Chapter 1 – Introduction: openBIM and buildingSMART

Building Information Modeling (BIM) represents the “next big step” for everyone involved in the planning process in the construction industry. It is foreseeable that in a few years – as with the introduction of CAD in the last millennium – the entire execution process over the life cycle will adapt in such a way that the BIM method will take on a central role. In future, this will require appropriately qualified BIM training. The verification of BIM knowledge must be guaranteed by internationally comparable quality standards for personal knowledge and skills. buildingSMART International has therefore developed a “Professional Certification”.

This book contains the topics for the “buildingSMART Professional Certification Program” at the “Foundation” and “Practitioner” levels(openBIM Coordination and openBIM Management). Chapters 1 and 2 deal with the basic knowledge of digitization, standardization (especially ISO 19650), the tools and structures required for BIM and the organization including rules and regulations. This knowledge is essential for the “Foundation” training.

Chapter 3 expands on the knowledge from Chapter 2 and covers the important openBIM terms in detail. This chapter begins with an in-depth look at the openBIM standards and a detailed explanation and description of the IFC data structure and then deals with MVD, BCF and CDE. Finally, guest authors discuss LOIN, IDS, bSDD and UCM.

Chapter 4 is entirely dedicated to the openBIM application. The use of openBIM in the individual project phases of the life cycle of a building, from the project idea to planning and construction, is discussed step-by-step. This chapter covers the topics for the “Practitioner” training in openBIM Coordination and openBIM Management.