Information Delivery Specification, or IDS, is a buildingSMART standard for expressing information requirements so that software can interpret them. An IDS file defines requirements that can be used to check information in an IFC model, such as an expected property or classification. buildingSMART's IDS overview
What problem does IDS help solve?
Imagine receiving a model with an instruction to “include the information needed for handover”. The instruction leaves several decisions open. Which objects are included? Which information is needed? How should it be recorded? What would make the delivery acceptable?
Working through those questions turns a broad request into something the delivery team can act on. IDS provides a structure for the part of that agreement that can be expressed as checks on IFC information.
For example, a project might agree that every wall in a particular delivery must carry a fire rating value. The team still needs to decide the information's location, permitted values and intended use. Writing the specification brings those decisions into the open.
What does an IDS file contain?
An IDS file uses XML and normally has the .ids extension. It can contain metadata and multiple specifications. Each specification uses applicability to identify relevant objects and requirements to describe what those objects should satisfy. IDS user manual
The distinction matters. “These are the objects to examine” and “this is the information they must contain” are separate decisions. Read the applicability and requirements guide for a worked example.
Who uses IDS?
An information manager might prepare the specification. A designer might use it to understand the expected information. A contractor or receiving organisation might use compatible checking software to review a delivery.
Agree who owns the requirements, who reviews them and who resolves questions. The file supports that working agreement; the people responsible for delivery still need to understand it.
What are the limits?
IDS focuses on information in IFC. Geometric clash detection and verification of physical construction require other forms of checking. For example, a fire rating value recorded in a model does not establish that a constructed assembly achieves that performance. buildingSMART's explanation of IDS scope
Use each result for the question it actually answers. Keep design review, information checking and evidence of installation connected in the wider delivery process.
How do you get started?
Choose one information requirement that matters to your team. Describe the objects, information and expected result. Review a small example before expanding the specification set.
Follow the guide to creating an IDS file, browse our IDS examples, or explore IDS Compass.