Infrastructure projects are bigger, more complex and more reliant on digital tools than ever before—but the industry is running into a serious roadblock: proprietary software.
Locked-in vendor ecosystems and inaccessible data aren’t just inconvenient; they pose long-term risks for projects meant to last decades, even centuries. What happens when a file format becomes obsolete or a software provider goes under?
The answer lies in open data standards. By breaking down barriers between platforms and ensuring long-term accessibility, open standards are transforming how infrastructure is designed, built and maintained.
The Hidden Risks of Proprietary Software in Infrastructure Projects
Proprietary software systems have long been a staple in the construction and infrastructure sectors. While they offer powerful tools, they also create dependency on specific vendors. This dependency can result in significant risks, particularly if the vendor goes out of business or stops supporting certain file formats. Moreover, proprietary systems often fail to integrate seamlessly with other platforms, creating inefficiencies and barriers to collaboration.
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The growing reliance on digital workflows has amplified these challenges. In response, industry leaders and regulators are increasingly pushing for open data standards to ensure that information is not only accessible today but remains usable for future generations.
Open Data Standards: What They Are and Why They Matter for Infrastructure
Open data standards are frameworks that allow information to be stored and shared in nonproprietary formats. These standards ensure compatibility between different software platforms, enabling seamless collaboration among contractors, designers and agencies. More importantly, they protect data from becoming obsolete, ensuring it can be accessed regardless of the tools used to create it.
This approach aligns with initiatives like the Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018, which emphasizes open data as a cornerstone of modern infrastructure management. As federal and state agencies adopt these standards, they pave the way for a more interconnected and resilient infrastructure ecosystem.
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Legislation Driving Open Data Adoption
Governments worldwide are recognizing the power of open data to improve infrastructure efficiency, transparency and longevity. Here are three key legislative initiatives shaping the future of data accessibility in construction and infrastructure projects:
- Evidence-Based Policymaking Act (2018): This US law promotes open data in government agencies, ensuring long-term accessibility and interoperability in federally funded infrastructure projects.
- Biden Infrastructure Bill: Formally known as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), a historic investment in modernizing US infrastructure, this bill includes funding incentives for digital transformation and the adoption of open data standards.
- EU Data Act: This European legislation mandates standardized, accessible data sharing across industries, fostering a more interconnected and efficient digital infrastructure ecosystem.
By aligning with these regulations, companies and agencies can future proof their projects, reduce inefficiencies and enhance collaboration across sectors.
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How Bluebeam Is Leading the Charge for Open Data Standards in Infrastructure
Bluebeam has positioned itself as a champion of open data standards. Its platform prioritizes file and platform agnosticism, allowing users to collaborate without worrying about compatibility issues. This makes it a preferred choice for state agencies, contractors and private sector firms alike.
Unlike other construction technology providers, which lock users into proprietary ecosystems, Bluebeam’s solutions are designed to integrate with a variety of file types, including PDFs and nonproprietary IFC formats. This flexibility not only enhances collaboration but also ensures compliance with emerging regulations.
Why Open Data Standards Are a Game-Changer for Infrastructure Projects
For infrastructure projects, the advantages of open data standards are clear. These standards streamline communication, reduce errors and improve efficiency across all phases of a project.
The accessibility of open data is another key benefit. With tools like Bluebeam, team members can access critical project information on any device, from laptops to mobile phones, without requiring specialized software. This ensures that everyone—from engineers to project managers—has the information they need when they need it.
The Future of Infrastructure: Embracing Open Data for Long-Term Success
The shift toward open data standards represents a significant step forward for the construction and infrastructure industries. The data created today must remain usable 100 years from now to support the maintenance and adaptation of infrastructure over time.
Bluebeam’s focus on open data aligns with broader industry trends, including federal incentives for digitizing workflows. These initiatives underscore the importance of adaptability and transparency in managing infrastructure projects.
How Open Data Standards Build a Stronger, More Resilient Digital Infrastructure
The adoption of open data standards is not just a technological shift but a strategic imperative for the future of infrastructure. By eliminating vendor lock-in, enhancing collaboration and ensuring data longevity, open standards lay the groundwork for more efficient and sustainable infrastructure management.
