At Trimble, we do not believe that one software solution or integrated system can fulfill all the requirements of the construction industry. Instead, we believe in a mixed environment of purpose-specific systems communicating effectively using information models, commonly agreed processes and methods and shared terminology. This means that we have an open approach to Building Information Modeling.

Open BIM benefits in practice

We want to see our customers well-informed and updated about what the others do, and understand and realize the design intent successfully. Construction project parties should be able to work together smoothly regardless the tools they use. Open BIM is about workflow-level compatibility, not just compatibility between two software packages. Also manufacturing calls for open, readable data.

Currently, using IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) file format offers the most viable option for everyday open BIM.  Through IFC, Tekla links with AEC, MEP and increasingly with plant design software.

Until now IFC-based workflows have been more common in design, but also the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) has adopted the IFC at the core of its interoperability strategy. The need for higher productivity pushes automation development in the steel industry, creating more demand for planning and process management information.

Working with partners

Our software is used in an industry where a major project can employ 150-200 companies that all should achieve one shared goal – no wonder that collaboration, communication and compatibility are crucial to success. Open BIM approach gives the industry freedom to choose the best project parties to work with regardless the software they use.

As a company, we do not work alone. To support our customers’ work with their partners, we work together with other construction industry organizations in buildingSMART. Tekla Structures interfaces with other providers’ solutions and fabrication machinery.

We also want to allow our customers to produce their own applications if they wish: If you want to add your own contribution to what can be achieved with the industry standard interfaces, you can do it Tekla Open API application programming interface. Using Tekla Open API, these applications can integrate to modeling environment, and you can also create connections to any custom application you might have. 

We offer a specific Tekla Partners Program for developers. As a member of the Tekla Partners Program you will receive Tekla Structures Partner license and permission to sell, market and distribute applications - and many more benefits. Tekla Developer Center is the hub containing all relevant information about Tekla Open API for developers.