Framework and delivery specifications for the exchange of BIM and geodata between the planning and construction processes

The project, "Framework and Delivery Specifications for the Exchange of BIM and Geodata between Planning and Building Processes" aims to establish uniform and practically applicable delivery specifications that enable efficient, digital, and legally secure information exchange between the construction, architecture, and real estate sectors as well as municipalities and authorities.

The focus is on linking BIM data (Building Information Models) and geodata, which are currently often managed in parallel systems with limited interoperability.

As digitization in the built environment accelerates, the need increases for shared structures, terminology, and technical standards that facilitate seamless information flows.The project is anchored in the Smart Built Environment program’s focus area on Information Infrastructure and builds on results from several previous initiatives within the program.

Particularly relevant are projects related to delivery specifications for geodata-BIM, 3CIM, and international experiences from Finland, Estonia, and Singapore, where national frameworks for digital building permit management and city modeling have already been established.

These examples clearly demonstrate that a more integrated approach enables increased automation, quality assurance, and the use of digital twins.At the heart of the project is the development and validation of three delivery specifications:1.

Geodata model for new construction – corresponds to today’s new construction map, but with expanded 3D information and alignment with national specifications.2.

Building permit model (BIM) – corresponds to current site plans and sectional drawings, but is based on standardized BIM structures (e.g., IFC 4.3).3.

As-built model (BIM) – documentation following project completion, which can be used for updating geodatabases and for facility management.The delivery specifications will be based on open standards such as IFC (Industry Foundation Classes), CityGML, and ISO 81346, taking both legal and technical requirements into consideration—such as those from Boverket, Lantmäteriet, and municipal planning and building permit authorities.

In addition, the work will integrate experiences from national geodata specifications developed within the framework of the Geodata Council’s action plan.The project is carried out in four work packages:• WP1 focuses on project management, communication, and coordination.• WP2 addresses responsibilities and process mapping, including legal aspects related to copyright and information management.• WP3 is responsible for designing the delivery specifications, in close collaboration with municipalities, industry stakeholders, and international standardization bodies.• WP4 tests and validates the specifications in realistic environments, for instance by implementing them in existing BIM/GIS tools and conducting pilot runs in selected municipalities.A key strength of the project lies in the combined expertise of its participants.

Among the implementers are leading experts from municipal authorities, academia, and the private sector—all with documented experience from previous Smart Built Environment projects.

The goal is for the project’s results to lead to:• Shorter lead times in building permit processes• Improved quality and traceability of digital information• Increased reuse of data over the lifecycle• Conditions for automated review and visualization• Greater predictability for the industry through clear requirements and structuresThe project will contribute to Smart Built Environment’s long-term impact goals by improving the digital infrastructure, enabling interoperability between systems, and creating a common foundation for continued innovation.

Ultimately, the ambition is that the specifications developed will be managed and further refined by relevant authorities and industry organizations, becoming a natural part of future digital processes in the built environment.