Linking Specs to BIM
December 04, 2009
One of the key components to enabling the BIM (building information modeling) process for all construction project participants is the interoperability of various software applications. Technology providers are stepping up to the task and releasing new products with improved interoperability.
As one example, Building Systems Design (BSD), www.bsdsoftlink.com, Atlanta, Ga., released a new product designed to connect its specifications software to CAD (computer-aided design) environments such as Revit Architecture from Autodesk, www.autodesk.com, San Rafael, Calif.
BSD SpecLink is a specification writing, management, and production software application. The technology has built-in capabilities that allow contractors to edit tasks and reduce specification production time.
With the BSD LinkMan-E, project managers can review and coordinate project data from all connected applications, including SpecLink and Revit. This new linking product allows design and construction professionals to use specification information in the BIM process.
In addition to releasing the new linking product, Building Systems Design also unveiled the latest version of its SpecLink product. SpecLink-E has a few new features that will allow users to more easily create and manage construction specs.
For example, the database can be collapsed or expanded, allows realtime updates of the master database over the Internet, and project-specific information is stored in separate project overlay tables until a project is viewed or printed.
Interoperability has been a hot topic within the construction industry for quite some time. As more and more products become available that link construction procedures to the BIM process, contractors will be able to enable that process further, allowing for improved efficiencies on jobs.