Based on the IFC (Facility Management Handover) Model View Definition, COBie is an information exchange specification which captures data during design, construction, and commissioning for operations and management. Data is created by (1) architects and engineers who provide floor, space, and equipment layouts, and (2) contractors who provide make, model, and serial numbers of equipment, and that information can be provided by product manufacturers. COBie data can be delivered in 3 formats: (1) IFC STEP Physical File Format (SPFF); (2) ifcXML, and (3) spreadsheets.

Additional information is available at:

• National Institute of Building Sciences, Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG), Construction Operations Building information exchange (COBie).
• National Institute of Building Sciences, buildingSMARTalliance, The COBie Guide.
• National Institute of Building Sciences, National BIM Standard – United States, Information Exchange Standard, Construction Operations Building information exchange.