What Is IFC?

IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) is an open, neutral data standard used to describe buildings and infrastructure in a software-independent way.

It allows BIM information to be shared, checked, and reused across different tools, organizations, and project phases.

Why IFC Exists

In many BIM projects:

  • Teams use different software
  • Native files cannot be reliably exchanged
  • Information is lost or misinterpreted
  • Long-term access to data is uncertain

IFC was created to solve this.

Purpose of IFC:

Enable reliable, consistent exchange of building information without vendor lock-in.

Who Develops IFC?

IFC is developed and maintained by buildingSMART International.

It is:

  • An open standard
  • Publicly documented
  • Not owned by any software vendor

What IFC Is (Simple Definition)

IFC is:

  • A data schema (not software)
  • A neutral format for BIM information
  • A way to describe what a building element is, not just how it looks

IFC can describe:

  • Geometry
  • Properties (data)
  • Relationships between elements
  • Spatial structure of a building

What IFC Is NOT

IFC is not:

  • A BIM authoring tool
  • A replacement for native models
  • A “Revit file” or “Archicad file”
  • Just a 3D model

IFC focuses on information, not authoring features.

What Kind of Information IFC Contains

1. Objects

Examples:

  • IfcWall
  • IfcSlab
  • IfcDoor
  • IfcWindow
  • IfcSpace

Each object has a defined meaning, not just geometry.

2. Geometry

IFC includes:

  • 3D shape
  • Location
  • Orientation

Geometry is important, but not the main value of IFC.

3. Properties (Data)

Objects can have:

  • Names
  • Types
  • Dimensions
  • Fire ratings
  • Space usage
  • Custom project data

4. Relationships

IFC defines how things relate:

  • Which elements belong to which storey
  • Which spaces are inside which building
  • Which components are connected

IFC Spatial Structure (Very Important)

IFC organizes buildings in a clear hierarchy:

  • Site
    • Building
      • Storey
        • Space
          • Elements (walls, slabs, doors…)

This structure allows software and reviewers to understand the building logically, not just visually.

screenshot