Models Requirements
The 3D model is at the core of how Buildots tracks progress. It powers the system’s ability to detect which elements have been installed and whether they match the design. To work correctly, the model must accurately reflect what is actually being built on site — not just the design intent.
Buildots supports a range of model formats, including Revit, IFC, 3D DWG, and Navisworks (NWD) files.
What matters most is that the model:
Represent installed elements, not just design intent
Include LOD 300 level detail (except for shape-specific details)
Reflect the actual final location, quantity, and orientation of each element
Include enough parameters to distinguish between elements and link them to scheduled activities
Avoid duplicate or repeated units (e.g., “typical levels”) that could lead to inaccurate tracking
A list of critical Systems required for system setup is provided in the Buildots BIM/VDC Requirements guide. These typically include:
Architectural: Walls, doors, ceilings, windows
Structural: Columns, beams, slabs
Interior: Caseworks, plumbing fixtures
MEP: Pipes, ducts, electrical fixtures, equipment
Buildots can only track what is visible on site and detectable in a 360° image, so unnecessary small components (e.g., bolts) are not required.
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Schedule Requirements
The schedule is used to connect the models with real-world site activities. It helps define how progress will be tracked, which tasks are linked to which model elements, and how activity segments are understood by the system. Buildots supports common scheduling tools such as Primavera P6, PowerProject, and Microsoft Project.
A complete and logical schedule is essential. If activities are missing, not aligned with the physical model, or structured in an incompatible way, this can limit tracking or create confusion in the system.
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Captures
Buildots uses videos to track what’s actually happening on site. These site captures are done by walking the project with a 360° camera, typically once a week. The videos are uploaded to the system and analyzed to update installation status for tracked activities.
Captures are the backbone of how Buildots sees the site. When done properly, they create reliable, clear progress data. When done poorly, they can lead to gaps, misaligned tracking, or missing information.
To make sure the system works as expected:
Walk every relevant space, including small rooms and large open areas
Start and end with a sticker clearly visible in the video
Use proper lighting — bring a flashlight for dark areas
One floor = one video — avoid recording multiple floors in a single clip (read more here)
GA Drawings and Additional Documents
GA Drawings
These are used to provide context and clarity in areas where models may lack detail. They help Buildots set up tracking zones, define activities, and cross-check project expectations. Documents should include:
Mandatory: Room-named plans for all levels
High Priority: Wall, floor, and ceiling finish plans
Second Priority: Door schedules, wall types, and finishes schedules
Additional Documents
A BIM Execution Plan (BEP) — to understand modeling logic and expectations
A Trades List — to align trades with scheduled tasks
Input Review Process
Model Review
Buildots’ BIM team checks:
If the model covers all critical Systems needed for system setup
If the element geometry is clean, correctly classified, and well-structured
If required properties (like type name, system, material, etc.) are present
If discipline files are properly separated (e.g., architectural, MEP, structural)
If there is incomplete modeling
If elements that are misaligned or not geospatially correct
If elements that cross multiple floors without clear boundaries
Schedule Review
The Construction Solution team reviews:
Overall schedule structure and logic
If activities align with the model content
If the structure allows meaningful tracking
Date relevance, segmenting, and granularity
In some cases, Buildots may suggest delaying setup of certain activities until better models or more detailed schedules become available.
Review Feedback
If issues are found — for example, a missing model discipline, outdated schedule, or unsupported file format — Buildots will flag this clearly and request updated or replacement inputs. Most issues are easy to correct if they are identified early.
The aim is to ensure that the Buildots system can reflect the onsite reality clearly and without gaps in coverage.