FAQ: BIM, Revit, IFC, CDE

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is a working method that combines a 3D model with a building database. Every model element (wall, MEP system, etc.) contains technical, cost and material information.

• Ensures information consistency and better multi-discipline coordination.
• Reduces errors and risk during the construction phase.
• Accelerates the investment and lowers costs.

• Real savings: up to ~30% faster design and ~40% fewer errors.
• Automatic documentation: plans, sections, elevations always consistent with the model.
• Easier collaboration: everyone works on the same BIM model.
• Cost control and investment scheduling throughout the entire cycle.

CAD represents geometry (2D/3D), but without rich data. BIM is an intelligent 3D model with parameters for every element.

• CAD: drawing/shape.
• BIM: shape + data (material, cost, technical properties, thermal transmittance).

• Inventory / concept -- base building model.
• Preparing the project for BIM -- setting up the working environment.
• Discipline modeling -- architecture, structural, MEP.
• Coordination -- clash checking and compliance verification.
• Documentation -- automatic drawings from the model (AR supervision).
• Analysis and optimization -- cost (5D), time (4D), energy.
• Operation -- using the model as a digital twin.

Clash detection is the identification of clashes between elements of different disciplines (e.g. a pipe running through a beam). Errors are eliminated at the design stage, saving time and costs on site.

LOD (Level of Detail) defines the geometric accuracy; the information matrix (LOI) defines the set of required data at a given stage.

Example levels:

• LOD 100-200 (concept, building permit design)
  • Geometry: general shapes and layout.
  • Information: room designations, basic dimensions, preliminary materials, area indicators.
• LOD 300-350 (detailed design, coordination)
  • Geometry: actual locations and dimensions.
  • Information: specific materials, technical parameters (e.g. insulation, load-bearing capacity), system catalog data.
• LOD 350-400 (shop drawings)
  • Geometry: installation method, connections.
  • Information: catalog numbers, manufacturers, mounting systems, installation details.
• LOD 500 (as-built, digital twin)
  • Geometry: full representation of existing conditions.
  • Information: operational data, serial numbers, service, maintenance, warranties.

The information matrix (e.g. Excel/IFC or part of the BEP) indicates who/when/what data is entered -- eliminating information gaps.

Yes. BIM reduces revisions, speeds up documentation and helps investors make decisions thanks to 3D/VR.

Even for a single-family house: better cost/schedule control and greater awareness of design decisions.

A digital twin is a virtual copy of a building based on a BIM model, optionally fed with IoT data.

• Monitoring energy consumption and conditions.
• Planning maintenance and managing operations in real time.

A 3D scanner creates a point cloud, from which a BIM model is recreated that faithfully represents the existing conditions.

Essential for modernizations, renovations and inventories when documentation is incomplete or outdated.

• Revit (Autodesk) -- architecture, structural, MEP.
• Navisworks -- coordination and clash detection.
• Archicad (Graphisoft) -- a popular alternative among architects.
• Tekla Structures -- steel and reinforced concrete structures.
• Solibri, BIMcollab, Dalux -- model analysis, CDE and management.

BIM provides control over scope, costs and time through a 3D model linked with data (4D/5D).

• Transparent investment overview and quick data-driven decisions.
• Fewer errors and misunderstandings -- one consistent model.
• In operation -- digital twin for FM, renovation planning, optimization.

No. In Poland it is not yet legally required, but it is sometimes a condition set by investors (especially international ones). In many EU countries it is mandatory for public procurement.

Initially higher expenditure (software, training), but lower overall costs thanks to faster work, fewer errors and reduced rework during design and construction.

Yes. A BIM model facilitates FM: inspections, renovations, energy optimization.

Key open data exchange formats include:

• IFC (Industry Foundation Classes)
• COBie (Construction Operations Building information exchange)

This ensures data remains independent of FM/CAFM tools and useful throughout the building's entire lifecycle.

• Cost and training time -- investment in licenses and team education.
• Changing the way of working -- working on a single model, clear roles and responsibilities.
• Standardization and procedures -- CDE and BEP and their consistent application across companies/disciplines.

The model becomes the "single source of truth" for all investment participants -- it requires discipline and good communication, but delivers the greatest long-term benefits.

• BIM Modeler (Architect/Engineer) -- creates and updates the model according to standards.
• BIM Coordinator -- discipline model consistency, clash detection, team collaboration.
• BIM Manager -- the BIM process: standards, procedures, data exchange schedules, quality, compliance with client requirements.
• BIM Consultant / BIM Lead -- BIM implementation support, strategies, documents (e.g. BEP).
• Client / BIM Employer -- defines information requirements (EIR).

CDE (Common Data Environment) -- a shared project data environment: models, drawings, reports, schedules, correspondence.

• Ensures everyone works on a single, up-to-date version of information.
• Eliminates version chaos and file exchange via email.
• Most commonly cloud-based solutions (e.g. Autodesk Construction Cloud, Trimble Connect, Dalux).

• EIR (Employer's Information Requirements) -- the client's information requirements: what data and in what form should be delivered.
• BEP (BIM Execution Plan) -- the BIM delivery plan: how to meet the EIR, responsibilities, standards/formats, information exchange process.

The EIR defines "what the client expects", and the BEP -- "how it will be delivered".

IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) -- an open buildingSMART standard for BIM data exchange.

• Enables interoperability between software (Revit, Archicad, Tekla, Allplan, etc.).
• Ensures data independence from a single software vendor.
• A standard for public projects and major investments (data longevity).