How can construction tasks be linked to a BIM model?
In short: In myPlan.cloud, an IFC model can be used as the location reference for a construction task. A user can create the task in Task Management and choose the model as the location source, or start from the BIM viewer and place the task marker in the model first. In both cases, the task remains part of the same Task Management workflow while gaining a 3D spatial reference.
Why connect construction tasks with a BIM model?
Location is one of the most important task attributes
A construction task needs to explain not only what has to be done, but also where the issue is. In a large or complex building, a text description such as a room name or a short note may not be enough for every project participant to identify the same location quickly.
A marker on a floor plan is a practical solution and remains useful. When a BIM model is already part of the project documentation, however, the model can provide another location reference with three-dimensional spatial context.
What does the BIM context add?
- A task location can be understood in a 3D project environment rather than only on a 2D drawing.
- The surrounding building elements and disciplines can be reviewed in the same model environment where relevant.
- If technical information is stored in the BIM model, that information can provide additional context around the task location.
Text, 2D drawing or BIM location: what is the difference?
| Location reference | Strength | Typical limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Text description | Fast and simple | Can be ambiguous in large or repetitive spaces |
| 2D drawing marker | Clear on a known floor plan | Shows a two-dimensional position and depends on the selected drawing |
| BIM model marker | Adds 3D spatial and model context | Its value depends on the quality and information content of the BIM model |
How do BIM and Task Management work together in myPlan.cloud?
Method 1: use the BIM model as the task location
A task can be created from the Task Management module using the Add Task button. During task creation, the user defines the required task information, including the location. myPlan.cloud offers different location sources: the reference can come from a floor plan in Documents, an external source or an IFC file.
When an IFC file is selected, the model opens and the user can place the task marker directly in the model space.
Method 2: create the task directly from the BIM viewer
The workflow can also start from the BIM viewer. The user first identifies the relevant point in the model and places the marker there. Task Management then opens so the task can be specified and handled in the module designed for task management.
The result is the same task – only the starting point changes
Both workflows create a task in the same Task Management environment. The practical difference is where the user starts. If the BIM model is already being reviewed, creating tasks directly from the viewer can reduce the need to leave the model and repeatedly search for the same location from another screen.
How can this workflow be used on site?
When the BIM model is used as the location reference, the BIM viewer can remain the starting point for multiple tasks. On site, users can create tasks with the basic information from a mobile device and complete or refine the task details later in the office.
This is especially useful during inspections or walk-throughs where several issues need to be captured in sequence without losing the spatial context of each item.
What information can the BIM model add to a task?
A clearer visual location
A 2D marker can be completely sufficient when the project team works primarily from drawings. A BIM marker becomes valuable when the issue is easier to understand in three dimensions: for example, when the exact level, wall, ceiling zone or relationship between multiple disciplines matters.
Technical information available from the model
The BIM model can contain structured information behind model elements. Depending on the model's level of detail and the data that has actually been included, users may be able to review information such as dimensions, materials, element properties or nearby building-services systems.
The important point is that linking a task to the BIM model does not create missing information. It makes the information already present in the model easier to interpret in the context of the task.
Example: a crack in a wall
A task that says only “crack in the wall” communicates the problem, but the location may still require interpretation. If the task is linked to the relevant point in the BIM model, the team can see the exact spatial context and, where the model contains the data, inspect information about the wall and the systems around it.
BIM issue management vs. a construction task
The search term BIM issue management is often used broadly for workflows in which a model-based issue is identified, located, assigned, discussed and followed through to resolution. In the myPlan.cloud workflow described here, the practical object is a construction task whose location can be linked to the BIM model.
This distinction matters because a BIM-linked task does not automatically imply support for every BIM issue-exchange standard or external issue format.
Frequently asked questions
Can a task in myPlan.cloud use an IFC model as its location?
Yes. During task creation, an IFC model can be selected as the location source and the task marker can be placed in the model space.
Can a task be created directly from the BIM viewer?
Yes. The workflow can start in the BIM viewer, after which Task Management opens for the task details.
Does a BIM location replace a floor-plan marker?
No. A floor plan remains a practical location reference. BIM provides an additional option when 3D spatial and model context is useful.
What data can be available around the task location?
That depends on the BIM model. Where the model contains the relevant information, users may be able to inspect dimensions, materials, element properties or nearby disciplines.
Is BIM issue management the same as BCF?
No. BIM issue management is a broader workflow concept. This article describes myPlan.cloud tasks linked to BIM model locations and does not imply support for a specific issue-exchange standard.
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