OpenBIM was a key topic at the Building Transformations conference, with Claudia from buildingSMART Canada leading a panel discussion with industry leaders from HOK, EllisDon, and Turner Fleischer. The consensus among the design community is that openBIM, particularly the use of Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), should be more predominant in North America. However, this vision is at odds with the demands of many building owners, who prefer deliverables in more commonly used formats such as Revit, AutoCAD, MicroStation, and PDFs.

The OpenBIM Challenge 

• Design vs. Operations: While architects and engineers are advocating for openBIM, operations teams, who are focused on the lifecycle of a building, prefer simple and popular formats. This disconnect between design and operations is one of the main barriers to the widespread adoption of openBIM. 
• Owner Preferences: Building owners often prioritize practicality over innovation. They prefer deliverables that are easy to use and integrate with existing systems, which often means sticking with industry standards like Revit and AutoCAD. 
• The Push for Change: Despite these challenges, there is a growing movement within the design community to change owner perspectives and highlight the long-term benefits of openBIM, including improved collaboration, data exchange, and project outcomes. 

What Does the Future Hold for openBIM in Canada? 

The path to openBIM adoption in Canada is a complex one, requiring a shift in mindset from both the design and operations sides of the industry. While the transition may be slow, the potential benefits make it a worthwhile endeavor. 

Sources: 

• buildingSMART Canada, OpenBIM Initiative, 2024 
• International openBIM Implementations: Why openBIM is Integral to the Conversation in Canada – Building Transformations Conference Insights, 2024