Exo-BIM
Exo-BIM describes a design or data authoring process conducted outside of the central collaborative BIM process and its federated model volumes. The method or process is external to the project team's agreed, live integrated and collaborative data set, and as such cannot respond and react to the developing conditions in a timely and effective way.
In any circumstance where a project has implemented defined and managed BIM protocols for all consultants stakeholders and the supply chains for defined stages of the project.For a project contributor to develop their models, drawings or data outside of that system is considered exo-BIM.
Exo-BIM may also be a process that uses drawings or data exported from a volume from within the central collaborative BIM process, and is then developed with in non-object based CAD software, or derived from sources other than the live 3D modelled building fabric and other modelled assets within it.
In conclusion, exo-BIM is project data or information exchanged within a BIM protocol defined IM environment, but is not derived directly from one of the BIM Volumes listed in the volume strategy for that project.
For comparison see: Endo-BIM - Designing Buildings
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Call for greater recognition of professional standards
Chartered bodies representing more than 1.5 million individuals have written to the UK Government.
Cutting carbon, cost and risk in estate management
Lessons from Cardiff Met’s “Halve the Half” initiative.
Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future
Technical Manager at ECA on the importance of engagement between industry and education.
Repairing historic stone and slate roofs
The need for a code of practice and technical advice note.
Environmental compliance; a checklist for 2026
Legislative changes, policy shifts, phased rollouts, and compliance updates to be aware of.
UKCW London to tackle sector’s most pressing issues
AI and skills development, ecology and the environment, policy and planning and more.
Managing building safety risks
Across an existing residential portfolio; a client's perspective.
ECA support for Gate Safe’s Safe School Gates Campaign.
Core construction skills explained
Preparing for a career in construction.
Retrofitting for resilience with the Leicester Resilience Hub
Community-serving facilities, enhanced as support and essential services for climate-related disruptions.
Some of the articles relating to water, here to browse. Any missing?
Recognisable Gothic characters, designed to dramatically spout water away from buildings.
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.





















