The buildingSMART Data Dictionary (bSDD) is a web-based service based on the open IFD-standard and enables the implementation of individual data structure additions (ontologies) in accordance with ISO 12006-3 . This platform acts as a library of objects and their associated attributes. Each content is given a unique label/name regardless of the language used and is integrated into a classification system. By assigning a unique identifier (bSDD-GUID) the platform enables the worldwide identification of objects and their attributes.
It is important to note that bSDD is not a standard itself, but is part of buildingSMART. It serves as a solution for organizing multilingualism and at the same time acts as a documentation platform for uniform terminology standards. It does this by providing various classification systems, both with and without feature definitions, as well as cross-links to them. Software developers can access the dictionary database via a Web-Service-API and use the terminology in their products.
The benefits of bSDD are many. These include reducing costs and improving quality through shared, reusable object libraries. Automated rule checking helps to avoid data duplication and misunderstandings. The platform also allows the extension of Property Sets (Psets) for special requirements, the addition of classification requirements and the creation of links between different users and applications. The checking and validation of data is made easier and the platform offers the possibility to organize individual element classes, Psets, properties and values with clear responsibilities for creation and translation.
