Frequently asked questions

PALLADIONLab provides an IFC model viewer, BIM analysis, a DXF viewer, a PDF annotation reader and video meetings. IFC tools let you inspect objects, measure, create sections, annotate and prepare a quality report. Training and tailored services are separate offers.

Open the viewer, read the terms and select the consent checkbox. Click “Choose an .ifc file” and select your IFC export. Wait for loading to finish before navigating. Use “Fit all” to frame the model, then select an object to inspect its properties.

The viewer is intended for IFC2x3 and IFC4 .ifc files up to 200 MB. Native Revit (.rvt) or Archicad files must first be exported to IFC in their original software. The limit does not guarantee smooth viewing of every 200 MB model: geometry complexity, memory and graphics capabilities also matter.

No. The IFC file is processed on your device and is not sent to PALLADION. Model saves, annotations and edits remain in your browser’s local storage. When signed in, report results and scores can be saved to your account, but not the IFC file. Video meetings use an external service and are not covered by this local-processing promise.

With a mouse, drag the left button to orbit, scroll to zoom and drag the right button to pan. Top, Front, Side and 3D provide preset orientations. Fit all reframes the model if you lose it. Select an object with a brief click without dragging.

Click an element in 3D or find it in the Model tree panel, grouped by IFC category. The Properties panel displays data for the selected object. Compare its name, category and property groups with project requirements: visually correct objects may still lack useful information.

Select an object and use Isolate to hide the others. Show all restores them; Fit all changes framing rather than restoring hidden objects. X-ray makes objects transparent and Wireframe displays their edges. These controls affect the view, not file geometry.

In the Sections bar, enable X, Y or Z and move its slider. Combine axes to inspect an interior volume. Disable the checkboxes to restore the full view. Sections are viewing tools and do not permanently cut objects in the exported file.

Enable Measure and click two points on the geometry to display their distance in metres. Each pair adds a measurement; Clear measurements removes them. Points are the locations actually clicked, without guaranteed precision snapping. Check IFC export units and do not substitute this reading for contractual dimensions.

Enable Annotate, click an object and enter your observation. A pin appears in the view and the Annotations tab lists notes. Describe the object, issue and expected action rather than simply “fix this”. Notes are local to your browser and are not automatically shared with colleagues.

Yes. Select an object, open Properties, edit available values or add a parameter group, then use the panel’s IFC export. IFC identity remains read-only. The tool does not replace authoring software and cannot redraw walls or beams. Keep the original and verify the exported file in your professional software before sharing it.

Frame the model, set sections and display options, then click Capture to download a PNG of the 3D render. Text labels overlaid on screen are not part of this render capture; include annotation text separately when communicating an issue.

No. The viewer and BIM analysis share the same open model. Switch tabs without selecting the file again; viewer annotations and settings remain available. To inspect another project, close the current model and load a different file.

Load your IFC and open the BIM analysis tab. Start with project information, file version and units. Review report sections and affected objects, then return to the viewer to inspect findings. Correct issues in the original software or editable properties, export a new version and compare results.

It examines georeferencing, units, named storeys and spaces, categories, IFC structure, unused data, junctions, duplicates, properties, classifications and quantified volumes. It also provides project and file information. Findings depend on IFC data: information missing from an export may still exist in the native model.

The score combines 12 weighted criteria. Scores from 8 to 10 indicate excellent general quality, 6 to 8 acceptable quality, and below 6 a need for review. Always read detailed findings, not just the average. The score uses general BIM rules, not your project-specific BEP or requirements, and does not certify contractual compliance or structural safety.

No. Junction and duplicate checks are indicators requiring review. They do not replace clash analysis across federated models using discipline rules, tolerances and decision tracking. Full coordination also needs professional judgement, a BEP and communication between stakeholders.

Results can be downloaded as PDF, CSV or Excel. PDF suits reading and sharing; CSV and Excel help sorting and tracking. When signed in, you can also save results and the score to your account. This does not upload your IFC model.

Saved models appear under Models saved on this device. Accept the terms and click Reopen. Storage depends on the same browser and device: clearing site data, using private browsing or switching devices may make saves unavailable. Always keep an independent copy of your IFC and deliverables.

Check the .ifc extension, the 200 MB limit and export validity in another reader. Try a recent browser with graphics acceleration, close memory-heavy tabs and use Fit all if the view seems empty. If needed, export a smaller scope from your authoring software. Performance also depends on object count and geometry.

Export your DWG as ASCII DXF from AutoCAD or your CAD software, then open it in the DXF viewer. You can zoom, pan, manage layers and measure distances. Measurements use drawing units, so check whether the plan uses millimetres or metres. View export produces a PNG, not an edited DWG.

No. You can navigate pages, zoom and add freehand marks or text. Export produces a PNG of the current annotated page, not an edited multipage PDF. Export each useful page before leaving and keep the original document separately.

Open the video tool, create or join a room and send the link to participants. Meetings use Jitsi Meet, an external service subject to its own access rules and terms. Allow microphone or camera access when needed, then select screen sharing. Share only the relevant window and check that confidential information is not visible.

BIM combines a digital representation of a built asset, structured information and collaborative organisation. It supports data production, exchange and use for defined purposes such as coordination, quantities, scheduling or maintenance. An attractive 3D model without naming rules, responsibilities or data quality controls is not enough to establish a BIM process.

CAD supports digital drawings and plans. Modelling represents objects in three dimensions. BIM adds information and exchange processes to meet project objectives. These practices complement each other: 2D drawings remain necessary, and a BIM model can produce drawings, quantities and operational information.

IFC is an open construction data exchange standard developed by buildingSMART. It transfers objects, geometry and properties between software tools. It is not a perfect copy of every native file feature: versions, export settings and software affect results. Check an IFC export before handing it to a partner.

Client requirements set expectations and deliverables. A BIM execution plan describes how participants organise work to meet them, including roles, exchanges, checks and responsibilities. A BIM charter usually defines technical rules such as naming and structure. Terminology varies by project, so always check the content and applicable contractual documents.

They position models correctly and prevent offsets or scale errors. Before coordination, agree on units, reference system, origin, elevations and orientation. Compare known points between disciplines. Coordinates present in an IFC do not, by themselves, prove that the model is correctly positioned for the project.

No. Geometry and information should match intended uses and the project stage. Excessive detail can increase file size and inconsistencies without improving decisions. Define the information needed for each deliverable and check its presence: a reliable identifier or useful volume may matter more than unnecessary graphical detail.

It can help structure documents, summarise information, prepare scripts or explore alternatives. Its output can also be inaccurate: review results, verify sources and test automations before production. Do not send confidential project data to an AI service without checking permissions and data handling terms. AI does not replace professional responsibility.

Start with a concrete need: reliable exports, fewer coordination errors or quantity production. Assess current practices, choose a pilot project and define a few shared rules. Train the people involved, measure results and expand gradually. Buying software without organising data and responsibilities is not enough.

Yes. Individuals can build a learning path or develop skills; schools can arrange sessions for students; businesses can train teams on production methods. Level, objectives and organisation are discussed initially to propose a programme suited to the audience.

The catalogue covers Revit, AutoCAD, drawings and reinforcement, BIM modelling, coordination, synthesis, management and model use. It also includes quality and processes, VBA and macros, generative AI, and website and game creation with HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Each course page lists objectives, audience and programme.

Yes, by choosing an appropriate introductory or fundamentals course. Advanced courses require relevant foundations. Explain your professional experience and the software you already use to choose a suitable starting point and avoid a path that is too easy or too fast.

Three approaches are available: personalised live one-to-one lessons, group sessions for schools or businesses, and e-learning with video support depending on the plan. Durations listed on course pages are indicative; a tailored programme can be adjusted after discussing your needs.

For practical exercises, prepare a suitable computer and access to the relevant software. The site’s free tools read IFC, DXF and PDF files but do not replace Revit or AutoCAD for learning production in those applications. Confirm versions and access requirements before the session; do not assume a licence is included.

Start with a desired result: reading a model, producing drawings, coordinating models or automating a task. Review relevant course pages and contact PALLADION with your level, constraints and objective. Schools and businesses can request programmes adapted to their students, teams and working methods.

A course provides structured concepts and exercises. Support helps apply learning to a practical difficulty or objective: understanding a method, reviewing an exercise, organising production or resolving a software issue. It complements learning and does not mean the trainer automatically completes your project for you.

Prepare a specific question, your exercise file and desired result. Screen sharing lets you show your approach and work through the difficulty. Note the steps to repeat independently afterwards. If using a real project, first check permission to show its documents and agree the scope with the trainer.

Course pages present LIGHT, BASE and PREMIUM plans and their services. Appointment counts, follow-up and practical support vary by plan. Choose according to your independence and support needs, and check current offer details when enrolling. Tailored live lessons and group sessions are arranged separately.

Yes. It can support individuals, school students or company employees. Objectives may be individual or collective: strengthening foundations, preparing an educational project or aligning production methods. Format, schedule and scope are agreed with the responsible contact.

Yes, depending on the selected plan or a tailored engagement. The aim is to move from understanding to independent practice: organising steps, checking results and resolving difficulties. If the request becomes production of project deliverables, it is a separate professional service requiring its own scope.

PALLADION can assess practices, structure data, prepare BIM plans and protocols, organise checks and support BIM implementation. The engagement starts with intended uses and difficulties rather than software selection alone. It can complement a design office, business or educational team’s skills.

The modeller produces and populates a model from input data and project rules. Work may include parametric objects, structure, modelling and deliverable preparation. Agree scope, information requirements, software versions and expected checks. Modelling alone does not constitute design calculation approval.

The coordinator organises model exchanges, checks consistency and follows issues with relevant disciplines. They oversee common reference systems, production rules and checks before distribution. Their decision-making remit and responsibilities must be defined within the project organisation; they do not replace every design lead.

When defining or leading a BIM process: objectives, uses, responsibilities, execution plans, information exchanges and quality monitoring. The BIM Manager organises the collective framework and its application. This differs from a modeller’s daily production, though an engagement may combine skills within a clearly defined scope.

Yes. Services include formwork, reinforcement and setting-out drawings, 3D models and quantities. Work can be fully or partly subcontracted. Scope is defined from available input data, project stage, deliverables and the allocation of technical approval responsibilities.

No. Requests may come from individuals, schools or businesses. Depending on the need, the response may be training, learning support, BIM consulting or subcontracted production. Scope and responsibilities are adapted to each situation; professional production services are not automatically included in a training plan.

Provide context, project stage, required skills, software and formats, deliverables, available inputs and deadlines. Explain whether you want to learn to do the work or delegate production. Contact PALLADION or book a discussion to agree scope, arrangements and terms before sharing confidential documents.