Richard wrote:
I'm just not understanding the intended benefits of the Classification Manager and how it gets used in actual practice. Is the Classification system there just so that we can assign properties in a more targeted/focused way?
The purpose of classification in general is to describe some aspect of the element in more detail. At a simple level it could identify what the role the element plays in the project – a bit like the element classification provided in earlier versions of ARCHICAD. It can break down the components of a building according to work sections, which in turn relates to the specification, schedule and (post-construction) facilities management. For example, the classification might bind an element to a clause in the specification. The classification might also be linked to costing and scheduling, where cost components bind themselves to elements according to classification (and other attributes).
And as you noted, it then also allows properties to be automatically linked on the basis of classification. Exactly what the properties are depends on the role of the classification system. For example, if you are using Uniclass 2015 coupled with the NBS Toolkit in the UK, you would want required properties (ultimately for COBie output targeting FM) to bind to ARCHICAD elements.
It's a developing area, but an essential step for making better use of BIM. Doing anything intelligent with model content requires classification and properties. It's government-mandated for public-funded projects in the UK, and expect to see something similar play out elsewhere in the world.
Ralph Wessel BArch
Active Thread Ltd
