CDE (Common Data Environment) is a collaborative workspace where all data of a building is collected and managed during its lifecycle. CDE is very closely linked to BIM planning, as it is where the 3D BIM building models are stored in addition to plans and difficulties. CDE serves as a virtual project space, so to speak, which unifies the requirements for BIM planning.

In addition, CDE has now been standardized internationally, ensuring that all project members have access to the most important information and can track changes. In addition, data is clearly presented in CDE, which avoids tedious searching for it.

A CDE development enables relevant information to be stored in a central archive. From there, stakeholders have access to BIM models, current CADs, drawings or planning, among other things, and can also share them. This ensures that all project participants always have access to the latest version and avoids duplication of effort. It also enables project teams to collaborate more productively and drive the digital transformation of construction faster.

A modern CDE is also characterized by the fact that there are other useful functions that make everyday work easier for project participants, resulting in cost and time savings. This could be a document management tool, for example, where all relevant documents are managed centrally.