ISO 12006-2:2015

Overview

ISO 12006-2:2015 - Building construction - Organization of information about construction works - Part 2: Framework for classification - provides a high-level framework for developing built‑environment classification systems. It defines a set of recommended classification table titles and object‑class definitions (for views such as form or function), shows how classes relate as systems and subsystems (for example within a building information model), and covers the complete life cycle of construction works from briefing and design through construction, operation/maintenance and demolition.

Key points

• It delivers a harmonized framework, not a complete operational classification or full table content.
• Intended to help organizations develop national or local classification tables while enabling easier mapping and international harmonization.

Key Topics

• Framework for classification: principles for organising construction information into classes (objects, resources, processes, properties).
• Recommended classification tables: titles and headings to be developed for different information object classes (examples provided; content left to local developers).
• Views and specialization: classification by different views (e.g., by form, function, materials, or cost element).
• Systems and compositional structure: how objects form systems and sub‑systems (part‑of/type‑of relationships) suitable for BIM and structured data.
• Life‑cycle coverage: applies to briefing, design, documentation, construction, operation/maintenance and demolition.
• Definitions and terminology governance: explicit term definitions to support consistency; normative reference to ISO 22274 for terminology systems.
• Interoperability focus: supports mapping between national/regional classification systems to facilitate data exchange.

Applications

Who uses ISO 12006-2:2015 and why:

• Standards bodies & classification providers - to develop or revise national/regional construction classification tables consistent with an international framework.
• BIM implementers and software vendors - to align classification tables with BIM workflows and enable consistent object‑class mapping.
• Architects, engineers, contractors & facility managers - to standardize how objects, systems and properties are named and exchanged across project phases.
• Clients and asset owners - to ensure consistent information for procurement, cost management, operation and maintenance.

Benefits include improved interoperability, clearer data exchange across disciplines and projects, and easier mapping between existing classification "silos" (specifications, cost elements, product catalogs).

Related standards

• ISO 12006-3 - Framework for object‑oriented information exchange (complements Part 2).
• ISO 22274 - Terminology and concept management for classification systems.
• Industry models referenced in ISO 12006-2 discussion: IFC (buildingSMART), ISO 13567 (CAD layer organization) and STEP (ISO 10303) - relevant for data exchange and modelling.

Keywords: ISO 12006-2:2015, classification framework, building information modelling, BIM, construction classification, life cycle, classification tables, built environment, interoperability, construction information.