buildingSMART International (bSI), the vendor-neutral and not-for-profit body that leads the development of open digital information flows across the built asset economy, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GS1 to enable the construction industry to benefit from the combined expertise of both organisations through the use of standards and services they deliver.

The use of global buildingSmart and GS1 standards, in particular for product instance identification and exchange of product data, is critical in addressing today’s challenges of digitalisation in the construction sector.

This agreement further strengthens the benefits of open standards-based interoperability throughout the building and infrastructure value chain and lifecycle, and the broader application of digital product information. With shared visions and goals, the aim of this MoU is to jointly expand the breadth and depth of the standards that are developed and maintained for and with their respective communities.

“This signed agreement between buildingSMART and GS1 is something I’m excited about because our organisations have similar values and core missions. This announcement further extends the opportunity to push for a more open and interoperable ways of working by driving more rigorous standards to end users”, said Richard Petrie, CEO, buildingSMART International.

“The use of global standards, in particular for product identification and exchange of product data, represents a huge opportunity for the construction industry. Increased Building Information Modeling regulation around the world and the resulting value of virtual twins confirms this trend. GS1 is extremely delighted with this agreement that will enable the industry to address its digital challenges”, says Miguel Lopera, CEO and President, GS1 Global Office.