GUID – Globally Unique Identifier

The abbreviation GUID stands for Globally Unique Identifier. This is a unique identification number that each individual element has. GUIDs are essential components for collaboration in BIM, as they ensure that the structure is clearly identifiable and traceable.

Another advantage of GUIDs is that changes to a component and can be quickly identified, as the component can change its shape but retains its GUID. GUIDs are also used to indicate comments and Issues on specific objects in the BCF (BIM Collaborations Format) data format. These identifiers are also used in the IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) data format and the web-based service bSDD (buildingSMART Data Dictionary).