Driving Interoperability in Electrical Planning: Standardized openBIM Use Cases from Siemens AG
As Building Information Modeling (BIM) continues to evolve into a more collaborative and data-driven process, interoperability remains a key success factor. In a joint effort to advance open standards for digital electrical planning, Siemens, in collaboration with buildingSMART International, has published two standardized openBIM use cases, now available via the buildingSMART Use Case Management (UCM) Service.
These real-world use cases address the integration of medium- and low-voltage electrical distribution systems into building models, helping bridge the gap between electrical planning and the broader Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. By establishing a common foundation for openBIM workflows, they enable more accurate coordination, reduce planning errors, and promote seamless collaboration across disciplines.
Supporting Interoperable Electrical Planning with openBIM
Electrical systems play a critical role in the overall functionality and safety of buildings, yet integrating these systems effectively into digital planning environments has often been challenging. These newly published use cases help overcome such challenges by clearly defining openBIM-based workflows using Industry Foundation Classes (IFC).
Each use case is fully documented, tested in real-world applications, and designed for implementation across various tools and disciplines.
- UC 2.06: Collision check and mechanical integration of medium-voltage (MV) distribution systems
Explore UC 2.06 → - UC 2.07: Collision check and mechanical integration of low-voltage (LV) distribution systems
Explore UC 2.07 →
Together, these use cases drive a shared understanding of how electrical systems can be effectively integrated into BIM environments using open standards.
For SIMARIS Users: A Connected Workflow for Greater Efficiency
Users of SIMARIS project and SIMARIS sketch will find these use cases particularly relevant: Why?
- SIMARIS project enables the design of MV and LV power distribution systems, with export functionality for high-quality IFC 4.3 files containing 3D models and technical data.
- SIMARIS sketch now supports IFC 4.3 import, allowing users to visualize and analyze electrical system models within their architectural context.
This integration supports collision detection, space verification, and early planning coordination - improving accuracy and reducing rework throughout the design phase. The result is a streamlined, end-to-end workflow for electrical planning in BIM.
For Software Vendors: Reliable, Standards-Based Integration
The new openBIM use cases provide comprehensive implementation guidance, making it easier for software vendors to adopt IFC-based workflows. By incorporating these standardized processes into their platforms, vendors can:
- Enable reliable data exchange between systems
- Increase compatibility with BIM coordination tools
- Meet growing industry demands for open, scalable, and interoperable solutions
If you’re a software vendor interested in adopting these use cases, we welcome collaboration and knowledge exchange to drive further innovation.
For BIM Managers and Architects: Better Coordination, Fewer Clashes
Standardized electrical use cases improve transparency and coordination during design and construction. By using verified, non-proprietary data formats, all stakeholders gain access to trusted information about MV and LV systems, facilitating accurate model integration and reducing costly design clashes.
These use cases are especially valuable for BIM Managers and Architects looking to:
- Enhance early-stage coordination with electrical planners
- Ensure model consistency across disciplines
Explore the Use Cases and Get Started
To learn more and explore the use cases in detail, check the links below:
👉 Download the one-pager overview
For further insights on BIM for electrical planning at Siemens, visit:
🔗 siemens.com/bim-eplanning
Final words
By standardizing openBIM use cases for electrical planning, Siemens and buildingSMART are laying the groundwork for more connected, transparent, and interoperable building projects. Whether you’re a software vendor, electrical planner, or BIM manager, these resources are ready to support your next step toward open, efficient collaboration.
Author: Andreas Gebele
If you have any questions or feedback about these use cases, please contact us via email.