Why IFC Matters in BIM And How Archicad Gets It Right

In today’s BIM environment, collaboration is everything. Projects are no longer handled by a single team using a single software platform. Instead, architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants all work together, often using different tools.

This is where IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) becomes critical.

What is IFC?

IFC is an open, neutral file format designed to enable interoperability between different BIM software platforms.

In simple terms, it allows:

• Archicad users

• Revit users

• Tekla, Civil 3D, and other platforms

to share models and data without losing important information.

Why IFC is So Important

Without IFC, collaboration becomes messy:

• Files do not open correctly

• Data gets lost

• Geometry breaks

• Teams waste time fixing models instead of progressing projects

With IFC, teams can:

• Exchange models reliably

• Maintain data integrity

• Coordinate across disciplines efficiently

Archicad and IFC Built for Open BIM

Unlike some platforms that treat IFC as a secondary export option, Archicad is built around Open BIM principles.

This means:

• IFC is deeply integrated into the workflow

• Not just an export at the end step

• But part of the design and coordination process from day one

Key Advantages of IFC in Archicad

1. Better Model Translation

Archicad provides high quality IFC export and import, meaning:

• Less geometry loss

• Cleaner models when shared

• Better coordination with consultants

Compared to competitors, where IFC often requires clean up after export, Archicad reduces that friction significantly.

2. Custom IFC Mapping

Archicad allows you to:

• Map elements to IFC classifications

• Control how data is structured

• Align with project or client standards

This level of control is essential for:

• Large projects

• Government requirements

• International collaboration

3. Open BIM Workflow

Many platforms still push users into closed ecosystems.

Archicad stands out by:

• Supporting open collaboration

• Allowing teams to use the best tool for their discipline

• Not forcing everyone into one software

This is especially valuable in mixed environments where:

• Architects use Archicad

• Engineers use Revit or Tekla

• Contractors use coordination tools like Solibri or Navisworks

4. IFC Based Coordination

With Archicad, you can:

• Detect clashes using IFC models

• Coordinate with external teams

• Review and manage model changes

This makes Archicad not just a design tool, but a true coordination platform.

IFC vs Native Formats What’s the Reality?

Some competitors promote native file sharing as the best option.

But in reality:

• Native formats lock teams into one ecosystem

• Not all stakeholders use the same software

• Version control becomes difficult

IFC solves this by:

• Creating a common language across platforms

• Reducing dependency on a single vendor

Real World Impact

Using IFC effectively can lead to:

• Faster project coordination

• Fewer errors during construction

• Better communication between teams

• Reduced rework and cost

Final Thoughts

IFC is not just a technical feature, it is a strategic advantage in BIM.

And while many platforms support IFC, Archicad truly embraces it.

By combining:

• Strong IFC compatibility

• Open BIM philosophy

• Advanced data control

Archicad empowers teams to collaborate freely, efficiently, and without limitations.

Why This Matters for Your Business

If your projects involve:

• Multiple disciplines

• External consultants

• Complex coordination

Then IFC is essential, and choosing the right platform to handle it makes all the difference.

For more details contact us at info@totalcad.co.za