BIM (Building Information Modeling) is an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure. At the heart of BIM is a smart building data model that incorporates not only 3D geometry but also all the relevant data relating to the building and its components. This kind of building data model can only be created using complex, BIM-enabled software.

Provided that all of those involved in the planning are working with the same software, data exchange is loss-free. The native BIM format also facilitates the coordination of all planning stages and stakeholders. In building projects, it can happen that those involved in the planning process are using different BIM software from different providers. The buildingSMART initiative (www. buildingSMART.org) has developed the IFC format to support such openBIM workflows.

IFC allows the exchange of a specific subset of the native model. Since the IFC4 release, the IFC format has met a recognized ISO standard (ISO 16739:2013). In its current version, buildingSMART maintains a list of all applications with certified IFC support: www.buildingsmart.org/compliance/certifiedsoftware/ IFC as the standard for exchanging BIM information The Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) are an open standard for the exchange of building data models used in building design and construction across different software. They are used to exchange information within a project team and between software applications used in design, construction, procurement, maintenance, and operation. Current IFC Model View Definitions primarily support 3D geometry and property data. 

For this reason, buildingSMART as release a manual with detailed instructions for handling IFC files. Download the manual by clicking here and get to know the interoperability standards.