IFC data

IFC Parameter Dictionary

Search IFC terms, classes, properties, property sets and quantities. Use local guidance and live buildingSMART Data Dictionary lookup to understand the information you are reviewing.

An optional Pro Tool inside the Apple IFC Viewer app. This page is a product guide.

The workflow

A practical route
through the information.

  1. 01
    Search for the term, class or property you need to understand.
  2. 02
    Review its definition and references, with online dictionary lookup where needed.
  3. 03
    Use the explanation to inform your model and information review.
Search intent served

IFC parameter, property-set, quantity and buildingSMART Data Dictionary lookup.

Understand the IFC term you are reviewing

Parameter Dictionary is for the moments when a model review depends on knowing what an IFC class, property, property set or quantity actually means. The app includes local dictionary guidance and can use buildingSMART Data Dictionary lookup where a live or cached record is available.

That scope is deliberately narrower than a general web search. The workflow is grounded in IFC terms and selected dictionary records, with definitions, aliases, notes, tags, allowed values, units, examples and related items used where the data supports them.

Use bSDD without hiding source limits

The inspected implementation separates local IFC guidance, live bSDD results, cached bSDD results and unavailable lookup states. That makes the source of an explanation visible instead of presenting every dictionary answer as the same level of authority.

Network availability, secured endpoints, rate limits or missing terms can affect live lookup. Local guidance remains useful when online dictionary lookup is not available.

Move from definition to review action

Parameter Dictionary pairs well with Query Studio and Quantity Takeoff. Use it to interpret property names and classifications, then return to the model review with a clearer understanding of which terms matter.

Tool questions

Common review questions.

Does Parameter Dictionary include live bSDD lookup?

The current implementation includes live and cached buildingSMART Data Dictionary lookup where available, alongside local IFC guidance.

Can it explain every custom project parameter?

No. It can search and explain supported IFC terms and available dictionary records. Project-specific naming still needs professional judgement.

Is AI used for dictionary answers?

Optional on-device assistance can help explain selected local or bSDD records, but explanations stay grounded in the selected dictionary evidence.

Review this workflow inside IFC Viewer.

Get the Apple app for iPhone, iPad and Mac. Professional tools are available inside IFC Viewer; see the App Store and app for current purchase terms.