BIM Collaboration Format (BCF)
Standard communication protocol for efficient issue management and coordination on BIM projects
What is the BIM Collaboration Format?
BCF is an international openBIM standard, developed and
maintained by buildingSMART International. BCF is available in many BIM software tools.
There are two different ways to utilize BCF – via a file-based exchange or via a web service.
Examples of how the BIM Collaboration Format can be used
Use Case Example
- Scenario: During a routine review of the BIM model, a clash is detected between a structural beam and HVAC ductwork.
- BCF Action: An issue is created in the BCF system, marking the exact location of the clash. The issue is categorized under 'Clash Detection' and assigned to both the structural engineer and HVAC specialist.
- Discussion and Resolution: The assigned team members use the comment function within BCF to discuss potential solutions, attaching revised sketches and documents. Once resolved, the issue status is updated to 'Closed', and the resolution details are documented for future reference.
Model-Based Communication
- Marking Specific Locations: Users can pinpoint specific areas in a BIM model where attention is needed. This is particularly useful for highlighting discrepancies or areas requiring further discussion.
- Enhancing Discussions: BCF allows team members to attach comments directly to the marked locations. These comments can include text, images, and links, facilitating clear and context-specific discussions.
Issue Tracking and Management
- Clash Detection Reports: Automatically generate and assign issues for conflicts identified between different model elements. Each issue can be tracked through BCF tools until resolved.
- Creating To-Do Lists: BCF files can be used to create actionable items for team members, which helps in organizing tasks and ensuring that all issues are addressed systematically.
- Monitoring Status and Resolution: Track the progress of each issue with statuses such as ‘Open’, ‘In Progress’, and ‘Closed’. This helps in monitoring the lifecycle of problems and resolutions throughout the project.
- Categorizing Issues: Organize issues into categories such as 'Structural', 'HVAC', 'Electrical', etc., to streamline the review process and assign to the relevant experts.
- Assigning Responsibilities: Assign tasks to specific project members within the BCF file. This ensures accountability and clear lines of responsibility.
Why use the BCF?
Reliable coordination and communication due to clear agreements and standards
Shorter lead time thanks to improved clarity
Lower failure costs due to efficient coordination
Predictable workflows due to accessible communication
history
Better coordination, independent from a software tool
Ensured responsibilities due to transparent allocation of topics
Software supporting the BCF
The list above is randomized and buildingSMART does not favor any particular solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
The workflow explained
IDS plays a crucial role in the openBIM workflow by helping to set the requirements for exchanging information at the start of a project. Without this clarity and early set of definitions, challenges later in a project can occur as a result.
Explore other buildingSMART Standards and Services
