FAQ DataExpert / BIM

Frequently asked questions

Here you will find a compilation of frequently asked questions about DataExpert® and BIM.

Questions about DataExpert® / BIM

DataExpert® is the brand for standard and technology for standardised data exchange in building services engineering. A distinction is made between catalogues, processes and the actual exchange technology. DataExpert® takes over – in the sense of an “electronic postman” – the standardised transport of so-called business messages between the IGH partner companies (installer – dealer – manufacturer). Business messages are documents from the request for quotation to the offer, order, order confirmation, even delivery note and invoice (if this is desired).

On the side of the providers (sellers) are the IGH members.
On the customer side are all installers, planners and architects whose field of activity is building services engineering.

Catalogue data Product information from more than 80 suppliers and dealers is published as catalogues in DataExpert® format and can be used by customers (installers, planners) in any programmes. Process data Processes are electronic enquiries, quotations, orders through to invoicing.

Directly in your industry solution. The programmes of the important industry solution providers are equipped with the DataExpert® standard interface.

For customers who use e.g. MS Office or their own programs, IGH provides selection programs free of charge with DataSelect.ch and DataSelect, from which a DataExpert® with the desired products is made possible.

Automatically directly from your application using DataExpert® technology. The prerequisite for this is that both communication partners use an application from which they can create and process enquiries, offers, orders, etc.. In addition, the partners must have DataExpert® installed (provided free of charge by IGH) and have the necessary access identifications (authorisations). DataExpert® takes over – in the sense of an “electronic postman” – the standardised transport of process data between the IGH partner companies (installer – dealer – manufacturer). Process data includes documents from the request for quotation to the quotation, order, order confirmation, delivery note and invoice (if this is desired).

DataExpert® is the brand and name of the catalogue standard.

The data content of the exchange processes varies depending on the partner. To ensure that it is always clear which documents are involved, IGH451 has also been introduced.

  • DataExpert®: Exchange between trade and suppliers
  • IGH451: Exchange between installer and trade.

DataExpert®BIM is IGH’s new catalogue format. It replaced the old format in 2018. In addition to the original tender information, the BIM catalogue also carries the following information:

Wholesale data:

  • Packaging units
  • intended use
  • Textual description
  • scope of delivery
  • technical data

VDI3805:

  • Product grouping
  • technical properties
  • geometry

The additional information is not mandatory for compatibility reasons. For the same reason, the old format will continue to be published in parallel in the coming years.