step 03: Connect
Bring your BIM model to life with real-time data

Convert physical spaces into smart, structured models. In this stage, data from Capture is refined, modeled, and prepared for integration.

What does it mean to connect BIM with real-world data?

Traditionally, BIM models are static design tools — useful for planning but disconnected from real operations. When linked with live data, they evolve into real-time digital twins that reflect how a facility actually performs. By connecting each asset to sensor data, inspection history, maintenance schedules, and documents, the model becomes a dynamic, data-rich environment. Integrated with systems like BMS or CMMS, every element transforms into a live asset. This creates a centralized twin where design, operations, and field data work together — enabling real-time monitoring, faster responses, and smarter lifecycle decisions.
Full site BIM model of building complex with urban layout and digital twin integration

Integration with IoT systems

TwinTrack enables full integration with IoT devices across your facility. These sensors deliver live data directly into the model, giving you real-time insights into:

Environmental Parameters

Track temperature, humidity, air quality (CO₂), and lighting levels to ensure comfort, equipment protection, and energy efficiency.

Utility Consumption

Monitor electricity, heating, cooling, water, and gas usage in real time to optimize resource consumption and detect leaks or spikes.

Occupancy & Access

Detect motion, entry counts, and door activity to manage space usage, automate systems, and enhance operational awareness.

Safety & Alarms

Receive alerts from fire, smoke, and flood systems, and track the operational status of critical safety infrastructure in the building.

Equipment Status

Get live updates on pumps, fans, and HVAC units — including runtime, operating parameters, and error signals for maintenance response.

Diagnostics & Schedules

Access logs and schedules for connected devices, monitor communication status, and review system event history and resets.

How connected BIM models are used

Connected models unlock real-time insights for smarter planning, operations, and facility management.

Project planning & renovation

Use accurate models to plan modifications, expansions, or upgrades with full confidence in the existing conditions.

Clash detection and coordination

Identify and resolve conflicts between systems before construction begins — saving time and reducing costly rework.

Space management and asset tracking

Visualize, assign, and optimize the use of space and assets across your facility using model-based layouts.

Energy and performance analysis

Run simulations and efficiency assessments directly on the model to support sustainability and cost reduction.

Lifecycle management and maintenance planning

Support long-term maintenance schedules, asset handovers, and data-driven decisions from design through operation.

Emergency planning and safety simulations

Use BIM models to map evacuation routes, fire zones, and compliance strategies for safety and regulatory needs.
TwinTrack integration with 3D BIM viewer showing selected equipment and asset metadata

What types of data can be connected?

Your digital twin is not just a model — it’s a dynamic information hub. Here are just a few examples of the data you can link to individual assets:

Warranty info and serial numbers
Maintenance schedules and service history
Inspection reports and status logs
Manufacturer documentation and specs

Data Insights with Tandem

Connecting all systems, sensors, and assets to Tandem unlocks advanced analytics — enabling real-time monitoring, comparison, and performance optimization directly within the model view.

Visual dashboards
Filter data by system, classification, or asset type

Task and work status tracking

Instantly see task completion and bottlenecks

Asset readiness and compliance

Identify gaps in documentation and required updates

System-level summaries

Compare completeness across HVAC, power, safety, and more

Real-time validation

Use Tandem to verify field progress vs. design intent

Data synchronization audit

Verify data freshness across sources and systems
3D digital twin of airport terminal with system classification and completeness charts for power and sanitary systems.
3D digital twin of airport terminal with system classification and completeness charts for power and sanitary systems.
3D digital twin of airport terminal with system classification and completeness charts for power and sanitary systems.
3D digital twin of airport terminal with system classification and completeness charts for power and sanitary systems.
3D digital twin of airport terminal with system classification and completeness charts for power and sanitary systems.

Two-way sync with TwinTrack

Thanks to bi-directional synchronization, any updates made in TwinTrack are automatically reflected in the digital twin. Likewise, any changes in asset data, condition status, or sensor alerts can be instantly pushed back to users in the field.This ensures full alignment between what’s happening on site and what’s visible in the model.

Tandem as the data core

Autodesk Tandem is the central data hub for your digital twin, combining BIM, documents, and sensor data into one structured model. TwinTrack connects directly to Tandem, making that data accessible, searchable, and usable on both desktop and mobile.
Learn more about Tandem

What’s Next? Put Your Data to Work

Now that your model is connected with real-time systems, it’s time to start using it as a true digital twin. With up-to-date data flowing in from sensors, inspections, and external platforms, you're ready to move from structure to operations. This next step transforms your model into an active tool — supporting planning, maintenance, decision-making, and team collaboration across the entire facility. Start using your connected model to power better performance, reduce delays, and improve how your team works on site.

Choose the next step you’d like to explore.

Select the part of the process you want to learn more about — whether it’s scanning, modeling, data integration, or daily operations.
PricingHomepage

Have More Questions?

Want to learn more about how BIM models are created, what data they include, or how they integrate into your digital twin? Let’s talk about your facility, modeling scope, or data requirements — we’re here to help.
Contact Us