Graphisoft Leads the Global Industry Foundation Classes Initiative

New White Paper Examines How Archicad’s Object Technology and Virtual Building Model Serve the IFC Project

Newton, Mass. – May 12, 2003 – Graphisoft, originator of the
Virtual Building™ concept and the world’s most experienced
developer of intelligent building modeling and management solutions, today announced
the availability of its white paper that focuses on the Industry Foundation
Classes (IFC) program. Titled “Graphisoft Strengthens Commitment to Interoperability
& International IFC Industry Initiative,” the white paper explores
how Archicad® and its key principles of design, construction and building
lifecycle management advance the IFC project model, which promotes software
interoperability in the AEC and facility management industries.

Unlike its competitors, Graphisoft’s Virtual Building Model software
is designed to support the open exchange of data, allowing information to be
shared among multiple building disciplines and technology applications. Because
file format compatibility is essential when moving from one system to another,
Archicad provides the capabilities that assure no data loss during the conversion
process.

The IFC format is the only exchange standard that provides full access to all
of the object information in the Virtual Building model. As a result, information
within Archicad can be accessed in different formats as needed by all members
of the building team, from contractors to structural and mechanical engineers
to facility managers, throughout a building’s lifecycle.

Available for download here,
Graphisoft’s latest white paper explores the IFC and the importance of coordination
among members of the building design team. In addition, the paper defines the
role of GDL and object model technology in the exchange of information for the
architecture and construction industries.

“Graphisoft has long recognized the importance of data interoperability
in the AEC community,” said Al Moulton, president, Graphisoft US. “With
our depth of expertise in GDL technology, upon which Archicad is based, we are
uniquely positioned to support the efforts of the IFC. We are excited by the
opportunities that exist for architects and engineers to achieve improved project
and information collaboration.”

Graphisoft® is a leading provider of design and management
software solutions for the architectural profession and the building industry.
Founded in 1982, Graphisoft is ranked today among the largest AEC CAD software
developers in the world, with ten offices worldwide in addition to its headquarters.
Archicad® and other Graphisoft products are used by over 100,000 architects,
facility managers and building professionals all over the world. Shares of Graphisoft
are traded on the Frankfurt (GPH) and on the Budapest (GRAPHI) Stock Exchange.
More information about Graphisoft is available at www.graphisoft.com.