Classification, an introduction

BSRIA is a non-profit distributing, member-based association, providing specialist services in construction and building services.

In February 2017, BSRIA published Classification - An introduction (BG 68 / 2017) by John Sands.

The 54-page guide offers an introduction to classification, that is, ‘what things are called, and how those names are arranged and structured’, or ‘the act or process of dividing things into groups according to their type.’

In the construction industry, classification is used in:

• Specifications.
• Production information.
• Libraries.
• Drawings.
• Schedules of rates / quantities.
• Information management systems.
• Operation and maintenance information.

The guide considers classification with particular reference to building services. It explains what classification is, why it is needed, how it is used, and how to recognise particular classification systems.

It outlines the classification systems in use in the construction industry and relates them to building information modelling (BIM):

• CI/SfB.
• CAWS.
• NRM.
• OmniClass.
• Uniclass 2015.

The guide suggests that ‘Having a vast amount of data about a project or asset can be a very powerful resource. However, it is only as useful as its ability to be retrieved when needed and this is the role of classification.’

--BSRIA

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• BSRIA articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
• Building services.
• BIM
• BIM classification.
• CI/SfB.
• Classification systems.
• Common arrangement of work sections.
• Construction Project Information Committee.
• NRM2.
• OmniClass.
• Uniclass advisory board created.
• Uniclass 2.
• Uniclass 1.4 legacy release.
• Uniclass2 development release classification (2014).
• Uniclass 2015.
• Use class.