IFC

The Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) specification is a neutral data format that is used to describe, exchange and share information typically used within the building and facility management industry sector. The IFC specification is developed and maintained by the buildingSMART Alliance (bSa), (formally known as International Alliance for Interoperability, IAI). In addition to development the bSa also facilitates the implementation and adaptation of IFC. In North America, the bSa is facilitated by the National Institute of Building Sciences

Like CIS/2, IFC is a open, neutral file format, but while CIS/ 2 is focused entirely on structural steel silo, IFC is focused on the broader, horizontal aspect of design and construction.