Overview
ISO/TR 16310:2014 - "Symbol libraries for construction and facilities management" is a Technical Report that describes the requirements and needs for supplying and managing standardized symbolic descriptions of objects used throughout the construction process. The report treats “symbols” broadly to include both pure symbolic presentation and simplified geometric representations. It recognizes the shift from manual drafting to CAD/BIM workflows and the resulting need for digital, interoperable symbol libraries.
Key topics and technical scope
The report surveys current practice and outlines topics for future standardization without prescribing detailed technical formats. Main technical subjects covered include:
- Representation and presentation - how symbols and simplified geometric representations are used in drawings and model-derived presentations (presentation filters, views, formatting).
- Classification and metadata - the role of object classification and properties in selecting and filtering symbol content from models.
- Existing standards review - a review of relevant ISO, EN and national standards for symbolic representation and simplified drawings (examples include ISO 3766, ISO 14617 and others).
- BIM and data exchange - coordination with BIM standards and initiatives (IFC / ISO 16739, buildingSmart, IFD data dictionary, IDM/MVD concepts) to enable model-to-document workflows.
- Industry cooperation and roles - responsibilities and collaboration between standards bodies, software vendors, and industry stakeholders.
- Library lifecycle - suggestions for development, distribution, access, organization and maintenance of symbol libraries (digital and printed).
Practical applications
ISO/TR 16310 is primarily strategic and guidance-oriented; it helps organizations plan and implement standardized symbol libraries to:
- Ensure consistent graphical presentation across drawings, documents and model-derived outputs.
- Improve interoperability between CAD/BIM tools, object libraries and project workflows.
- Reduce errors and misinterpretation by providing a common non‑lexical language for construction documentation.
- Support creation and governance of enterprise or project symbol libraries, including rules for access, updates and classification.
Who should use it
- Architects, engineers, CAD/BIM managers and facilities managers setting up or harmonizing symbol libraries.
- Standards committees and national bodies planning symbol standardization.
- Software vendors and library creators integrating symbol management into CAD/BIM tools.
- Owners and asset managers seeking consistent documentation practices across projects.
Related standards
ISO/TR 16310 recommends coordination with existing and emerging standards and initiatives such as:
- ISO 16739 (IFC) and buildingSmart data dictionary (IFD)
- ISO/TS 12911 (BIM guidance) and ISO 29481 (IDM)
- Other ISO/EN and national symbol and technical drawing standards
ISO/TR 16310 is a reference for planning interoperable, maintainable symbol libraries that bridge traditional drawings and modern BIM-driven documentation.
