. A press release on the FIATECH web site gives a summary of the project and its objectives.
posted July 09, 2007
FIATECH announced recently the development of a publicly-available online database for browsing ongoing development of a BIM Standard for the Process Industry. Based on the ISO 15926 standard, this FIATECH project addresses the integration of life cycle data for process plants. The project is a collaboration between the POSC Caesar Association, USPI, the DNV company and FIATECH. A press release on the FIATECH web site gives a summary of the project and its objectives.
Autodesk BIM White Papers and Industry Reports
posted July 02, 2007
The Autodesk web site provides links to a collection of industry reports and white papers related to implementations of building information modeling (BIM). An article by Philip Bernstein and Jon Pittman outlines barriers to BIM adoption in the AEC industry, and also provides a summary of AEC data interoperability initiatives. Another article by Lachmi Khemlani provides an extensive report on implementations of Autodesk Revit, based on a survey of architectural firms using Revit.
posted July 02, 2007
The Autodesk web site provides links to a collection of industry reports and white papers related to implementations of building information modeling (BIM). An article by Philip Bernstein and Jon Pittman outlines barriers to BIM adoption in the AEC industry, and also provides a summary of AEC data interoperability initiatives. Another article by Lachmi Khemlani provides an extensive report on implementations of Autodesk Revit, based on a survey of architectural firms using Revit.
Data Standards for Real Estate
posted June 04, 2007
Two recent articles focus on the the interoperability of data standards in the real estate industry, highlighting the efforts of OSCRE (the Open Standards Consortium for Real Estate). The Appraisal Institute's publication Valuation has a short article titled 'Data Standards Promote Industry's Common Good'; and the Journal of Real Estate Literature has an article 'Data Standards and Service Standards' that compares approaches to achieving interoperability among five standards organizations.
posted June 04, 2007
Two recent articles focus on the the interoperability of data standards in the real estate industry, highlighting the efforts of OSCRE (the Open Standards Consortium for Real Estate). The Appraisal Institute's publication Valuation has a short article titled 'Data Standards Promote Industry's Common Good'; and the Journal of Real Estate Literature has an article 'Data Standards and Service Standards' that compares approaches to achieving interoperability among five standards organizations.
Interoperability in Structural Engineering Software
posted May 30, 2007
A recent AEC Magazine article focuses on the interoperability of structural engineering software by Bentley and Autodesk, with statements by the Autodesk (Pete Baxter) and Bentley Systems (Huw Roberts) marketing managers. An interview of Bentley's Huw Roberts in the same online magazine provides some additional comments on the company's interoperability goals.
posted May 30, 2007
A recent AEC Magazine article focuses on the interoperability of structural engineering software by Bentley and Autodesk, with statements by the Autodesk (Pete Baxter) and Bentley Systems (Huw Roberts) marketing managers. An interview of Bentley's Huw Roberts in the same online magazine provides some additional comments on the company's interoperability goals.
Certification of IFC-compatible Software
posted May 21, 2007
The IAI (International Alliance for Interoperability) conducts periodic certification workshops to verify the compatibility of specific software packages with the IFC standards. At a recent certification workshop in Waltham, MA, described in this short article, software from Autodesk, Nemetschek, Bentley, Solibri and other vendors was reviewed. The event also included a roundtable with discussion between users and IFC software vendors: an agenda and presentations from the events are available online.
posted May 21, 2007
The IAI (International Alliance for Interoperability) conducts periodic certification workshops to verify the compatibility of specific software packages with the IFC standards. At a recent certification workshop in Waltham, MA, described in this short article, software from Autodesk, Nemetschek, Bentley, Solibri and other vendors was reviewed. The event also included a roundtable with discussion between users and IFC software vendors: an agenda and presentations from the events are available online.
Contractor's Guide to BIM
posted May 14, 2007
The content of the Contractor's Guide to BIM, a guide to BIM implementation published by the Associated General Contractors of America, is summarized in these articles from Cadalyst and AECBytes.
posted May 14, 2007
The content of the Contractor's Guide to BIM, a guide to BIM implementation published by the Associated General Contractors of America, is summarized in these articles from Cadalyst and AECBytes.
Interoperability: Critical to Achieving BIM Benefits
posted May 08, 2007
In an article from the current issue of Edges (Newsletter of the Technology in Practice Knowledge Community), Kristine Fallon outlines the benefits of BIM implementation in terms of interoperability, citing multiple case studies of recent projects.
posted May 08, 2007
In an article from the current issue of Edges (Newsletter of the Technology in Practice Knowledge Community), Kristine Fallon outlines the benefits of BIM implementation in terms of interoperability, citing multiple case studies of recent projects.
Small Firms Take On BIM
posted April 30, 2007
This article in the AIA Small Project Practitioners' Journal offers a few useful suggestions for small firms contemplating the introduction of BIM into their workflow.
posted April 30, 2007
This article in the AIA Small Project Practitioners' Journal offers a few useful suggestions for small firms contemplating the introduction of BIM into their workflow.
BIM blogs
posted April 10, 2007
There's an abundance of blogs chronicling the ongoing development of BIM technology in all its aspects. A few of these are CAD-related blogs that offer considerable BIM content (RobiNZ CAD Blog, BlogCAD); quite a few are Revit-specific (Revit OpEd, Revit JobCaptain, Do Revit); and others cover general topics related to BIM (bimx, BIMology, All Things BIM, BIMania).
posted April 10, 2007
There's an abundance of blogs chronicling the ongoing development of BIM technology in all its aspects. A few of these are CAD-related blogs that offer considerable BIM content (RobiNZ CAD Blog, BlogCAD); quite a few are Revit-specific (Revit OpEd, Revit JobCaptain, Do Revit); and others cover general topics related to BIM (bimx, BIMology, All Things BIM, BIMania).
'Autodesk FMDesktop: Extending BIM to Facilities Management'
posted April 02, 2007
This article by Lachmi Khemlani in AECbytes explores the integrated BIM capabilities of Autodesk FMDesktop, a suite of software applications for facilities management which includes integration with Autodesk Revit.
Visit the web site >
posted April 02, 2007
This article by Lachmi Khemlani in AECbytes explores the integrated BIM capabilities of Autodesk FMDesktop, a suite of software applications for facilities management which includes integration with Autodesk Revit.
Visit the web site >
'bimforum.org'
posted March 23, 2007
The recently refurbished BIMFORUM site is maintained by the AGC (Associated General contractors of America) and provides a good introduction to BIM for beginners, a collection of BIM links, and a web forum for discussion of BIM-related topics.
Visit the web site >
posted March 23, 2007
The recently refurbished BIMFORUM site is maintained by the AGC (Associated General contractors of America) and provides a good introduction to BIM for beginners, a collection of BIM links, and a web forum for discussion of BIM-related topics.
Visit the web site >
BIM Coaching Pays Off
posted March 16, 2007
This article posted recently on Cadalyst offers a brief argument for the benefits of professional BIM training. For additional reading there's a more in-depth discussion of BIM training here, and an older Cadalyst article on the same topic.
Visit the web site >
posted March 16, 2007
This article posted recently on Cadalyst offers a brief argument for the benefits of professional BIM training. For additional reading there's a more in-depth discussion of BIM training here, and an older Cadalyst article on the same topic.
Visit the web site >
Questioning the Role of BIM in Architectural Education
posted March 09, 2007
An interesting discussion of the role of BIM tools in architectural education, written by Renee Cheng, and a response to the article by Paul Seletsky.
Visit the web site >
posted March 09, 2007
An interesting discussion of the role of BIM tools in architectural education, written by Renee Cheng, and a response to the article by Paul Seletsky.
Visit the web site >
AEC From the Ground Up—Digital Options for Structural Analysis
posted March 05, 2007
An overview of structural software packages in terms of their interoperability with common CAD and BIM applications.
Visit the web site >
posted March 05, 2007
An overview of structural software packages in terms of their interoperability with common CAD and BIM applications.
Visit the web site >
AEC From the Ground Up—BIM Update 2006
posted February 23, 2007
A useful summary of the range of BIM software available. As the author (Edward Goldberg, AIA) points out, the concept of BIM is not just about modeling software, and also includes includes specialized software for structural analysis, cost estimating, construction purchasing, code analysis, and facilities management.
Visit the web site >
posted February 23, 2007
A useful summary of the range of BIM software available. As the author (Edward Goldberg, AIA) points out, the concept of BIM is not just about modeling software, and also includes includes specialized software for structural analysis, cost estimating, construction purchasing, code analysis, and facilities management.
Visit the web site >
GSA '3D-4D Building Information Modeling' guidelines
posted February 16, 2007
Provides information on the GSA's National 3D - 4D BIM Program. There's a flier pdf that gives a useful overview of the program, and preliminary drafts of the GSA BIM Guide.
Visit the web site >
posted February 16, 2007
Provides information on the GSA's National 3D - 4D BIM Program. There's a flier pdf that gives a useful overview of the program, and preliminary drafts of the GSA BIM Guide.
Visit the web site >
'BIM Me Up, Scotty'
posted February 09, 2007
One in a series of articles on BIM by Michael Tardiff in the AIArchitect, this piece smmarizes the current state of sofware for 'clash detection' in the US market.
Visit the web site >
posted February 09, 2007
One in a series of articles on BIM by Michael Tardiff in the AIArchitect, this piece smmarizes the current state of sofware for 'clash detection' in the US market.
Visit the web site >
'IfcWiki'
posted February 02, 2007
An actively updated wiki with abundant information on the IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) data standards. Much of the content seems to focus on European projects, companies and research centers. The site includes a glossary of terms related to the IFC, with links to Wikipedia definitions.
Visit the web site >
posted February 02, 2007
An actively updated wiki with abundant information on the IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) data standards. Much of the content seems to focus on European projects, companies and research centers. The site includes a glossary of terms related to the IFC, with links to Wikipedia definitions.
Visit the web site >
'Event Report: AEC-Science & Technology Federal'
posted January 26, 2007
A summary of BIM-related events and products from this recent Washington DC conference and trade show.
Visit the web site >
posted January 26, 2007
A summary of BIM-related events and products from this recent Washington DC conference and trade show.
Visit the web site >
'A Different Approach to Using IFCs to Facilitate Interoperability in the Building Industry'
posted January 18, 2007
Presents a thumbnail introduction to IFC's, and suggests an alternative use of the IFC Model's non-graphical data as a 'data dictionary': a framework for terms, definitions, and selected project data.
Visit the web site >
posted January 18, 2007
Presents a thumbnail introduction to IFC's, and suggests an alternative use of the IFC Model's non-graphical data as a 'data dictionary': a framework for terms, definitions, and selected project data.
Visit the web site >
'What is BIM?'
posted January 10, 2007
This useful series of pages on the SOLIBRI web site provide a concise definition of BIM and IFC, as well as relevant news, case studies, articles and links.
Visit the web site >
posted January 10, 2007
This useful series of pages on the SOLIBRI web site provide a concise definition of BIM and IFC, as well as relevant news, case studies, articles and links.
Visit the web site >
'IFC's Connect'
posted January 03, 2007
Introduces the concept of Industry Foundation Classes (IFC's), and briefly presents several case studies of building projects in which IFC compliant CAD software was used.
Visit the web site >
posted January 03, 2007
Introduces the concept of Industry Foundation Classes (IFC's), and briefly presents several case studies of building projects in which IFC compliant CAD software was used.
Visit the web site >
BIM Resources @ Georgia Tech
posted December 18, 2006
A collection of resources related to Building Information Modeling and Parametric CAD tools, compiled by the Design Computing Group at Georgia Institute of Technology. Some of the content is only available to members, but much is also open to the general web public. The database of BIM tools is a valuable resource, as is the Exchange Matrix, which gives a detailed outline of the interoperability of primary BIM file formats.
Visit the web site >
posted December 18, 2006
A collection of resources related to Building Information Modeling and Parametric CAD tools, compiled by the Design Computing Group at Georgia Institute of Technology. Some of the content is only available to members, but much is also open to the general web public. The database of BIM tools is a valuable resource, as is the Exchange Matrix, which gives a detailed outline of the interoperability of primary BIM file formats.
Visit the web site >
'Building Information Models (BIM)'
posted December 11, 2006
This article by Dana K. (Deke) Smith and Alan Edgar on the Whole Building Design Guide site offers a clear definition of the Building Information Model (BIM) and the National BIM Standard.
Visit the web site >
posted December 11, 2006
This article by Dana K. (Deke) Smith and Alan Edgar on the Whole Building Design Guide site offers a clear definition of the Building Information Model (BIM) and the National BIM Standard.
Visit the web site >
'AEC From the Ground Up - IFCs in Action'
posted December 4, 2006
An article by H. Edward Goldberg, AIA, with a description of the IFC standard for 3D object data, and a list of software applications that implement this standard.
Visit the web site >
posted December 4, 2006
An article by H. Edward Goldberg, AIA, with a description of the IFC standard for 3D object data, and a list of software applications that implement this standard.
Visit the web site >
'BIM and Process Improvement'
posted November 27, 2006
An article by Jim Bedrick, AIA, describing some of the benefits of adopting the Building Information Model (BIM).
Visit the web site >
posted November 27, 2006
An article by Jim Bedrick, AIA, describing some of the benefits of adopting the Building Information Model (BIM).
Visit the web site >
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last updated: July 11, 2008 |