BIMfiler

BIMfiler is a software platform designed to manage Building Information Modeling BIM project data. It provides a centralized repository for BIM models, drawings, PDFs, spreadsheets, and related project information, along with tools for version control, metadata management, access control, and lifecycle governance.

Key features include version history with change tracking, check-in/check-out, and branching of model files; metadata tagging and taxonomy support to classify models by project, discipline, phase, and status; full-text and parameter-based search; role-based permissions and audit logs; workflow automation for approvals and publishing; integrated viewers and previews for common BIM formats (IFC, RVT, DWG); API and plug-ins for integration with major authoring tools.

Deployment and architecture: BIMfiler can be offered as cloud-based software-as-a-service or on-premises installations. It supports common BIM standards such as IFC and native formats, with integrations to Revit, ArchiCAD, and AutoCAD via connectors. It provides RESTful or GraphQL APIs for custom workflows and supports data import/export, link management, and model federation.

Usage and impact: In design and construction, BIMfiler is used to coordinate model deliveries, manage versions, track changes, and enforce naming conventions and data handover requirements. Proponents say it reduces duplication, improves traceability, and speeds up review cycles, while critics cite complexity and integration costs.

History and scope: The term BIMfiler describes a class of BIM file management solutions rather than a single standard. Since the mid-2010s, multiple vendors have offered BIMfiler-like features under various product names. There is no single universal specification; implementations vary in scope, supported formats, and licensing.