# OpenBIM: An Enabling Solution for Information Interoperability
## 4 Engineering Information Interoperability Research Supported by OpenBIM
### Information Exchange
#### 4.3.1 Information Exchange by OpenBIM Participation
Based on this method, corresponding tools were developed to analyze the validity of xPPM by copying the existing IDM and MVD, thereby achieving efficient and seamless exchange of building data [49]. To validate the accuracy of BIM model information change, [PERSON] et al. conducted a survey based on available software (such as IFC server ActiveX Component, the IfCDoc, and so on) on conformity to IFC, MVD, and design requirements, which was aimed to provide integrated approaches for improving interoperability [50]. [PERSON] et al. suggested a robust MVD validation process using a modularized validation platform that evaluated an IFC instance file according to diverse types of rule sets of MVDs to address challenges existing in MVD validation process [51]. To realize the integration of BIM and facility management for promoting the process of information exchange in project operation and maintenance (O&M) phase and reducing the cost of the FM team to update and maintain the BIM, [PERSON] et al. iteratively developed a FinDD API plug-in which could manage the semantic FM data in BIM, in which COBie could provide relevant parameters that meet the requirements of O&M phase. The FinDD was a bespoke extension of COBie, and the data requirements and model structure of its API plug-in were mainly influenced by COBie standard [52]. [PERSON] et al. analyzed the requirements for BIM collaborative platform and pointed out that compatibility among standard-based software, such as IFC-based software, was a big setback for advance of BIM adoption and IDM can play an important role in the BIM collaborative process [53]. [PERSON] et al. suggested a new approach for evaluating BIM data in accordance with diverse requirements of MVD, and examined their embedded checking rule types and categorized corresponding implementation scenarios [54]. Based on IFC and IDM, [PERSON] put forward an innovative cloud-based building information interaction framework based on cloud computing and open web environment [55]. 1. Information exchange by openBIM platforms participation
2. Use BIMserver  
Except for openBIM standards, some researchers explored to realize information exchange and sharing progress with the aid of some software platforms related to openBIM, such as BIMserver and xBIM. As an open and stable software core, BIMserver can easily build reliable BIM software tools to support the dynamic collaboration process of AEC users. And the BIMserver.org platform enables users to create their own \"BIM operating system\". For example, [PERSON] et al. introduced the open source IFC server BIMsever.org and gave an outline of existing IFC toolkits and servers. An implement-independent model based on IFC STEP EXPRESS schema was proposed and used as a database persistency framework. The authors also introduced a model server application based on this framework which can realize interoperability about storage, maintenance, and query of BIM among different stakeholders [56]. [PERSON] proposed three service-oriented architecture design modes, BIM AJAX, BIM SOAP Facade, and RESTful BIM, in which IFC model was used to promote information exchange and sharing progress. In the RESTful BIM mode, IFC object tree was used for information exchange, and the REST function of the BIMserver could further promote the collaborative use of web-based BIM [57]. In order to reduce the workload of inspectors, promote their cooperation and prevent inspection omissions in the construction quality inspection, [PERSON] et al. proposed a comprehensive application system based on BIM technology and indoor positioning technology, in which IFC format was responsible for storing the BIM model and establishing the detection task generation algorithm, and the BIMserver.org platform was used to manage the BIM model, or was used as a IFC analyzer and a viewer [58]. [PERSON] et al. took advantages of online 3D viewer, BIMserver and the developed open source BCF server to streamline workflow, which can provide convenience for collaborative design [59].