Comparative Study of Construction Information Classification Systems: CCI versus Uniclass 2015

Abstract

By classifying BIM data, the intention is to enable different construction actors to find the data they need using software and machines. The importance of classification is growing as building projects become more international, generating more data that rely on automated processes, which help in making better decisions and operating devices. Different classification systems have been developed around the world. Each national construction information classification system (NCICS) aims to classify information on the built environment and thus meet national needs and ensure compliance with the principles of regional and international building information systems. The research purpose of this paper is to present a comparative assessment of two construction information classification systems, CCI and Uniclass 2015. The following methods were used: the expert assessment of NCICS alternatives; the assessment of NCICS alternatives; and a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis of NCICS alternatives. We concluded that in the initial phase of NCICS development, CCI ontologies should be adopted as a base consisting of construction entities, spaces, and elements, with the gradual addition of complexes of buildings and infrastructure, along with roles and phases of the building life cycle (BLC). An explanatory NCICS development note should be drawn outlining the principles of classification and identification; the ontological structure; development and updating possibilities; methods of integrating existing national and international classification systems; and methods of integrating data of construction products, time, cost, or other individual characteristics.