AI for UniFormat

UniFormat classifies building elements by their function rather than by the materials or trade that installs them — foundations, superstructure, exterior enclosure, roofing, interior construction. This functional classification is particularly useful for cost estimating, facility management, and early-stage design analysis when specific products and materials have not yet been selected.

AI for UniFormat automatically classifies building elements from BIM models and drawings into UniFormat categories, supporting cost estimates at the conceptual design stage when detailed specifications do not yet exist. A parametric cost model organized by UniFormat can estimate building costs from schematic design parameters (building area, number of floors, construction type, quality level) without requiring a material takeoff.

For facility management, UniFormat provides a consistent way to organize maintenance data, capital planning budgets, and building condition assessments across a portfolio. AI classifies building components in a facilities database using UniFormat, enabling the owner to analyze maintenance costs and replacement planning by functional system rather than by trade or product — answering questions like "what is our portfolio-wide annual cost for roofing systems?" across all buildings.