IFC
An open, ISO-standardised data format for sharing BIM models between different software platforms — the standard for interoperability in BIM-based heritage workflows.
Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) is an open data standard for Building Information Models, published by buildingSMART International and standardised as ISO 16739. IFC defines a common data schema for describing building elements, their geometry, properties and relationships — allowing BIM models created in one software (e.g. Autodesk Revit) to be opened and used in another (e.g. Bentley MicroStation, ArchiCAD, Navisworks) without loss of data.
For heritage projects, IFC export is important because different stakeholders — structural engineers, conservation architects, facility managers, heritage authorities — may use different software. IFC provides the interoperable format that allows the HBIM model created by the documentation team to be used by all parties without requiring everyone to use the same software.
IFC4 is the current version of the standard, with improved support for complex geometry and infrastructure assets.
Relevant Standards
- — ISO 16739 (IFC4)