The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

the Software and Process

and all the things in between!

Web Site http://www.cadalot.co.uk

Blog
http://cadalot-revitlearningcurve.blogspot.com/
LRUG http://lrug.org.uk

JULY
2012
Edition

The Hitch Hikers

Guide to BIM

Dont Panic
The Hitch Hikers Guide to
the Galaxy
Fell through a wormhole,
was wiped clean, reversed
engineered and is now sold
as an e-book or kindle!
For image details see inside publication

Alan James Wooldridge

cadalot.co.uk 2012
Published by Uranus Corporation LLP Inc

The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

Is dedicated to the memory of
an outstanding human being
My Mum
Shirley Wooldridge
1936 - 2012

The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

Dont Panic
Web Site http://www.cadalot.co.uk
Blog
http://cadalot-revitlearningcurve.blogspot.com/
LRUG http://lrug.org.uk

Welcome to The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM in homage to Douglas Adams, who wrote a trilogy in
five parts!
The inspiration or catalyst that made me compile this guide was an out of the blue phone call from
a director (lets call him Mr X) from a leading international consultancy practice providing
independent project management, cost management, health & safety consultancy and facilities
and building management consultancy for the property and construction industry (well thats what
it says on their web site).
Mr X telephoned me and said I know your into all this BIM stuff, Ive been given the task of
researching what this BIM stuff is all about and what impact its likely to have on our company by
way of workflow, software, hardware and training. Can I pop over and have a chat with you about it?
He contacted me because we have been working on a couple of projects during 2011 one civil
engineering project of which I could have easily done using Flat CAD, but decided I could give his
client and him so much more by using Revit and creating a 3D model.
So we spent an extended lunch time over the pub, talking BIM then he came back to my office and
I showed him some of the other projects we have been working on with Revit.
So for Mr X and Y and Z out there who are still using Flat CAD and have not discovered joys of 3D
Parametric Modelling and the snakepit that is BIM and IPD, and have just heard that the
Government want to use it on all public sector schemes welcome to the pleasure dome. And I hope
this little guide helps in some small way.

July 2012 Edition

TLAs or Three Letter Acronyms and Mnemonics

.

During work and particularly in the construction industry we are surrounded by TLAs. Computers
have used TLA for the file extension for years up to the new crop that can have FLA (you guessed it
Four Letter Acronym extensions. Autodesk have spent years taking people to court and arguing
about who owns the rights to the term and file format *.dwg for DraWinG!
With texting on mobile phone, my 21 and 18 years old daughters seem to talk a completely
different language to the Queens English I learnt at school, my youngest daughter Kelly exclaiming
O.M.G. in a posh voice, when she saw that I had actually finally got a round to spring cleaning
and tidying up my study one weekend.
At work we spend an awful lot of time completing PQQs (Pre-Qualifying Questionnaires) these
days just to get on the possible selection list for schemes. Recently a Partner completing a PQQ
emailed me and asked could we produce drawings in IFC and what was it?
So I promptly informed him that IFC standard was developed by the IAI (International Alliance for
Interoperability) to handle 3D file data. Major CAD (Computer Aided Design or Drafting) vendors
helped to develop the standard and the tools to support it.
The IAI is a division of the ISO (International Standards Organization), the body that controls the
IGES and STEP data standards. The IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) standard is being used in
leading construction projects in Europe and beyond. IFC is used as a basis for the Building
Information Modelling (BIM), a 3D model of the building project and a rich source of information
shared by all the project participants.
Then I proudly informed him that Revit can export IFC files of three varieties, and it is all about the
I for Information in BIM. I asked him to find out what information they actually wanted to capture
and how they were intending to try and use this file format and the data.
He sent me an email for the originator of the PQQ which simply said Sorry I mean ISSUED FOR
CONSTRUCTION. (IFC) drawings
So take care and dont ASSUME or it may make an ASS out of U and ME
July 2012 Edition

The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

Dont Panic
Glossary of Terms & Acronyms
Alphabetical List of Terms and Acronyms used in connection with BIM Building Information
Modelling.

2D 2 (Two) Dimensional graphics height and width

2D / 3D CAD Vector Based with blocks non intelligent software see CAD Computer-Aided
Design (CAD), and CAD or CADD
3D 3 (Three) Dimensional graphics Height, Width and Depth
AACE American Association of Cost Engineers were part of the task group that included amongst
others CSI, GSA, AACE, the Tri-Services, R.S. Means and CIQS who worked on UNIFORMAT II
AEC Architecture Engineering and Construction industries.
AEC/FM Architecture Engineering and Construction/ Facility Management.
AIA American Institute of Architects
AIM Architectural Information of Model see also BrIM (Bridges)BSIM (Building Services), FIM
(Facilities), LIM (Landscaping), SIM (Structural) amongst others were letters of the alphabet are put
in front of IM
AIM Asset Information Model source Draft PAS 1192-1:2012
ANZRS Australian and New Zealand Revit Standards was an initiative conceived at RTC (Revit
Technology Conference) 2009 in Melbourne in response to the Revit user communitys frustration
with lack of consistency and quality in Revit families available from Autodesk, Content Creators and
other sources. Add URL
API An Application Programming Interface is a particular set of rules ('code') and specifications
that software programs can follow to communicate with each other. It serves as an interface
between different software programs and facilitates their interaction, similar to the way the user
interface facilitates interaction between humans and computers.
An API can be created for applications, libraries, operating systems, etc., as a way of defining their
"vocabularies" and resources request conventions (e.g. function-calling conventions). It may include
specifications for routines, data structures, object classes, and protocols used to communicate
between the consumer program and the implementer program of the API.
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials first issued UNIFORMAT II, in 1993

July 2012 Edition

AutoCAD is AutoDesks best known flagship computer-aided design software program.

In addition to AutoCAD, Autodesk develops digital prototyping solutions to visualize, simulate, and
analyze real-world performance using a digital model during the design process.
The company also develops Building Information Modeling software Revit to generate and manage
building data using a three-dimensional building model. Autodesk also provides digital media
creation and management software from film and television visual effects, colour grading, and
editing to animation, game development, and design visualization.
AutoDesk AutoDesk Inc. is an American multinational corporation that focuses on design
software for use in architecture, engineering and building construction, manufacturing, and media
and entertainment. Autodesk was founded in 1982 by John Walker, a co-author of early versions of
the company's flagship CAD software product AutoCAD, and 12 others. It is headquartered in San
Rafael, California.
AUGI Autodesk User Group International is a source for tips and tricks as well as excellent user
forums. The forums are free to participate in, and its a great place to ask questions and get peer to
peer support for Autodesk products.
AVI - Audio Video Interleave (also Audio Video Interleaved), known by its acronym AVI, is a
multimedia container format introduced by Microsoft in November 1992 as part of its Video for
Windows technology. AVI files can contain both audio and video data in a file container that allows
synchronous audio-with-video playback. Like the DVD video format, AVI files support multiple
streaming audio and video, although these features are seldom used. Most AVI files also use the
file format extensions developed by the Matrox OpenDML group in February 1996. These files are
supported by Microsoft, and are unofficially called "AVI 2.0".

July 2012 Edition

Bandwagon US a wagon, usually high and brightly coloured, for carrying the band in a parade
jump, climb, or get on the bandwagon to join or give support to a party or movement that seems
to be assured of success.
BCUKI The Bentley Community UK and Ireland
Bentley Bentley is a global company dedicated to providing architects, engineers, constructors,
and owner-operators with comprehensive architecture and engineering software solutions for
sustaining infrastructure. Founded in 1984, Bentley has nearly 3,000 colleagues in more than 45
countries, $500 million in annual revenues, and, since 2001, has invested more than $1 billion in
research, development, and acquisitions. Their most popular products include: MicroStation ,
ProjectWise & AssetWise,
BIGBIMTM is an initiative promoted and demonstrated by _space group
BIG BIM takes Building Information Modelling further, moving beyond design and build, creating a
single integrated data model that can be used for any project and works through four interlinked
stages. BIG BIM challenges established procurement norms, pushing the industry to deliver at less
cost, with less risk, less carbon and in less time.
BIM Below are a number of common definitions of BIM
BIM Building Information Model is a digital representation of the physical and functional
characteristics of a building, structure or facility. As such it serves as a shared knowledge resource
for information about the building, structure or facility, forming a reliable basis for decision during
its life cycle from inception onwards.
BIM Building Information Modelling is the human activity of using BIM Software and other
related software, hardware to create and use in a building information model.
BIM - The RIBA, CPIC and BuildingSmart jointly proposed a definition of BIM for UK construction,
as a starting point for discussion and refinement. It is:
'Building Information Modelling (BIM) is digital representation of physical and functional
characteristics of a facility creating a shared knowledge resource for information about it forming a
reliable basis for decisions during its life cycle, from earliest conception to demolition.

July 2012 Edition

BIM 360 (from the Autodesk web site) People working in the architecture, engineering, and
construction (AEC) industries are swimming in information. Whether its the design dataoften
dozens of models and even thousands of drawingsor all the other "non-design" information that
surrounds a project, such as contracts, bid documents, photographs, or email, if AEC professionals
dont have a way to securely manage all of that information, they can encounter big problems.
Autodesk is targeting the complex collaboration and data management challenges in AEC with
Autodesk BIM 360. Autodesk BIM 360 is Autodesks name for products and services for
collaboration and data management in AEC, and our vision for delivering these.
Autodesk BIM 360 vision is to provide AEC project teams with a complete, accurate, digital view of
their project, with access to information across the project lifecycle wherever they need itfrom
the office, the web, or the field. To do this, we are leveraging platforms and technologies, existing
and new, from across our portfolio to deliver robust, complete collaboration and data management
for the AEC market.
3D BIM Modelling in 3 dimensions (3D) e.g. width, length and height, using objects, element,
families or content to build a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of
a building, structure or facility.
4D BIM - is a 3D BIM that has objects and assemblies that have "schedule and time" constraint
data added to them. The information can be contained in the BIM or can be linked or otherwise
associated (integrated and/or operable) with project design and construction activity scheduling
and time sensitivity estimating and analysis systems.
5D BIM - is a 4D BIM that has objects and assemblies that have a "cost" dimension added to them.
The cost information can be contained in the BIM or can be linked or otherwise associated to the
building objects.
6D BIM 6D - The aspect of Life Cycle Management (owner/FM)
Higher Levels of BIM that have been quoted on the worth while web as individuals and companies
want to bluff their BIM credentials these include:7D BIM
7D BIM
8D BIM
9D BIM
10D BIM
11D BIM

July 2012 Edition

Sustainability
Adds the aspect of Safety or Life Safety
Maintainability
Acoustics
Security
Heat

BEP BIM Execution Plan (aka BMP BIM Management Plan) is a written plan of engagement of a
BIM enabled team, this should include all stakeholders, exchanges and processes
BIM Maturity Levels for a full explanation of the BIM Wedge Diagram make reference of the
report for the Government Construction Client Group entitled Building Information Modelling
(BIM) Working Party Strategy paper March 2011. See later for link to the Report

BIM Wash The term BIMwash is derived from Whitewash, a cheap white paint or coating of
chalked lime used to quickly give a uniform clean appearance to a wide variety of surfaces.
Metaphorically, to whitewash means to gloss over or cover up vices, crimes or scandals or to
exonerate by means of [] biased presentation of data (Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2003).
In essence, BIMwash is the attempt to hide imperfections (BIM Incompetency), while at the same
time, promoting an inaccurate view of ones BIM capability or credentials.
BLM Building Lifecycle Management
BMP BIM Management Plan (aka BEP) developed to provide a master information/data
management plan and assignment of roles and responsibilities for model creation and data
integration at project initiation. The BMP shall align the project acquisition strategy needs and
requirements with technical standards, team member skills, construction industry capability, and
technology maturity. Through this process, the team members and project management shall
jointly agree on how, when, why, to what level, and for which project outcomes BIM will be used.
The BMP should be considered a living document and shall be continually developed and refined
throughout the project development lifecycle.
BP Best Practice source ANZRS

July 2012 Edition

BPM Building Product Manufacturer specific is a term normally relating to Revit or other BIM
software content. BPM content normally contains more detail and data than generic content
supplied with the software package.
BRE Building Research Establishment is a former UK government establishment (but now a
private organisation, funded by the building industry) that carries out research, consultancy and
testing for the construction and built environment sectors in the United Kingdom. The BRE is
headquartered in Watford with regional sites in Glasgow and Port Talbot.
Among the BREs areas of interest are participation in the preparation of national and international
standards and building codes, including the UK Building Regulations. The organisation is now
funded by income from its commercial programmes, the BRE bookshop, contracted work, and by
bidding for research funding from government and the industries it serves.
BREEAM BRE Environmental Assessment Method is a voluntary measurement rating for green
buildings that was established in the UK by the Building Research Establishment (BRE). Since its
inception it has since grown in scope and geographically, being exported in various guises across
the globe. For the United States of America see LEEDS
BrIM Bridge Information Model see also AIM (Architectural) FIM (Facilities) SIM (Structural), and
BSIM (Building Services)
BSIM Building Services Information Model see also AIM (Architectural) FIM (Facilities) SIM
(Structural), and BrIM (Bridge)
BSRIA (owned by The Building Services Research and Information Association) was founded in
1955 and had a turnover of 11 million in 2009/10. they employ 180 people at our head office in
Bracknell (UK), at regionally based airtightness offices throughout the UK, and offices in France,
Spain, Germany, China, Malaysia and North America see http://www.bsria.co.uk/about/
buildingSMART - formally the International Alliance for Interoperability (IAI), is an alliance of
organizations within the construction and facilities management industries dedicated to improving
processes within the industry through defining the use and sharing of information. Organizations
within the alliance include architects, engineers, and contractors, building owners, facility managers,
manufacturers, software vendors, information providers, government agencies, research
laboratories, universities and more.
BUZZSAW is fully integrated into the Autodesk portfolio of design and data management
software solutions, Autodesk Buzzsaw Software as a Service (SaaS) includes document, model,
and data management tools to support Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows with more
secure access to project information from your desktop, mobile device, or the web.

July 2012 Edition

CAD Computer-Aided Design (CAD), also known as Computer-aided design and drafting (CADD)
, is the use of computer technology for the process of design and design-documentation.
Computer Aided Drafting describes the process of drafting with a computer. CADD software, or
environments, provides the user with input-tools for the purpose of streamlining design processes;
drafting, documentation, and manufacturing processes. CADD output is often in the form of
electronic files for print or machining operations. The development of CADD-based software is in
direct correlation with the processes it seeks to economize; industry-based software (construction,
manufacturing, etc.) typically uses vector-based (linear) environments whereas graphic-based
software utilizes raster-based (pixelated) environments.
CAD or CADD Computer-Aided Design (CAD), also known as computer-aided design and
drafting (CADD) , is the use of computer technology for the process of design and designdocumentation. Computer Aided Drafting describes the process of drafting with a computer. CADD
software, or environments, provides the user with input-tools for the purpose of streamlining
design processes; drafting, documentation, and manufacturing processes. CADD output is often in
the form of electronic files for print or machining operations. The development of CADD-based
software is in direct correlation with the processes it seeks to economize; industry-based software
(construction, manufacturing, etc.) typically uses vector-based (linear) environments whereas
graphic-based software utilizes raster-based (pixelated) environments.
CADCAM - The term CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) is
also often used in the context of a software tool that covers a number of engineering functions
CAE Computer Aided Engineering
CAFM Computer-Aided Facility Management is the support of facility management by
information technology. The supply of information about the facilities is the center of attention.
The tools of the CAFM are called CAFM software, CAFM applications or CAFM systems.
CAM Computer Aided Manufacturing
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) is the use of computer software to control machine tools
and related machinery in the manufacturing of workpieces. This is not the only definition for CAM,
but it is the most common;
CAM may also refer to the use of a computer to assist in all operations of a manufacturing plant,
including planning, management, transportation and storage. Its primary purpose is to create a
faster production process and components and tooling with more precise dimensions and material
consistency, which in some cases, uses only the required amount of raw material (thus minimizing
waste), while simultaneously reducing energy consumption.
CAM is a subsequent computer-aided process after computer-aided design (CAD) and sometimes
computer-aided engineering (CAE), as the model generated in CAD and verified in CAE can be
input into CAM software, which then controls the machine tool
CDE Common Data Environment Defines a process for sharing data throughout the design
lifecycle. It incorporates a system of model and document versioning and revisions to be used.
CDM The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007
July 2012 Edition

CFD Computational Fluid Dynamics model used to virtualise the movement of fluids through a
system using Finite Element algorithms.
CIC Construction Industry Council
CIQS Founded in 1959, The Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors is a self-regulatory,
professional body that sets the highest standard for construction economics in Canada. Designated
Professional Quantity Surveyors (PQS) and Construction Estimator Certified (CEC) professionals
counsel building owners, developers, government bodies, designers and contractors at every stage
of the design, procurement and construction process to help ensure a return on investment is
delivered. For more information see http://www.ciqs.org
Clash Detection Allows for the effective identification, inspection and reporting of interferences
in a 3D project model. Typical example is the Mechanical Engineer designing plant that wants to
pass through the Structural Engineers designed structure.
Autodesks Navisworks is one package that can be used for Clash Detection
Cloud - Group of computers that are used for processing large amounts of information remotely
from the computer hosting the originating program. The in thing at the moment, Autodesk are now
talking more about the cloud than they are BIM ;0)
CIBSE - The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers received its Royal Charter in 1976.
It is the professional body that exists to: support the Science, Art and Practice of building services
engineering, by providing our members and the public with first class information and education
services and promoting the spirit of fellowship which guides our work.' which govern construction
and engineering occupations in the UK, Europe and worldwide.

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CIM Construction Information Modelling, basically its BIM during the Construction process, term
is synonymous with BIM, but for a particular phase of the design, construction and maintenance
process.
Clients Delivery Plan is proposed in the BIM Overlay to the RIBA Outline Plan of Works and
appears to be the next generation of the traditional clients brief prepared at the commencement
of the project, but with the Client Representative and their advisors setting out how the project
information is to be prepared, who does what, and what protocols and procedures to use. The
document would be owned by the client but may be updated and managed using change control
as the supply chain procedures and protocols are expanded and agreed.
It might contain details of:
roles, responsibilities and authorities with relevant organograms;
standard methods and procedures;
the Employers Information Requirements (EIR); and
the Project Programme (PP).
CMMS Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) enable the facility manager,
subordinates and customers to track the status of maintenance work on their assets and the
associated costs of that work. CMMS are utilized by facilities maintenance organizations to record,
manage and communicate their day-to-day operations. The system can provide reports to use in
managing the organization's resources, preparing facilities key performance indicators
(KPIs)/metrics to use in evaluating the effectiveness of the current operations and for making
organizational and personnel decisions. In today's maintenance world the CMMS is an essential
tool for the modern facilities maintenance organization.
COBie - In June 2011 the UK government published its Building Information Modelling (BIM)
Working Party Strategy. This report announced the Government's intention to require collaborative
3D BIM (with all project and asset information, documentation and data being electronic) on its
projects by 2016. The software and data requirements for this detailed in the report are
Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBie).
For more information visit http://www.bimtaskgroup.org/cobie-uk-2012/
COBie UK 2012 - UK specific version of COBie spreadsheet. Generally identical to COBie, but
uses UniClass classification in place of OmniClass.
Content Are the Objects, Elements or Families that the BIM application uses to construct the
Model. Manufacturers are just starting (2011) to produce Content of their products for 3D
Modeling and BIM applications in a similar way that they historically have in the form of 2D Blocks
(DWG) and DXF format files for CAD programs
CPIC the Construction Project Information Committee, responsible for providing best practice
guidance on the content, form and preparation of construction production information and making
sure this best practice is disseminated throughout the UK construction industry.
See http://www/cpic.org.uk/en
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Cradle to Cradle Is a recycling and sustainability view of Cradle to Grave in that when related to
the construction industry that the materials from one building or project may be recycled and used
in following projects not necessarily on the same site. See also LCA Life Cycle Assessment or
Analysis
Cradle to Grave From creation to disposal; throughout the life cycle. The term is used in a
number of business contexts, i.e. relating to humans and health care, Health and Safety, CDM when
related to buildings etc. See also LCA Life Cycle Assessment or Analysis
CSI Construction Specifications Institute and Construction Specifications Canada. See
MasterFormat for more information.

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Data Drops relating to information from the BIM process

Data Drop 1: Model represents REQUIREMENTS and CONSTRAINTS

Data Drop 2: Model represents OUTLINE SOLUTION
Data Drop 3: Model represents CONSTRUCTION INFORMATION
Data Drop 4: Model represents OPERATIONS and MAINTENANCE INFORMATION
Data Drop 5 (and subsequent drops): Model represents POST OCCUPANCY VALIDATION
INFORMATION and ONGOING O&M

The download (Link below) shows a conceptual representation of a Data Drop for a dummy
configuration of two cells. After each conceptual representation of a Data Drop for a Standard MoJ
Cell, a series of screenshots show what the actual COBie file looks like and how it evolves. There are
also extracts from the COBie file for the standard cells to show the actual content of each tab a
COBie file. http://www.bimtaskgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/COBie-data-drops-29.03.12.pdf
Data Set Is a term used to describe the data contained within a design.
Digital Projects Gehry Technologies owned modelling package. Built on top of the Catia
program base, with specific tools relevant to building design.
DWF Design Web Format (DWF) is a secure file format developed by Autodesk for the efficient
distribution and communication of rich design data to anyone who needs to view, review, or print
design files. Because DWF files are highly compressed, they are smaller and faster to transmit than
design files, without the overhead associated with complex CAD drawings (or the management of
external links and dependencies). With DWF functionality, publishers of design data can limit the
specific design data and plot styles to only what they want recipients to see and can publish
multisheet drawing sets from multiple AutoCAD drawings in a single DWF file. They can also
publish 3D models from most Autodesk design applications.
DWF files are not a replacement for native CAD formats such as AutoCAD drawings (DWG). The
sole purpose of DWF is to allow designers, engineers, project managers, and their colleagues to
communicate design information and design content to anyone needing to view, review, or print
design information without these team members needing to know AutoCAD or other design
software.
The current AutoCAD file format (.dwfx) is based on ISO/IEC 29500-2:2008
DWFx DWFX is an Autodesk DWF XPS Document. Autodesk has teamed with Microsoft to
seamlessly integrate DWF technology with Windows Vista using the XML Paper Specification (XPS).
DWFx files can be opened directly within Microsoft`s XPS Viewer, which is automatically installed
with Microsoft Vista, bundled with .NET 3.0, and is available as an optional download for Windows
XP users.
DWG Autodesk DraWinG Format There are several claims to control of the DWG format. As
the biggest and most influential creator of DWG files it is Autodesk who designs, defines, and
iterates the DWG format as the native format for their CAD applications.

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DXF Data eXchange Format aka Drawing Interchange Format, is a CAD data file format
developed by Autodesk for enabling data interoperability between AutoCAD and other programs
which dates back to AutoCAD version 1.0 and December 1982.

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EIR - Employers Information Requirements Document setting out the information to be delivered
by the supply chain as part of the project. The document would set out the Data Drops required
by the client.
Elements One of the important things to understand about BIM modelling software is that they
are object oriented, rather than line based as in traditional 2D drafting. Instead of drawing a series
of lines on a flat sheet to represent a column, you go to a virtual library, load a column element,
and then place it in your virtual working space. That column displays in every view.
Three types of elements are used to model and document a project in modelling software: model
elements, datum elements, and view-specific elements. These elements are organized in order to
allow you to easily control their on-screen and printed appearance and display.
FM Facilities Management is an interdisciplinary field devoted to the co-ordination of business
support services, often associated with maintenance functions in buildings such as offices, arenas,
schools, convention centres, shopping complexes, hospitals, hotels, etc. However, FM supports the
business on a much wider range of activities than just maintenance and these are referred to as
non core functions. They vary from one business sector to another
Family or Families See Elements
FBX is a file format and technology (*.fbx) developed by Kaydara and now owned by Autodesk. It
is used to provide interoperability between digital content creation applications.
FIM Facilities Information of Model see also AIM (Architectura;) SIM (Structural), BSIM (Building
Services) and BrIM (Bridges)
gbXML The Green Building eXtensible Mark-up Language was developed to facilitate a common
interoperability model integrating a myriad of design and development tools used in the building
industry. gbXML is being integrated into a range of software CAD and engineering tools. This
interoperability standard reduces the time to develop a building and also assures that when the
building is put into operation it can meet the design intent.
GFA Gross Floor Area.
GIS Geographical Information System data will give you your relative location globally and allow
you to see how much sunlight you will be receiving or what the local temperature swings will be
during the course of a day. All of these variables can affect building design.
GSA Oasys tool for Structural load analysis.
GUI Graphical User Interface
GUID Global Unique IDentifier

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Hollywood BIM All show and bluff but not really been working with BIM for very long.
HVAC Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning
IAI the International Alliance for Interoperability (IAI), is an alliance of organizations within the
construction and facilities management industries dedicated to improving processes within the
industry through defining the use and sharing of information. They have now changed their name
and rebranded as buildingSMART
IES Integrated Environmental Solutions.
Integrated Integrated data processing is that which has been organised and carried out as a
whole, so that intermediate outputs may serve as inputs for subsequent processing with no human
intervention. The same can be said for any human activity or process (see integrated practice).
IBD Integrated Building Design is the practice of designing sustainably. Green design and
integrated building design should be thought of as equivalent terms.
iBIM Intelligent BIM, were the model not only contains information and guidance related to the
project, but actually suggests elements and relevant guidance to the designer. This is still in its very
early stages, but the potential can be seen when using BIM enabled CAD and master specification
systems Definition Source NBS Report on BIM April 2012
iBIM Integrated BIM Alternative definition source BIM Overlay to the RIBA Outline Plan of
Work May 2012
iBIM Can also be defined as BIM Level 3 according to BS1192-2:2012 Draft document
IDM Information Delivery Manual See BEP BIM Execution Plan

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IFC Industry Foundation Classes are the open and neutral data format for openBIM.
IFC specification is developed and maintained by buildingSMART International as its Data
standard. It is registered with ISO as ISO16739. The specification of the IFC standard includes for
each major and minor edition:

the IFC Specification html documentation

the IFC EXPRESS long form schema
the ifcXML XSD schema
the property set and base quantity library

The IFC specification is written using the EXPRESS data definition language, defined as ISO1030311 by the ISO TC184/SC4 committee. It is the same data definition language as used e.g. in STEP or
CIS/2. It has the advantage of being compact and well suited to include data validation rules within
the data specification. The IFC exchange file structure (the syntax of the IFC data file with suffix
.ifc) is the so called STEP physical file format, defined as ISO10303-21 by the same ISO
TC184/SC4 committee. It is an ASCII file format used to exchange IFC between different
applications.
In addition to the IFC-EXPRESS specification an ifcXML specification is published as well (since the
IFC2x release). The ifcXML spec is provided as an XML schema 1.0, as defined by W3C. The ifcXML
exchange file structure (the syntax of the IFC data file with suffix .ifcXML) is the XML document
structure. The XML schema is automatically created from the IFC-EXPRESS source using the XML
representation of EXPRESS schemas and data, defined as ISO10303-28 ed. 2. This ensures that
both IFC-EXPRESS and ifcXML handle the same data consistently and that the *.ifc and *.ifcXML
data files can be converted bi-directionally.
Add information about the various schemas ir IFC 2x2, 2x3 and 2x4
*.ifc IFC data file using the STEP physical file structure according to ISO10303-21. The *.ifc file
shall validate according to the IFC-EXPRESS specification.
This is the default IFC exchange format.
* ifcXML is an.IFC data file using the XML document structure. It can be generated directly by the
sending application, or from an IFC data file using the conversion following ISO10303-28, the XML
representation of EXPRESS schemas and data.
Note: an .ifcXML file is normally 300-400% larger then an .ifc file.
*.ifcZIP - IFC data file using the Pkzip 2.04g compression algorithm (compatible with e.g. Windows
compressed folders, winzip, zlib, info-zip, etc.). It requires to have a single .ifc or *.ifcXML data file in
the main directory of the zip archive.
Note: an .ifcZIP files usually compress an .ifc down by 60-80% and an .ifcXML file by 90-95%.

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IFD International Framework Dictionary

IP Integrated Practice According to a friend who works for Arup Associates, they or Foggo
Associates, are the only two in the UK currently doing this. AKA Unified Design (credit Ove Arup
1970 key speech)
IPD Integrated Project Development The American are very good at taking something and re
branding it then selling it back to us as a new idea. IPD is fundamentally Partnering which is a term
used within The Latham Report, titled Constructing the Team.
This influential report written by Sir Michael Latham, published in July 1994. Latham was
commissioned by the United Kingdom government and industry organisations to review
procurement and contractual arrangements in the UK construction industry, aiming to tackle
controversial issues facing the industry during a period of lapse in growth as a whole.
Interoperability is a property referring to the ability of diverse systems and organizations to
work together (inter-operate). The term is often used in a technical systems engineering sense, or
alternatively in a broad sense, taking into account social, political, and organizational factors that
impact system to system performance.
While interoperability was initially defined for IT systems or services and only allows for information
to be exchanged (see definition below), a more generic definition could be this one:Interoperability
is a property of a product or system, whose interfaces are completely understood, to work with
other products or systems, present or future, without any restricted access or implementation.
This generalized definition can then be used on any system, not only information technology
system. It defines several criteria that can be used to discriminate between systems that are really
inter-operable and systems that are sold as such but are not because they dont respect one of the
aforementioned criteria, namely:
non-disclosure of one or several interfaces
implementation or access restriction built in the product/system/service
Intelligent Object The object (or set of objects) represents not only the geometry required to
represent the component or assembly graphically (visually) but also has the ability to have much
more information about that object associated with it or related to other intelligent objects
associated with it.
Think of the geometric parameters of the object as being only one of many fields in a database
that describes the visual features and characteristics of the object. Other parameters might include
variables such as how the object may change (a rule set) when something with which it is
associated changes.
For example, if a relationship is established between a duct and a diffuser that are connected in the
model and assigned a specified airflow and the modeler (engineer, designer, etc.) decides to
change the specified airflow of the diffuser then the duct size and diffuser, neck size automatically
(parametrically) are adjusted to accommodate the new specification, and pressure loss calculations
throughout the entire duct system are automatically updated at the same time.
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Intimate BIM The Full Monty of BIM, Full IPD and involving a contractor from feasibility stage
onwards. The top end of the process Lonely BIM, Social BIM, Intimate BIM
ISO International Standards Organisation is the world's largest developer and publisher of
International Standards. ISO is a network of the national standards institutes of 164 countries, one
member per country, with a Central Secretariat in Geneva, Switzerland, that coordinates the system.
ISO is a non-governmental organization that forms a bridge between the public and private
sectors. On the one hand, many of its member institutes are part of the governmental structure of
their countries, or are mandated by their government. On the other hand, other members have
their roots uniquely in the private sector, having been set up by national partnerships of industry
associations.
Therefore, ISO enables a consensus to be reached on solutions that meet both the requirements of
business and the broader needs of society. For more information see http://www.iso.org
J Currently no BIM terms
KPIs Key Performance Indicators Performance measurement is an integral part of business
management. By championing key company and project aims, managers are more likely to achieve
success. But the only way of knowing whether those goals are being delivered is by identifying
indicators of their success and using them to keep an eye on the way the business is performing.

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LCA Life-Cycle Assessment or Analysis is the process of evaluating a component, product,

assembly, building etc. and their development from the moment of extraction of raw materials,
transportation, processing, manufacturing, use, recyclability, and disposal and assigning a value or
assessment of its cumulative and ultimate social, environmental and economical costs, benefits and
impacts. This is often referred to as a cradle to grave or cradle to cradle assessment.
Lead Designer may or may not take on the role and responsibility of the Model Manager,
however they will need to define the outputs required at each stage clarify the inputs that they
require at each stage of the design in order to co-ordinate the design as it progresses.
LEEDS The USA Version of BREEAM, the main difference between the two methods is the
process of certification. BREEAM has trained assessors who assess the evidence against the credit
criteria and report it to the BRE, who validate the assessment and issue the certificate.
While LEED does not require training, there is a credit available if an Accredited Professional (AP) is
used. The role of the AP is to help gather the evidence and advise the client. The evidence is then
submitted to the US-GBC which does the assessment and issues the certificate.
Both schemes share common components. Early involvement of the assessor or AP at the design
stage is beneficial to the project and the final rating. Both schemes drive the market to improve
building design. The judging criteria also keep pace with legislative developments and current best
practice.
Level Object defining floors in a building or grade heights that can be defined by a plane.
LOD Level Of Detail required for elements of the project at any particular stage. The information
becomes more rich as the project moves evolves closer to the construction stage.
LIM Landscape Information Modelling the term is synonymous with BIM, but for a particular
subset.
Lonely BIM Lonely BIM commonly defined as early adaptors who are just starting to use 3D
Modelling packages and have yet to work in collaboration with someone else using the same
software or providing their own 3D data

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Mass Model Type of model file that contains only the volumes describing a project or component
MasterFormat is a standard for organizing specifications and other written information for
commercial and institutional building projects in the U.S. and Canada. Sometimes referred to as the
Dewey Decimal System of building construction, MasterFormat is a product of the Construction
Specifications Institute (CSI) and Construction Specifications Canada.
CSI standard formatting is used throughout the construction industry to format construction
specifications in building contracts. The purpose of this format is to assist the user in locating
specific types of information. Information contained in CSIs MasterFormat is organized in a
standardized outline form within 16 (pre-2004) or 50 (post 2004) divisions. Each division contains a
number of sections. Each section is divided into three partsgeneral, products, and execution.
Each part is organized by a standardized system of articles and paragraphs.
Model Manager A position cited in the BIM Overlay to the RIBA Outline Plan of Work May
2012 Report the role of the Model Manager needs to be considered and the roles and
responsibilities of the various designers and contracting parties need to be clearer, particularly in
relation to Performance Specified Work.
The outputs required at each stage will also require greater definition, and in turn this
will require the Lead Designer to clarify the inputs that they require at each stage of the design in
order to co-ordinate the design as it progresses.
MEP Mechanical Electrical Plumbing and Piping
MDO Multidisciplinary Design Optimization are methods that leverage massively parallel
computing to reduce design-cycle time by orders of magnitude compared to conventional
approaches. The goal of these methods is to enable AEC professionals to systematically evaluate a
much broader range of design alternatives than is currently possible, and thereby, to facilitate the
discovery of innovative solutions that enhance the quality of our built environment from an
economic and ecological perspective.
MicroStation is a CAD software product for 2- and 3-dimensional design and drafting,
developed and sold by Bentley Systems. The latest versions of the software are released solely for
Microsoft Windows operating systems, but historically MicroStation was available for Macintosh
platforms and a number of Unix-like operating systems. MicroStation is the platform architectural
and engineering software package developed by Bentley Systems, Incorporated. Among a number
of things, it generates 2D/3D vector graphic objects and elements.
MIDI Master Information Delivery Index federated lists of information deliverables by each
task, including format, date and responsibilities. Source PAS 1192-2:2012
MIDP Master Information Delivery Plan primary plan for when project information is to be

prepared, by whom and using what protocols and procedures, incorporating all relevant MIDIs
Source PAS 1192-2:2012
Model General term used to refer to the computer file, or files, that contain BIM data.
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Navisworks Software by Autodesk commonly used on multi-disciplinary AEC projects, it

enables one to combine 3D CAD data from dissimilar and competing sources into a single model
environment. The result is a whole-project view that helps everyone make better design decisions,
increases the accuracy of construction documents, and helps predict performance and planning.
Once brought together, a single file can be produced that can then be sent to the client. Using this
consolidated file, you can explore your integrated project model using advanced navigation tools
that produce a realistic, real-time experience. Real-time navigation capabilities are included in
Navisworks
Navisworks also has advanced visualization features to create 3D animations and renderings to
present projects to clients. Users have the ability to configure render settings including materials,
lights, backgrounds, and rendering styles. Environment backgrounds can be used to add real-world
scenery and there are over 1,000 materials built-in to create an accurate, photorealistic look.
Navisworks utilizes three native file formats: NWD, NWC, and NWF. However in addition it can also
read over 40 different 3D CAD formats. Model entities contained in both 2D and 3D geometry
and all associated object property data is typically supported. Being able to work with such a wide
range of file formats allows Navisworks to accommodate almost every design and engineering
application. Having this level of file compatibility in turn allows one to collaborate, coordinate,
and communicate effectively.
NBS offer distinctive, innovative specification and information solutions to construction industry
professionals. They have produced specification products for over 30 years, including the
recognised national standard specification system for the UK.
The NBS specification products cover building construction, engineering services and landscape
design. They also produce a range of information products, including The Construction Information
Service, CIS a joint venture with HIS. From 2005 they have been the publisher of the Building
Regulations Approved Documents for England and Wales. More than 5,000 offices subscribe to
their products.
The NBS employ 130 staff, most of which are based in Newcastle upon Tyne. NBS are part of RIBA
Enterprises Ltd, which is wholly owned by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
NBS is a trading name of RIBA Enterprises Ltd. Registered office: 15 Bonhill Street, London EC2P
2EA, Registered in England 978271. VAT number: GB 232 3518 91

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NLA (Note to self or reader of the Guide - find out what NLA actually stands for?) is an
independent forum for debate about the future shape of the city and a permanent information
resource about whats happening in architecture, planning, development and construction across
the capital.
A year-round programme of events, publications and exhibitions bring together politicians,
professionals and the public to share knowledge, analyse policy, debate change and identify
opportunities.
Their galleries at the Building Centre in central London are open free of charge six days a week
NWC NavisWorks Cache files, are generated when CAD files or laser scans are opened, merged,
or appended in Navisworks. They can also be created by using a designated file exporter.
NWC files are read-only files and can be thought of as a transfer mechanism to convert CAD,
Autodesk Revit, and other model data into a format that Navisworks recognizes. All geometry,
relevant object property information, and display settings from the original source files will carry
over with the NWC export. Once the file is opened in Navisworks, any changes madesuch as
redlines, markups, viewpoints, or display overridescannot be saved back to this format.
When the native CAD format file is first brought in, Navisworks creates a file with the same
name but with the .nwc file extension in the same directory as the original source file. This is an
important concept of a successful Navisworks project, so keep in mind that good model
management skills make this process easier.
When NWC files are opened, merged, or appended, Navisworks compares the original data to the
newly created NWC file and re-caches the file if data in the original file is newer than the NWC.
This ensures that as changes are made to the project design, they are reflected in your Navisworks
project. If no changes are detected, Navisworks opens from the original NWC file, resulting in
quicker loading.
As a best practice, consider standardizing on using the Append command instead of Open. Doing
so reinforces this concept of file aggregation, which is an important part of the overall project
coordination process.
NWD File Format An NWD, or NavisWorks Document file *.nwd, is the basic file format that
contains all geometry, relevant object properties, and clash tests, as well as any markup, comments,
and viewpoint information. As the project evolves, an NWD can be thought of as a snapshot of the
model that captures the current conditions or milestone events. This also includes clash tests and
4D simulations, which will be covered in subsequent chapters. The file size of most NWDs is
considerably smaller compared to the corresponding CAD format.

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NWF File Format NWF files host no 3D geometry but rather contain links to the geometry from
the original native source files. Besides the links, NWF files contain such items as markup data,
viewpoints, comments, graphical overrides, search/selection sets, TimeLiner, and Clash Detective
data.
.
When working with the NWF file format, youll notice the file size for NWFs is extremely small
as compared to the NWC/NWD formats; however, remember the user must have access to the
original source files to view properly. As you work toward mastery of Navisworks, consider using
the NWF as the standard file format during your project. While NWD files can be thought of static
snapshots that capture specific milestones, using the NWF workflow is dynamic and allows for easy
updating of design changes from the original source files. Later in the book, youll explore clash
detection, 4D simulation, and other concepts, so having a good grasp of the file formats is crucial.

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ODBC Open Data Base Connectivity.

OmniClass Classification system as used in the USA, similar to UniClass but sufficiently different
to not be Interoperable. Built into many BIM authoring tools as default classification system
Omniformat is a free document conversion utility which allows dynamic conversion and image
manipulation of over 75 file formats including HTML, DOC, XLS, WPD, PDF, JPG, GIF, TIF, PNG, PCX,
PPT, PS, TXT, Photo CD, FAX and MPEG. http:/www.omniformat.com
Open BIM is a universal approach to the collaborative design, realization and operation of
buildings based on open standards and workflows. Open BIM is an initiative of buildingSMART and
several leading software vendors using the open buildingSMART Data Model.
Open BIM Programme is a marketing campaign initiated by GRAPHISOFT, Tekla and other
members of buildingSMART to urge and facilitate globally coordinated promotion of the Open
BIM concept throughout the AEC industry, with aligned communication and common branding
available to programme participants.
Open BIM Certification is a technical certification system being developed by buildingSMART to
help AEC software vendors improve, test and certify their data connections to work seamlessly with
other Open BIM solutions.
Why is it important?

Open BIM supports a transparent, open workflow, allowing project members to participate
regardless of the software tools they use.
Open BIM creates a common language for widely referenced processes, allowing industry
and government to procure projects with transparent commercial engagement, comparable
service evaluation and assured data quality.
Open BIM provides enduring project data for use throughout the asset lifecycle, avoiding
multiple input of the same data and consequential errors.
Small and large (platform) software vendors can participate and compete on system
independent, best of breed solutions.
Open BIM energizes the online product supply side with more exact user demand searches
and delivers the product data directly into the BIM.

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Parameter A quality that is constant under a given set of conditions (rule set) but may be
different under other conditions.
Parameter (Instance) An Instance parameter is an information container that has a value
particular to a single entity in a BIM model.
Parameter (Project) A Project parameter is an information container that has a value that can be
applied to an entire project. For example; project name.
Parameter (Type) A Type parameter is an information container that has a value that is applied
to a set of objects in a BIM model. Changing this value will alter many objects at once.
Parametric Rule basic relationships between intelligent objects that enable related properties to
be updated when one property changes.
Parametric Modelling A model or feature defined by relationships between component entities
that are governed by rules and constraints. Changing a rule or constraint or modifying a part of the
model often has implications on the component parts and/or the entire model
Partnering The Latham Report, titled Constructing the Team, was an influential report written by
Sir Michael Latham, published in July 1994. Latham was commissioned by the United Kingdom
government and industry organisations to review procurement and contractual arrangements in
the UK construction industry, aiming to tackle controversial issues facing the industry during a
period of lapse in growth as a whole.
A key concept was that through teamwork the construction industry could delight its customers.
Latham made 53 recommendations to change industry practices, to increase efficiency and to
replace the bureaucratic, wasteful, adversarial atmosphere prevalent in most construction projects
with one characterised by openness, co-operation, trust, honesty, commitment and mutual
understanding among team members.
PDF Portable Document Format Invented by Adobe Systems and perfected over 17 years, PDF is
the global standard for capturing and reviewing rich information from almost any application on
any computer system and sharing it with virtually anyone, anywhere. With the launch of Adobe
Acrobat X software, PDF is more secure and dynamic than ever. Thats why individuals,
businesses, and government agencies around the world trust and rely on PDF files to communicate
their ideas and vision.
An open standard PDF is a formal open standard known as ISO 32000. Maintained by the
International Organization for Standardization, ISO 32000 will continue to be developed with the
objective of protecting the integrity and longevity of PDF, providing an open standard for the more
than one billion PDF files in existence today.
Multiplatform PDF files are viewable and printable on virtually any platform, including
Windows, Mac OS, and mobile platforms such as Android.
PIM Product Information Modelling
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PIP Project Implementation Plan Source Draft PAS 1192-2:2012

Platform - Computer program family used for BIM, CADD or CAD processes. No one platform is
required for BIM, in fact no platform is needed at all, only COBie is required for BIM at the most
basic level as specified by the Government (UK & USA etc)
PLM Product Lifecycle Management
Plug & Play working methods Product Lifecycle Management
PP Project Programme - Programme setting out the clients key milestone dates and overall
programme objective
Project - Often a single file or federation of files that contain the information on a particular
design.
Property A property is an information container that usually does not have the ability to be easily
changed or change other values or geometries.
Q Currently no BIM terms

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Revit is Building Information Modeling software originally produced by Revit Technology

Corporation a Massachusetts-based company and purchased by Autodesk for US$133 million in
2002. It allows the user to design with both parametric 3D modeling and 2D drafting elements.
RIBA Royal Institute of British Architects Professional association of architects in the United
Kingdom along with international members. http://www.architecture.com/
RTC Revit Technology Conference is a unique, independent conference covering all things Revit
and BIM and the whole ecosystem that supports it, and that goes to ensuring your success in the
marketplace. No other event brings so many opportunities and benefits together in a single
location. As a 'by users, for users' event. There are RTC events in Australia and America however
there are plans for future events in Europe and the UK for more information
http://www.revitconference.com
RIBA Enterprises Ltd, is wholly owned by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
The NBS are part of RIBA Enterprises Ltd and employ 130 staff, most of which are based in
Newcastle upon Tyne.
RMCSG Revit Model Content Style Guidelines is a document published by Autodesk which was
accompanied by a series of other supporting documents. It remains freely available to anyone at
http://seek.autodesk .com/revit.htm
RTC Revit Technology Conference . more to come ;0)
RUG Revit User Group . more to come ;0)
RVT Autodesk ReViT File Format Revit uses .RVT files for storing BIM models. Typically, a building
is made using 3D objects to create walls, floors, roofs, structure, windows, doors and other objects
as needed. These parametric objects 3D building objects (such as windows or doors) or 2D
drafting objects (such as surface patterns) are called families and are saved in .RFA files, and
imported into the RVT database as needed.

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SCIEP Supply Chain Information Execution Plan Source Daft PAS 1192-2:2012
SDK Software Development Kit (see also API)
Silos, Silo Thinking This expression is typically applied to management systems where the focus
is inward and information communication is vertical. Critics of silos contend that managers serve as
information gatekeepers, making timely coordination and communication among departments
difficult to achieve, and seamless interoperability with external parties impractical.
They hold that silos tend to limit productivity in practically all organizations, provide greater
opportunity for security lapses and privacy breaches, and frustrate consumers who increasingly
expect information to be immediately available and complete. Although much has been written
about them, information silos are becoming far more recognized as the major reason why
organizations are unable to take full advantage of the Internets power to interconnect business
processes.
SIM Structural Information Model See also below Site Information Modelling?
SIM Site Information Modelling - BIM for Site design and Construction, term is synonymous with
BIM, but for a particular subset. Definition from the Landscaping
Social BIM an integrated IPD method of working where you are no longer practicing Lonely BIM
and are now stating to share data and models. The next step up from Lonely BIM and the step
before Intimate BIM
Soft Landings an initiative by BSRIA (see www.softlandings.org.uk) developed to assist clients
during the first months of their occupation and operation of their buildings and beyond, to help
fine-tune the systems and ensure the occupiers understand how to control and best use their
buildings.
SPie Specifiers' Products Information Exchange - Similar to COBie formats, but for products used
during construction. Not widely used outside the USA currently.
SCIEP Supply Chain Information Execution Plan Source Draft BS1192-12012
System Family - A type of Family that only exists inside projects, no external file can exist
of this family type (may be a Revit specific term).

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Trailing Edge - Term used by HM Government to describe the least technically advanced
companies within the construction process. This is the target audience for the Government's
mandate on BIM

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Uniclass is a classification scheme for the construction industry, the full name of which is "Unified
Classification for the Construction Industry". It was published in 1997 by NBS on behalf of CPIC.
Since then changes in the construction industry require us to look at the classification system in the
light of new methods of procurement, new construction technology and new software for
preparing drawings, specifications and bills of quantities.
CPIC have set up a working group to share the work that is being carried out by the RICS on the
new method of measurement; NBS developing a new structure for specifications and the software
houses developing CAD packages for design.
The ICE have also set up a discussion forum with CPIC to expand the classification of civil
engineering projects.
For more on Uniclass see the CIPC web site at http://www.cpic.org.uk/en/
Unified Design - Design process by which all designed aspects are considered as a whole and are
of equal value. A project developed by a multidisciplinary team working together with shared
responsibilities and shared goals.
UNIFORMAT was developed jointly by the General Services Administration (GSA) and the
American Institute of Architects (AIA) in 1972 for estimating and design cost analysis.
UNIFORMAT II, first issued by ASTM in 1993, is an enhanced version developed by a task group
that included amongst others CSI, GSA, AACE, the Tri-Services, R.S. Means and CIQS.
It is more comprehensive than the original, particularly with respect to the mechanical and sitework
elements. Thus the format is suitable for numerous other applications, such as Schematic Phase
Preliminary Project Descriptions
URL Universal Resource Locator.
US-GBC United States Green Building Council is an organisation which does the LEEDS
assessment and issues the certificate.
VB Virtual Building is a concept in which all design, construction, environmental performance,
and operational problems are visualised, solved, and optimised using integrated computer
simulation. The virtual building is intended to support stakeholders throughout the project lifetime
in the following areas:

Exploration: a constantly evolving tool for exploring new directions in design and
construction.
Communication: enabling project teams to quickly and accurately communicate design
forms, functions, and behaviours to other team members, and the broader collection of
stakeholders
Optimisation: facilitating analysis tools that are capable or optimising performance,
sustainability, and costs to meet both short-term and long-term goals

Tools and techniques used in the virtual building are constantly evolving
Ref CIFE Mission Statement" CIFE website, retrieved December 2007
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VBE A Virtual Building Environment is a place where building industry project staffs can get
help in creating Building Information Models (BIM) and in the use of virtual buildings. It consists of
a group of industry software that is operated by industry experts who are also experts in the use of
that software. The purpose of a VBE is to facilitate expert use of appropriate software applications
in conjunction with each other to efficiently support multidisciplinary work. For more information
read http://www.osti.gov/bridge/servlets/purl/841066-AxkQgb/native/841066.pdf
VDC Virtual Design to Construction (Project Management) is the management of integrated
multi-disciplinary performance models of design-construction projects, including the product (i.e.,
facilities), work processes and organization of the design - construction - operation team in order
to support explicit and public business objectives.
WIP Work In Progress
Workflow Consists of a sequence of concatenated (connected) steps. Emphasis is on the flow
paradigm, where each step follows the precedent without delay or gap and ends just before the
subsequent step may begin.
This concept is related to non overlapping tasks of single resources. It is a depiction of a sequence
of operations, declared as work of a person, a group of persons, an organization of staff, or one or
more simple or complex mechanisms. Workflow may be seen as any abstraction of real work. For
control purposes, workflow may be a view on real work under a chosen aspect, thus serving as a
virtual representation of actual work.
The flow being described may refer to a document or product that is being transferred from one
step to another. Workflow concepts are closely related to other concepts used to describe
organizational structure, such as silos, functions, teams, projects, policies and hierarchies.
Workflows may be viewed as one primitive building block of organizations. The relationships
among these concepts are described later in this entry. The term workflow is used in computer
programming to capture and develop human-to-machine interaction.

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Worksharing Using software in a file-based worksharing environment, in which multiple people

work on one project at a time.
Autodesk Revit Worksharing Monitor facilitates the use of Revit software in a file-based
worksharing environment, in which multiple people work on one project. For workshared projects,
the Autodesk Revit Worksharing Monitor answers questions like the following:

Who is currently working on this project?

Is my local copy of the project up to date?
When will my Synchronize with Central operation finish?
Has my request to borrow elements been granted?
Are any issues interfering with my work on a Revit project?

Note Autodesk Revit Worksharing Monitor is not useful for standalone Revit projects, which do not
use worksharing to divide the work for a project among several people.
Autodesk Revit Worksharing Monitor works with all Revit products, including Revit Architecture,
Revit MEP, and Revit Structure. If you are working on one or more workshared Revit projects, install
Autodesk Revit Worksharing Monitor on your computer. When you open a workshared project in
the Revit software, also start Autodesk Revit Worksharing Monitor. (Using Autodesk Revit
Worksharing Monitor with worksharing projects is not required, but it is strongly recommended.)

XML eXtensible Mark-up Language was developed to facilitate a common interoperability model
integrating a myriad of design and development tools used in the building industry.
Y Currently no BIM terms
Zero Harm means zero injuries and zero environmental damage.
Every manager is accountable for achieving Zero Harm and is expected to demonstrate leadership
in creating a culture which actively promotes Zero Harm. Everyone is responsible for committing
and contributing to Zero Harm.
Typical Zero Harm values and behaviours are

We commit and contribute

We value everyone equally
We respect ourselves
We think first of Zero Harm
We continuously improve
We share
We respect the environment

We continue to develop a culture that delivers the best occupational health, safety and
environmental practice for employees, contractors, customers and communities.
Editors Note Ive had the comment that this is nothing to do with BIM However its linked to the environment and
sustainability, Reduction in Carbon etc. so its an associated BIM term and thats why its in Room 101 or this Guide ;0)
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The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

Dont Panic
Alphabetical List of File Formats

Editors Note This is a work in progress and the list is to be expanded upon, happy to
receive nominations for additions ;0)
*.3ds

3DS 3D Studio File

*.csv

CSV Comma Separated Value is a common exchange format which can be exported
from a number of applications including, Microsoft Excel.

*.dgn

DGN - MicroStation File Format (similar to DWG for AutoCAD)

*.dwf

DWF Design Web Format is a secure file format developed by Autodesk for the
efficient distribution and communication of rich design data to anyone who needs to
view, review, or print design files.

*.dwfx

DWFx Design Web Format is an Autodesk DWF XPS Document. Autodesk has teamed
with Microsoft to seamlessly integrate DWF technology with Windows Vista using the
XML Paper Specification (XPS). DWFx files can be opened directly within Microsoft`s XPS
Viewer, which is automatically installed with Microsoft Vista, bundled with .NET 3.0, and is
available as an optional download for Windows XP users.

*.dwg

DraWingG file format (denoted by the *.dwg filename extension) was the native file
format for the Interact CAD package, developed by Mike Riddle in the late 1970s, and
subsequently licensed by Autodesk in 1982 as the basis for AutoCAD From 1982 to 2009,
Autodesk created versions of AutoCAD which wrote no fewer than 18 major variants of
the DWG file format, none of which are publicly documented.
The DWG format is probably the most widely used format for CAD drawings. Autodesk
estimates that in 1998 there were in excess of two billion DWG files in existence.
There are several claims to control of the DWG format. As the biggest and most
influential creator of DWG files it is Autodesk who designs, defines, and iterates the DWG
format as the native format for their CAD applications. Autodesk sells a read/write library,
called RealDWG. Under selective licensing terms for use in non-competitive applications.
Several companies have attempted to reverse engineer Autodesk's DWG format, and
offer software libraries to read and write Autodesk DWG files. The most successful is
Open Design Alliance a non-profit consortium created in 1998 by a number of software
developers (including competitors to Autodesk), released a read/write/view library called
the OpenDWG Toolkit, which was based on the MarComp AUTODIRECT libraries. (ODA
has since rewritten and updated that code.)

*.mlib

MLIB - material library file Products like Mental Ray & Revit use these files

*.mpx

MPX Microsoft Project Exchange Format which is the common project exchange

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format which can be exported to from a number of scheduling packages

*.pdf

PDF Adobe portable document format

*.prj

3D Studio file format

*.prp

PRP MicroStation file

*.prw

PRW MicroStation file

*.rfa

RFA - Revit family file

*.rte

RTE - Revit template file

*.rtf

RTF - Rich Text Format file

*.rvg

RVG - Revit External Group file No longer used

*.rvt

RVT - Autodesk ReViT File Format Revit uses .RVT files for storing BIM models. Typically,
a building is made using 3D objects to create walls, floors, roofs, structure, windows,
doors and other objects as needed. These parametric objects 3D building objects
(such as windows or doors) or 2D drafting objects (such as surface patterns) are called
"families" and are saved in .RFA files, and imported into the RVT database as needed.

*.sat

SAT 3D ACIS model file

*.skp

SKP SketchUp file format

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The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

Dont Panic
Reference Material
Some of these publications especially the Government ones are the background to why you are
getting into BIM, the others like those from RIBA are about how BIM is going to impact and
fundamentally alter the way we currently work.
Most of these publications listed here are FREE, however there are those that are making a quick
buck out of selling information about what BIM is and isnt. I suggest you read the material below
before parting with 199 or more.
Draft PAS 1192-2:2012 Released for comment June 2012
Building Information Management Information requirements for
the capital delivery of construction projects
http://www.bimtaskgroup.org/pas-1192-22012/
This document is a working draft that despite the warning on the front cover has
been released for comment. IMHO there are too many levels of Management and
duty owners being proposed, renaming of people and documents, and
bottlenecks being built in the proposed processes. In its present state it kind of
makes you wonder if the people on the committee have actually been involved in
the real construction industry or only played SIM city! (thats the computer game
and not another term for SIM)
Bottom line this document will be ultimately trust down our throats, so take the
time to read review and feedback to the committee creating it to help them get it
right.

BIM Overlay to the RIBA Outline Plan of Work May 2012

http://www.ribabookshops.com/uploads/b1e09aa7-c021-e684-a548b3091db16d03.pdf
May 2012
This document is the result of a review of the Outline Plan of Work 2007
(Amended November 2008) by a working group under the direction of the RIBA
Practice and Profession Committee. A number of clients have assisted in the
review, and the RIBA members involved in the UK Government Cabinet Office and
CIC BIM working groups have also contributed to the document.

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NBS National BIM Report 2012

http://www.thenbs.com/pdfs/NBS-NationalBIMReport12.pdf
Introduction
BIM and the UK Construction Strategy
BIM from the point of view of a small practice
BIM Survey: Summary of findings
What will BIM mean for design fees?
BIM collaboration and engineering
ICT and Security, Norman Disney & Young

ANZRS Australian and New Zealand Revit Standards

Version 3 [01-2012]
http://www.anzrs.org/
The Australian and New Zealand Revit Standards (ANZRS) was an initiative
conceived at RTC (Revit Technology Conference) 2009 in Melbourne in response
to the Revit user communitys frustration with lack of consistency and quality in
Revit families available from Autodesk, Content Creators and other sources.

HM Government Low Carbon Action Plan

http://www.bis.gov.uk/assets/biscore/business-sectors/docs/l/11-976-lowcarbon-construction-action-plan
June 2011
The Government Response to the Low Carbon Construction Innovation and
Growth Team

Government Construction Strategy May 2011

http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/sites/default/files/resources/GovernmentConstruction-Strategy.pdf
The strategy has been prepared by the Efficiency and Reform Group of the
Cabinet Office and the Construction Sector Unit of BIS, working closely with
Infrastructure UK (IUK).

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NBS Building Information Modelling Report March 2011

www.thenbs.com/bim
This is the first NBS BIM Report in what will be a series of reports on the
adoption of what we currently call BIM or Building Information Modelling. These
reports will track changes in attitudes towards BIM as well as implementation
within the industry. They will act as a reference point for the industry to share
success and to highlight areas of developmental need. Ultimately, they will also
strip away much of the hype and hysteria around BIM to provide detailed answers
to important issues including Return on Investment.

BIM Management for value, cost & carbon improvement BIM

Working Party Strategy Paper March 2011
https://connect.innovateuk.org/c/document_library/get_file?uuid=6842e020-20df4449-8817-08ce2ba9ef7c&groupId=68909
The purpose of this document is to brief the Construction Clients Group of the
progress and findings of the BIM Industry Working Group, who were invited by
BIS and the Efficiency Reform Group from the Cabiniet Office to look at the
construction and post occupancy benefits of BIM (Building (Asset) Information
Modelling & Management) for use in the UK building and infrastructure markets.
The document describes the Working Groups recommended strategy to deliver a
structures Government / Sector capability to increate BIM take-up over a five year
horizon as part of a joined up plan to improve the performance of the
government estste in terms of cost, value and carbon performance.

HM Government Low Carbon Construction

Innovation & Growth Team Final Report Autumn 2010
http://www.bis.gov.uk/assets/biscore/business-sectors/docs/l/10-1266es-low-carbon-construction-igtexecutive-summary.pdf

This is the final report of an Innovation and Growth Team (IGT), drawn from
across the UK construction industry to consider how the UK construction industry
can rise to the challenge of the low carbon agenda. It follows Emerging Findings
published in March 2010, and builds
on those findings, as charged by Mark Prisk MP, the Minister for Business and
Enterprise in the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills; and the report
has also been produced with the support DECC, CLG and DEFRA.

The VA BIM Guide

http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/bim/BIMGuide/downloads/VA-BIM-Guide.pdf
April 2010
This guidance shall apply to design and construction by the architects,
engineers, other consultants, and contractors hired for those projects by
the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Construction &
Facilities. VAs Minor Program shall actively support and encourage the
use of BIM where practicable, taking into account the size, type of project,
and the availability of the BIM skill sets that are needed to accomplish the
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project.
AEC (UK) BIM Standard for Autodesk Revit Version 1.0
http://aecuk.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/aecukbimstandardforrevit-v1-0.pdf

November 2009
The AEC (UK) CAD Standards Initiative was formed in 2000 to improve the
process of design information production, management and exchange.
Initially the initiative addressed CAD layering conventions as the primary
concern for users of design data. As design needs and technology has
developed, the initiative has expanded to cover other aspects of design
data production and information exchange.
An Introduction To Building Information Modeling (BIM)
A Guide for ASHRAE Members
http://todaysfacilitymanager.com/facilityblog/wp-content/uploads/bim_guide.pdf
September 2009
This Guide is intended to provide ASHRAE members with an introduction to
Building Information Modeling and Building Information Models (both known as
BIM). It is intended to serve as a starting point for those members considering
adopting BIM tools and applications as part of their business practices.

The Contractors Guide to BIM Edition 1

http://www.agcnebuilders.com/documents/BIMGuide.pdf
December 2006
This guide was prepared, in large part, by contractors who were where you
are now, trying to sort it all out and determine where to start. Lessons
based on their experiences were used in preparing this guide. Though the
process is evolving rapidly and the guidance offered here may be become
dated quickly, it is hoped that the basic framework for how to get started
will be useful to all contractors
Superseded in February 2010 by the Edition 2 which unlike the first
version is no longer free Retail Price: $75.00 Member Price: $50.00

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The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

Dont Panic
Hot Links
List Under Construction
COBie Information

http://www.bimtaskgroup.org/cobie-uk-2012/

UK Revit Bloggers
Revit @ Waterman
Revit A Structured Approach
Revit Detail
Revit Elemental
Revit Everything Autodesk Revit and BIM
Revit Fox
Revit Structure Learning Curve

http://revit-waterman.blogspot.com/
http://revitstructureblog.wordpress.com/
http://revit-detail.blogspot.com/
http://revitelemental.blogspot.com/
http://autodesk-revit.blogspot.com/
http://www.revitfox.co.uk/
http://cadalot-revitlearningcurve.blogspot.com/

UK Revit User Groups

LRUG London Revit User Group
http://www.lrug.co.uk

GRUG Glasgow Revit User Group

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?mostPopular=&gid=2522770

ERUG Edinburgh Revit User Group

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?mostPopular=&gid=3567506

BRUG Bristol Revit User Group

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?mostPopular=&gid=3469194

RUGLeeds Revit User Group Leeds

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?home=&gid=3696890&trk=anet_ug_hm

RU Ireland G Revit Users Ireland Group

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?home=&gid=2433081&trk=anet_ug_hm

MRUG Manchester Revit User Group

http://www.linkedin.com/groups/MRUG-Manchester-Revit-User-Group-3962651?trk=myg_ugrp_ovr

RMUG Revit Midlands User Group

http://www.linkedin.com/groups?home=&gid=3817937&trk=anet_ug_hm

NERUG North East Revit User Group

http://www.linkedin.com/groups/North-East-Revit-Users-Group 4029707?home=&gid=4029707&trk=anet_ug_hm

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The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

Dont Panic
BIM Software Guide

This list provides a partial list of currently available BIM and IPD Software, tools and application,
and is intend to be a starter for 10. It is in no way complete and will be out of date the moment I
upload this document. As you research and get more into BIM you will find a lot more.
In early 2011 a well know structural engineering design software company who will remain
nameless re-marketed all of there 3D analytical and design software as being BIM, when they
suddenly realised there software was part of the BIM process.
Current Commercial Application Software by Company
Autodesk
Revit & AutoCAD
Numerous Design Suites and bundles that appear to change on a near daily basis!
Learn More http://usa.autodesk.com/building-information-modeling/products/
Bentley
MicroStation and numerous other systems and simulators i.e.
Learn More http://www.bentley.com/en-GB/
Granlund
RIUSKA Intergrated Building Solutions
Learn More http://www.granlund.fi/
GRAPHISOFT
ArchiCAD
Learn More http://www.graphisoft.com/
Wrightsoft
Right-Suite Universal
Learn More http://www.wrightsoft.com/

More Details to be added i.e. BIM for Civils and Infrastructure - UStn, InRoads, InRail, etc,

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Current Commercial Application Software by Company

AllPlan

Nemetscheck owned modelling platform.

ArchiCAD

Graphisoft owned modelling platform

Catia

Dassault Systemes owned modelling package. Created for automotive

and aircraft design, now used for building design. Very advanced
package.

Civil 3D

Autodesk owned, AutoCAD based program for Civil engineering

design and documentation.

Eagle Point

Eagle Point Software house that provides programs for designing

topology and site works. Based in the US, but may have application
elsewhere.

Generative Components

Add-on for MicroStation for parametric form finding. Complex but

very powerful

gINT

Bentley owned program for documenting geological features and

strata

KeySCAPE

Add-on for AutoCAD with exports to Revit, owned by Key Systems, for
designing and documenting Landscape designs.

KeyHOLE

Add-on for AutoCAD, owned by Keynetix, for documenting geological

features and strata.

Navisworks

Allows the sharing of Multi-format models and allows clash detection

and conflicts to be resolved on projects prior to construction

Nucleus

Add-On for Revit and Vasri to model bio-mimetical shapes.

Project Dynamo

Add-On for Revit for graphical generation of adaptive components

Project Wise

Bentley owned project management system. May be used in

conjunction with many BIM modelling platforms

Revit

Building Information Modelling software originally produced by Revit

Technology Corporation a Massachusetts-based company and
purchased by Autodesk for US$133 million in 2002. It allows the user
to design with both parametric 3D modelling and 2D drafting
elements

Vasari

Autodesk owned conceptual modelling program. Very similar to the

Conceptual Modelling environment in Revit, with additional
functionality for energy analysis. Currently available free.

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The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

Dont Panic
BIM Buzzword Bingo
Buzzword bingo (also known as bullshit bingo) is a bingo-style game where participants prepare
bingo cards with buzzwords and tick them off when they are uttered during an event, such as a
meeting or speech. The goal of the game is to tick off a predetermined number of words in a row,
column or diagonal and then yell "Bingo!" (or "Bullshit!") or perhaps in this case BIM

AIM
IFC
Silos
EIR
4D BIM

IPD
Lonely BIM
Workflow
VBE
Clash Detection

PIM
Social BIM
PIP

COBie Data
Lonely BIM
Workflow
Soft Landings
VBE

IPD
Social BIM
MIDP
Clash Detection
IFC

4D BIM
Intimate BIM
Data Drops
Capex
Carbon

PIP
IFC
Silos
Soft Landings
Interoperability

IPD
Cradle to Cradle
Capex
Clash Detection
Lonely BIM

4D BIM
Workflow
Data Drops

Carbon
Lonely BIM
EIR
MIDP
Cradle to Cradle

IPD
Social BIM
CDE
Silos
Soft Landings

AIM
Intimate BIM
Clash Detection

COBie Data
IFC
Silos
Soft Landings
AIM

IPD
Lonely BIM
PIM
Clash Detection
PIP

4D BIM
Social BIM
Data Drops

Collaborative BIM

COBie Data

Collaborative BIM

Social BIM

PIM
Capex

Collaborative BIM

Cradle to Cradle

Soft Landings
Data Drops
Capex
CDE
MIDP

BIM Wash
Intimate BIM
Interoperability
Carbon
Cradle to Cradle

Interoperability
Cradle to Cradle
EIR
AIM

BIM Wash
PIP
CDE
Opex
PIM

Carbon
Silos
PIM
COBie Data
Intimate BIM

BIM Wash
AIM
CDE
EIR
MIDP

Data Drops
PIP
Opex
BIM Wash

IFC
4D BIM
Interoperability
Workflow
COBie Data

CDE
BIM Wash
EIR
MIDP
Workflow

Opex
Intimate BIM
Interoperability
Carbon
Capex

Collaborative BIM

Collaborative BIM

Print this page cut out the strips and distribute

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43

The Hitch Hikers Guide to BIM

Dont Panic
References

The material for this guide has been sourced from the Reference Material listed earlier on in this
publication in addition to so many other web sites, blogs, and publication that I could not possibly
list them all. So a big thank you to all the web masters and bloggers for your assistance is
providing information to the BIM community in general and me in particular.

Permission is hereby granted to reproduce this picture on condition that it is

accompanied by DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC. & SPYGLASS
ENTERTAINMENT, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

For lists and links to further material on Revit and BIM see my blog at
http://cadalot-revitlearningcurve.blogspot.co.uk/
Always happy to receive constructive feedback or perhaps additions for the next version email me
at awooldridge@swh.co.uk or alan@cadalot.co.uk
Feedback
Kevin Dolley, Autodesk Revit User Experience Team
Outstanding work! What I've flipped through so far is top notch! Thanks for sharing.

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