AEC Data Strategy Assistant
Your project data is in 10 places. This helps you connect it
Revit models, Excel trackers, shared drives, email archives — none of them talk to each other. Describe your setup and get a practical plan: naming conventions, folder structure, and what to connect first. No buzzwords, just steps.
The Problem
Every project starts from scratch. Cost data from last year's school? Buried in someone's Excel file. The spec you wrote for that curtain wall? In an email attachment. Your firm has 10 years of project data scattered across Revit, Excel, shared drives, and email — but nobody can find anything when they need it. There are no naming conventions, no folder standards, and no way to search across projects.
How It Works
Tell it where your data lives — "Revit on a server, specs in Word, cost tracking in Excel, schedules in MS Project." It gives you a plan: naming conventions to adopt this week, folder structure template, and which systems to connect first. If you're doing ISO 19650, it helps with CDE setup and BIM data requirements. The output is steps, not theory.
"we use Revit + Newforma + Excel. how to integrate?""file naming convention for a 50-person firm"Key Features
Who It's For
BIM managers setting up standards. IT directors planning system integrations. Project managers tired of recreating the same information on every project. Anyone who has ever searched their server for 20 minutes to find a file they know exists.
Data strategy recommendations are based on industry best practices and common AEC technology stacks. Implementation requires your IT team or consultants to execute technical integrations. The assistant provides strategic guidance and templates — not software configuration or API development. Complex enterprise integrations may require specialized data engineering support beyond what this tool provides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be using BIM to benefit from a data strategy?
No — data strategy applies to any firm regardless of BIM maturity. Even firms primarily using 2D CAD benefit from standardized naming conventions, folder structures, and data organization. The assistant scales recommendations to your current technology level and growth plans.
What is a Common Data Environment (CDE)?
A CDE is a centralized digital space where all project information is stored, managed, and shared according to defined processes. ISO 19650 defines the framework for CDEs in construction. The assistant helps you design a CDE strategy appropriate for your firm size and project types.
How long does it take to implement a data strategy?
A basic naming convention and folder structure can be implemented in 2-4 weeks. A full CDE implementation with system integrations typically takes 3-6 months for a mid-size firm. The assistant provides phased roadmaps so you can start seeing value within weeks while building toward a comprehensive strategy.