“Understanding Key BIM Concepts: BIM, OpenBIM, IFC, LOD, and LOI in Just 2 Minutes”

BIM, which stands for building information modeling, refers to the utilization of digital models to support the design, construction, and operation of buildings. openBIM, on the other hand, pertains to a specific method of BIM that is based on open exchange standards promoting communication between project teams utilizing different software tools. For instance, openBIM enables the seamless transfer of a project model from Autodesk Revit to Allplan. IFC or Industry Foundation Classes is an exchange format that underpins the openBIM approach. If an architect wants to share their model, they need to export an IFC file from their modeling software and share it with other planning partners. Meanwhile, LOD or Level of Detail/Development pertains to the geometric detail of a BIM object at various stages, replacing traditional conventions of drawing scale. Lastly, LOI or Level of Information describes the information content of a BIM object at a specific time in the project. LOI encompasses the object’s properties, such as dimensions, material specification, insulation, as well as the associated cost of the building element.