BIM Acronym Definitions Explained

There are eight common BIM acronyms you need to know:

• BEP — BIM Execution Plan
• IFC — Industry Foundation Classes
• BCF — BIM Collaboration Format
• LOD — Level of Development
• MVD — Model View Definition
• CDE — Common Data Environment
• IDS — Information Delivery Specification
• PIR — Project Information Requirements

Along with a BIM Implementation Plan (BIP), a BEP is your first step towards a successful BIM workflow.

The BIM Execution Plan is the opportunity for all project stakeholders involved to agree upon each project’s collaboration and deliverable commitments. The Execution Plan is project-specific and is distributed by the lead-appointed party, the body responsible for coordination information between the delivery team and the appointing party.

Your BEP is essentially a roadmap for everyone involved in the project on how information will be delivered and at what intervals. Your BEP will also cover:

• Software
• File formats
• Hardware
• IT Infrastructure

You determine what file format you will use to exchange files in your BEP. And, since multiple software may be used in a BIM workflow, a neutral file format like IFC is a great choice.

IFC is an open standard file format for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. The format allows for geometry and data to be exchanged and shared amongst all parties involved in a facility, for example:

• Other architects
• Landscape architects
• Interior designers
• Owners
• Engineers
• Contractors

Vectorworks Architect currently supports IFC versions 2x2, 2x3, and 4. It has also been certified by buildingSMART International for the following IFC functions:

• Import/Export of the Coordination View 2.0 (CV 2.0 – Architecture) for IFC 2x3.
• Import/Export Certification of IFC 4.

BCF is a file format used to communicate model issues with other BIM applications. Think of it as a digital report used when collaborating with combined IFC models. The BCF is developed by buildingSMART International, just like IFC. The format, however, is utilized for sharing issues of collaborated IFC files.

Below are just some of the information that you’re able to quickly exchange via the BCF:

• Assignee who is responsible for issue.
• Status of issue.
• Location of issue, including preview thumbnail.

LOD assigns approximate detail benchmarks to each project phase. These benchmarks — like so many important details — are defined in your BEP.

According to BIM Forum, an LOD specification “is a reference that enables practitioners in the AEC Industry to specify and articulate with a high level of clarity the content and reliability of Building Information Models at various stages in the design and construction process.”

The organization goes on to explain that the main goals of an LOD document are as follows:

Think of your MVD as a specific view of all your IFC information. You can use the MVD to narrow and filter IFC information to what’s needed for a specific task/workflow.

There are several unique MVDs that you can outline in your BEP and use in Vectorworks Architect. The most widely used MVDs are:

• Coordination View for IFC 2x3.
• Reference View for IFC 4.

Both aforementioned MVDs correspond to the IFC schema that’s certified by buildingSMART International.

The Common Data Environment is the central source of information for your entire BIM operation. It’s a hub to keep your project properly managed and organized.

A CDE in a BIM process makes all project information easily accessible to stakeholders such as project managers, marketers, construction professionals, and consultants. A central hub for project data can significantly reduce duplicated information and mistakes in coordination.

IDS (Information Delivery Specification) is a BIM framework that keeps data accurate, verified, and accessible throughout a building’s life cycle. In Vectorworks, IDS files confirm model compliance with regulations, contracts, and data exchange standards.

Through the Data Manager, you can import IDS files, check data accuracy, simplify exchange, and report validation results using tools like the Data Manager, BCF Manager, or worksheets. This supports collaboration, compliance, and data integrity across the project.

PIR (Project Information Requirements) is a BIM framework that outlines the data and documentation needed to support a project's goals, regulatory standards, and stakeholder needs. It defines roles, responsibilities, delivery timelines, and standards for data consistency and interoperability (e.g., IFC). 

Established at the project's start and refined over time, PIR helps collaborators stay aligned on information requirements, responsibilities, and deadlines, promoting clarity, minimizing rework, and improving project results.

Click here to learn more about effective BIM project collaboration.

While not technically an acronym, BIM dimensions represent the progression from basic geometric representation to advanced data integration and analysis across the entire building lifecycle. These dimensions encompass the design process (2D, 3D), construction management (4D, 5D), and asset and facility management to support decision-making and operations throughout a building's lifecycle. Each dimension builds upon the previous one, adding layers of information and functionality to enhance efficiency and collaboration. Each dimension has specific definitions:

• 2D BIM: Provides flat, two-dimensional representations that are directly extracted from and connected to the 3D model.
• 3D BIM: Adds three-dimensional geometry with embedded data, enabling visualization and supporting design, construction, and lifecycle management.
• 4D BIM: Incorporates time and scheduling data to manage construction sequences.
• 5D BIM: Integrates cost estimation for detailed budgeting and financial management.
• 6D BIM: Focuses on sustainability, energy analysis, and lifecycle management of the building.
• 7D BIM: Encompasses facilities management, streamlining operations and maintenance after construction.

Check out our Beginner’s Guide to BIM. This resource covers the basics, explaining the process, benefits, and how to integrate BIM into your projects with confidence. Start exploring today!