Building Information Modeling (BIM) has become a basis of modern architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO) workflows. From early-stage design through to facility management, BIM enables more informed decisions, smoother collaboration, and clearer documentation across disciplines. But for many firms, one stubborn challenge remains: converting real-world spaces into usable BIM models.

Whether you’re starting with Revit, DWG, or need to integrate physical spaces into your digital design environment, the traditional conversion process has long been a bottleneck. Site visits, manual measurements, and model tracing can be time-consuming, error-prone, and resource-heavy—especially on projects that span multiple phases or teams.

The Challenge: Traditional Conversion Is Slow and Risky

For multidisciplinary teams, legacy processes often mean:

• Repeated travel for site verification and measurements

• Delays due to incomplete or inaccurate as-built data

• Manual tracing of point clouds into Revit or AutoCAD models

• Inconsistencies between field conditions and digital representations

These steps not only slow down workflows but can introduce costly errors later in the project lifecycle. For teams working under tight timelines or across locations, this friction undermines the potential of BIM altogether.

A Closer Look: How Scan-to-BIM with Matterport Works

1. Capture the Space with the Matterport Pro3 Camera

The process starts with capturing the physical space using a Matterport Pro3 camera. The device captures a series of 3D panoramic scans as you move through the site, combining high-resolution photography with depth data via infrared or LiDAR.

The system maps each scan to create a spatially accurate mesh, stitching the environment together in real-time. This allows users to visually validate coverage onsite and ensure all key areas are scanned—especially useful in complex MEP zones or irregular spaces.

2. Process the Scan in the Cloud to Generate a Navigable 3D Model

Once the capture is complete, the scans are uploaded to Matterport’s cloud platform. Here, proprietary algorithms clean, align, and optimize the data into a cohesive 3D digital twin. The result is a navigable, photorealistic walkthrough of the space, complete with measurements and spatial context.

Users can annotate the model with notes, tags, and labels—or share the link for stakeholder walkthroughs. This digital twin becomes the foundation for all downstream deliverables, offering both visual fidelity and spatial intelligence.

3. Convert the Model into Industry-Standard BIM Formats (RVT, DWG, IFC)

Using the Scan-to-BIM service (available as an add-on), Matterport then converts the processed model into common BIM file formats:

• RVT (Revit) for Autodesk BIM workflows

• DWG (AutoCAD) for 2D drafting or legacy workflows

• IFC for openBIM standards and cross-platform use

These files are delivered at LOD 200, ideal for early-stage design, feasibility studies, or coordination. The conversion captures architectural elements such as walls, doors, windows, floors, and ceilings based on real-world measurements—dramatically reducing manual tracing or redrawing.

You can also request MatterPak bundles, which include high-density point clouds (.XYZ), floor plans, and mesh files for more advanced modeling or analysis needs.

4. Import Files Directly into Revit Using the Free Matterport Plugin

To further simplify the process, Matterport offers a Revit plugin that enables direct import of BIM files into Autodesk Revit. This plugin automates the setup of levels, grids, and coordinates to match the Matterport model.

Once imported, Revit users can begin modeling, detailing, or running clash detection on a verified as-built environment. The result? A significantly accelerated project kickoff—with models that reflect real-world geometry and reduce the risk of downstream changes.

What This Means for AECO Teams

The impact of this workflow can be felt across the entire project lifecycle:

• Designers gain access to accurate as-built data in Revit or AutoCAD without needing to reconstruct models from scratch.

• Engineers benefit from reliable LOD 200 files that support preliminary analysis, system coordination, and scoping.

• Contractors can reduce RFIs by referencing accurate digital twins during construction.

• Facility Managers inherit models that align closely with real conditions, making long-term maintenance more manageable.

This kind of collaboration and systems connections builds trust across project partners.

Best Practices for Adopting a Scan-to-BIM Approach

To get the most out of Matterport’s BIM capabilities, here are a few key tips:

• Capture thoroughly. The quality of your scans directly affects the accuracy of your model. Capture full views of key spaces, including vertical surfaces and MEP-heavy zones.

• Use MatterPak add-ons. These provide access to point clouds and floor plans, which can support higher-LOD modeling or detailed engineering workflows.

• Validate and review. While automation is powerful, verifying output against known dimensions or point cloud references helps ensure confidence.

Real-World Impact: How AECO Firms Are Using Matterport’s BIM Workflow

Architecture

Architectural firms are using Matterport to create quick, reliable as-built models for renovations and retrofits. Instead of relying on outdated drawings or incomplete site measurements, teams start with an accurate 3D representation that can be imported into Revit and refined into conceptual or detailed design.

Example: A mid-sized architecture firm used Matterport to capture a heritage building, producing a Revit-ready model within days instead of weeks. The LOD 200 model supported zoning submissions and detailed design.

Engineering

Mechanical, electrical, and structural engineers benefit from receiving standardized models early in the project. These files can be used for system routing, clash detection, or preliminary analysis—without reworking the base model.

Example: HH Angus, a multidisciplinary engineering firm, used Matterport to streamline MEP coordination by integrating point cloud data and RVT models into their design process. This reduced site visits and improved coordination with architects.

Construction

For general contractors and construction managers, Matterport offers a simple way to document jobsite conditions, compare as-built to as-designed, and communicate progress with stakeholders remotely.

Example: Swinerton, a U.S.-based construction firm, deployed Matterport for progress documentation on a hospital project. The ability to access immersive site walkthroughs and BIM files reduced travel needs and clarified contractor coordination.

Facility Management

Post-construction, Matterport’s digital twins support asset tagging, space planning, and preventive maintenance. When BIM files match real-world conditions, facilities teams can reference them for years to come—without guesswork.

Example: A public university implemented Matterport to document new lab buildings and feed BIM data into their facilities management system. This helped streamline room scheduling, mechanical system upgrades, and future retrofits.

Infrastructure & Public Sector

In government and municipal projects, especially those involving capital planning or infrastructure modernization, Matterport helps bridge field conditions with digital asset management platforms. Civil teams and city planners can reference accurate models when planning upgrades to utilities, transportation hubs, or community buildings.

Example: A transportation authority used Matterport to scan a network of aging transit stations. The resulting models were used to plan accessibility upgrades and coordinate contractor bids without disrupting operations.

Why This Matters Now

In an industry increasingly driven by collaboration, precision, and efficiency, relying on outdated conversion is a liability. With more AECO teams working remotely or across geographies, a digital-first approach to site capture and modeling is becoming essential.

Matterport’s scan-to-BIM solution isn’t just about saving time; it’s about enabling better project outcomes from day one. Whether you’re modernizing your workflows or seeking to reduce risks and delays, this technology is helping firms move faster, communicate better, and build smarter.