BIM Terms and Acronyms
A useful list of Building Information Model terms and acronyms is listed below. If you are doing architectural visualization you are sure to come across the need to understand and or even use BIM software, most notably Revit from Autodesk. At 3DAllusions Studio we offer price breaks for the use of Clients Revit models in assembling out scenes. In this way the Client and our studio capitalizes on the efforts already made as best we can to reduce redundancy and wasted efforts to provide the most economical solutions we possibly can.
Useful A-Z of BIM terms and acronyms
A
Aggregation is the action of bringing together more than one model into a common environment (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Analysis is the action or process of analysing the model(s) for different purposes or a table or statement of the results of analysis of the model(s) (based on The Chambers English Dictionary)
Architectural Model is a model made up solely of architectural building components (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Archive is a component of the common data environment (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
As-built is defined as the record drawings and documentation defining deviation to the desgiend information occuring during construction at the end of the project (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
As-constructed defines the defect and deviation to the designed model occuring during construction. The “asconstructed” model and its appended documentation are continually updated through re-measurement as construction progresses. This allows for deviation to be reviewed with respect to the following packages and making knowledgeable assessment of impact and resolution (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Assembly is a composition or collection of components and/or modelled elements arranged to define part of all of a building, model, structure or site. An Assembly typically contains information that can be referenced without repositioning (as defined by AEC (UK) BIM Standard Version 1 Page 7) OR a group of componenets or types to enable the reuse of standardised design or specification elements improving productivity of design and delivery as well as providing a location to hold specifications and lessons learnt in a simple and useable way. They may hold benchmark data for cost and carbon impacts. The contents of assemblies may themselves have attributes and classifications. These properties may include key data which is attached (to the object) for use once it is placed into a model and may include cost, CO2, programme, maintenance and other key information (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Asset Information Management is the discipline of managing asset-related organizational data and information to a sufficient quality to support organizational objectives and outcomes (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
Asset Information Model (AIM) is maintained information model used to manage, maintain and operate the asset (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013) OR is data and information that relates to assets to a level required to support an organization’s asset management system (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
Asset Information Plan is the specific information plan for the Information Model used to manage, maintain and operate the asset (as defined by the CIC Outline Scope of Services for the Role of Information Management)
Asset Information Requirements (AIR) is data and information requirements of the organization in relation to the asset(s) it is responsible for (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
Attribute is a piece of data forming a partial description of an object or entity (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
B
Bill of Quantities (BQ) means a list of items giving detail identifying descriptions and firm quantities of the work comprised in a contract (as defined by the RICS)
BIM Execution Plan - see Building Information Modelling Execution Plan
‘BIM Wash’ is a term describing the inflated - and sometimes deceptive - claim of using or delivering Building Information Modelling products or services (defined by ThinkBIMspace)
Building Information Management see Information Management
Building Information Model is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of the project (as defined by AIA Document E202 - 2008 - 1.2.1)
Building Information Modelling is the process of designing, constructing or operating a building or infrastructure asset using electronic object-oriented information (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Building Information Modelling Execution Plan (BEP) is a plan prepared by the suppliers to explain how the informationmodelling aspects of a project will be carried out (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
C
CIC Scope of Services are muti-disciplinary scope of services published by the Construction Industry Council (CIC) for use by members of the project team on major projects (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Clash Detection is detecting possible collisions between elements in a building information model which would not otherwise be desired or buildable on site (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Clash Rendition (CR) is rendition of the native format model file to be used specifically for spatial coordination processes. To acheive clash avoidance or to be used for clash detection (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Classification is a systematic arrangement of headings and sub-headings for aspects of construction work including the nature of assets, construction elements, systems and products (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Client is the individual or organisation commissioning a built asset (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
COBie (Construction Operation Building information exchange) is structured facility information for the commissioning, operation and maintenance of a project often in a neutral spreadsheet format that will be used to supply data to the employer or operator to populate decision-making tools, facilities management and asset management systems (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013) OR is structured asset information for the commissioning, operation and maintenance of an asset often in a neutral spreadsheet format that will be used to supply data to the owner or operator to populate decision-making tools and asset management systems (as defined by DRAFT PAS 1192-3:2014)
Code is a sequence of characters, often a mnemonic, having defined meaning when interpreted in the context of the field in which it is entered, used to concisely convey meta-data (as defined by BS1192:2007- 3.1)
Common Co-ordinates is a way of identifying the location of the model(s) or building(s) in relation to a specific agreed point. This point could be to global or local co-ordinates and this should be identified as to which has been used (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects / Balfour Beatty Construction)
Common Data Environment (CDE) is a single source of information for any given project, used to collect, manage and disseminate all relevant approved project documents for multi-disciplinary teams in a managed process (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013) OR a single source of information for the Project which collects, manages and disseminates relevant approved documents relating to the project (as defined by the CIC Outline Scope of Services for the Role of Information Management) OR is a single source of information for any given project or asset, used to collect, manage and disseminate all relevant approved project documents for multi-disciplinary teams in a managed process (as defined by DRAFT PAS 1192-3:2014)
Component is an individual building element that can be reused. Examples include doors, stair cores, furniture or internal room layouts, facade panels, etc. Components are typically inserted and moved/rotated into the required position (as defined by AEC (UK) BIM Standard Version 2 Page 7) OR a synonym for “occurence” (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Component Grade is the left of detail that the individual building element has been modelled to (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Computer Aided Design is a geometric / symbol based computer drawing system that replicated hand drawing techniques (as defined by the Department of Veterans Affairs, USA)
Computer-Aided Facilities Management (CAFM) is the support of Facility Management by information technology (definition taken from Wikipedia)
Concession is permission to use or release a product that does not conform to specific requirements [BS ISO 10007:2003] or a concession against a contract requirement (gain permission for non-conformance) (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Concurrent Engineering is a systematic approach to the integrated, concurrent design of products and their related processes, including manufacture and support (based on IDA definition). In a construction context it incorporates both early contractor and owner/operator involvement (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Configuration is interrelated functional and physical characteristics of a product defined in product configuration information (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Configuration Item is an entity within a configuration that satisfies an end use function (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Configuration Management is co-ordinated activities to direct and control configuration (as defined by PAS 1192- 2:2013)
Configuration Status Accountung is formalised recording and reporting of product configuration information, the staus of proposed changes and the status of the implementation of approved changes (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Constant In constraints, a fixed value, such as a length or specific name (as defined by Digital Building Lab @ Georgia Tech, USA)
Constraint A mathematical expression, often algrebraic, defining equalities (=) or inequalities (>,<) across various parameters. Constraint may be geometrical, such as parallelism, or a specified angle relation (as defined by Digital Building Lab @ Georgia Tech, USA)
Consultant Model mean a model that utilises data imported from a design model or, if none, from a designer’s construction documents; and contains the equivalent of shop drawings and other information useful to construction (as defined by ConsensusDOCS 301 BIM Addendum, US)
Construction Agent is a human participant in a construction process (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.19)
Construction Aid material construction resource not intended for incorporation in a permanent manner in a building or other construction entity (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.18)
Construction Complex are two or more adjacent construction entities collectively serving one or more user activity or function (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.5)
Construction Entity independent material construction result of significant scale serving at least one user activity or function (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.4)
Construction Entity Part is a solid (as distinct from liquid and gaseous), material part of a construction entity, having physically delineated boundaries (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.6)
Construction Information is information used to support one or more construction processes (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.20)
Construction Model is a model created to show how the building will be built in sequence. This type of model will often include cranes, scaffolding and other elements required to construct the final building (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Construction Product material construction resource intended for incorporation in a permanent manner in a building or another construction entity (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.17)
Construction Process process which transforms construction resources into construction results (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.11)
Construction Result is a construction object which is formed or changed in state as the result of one or more construction processes utilising one or more construction resources (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.3)
Construction Sequencing is the process of adding a time line to a model. This can be incorporated into both design or construction models (as defined by Balfour Beatty Construction)
Container Named persistent set of data within a file system or application data storage hierarchy including, but not limited to, directory, sub-directory, data file, or distinct sub-set of a data file, such as a chapter or section, layers or symbol (as defined by BS1192:2007- 3.2)
Container Model is an optional repository which can be used to compile assemblies and components for specific purposes including export and publication. A Container can exist for each individual profession/discipline or for multiple disciplines, for buildings or for a complete project (as defined by AEC (UK) BIM Standard Version 2 Page 7)
Contribution means the expression, design, data or information that a project participant creates or prepares and incorporates, distributes, transmits, communicates or otherwise shares with other project participant(s) for use in or in connection with a model for the project (based on definition by ConsensusDOCS 301 BIM Addendum, US)
Conventionial Cartesian Axis Geometric convention using positive co-ordintates (X,Y,Z) ordered as (East, North, upwards), so that conventional plans use X,Y and Z is upwards (as defined by BS1192:2007- 3.3)
Co-ordinate means combining or integrating harmoniously different elements within the model (based on The Chambers English Dictionary)
D
Data is information stored but not yet interpreted or analysed (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013) OR observations that in context yields information (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014 / Skyrme & Amidon, Knowledge management, Institute of Management, Corby, 1997)
Data Capture means putting information into a form that can be fed directly into a computer (based on The Chambers English Dictionary)
Data manager is the organizational representative responsible for establishing governance and assuring data and information flow to and from the AIM (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
Deficiency detection is detecting possible omissions within the model which would be required to construct the projecton site (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Deliverables are the specific requirements for the project which may be generated directly from the model or from other sources. They may include the building information model, drawings, fly-throughs, images, data, schedules or reports (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Designed Element is an element for which the work section(s) have been defined (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.9)
Design Lead is the role of setting design standards and co-ordinating the design (as defined by the CIC Outline Scope of Services for the Role of Information Management)
Design Model means a model of those aspects of the project that have reached the stage of completion that would customarily be expressed by an Architect/Engineer in two-dimensional construction documents. This shall not include models such as analytical evaluations, preliminary designs, studies, or renderings. A model prepared by an Architect/Engineer that has not reached the stage of completion specified is referred to as a model (as defined by ConsensusDOCS 301 BIM Addendum, US)
Design Intent Model is the initial version of the project information model (PIM) developed by the design suppliers (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Design Team means the architect(s), engineer(s) and technology specialists responsible for the conceptual design aspects of a building, structure or facility and their development into models, drawings, specfications and instructions required for construction and associated processes. The design team is part of the project team (bases on the definition by the RICS)
Dimensional Control is a risk mitigation process that applied to a project execution task that requires a dimensional accuracy (based on definition in ‘Common Scan and Building Information Modelling Terms’ by Severn Partnership)
Document is a container for persistent information that can be managed and interchanged as a unit (as defined by BS1192:2007 - 3.4) OR information for the use in the briefing, design, construction, operation, maintenance or decommissioning of a construction project, including but not limited to correspondence, drawings, schedules, specifications, calculations, spreadsheets (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Document Repository is an entity including an electronic data management (EDM) system, project extranet or folder hierarchy on a Windows file server (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Drawing is a document used to present graphic information (as defined by BS1192:2007 - 3.5) OR static, printed, graphical representation of part or all of a project or asset (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Drawing Title Block is a framework - often containing the project team’s logos - to show the drawing title, number, purpose of issue, status and revision information (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
E
Earned Value Analysis (EVA) is a method of project performance measurement that integrates cost, time and scope (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) is a system for storing, retrieving, sharing and otherwise managing electronic documents (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Element is a construction entity part which, in itself or in combination with other such parts, fulfils a predominating function of the construction entity (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.7)
Elevations Orthographic views taken directly from the model (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Employer means the owner and/or developer of the building; in some cases the ultimate user. The terms Senior Responsibility Owner (SRO) and project sponsor are used for central civil government and defence sector; being the representatives empowered to manage the building project and make project-specific decisions (as defined by the RICS)
Employer is the individual or organisation named in an appointment or building contract as the employer (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013) or means the person appointing the Project Team Member pursuant to the agreement and any valid assignee of the Employer’s rights and obligations under this Protocolm subject to the terms of such assignment. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Employer’s Information Requirements (EIR) is a document setting out the information to be delivered, and the standards and processes to be adopted by the supplier as part of the project delivery process (as defined by PAS 1192- 2:2013)
Energy Analysis is the action or process of analysing the model(s) from an energy point of view or a table or statement of the results of analysis of the model(s) (based on The Chambers English Dictionary)
Entity is a synonym for “object” (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
F
Facility Management is management during the operational phase of a facility or building’s life cycle, which normally extends over many decades. It represents a continuous process of service provision to support the client’s core business and one where improvement is sought on a continuous basis (definition taken from Wikipedia)
Fabrication Model is a Building Information Model which incorporates components that are suitable for fabrication. It is a development of the Full Design Model to include more detail (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Federated Model means a model consisting of linked but distinct component models, drawings derived from the models, texts, and other data sources that do not lose their identity or integrity by being so linked, so that a change to one component model in a federated model does not create a change in another component model in that federated model (as defined by ConsensusDOCS 301 BIM Addendum, US) OR is a model consisting of connected but distinct individual models (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Field Part of a container name reserved for meta-data (as defined by BS1192:2007- 3.6)
File Extension is an added piece of information to the end of a file name to explain the format of the file. This is often in the form of .abc. Typically file extensions are 3 or 4 characters long (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Full Design Model means a model consisting of coordinated structural, architectural, MEP and other design models (based on definition by ConsensusDOCS 301 BIM Addendum, US)
G
Gate is a division of a standardised process map for the acquisition of a facility, at some of which the requirement can be delivered (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Ground Penetrative Radar (GPR) is a geophysical method that uses radar pulses to image the subsurface. It can detect objects, changes in material, and voids and cracks (definition taken from Wikipedia)
Graphical Data is data conveyed using shape and arrangement in space (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Graphical File is a file format designed specifically for representing graphical images (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
I
Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) is a neutral and open specification that is not controlled by a single vendor or group of vendors. It is an object-based file format with a data model developed by buildingSMART to facilitate interoperability in the building industry (as defined by Nemetschek - source taken from Wikipedia)
Information is the representation of data in a formal manner suitable for communication, interpretation or processing by human beings or computer applications (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013) OR data arranged and processed into meaningful patterns, put into context (as defined by DRAFT PAS 1192-3:2014 / Skyrme & Amidon, Knowledge management, Institute of Management, Corby, 1997)
Information Exchange is the structured collection of information at one of a number of pre-defined stages of a project with defined format and fidelity (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Information Management means measures that protect and defend information and information systems with respect to their availability, integrity, authentication, confidentiality, and nonrepudiation. These measures include providing for restoration of information systems by incorporating protection, detection, and reaction capabilities (as defined by ConsensusDOCS 301 BIM Addendum, US) OR are tasks and procedures applied to inputting, processing and generation activities to ensure accuracy and integrity of information (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Information Management Role means a role in connection with the Project which includes, inter alia, the establishment and management of the processes, protocols and procedures set out in the Information Requirements. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Information Manager means one or more individuals responsible for the BIM’s Information Management program (based on definition by ConsensusDOCS 301 BIM Addendum, US) OR means the person appointed, initially by the Employer, to perform the Information Management Role. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Information Model is a model comprising: documentation, non-graphical information and graphical information (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013) OR is all documentation, non-graphical information which the Project Team is required to provide into the Information Model by the Scope of Services for the Project Team and which is provided for the purpose of delivering Project Outputs (as defined by the CIC Outline Scope of Services for the Role of Information Management)
Information Modelling is the use of data to provide information through better understanding, by applying logic or mathematical functions to derive new data (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Information Requirements means the document attached to this Protocol at Appendix 2 settting out the way in which Models shall be produced, delivered and used on the Project, including any processes, protocols and procedures referred to therein. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Instance is an occurrence of an entity at a particular location and orientation within a model (as defined by BS1192:2007 - 3.7)
Interoperability is the ability of two or more systems or components to exchange information and to the use the information that has been exchanged (as defined by IEEE on Wikipedia)
Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) is a collaborative alliance of people, systems, business structures and practices into a process that harnesses the talents and insights of all participants to optimise project results, increase value to the owner, reduce waste, and maximise efficiency through all phases of design, fabrication and construction (as defined by AIA - source taken from Wikipedia)
L
Laser Scanning is controlled steering of laser beams followed by a distance measurement at every pointing direction used to rapidly capture shapes of objects, structures, buildings and landscapes (based on definition taken from Wikipedia)
Layer is a container comprising selected entities, typically used to group for purposes of selective display, printing and management operations (as defined by BS1192:2007 - 3.8)
Layer is an attribute given to entities with CAD files enabling their visibility to be controlled. Further values may be assigned to the attribute to enable control whether it can be edited or deleted (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Lean is production focused on delivering value for the employer or client and eliminating all non-value-adding activities using an efficient workflow (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Lean Principles is understanding value from a client’s perspective, identifying the value stream, establish a balanced flow of work, in which the demand for product is pulled from the next customer, with a constant drive for continuous improvement and perfection (Based on “Lean Thinking”, Womack & Jones, 2003 edition) (as defined by PAS 1192- 2:2013)
Levels of Definition is the collective term used for and including “level of model detail” and the “level of information detail” (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Level of Detail means the level of detail required for a Model as specified in Appendix 1 attached to this Protocol. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013) See also Levels of Model Detail
Level of Development (LOD) describes the level of completeness to which a Model Element is developed (as defined by AIA Document E202 - 2008 - 1.2.2) - Note: This does not apply to UK projects - see Level of Definition.
Levels of Model Detail is a description of graphical content of models at each of the stages defined for example in the CIC Scope of Services (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Levels of Model Information is a description of non-graphical content of models at each of the stages defined for example in the CIC Scope of Services (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
‘Lonely BIM’ is a non-collaborative 3D model produced by a single designer (phrase coined by Robert Klaschka of Studio Klaschka; definition by Bond Bryan Architects)
Life Cycle Assessment is the methodology used to establish a Life Cycle Costing for a material or a product (as defined by Willmott Dixon)
M
Main Contractor (or Prime Contractor) means the contractor responsible for the total construction and completion process of the building project. The term prime contractor is often used in central civil government and the defence sector to mean main contractor (as defined by the RICS)
Maintainer is the individual, department or organization engaged by either the owner or operator of an asset to carry out maintenance on or in connection with that asset (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
Maintenance is the combination of all technical and associated administrative actions to retain or restore an asset to a state in which it can perform its required function (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014 / adapted from BS ISO 15686-1:2011, BS ISO 6707-1:2004)
Major works are works within the scope of PAS 1192-2:2013 (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
Manageable Assets are those aspects of the facility that may be managed during the facility life-cycle include both physical and spatial objects, and their functional groupings (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Management of assets are operational activities carried out on assets in support of those assets meeting their requirements (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
Marked-up Drawing is a paper or electronic drawing that has been marked up with comments from other disciplines or the client (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Master Information Document Index (MIDI) is the index specifying a detailed list of deliverables for a project; for model, sub-models, documents and data also allocating responsibility to deliver and the programme for delivery of a project supply chain (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Master Information Delivery Plan (MIDP) is the primary plan for when project information is to be prepared, by whom and using what protocols and procedures, incorporating all relevant task information delivery plans (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Material means all information in any electronic medium prepared by or on behalf of the Project Team Member comprised in: (a) the Specified Models; and (b) the Federated Models, to the extent that these comprise Specified Models or to the extent that the Project Team Member owns any additional rights in any Federated Model, excluding any material forming part thereof which is provided to the Project Team Member by or on behalf of the Employer. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
MEP Model is a model made up solely of mechanical, electrical and plumbing components (note: other information may exist within this model that is referenced from others but this is only used for reference purposes) (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Meta-data is data used for the description and management of documents and other containers of information (as defined by BS1192:2007 - 3.9)
Metrics acceptability of the deliverable may be assessed against the requirements shown in the examples and/or against indicstive ratios and counts based on the information provided (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Model is a collection of containers organised to represent the physical parts of objects, for example a building or a mechanical device (as defined by BS1192:2007 - 3.10) OR a three-dimensional representation in electronic format of building elements representing solid objects with true-to-scale spatial relationships and dimensions. A model may include additional information or data (as defined by ConsensusDOCS 301 BIM Addendum, US) OR means a digital representation of part of the physical and/or functional characteristics of the Project. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Model Element is a portion of the Building Information Model representing a component, system or assembly within a building or building site (as defined by AIA Document E202 - 2008 - 1.2.3)
Model Element Author (MEA) is the party responsible for developing the content of a specific Model Element to the Level of Development (LOD) required for a particular phase of the project (as defined by AIA Document E202 - 2008 - 1.2.4)
Model File is a native, proprietary format, CAD file that can be a 2D or 3D model (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Model Production and Delivery Table means the table attached to this Protocol at Appendix 1 specifying the subject matter of each Model, the person who is to produce and deliver each Model (described in the table as “Model Originator”) at each Stage and the Level of Detail for each Model at each Stage. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Model User refers to any individual or entity authorised to the use the model on the project, such as for analysis, estimating or scheduling (as defined by AIA Document E202 - 2008 - 1.2.5)
N
Non-graphical Data is data conveyed using alphanumeric characters (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
O
Object is any part of the perceivable or conceivable world (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.1) OR an item having state, behaviour and unique identity - for example, a wall object (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
OGC Gateway Process is a process that examines programmes and projects at key decision-points in their lifecycle. It looks ahead to provide assurance that the employer can progress to the next stage (as defined by the RICS (partial))
OGC Gateway(s) are the key decision points within the OGC Gateway Process (as defined by the RICS)
Open BIM is a unique approach to collaborative design and realisation of buildings allowing project members to participate regardless of the tools they use (as defined by Graphisoft)
Operator is an organization that uses an asset to create value but does not own the asset (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
Organisation is a person or group of people that has its own functions with responsibilities, authorities and relationships to achieve its objectives (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014 / ISO/FDIS 55000:2013)
Organisational information requirements is information required to achieve the organization’s objectives (as defined by DRAFT PAS 1192-3:2014)
Origin is a setting out point for a project or programme using co-ordinate geometry or related to the OS or geospatial reference (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Originator is the agent responsible for production of a container (as defined by BS1192:2007 - 3.11) OR is the author of models, drawings and documents (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Other Project Team Member means any person having responsibiities in relation to the production, delivery and/or use of Models and appointed by the Employer in relation to the Project, excluding the Project Team Member. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Output File (see also Views) is a generated rendition of graphical or non-graphical information (a plan, section, elevation, schedule, table or other view of a project) (as defined by AEC (UK) BIM Standard Version 1 Page 7)
Owner is an organization that owns an asset and uses the asset either directly or indirectly to create value (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
P
Parameters are variables used in a function or equation to assign values: coordinate, dimension, material, distance, angle, colour, unit price, energy coefficient, and so forth (as defined by Digital Building Lab @ Georgia Tech, USA)
Permitted Purpose means a purpose related to the Project (or the construction, operation and maintenance of the Project) which is consistent with the applicable, Level of Detail of the relevant Model (including a Model forming part of a Federated Model) and the purpose for which the relevant Model was prepared. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Placeholder is simplified or generic representation of a 3D object (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Plain Language Questions are questions asked of the supply chain by the employer to inform decision-making at key stages of an asset life cycle or project (as defined by DRAFT PAS 1192-3:2014)
Point Cloud is a set of vertices in a three-dimensional coordinate system. These vertices are usually defined by X, Y and Z coordinates, and typically are intended to be representative of the external surface of an object. Point clouds are most often created by 3D scanners. These devices measure in an automatic way a large number of points on the surface of an object, and often output a point cloud as a data file. The point cloud represents the set of points that the device has measured (as defined on Wikipedia)
Point Density is the number of points per unit. Usually the higher the point density is, the better representation of features are (as defined in ‘Common Scan and Building Information Modelling Terms’ by Severn Partnership)
Project BIM Protocol is the Project Specific BIM Protocol setting out the obligations of the principal members of the Project Team in respect of the use of BIM on the Project (as defined by the CIC Outline Scope of Services for the Role of Information Management)
Project Delivery Team are groups of organisations or individuals contracted either directly or indirectly to deliver services or products to the project (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Project Information Model (PIM) is the information model developed during the design and construction phase of a project, consisting of documentation, non-graphical information and graphical information defining the delivered project (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013) OR is the information model developed during the design and construction phase of a project [PAS 1192-2:2013] (as defined by DRAFT PAS 1192-3:2014)
Project Information Plan is the plan for the structure and management and exchange of information from the Project Team in the Information Model and the related processes and procedures (as defined by the CIC Outline Scope of Services for the Role of Information Management)
Project Implementation Plan (PIP) is a statement relating to the suppliers’ IT and human resources capability to deliver the EIR (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Project Outputs is configured information delivered from the Information Model for a specific Permitted Purpose e.g. Stage Outputs, Employer information exchanges, submissions for planning, procurement, construction. (as defined by the CIC Outline Scope of Services for the Role of Information Management)
Project Stage is a period of time in the duration of a construction project identified by the overall character of the construction process which occurs within it (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.15)
Project Team is compromised of the Project Team Members (as defined by the CIC Outline Scope of Services for the Role of Information Management)
Project Team Member means the person appointed by the Employer pursuant to the Agreement. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013) OR any person having responsibilities in relation to the production, delivery and/or use of the content of the Information Model and appointed by the Employer in relation to the Project (as defined by the CIC Outline Scope of Services for the Role of Information Management)
Project Team Models means any Models which Other Project Team Members produce and deliver as specified in the Model Production and Delivery Table and any Federated Models (or any part thereof) produced and delivered by Other Project Team Members. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Published published information refers to documents and other data from Shared information. Typically this will include exported data, contract drawings, reports and specifications (reference BS1192:2007) (as defined by AEC (UK) BIM Standard Version 2 Page 8) OR a component of the CDE for drawing renditions that have been approved as suitable for a specific purpose - for example, suitable for construction (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Purpose of Issue states the purpose for issuing the document (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Purposes are those aspects of the Facility that are intended to be managed by the facility owner (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
R
RACI indicator is an abbreviation used to identify which of a group of participants or stakeholders are responsible for (“R”), authorize (“A”), contribute to (”C”) or are kept informed about (“I”) a project activity (as defined by PAS 1192- 2:2013)
RAG report is a report summarizing a series of assessments as red (not approved), amber (require improvement), or green (approved) (as defined by DRAFT PAS 1192-3:2014)
Record Model The final version of the digital model used by the construction team to construct the building (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Reference file is a CAD model file associated or linked with another CAD model file. Also referred to as an “X-ref” (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
RIBA Outline Plan of Work summarises the deliverables required under each RIBA Work Stage (as defined by the RICS)
RIBA Work Stage means the stage into which the process of designing building projects and administering building contracts may be divided (as defined by the RICS)
Rendition is documentation in a form enabling the information to be viewed, printed and marked up. For example, PDF and DWF files are documentation consisting of snapshots (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Requirements are the documented expectations of facility owners/commissioners for sharable structured information. These are also referred to as the Employers Information Requirements (EIR) (alternatively, the Clients Information Requirements) (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Revision is used to identify revisions of documents, drawing and model files (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
S
Soft Landings are graduated handover of a built asset from the design and construction team to allow structured familiarisation of systems and components and fine tuning of controls and other building management systems (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Space three dimensional, material construction result contained within, or otherwise associated with, a building or other construction entity (as defined by ISO 12006-2:2001 - 2.10)
Specified Models means the Model or Models which the Project Team Member is to produce and deliver as specified in the Model Production and Delivery Table. (CIC BIM Protocol. First Edition. 2013)
Stage - see Gate.
Standard Font is the agreed set of font types and sizes used for the project (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Standard Layering Convention is the single layering convention used by the project team (as defined by PAS 1192- 2:2013)
Standard Method and Procedure are a set of standard methods and procedures covering the way information is named, expressed and referenced (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Status defines the “suitability” of information in a model, drawing or document. Not to be confused with the status in architectural documentation as “new build”, “retain” or “demolish” (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Structural Analysis is the action or process of analysing the model(s) from a structural point of view or a table or statement of the results of analysis of the model(s) (based on The Chambers English Dictionary)
Structural Model A model made up solely of structural components (as defined by Bond Bryan Architects)
Subcontractor means a contractor employed by the main contractor to undertake specific work within the building project; also known as specialist, works, trade, work package, and labour only contractors (as defined by the RICS)
Sub-model Model included as an instance in another model (as defined by BS1192:2007 - 3.12)
Supervisory control and data acquistion (SCADA) are systems that collect operational data from assets to support supervisory and other managerial activities (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
Supplier is the provider of services or goods either directly to the employer or to another supplier in a supply chain (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Supplier Information Modelling Assessment Form is a form conveying the capability and experience of a supplier to carry out information modelling in a collaborative environment (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Supplier Information Technology Assessment Form is a form conveying the capability and IT resources of a supplier for exchanging information in a collaborative environment (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Supply Chain Capability Assessment Form is a form summarizing the human resource and IT capability of each organization in a supply chain (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
System is a group of components that work together to provide a specific building service such as envelope, ventilation or fire protection (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
System (IFC) are organised combination of related parts, composed for a common purpose or function or to provide a service. System is essentially a functionally related aggregation of products (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Systems Engineering is an interdisciplinary approach enabling the realisation of successful systems (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
T
Task Information Delivery Plan (TIDP) is federated lists of information deliverables by each task, including format, date and responsibilities (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Third Party Capability Assessment Form is a form conveying the information management and IT capabilties of nondesign, non-construction organisations in a supply chain (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Trigger is a planned or unplanned event that changes and asset or its status (as defined by PAS 1192-3:2014)
U
Uniclass (Unified Classification for the Construction Industry) Published by the Construction Project Information Committee (CPIC) this is a UK standard for classification
User is an individual using a built asset for its designed purpose (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
V
Version is sub-indexing to revision as used in the common data environment to show the development of information and information models, e.g. if a version is named P1.1, P1 is the revision number and the .1 is the version to that revision (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Views (see also Output files) is a generated rendition of graphical or non-graphical information (a plan, section, elevation, schedule, or other view of a project (as defined by AEC (UK) BIM Standard Version 2 Page 8)
Virtual Construction Model is the subsequent version of the project information model developed from design intent model by the construction supplier and their supply chain (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
Volume is manageable spatial subdivision of a project, defined by the project team as a subdivision of the overall project that allows more than one person to work on the project models simultaneously and consistent with analysis and design process (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013) Note: this term is defined as “zone” in BS 1192:2007
W
Work In Progress (WIP) Each individual company or discipline’s own work. This is information that has not been approved or verified as fit to share across the project team (reference BS1192:2007) (as defined by AEC (UK) BIM Protocol Version 2 Page 7/8)
X
X-ref is a CAD model file associated or linked with another CAD model file. Also referred to as a “reference file” (as defined by PAS 1192-2:2013)
