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Thread: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

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    Default So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    I guess it depends upon who you ask, but the question I have is who owns the model once the project is built? Is the owner entitled to a 3-D model of their building, even though they're not the ones who pay for the training, the software and the hardware?

    Is there ever an issue with ownership of the model?

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    Default Re: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    Quote Originally Posted by happystan5678 View Post
    I guess it depends upon who you ask, but the question I have is who owns the model once the project is built? Is the owner entitled to a 3-D model of their building, even though they're not the ones who pay for the training, the software and the hardware?

    Is there ever an issue with ownership of the model?
    IT would depend upon the language in the contract. I've had one retail client who had language that they owned all drawings, models, and BIM information. 98% of the Owners don't know about, or care about the electronic 3D model/BIM infromation. You can always export the sheets to AutoCAD to give them that if it is in the contract.

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    Certifiable AUGI Addict twiceroadsfool's Avatar
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    Default Re: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    What Scott said.

    My witty answer was about to be "whoever negotiated the better contract, LOL"

    Most owners/clients dont care, true enough... But im finding more and more that they do. Not only are they starting to care, but theyre also starting to care what file format, and how the particulars of the model are built. At least, a couple of our retail clients are, becuase the model has uses for them after the fact...

    I look at it as part of my service to them to educate them about their needs and wants, and work out an arrangement that is mutually beneficial.

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    I could stop if I wanted to Lashers's Avatar
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    Default Re: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    My view is that it is mine . . all MINE!

    The client has a license to use the DRAWINGS (at whatever stage they pay me up to) to take forward their build project, paper or PDF- if for some reason they go a different direction. If they wish to have CAD data they will have to pay a premium - different for 2D outputs to 3D/BIM info.

    I can understand that clients may like to have all this other information, but it must have a value for them to get it! In Facilities Management situations, having the BIM Model could save a client many thousands of £/$ in establishing a coordinated management system, so why should you give it away for free?

    My 2p

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    Certifiable AUGI Addict tedg's Avatar
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    Default Re: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    I know of a client that will receive the BIM (model) as part of the contracted "deliverables" when it's finished. And I heard a rumor that they will own at least one of the seats of Revit that was purchased to help create it, but not totally sure about that.

    BTW, I believe the client paid a premium for this "deliverable", it won't be just given away.

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    Revit Technical Specialist - Autodesk Scott D Davis's Avatar
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    Default Re: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    And in a new business model called Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) the team owns the model...Arc, Eng, Owner, Contractor, etc.

    This all depends on the contract. If you think its going to be an issue, you need to address it in your contract documents.

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    Default Re: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    I guess you can call a IFC export file a bim model.
    That way you keep the RVT file to yourself.

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    AUGI Addict jeffh's Avatar
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    Default Re: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    I tell my students at the Boston Architectural College in my Revit calss that the modle is valuable. Don't give it away for free just because you created it to get the construction documents. Find a way to make people pay you for the model. How is that done? I am not sure, but get them to pay for it because it is an asset.

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    Default Re: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    Since you don't really own the software that you used to make the model (just try and sell it!), a good case could be made that Autodesk owns the model.

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    I could stop if I wanted to david.metcalf's Avatar
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    Default Re: So who owns the Revit model once the project is built?

    That is a good point, since maintaining the compatible file format requires updating the model each year. So in order to retain a usable asset , facility owners are required to keep a active and current Revit seat from Autodesk. Image some governments having to update 20+ facilities and families libraries (approx 40 million sf or more) every year. That is an exponential increase in management of this asset compared to changes in Autocad file formats every 3 or so years.

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