An online platform to unify and synchronise heritage architecture information

Traditionally, in heritage architecture, each discipline works independently, generating dispersed data. Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM) can provide benefits in managing heritage projects. However, the modelling task is laborious, BIM software tends to be complex, and historical databases are not synchronised with HBIM models. The aim of this research is to create an online work platform where interdisciplinary stakeholders can synchronise heritage information. Design Science Research (DSR) was the methodological approach adopted, consisting of designing an artefact and evaluating it iteratively. As a result, an innovative in-cloud system named BIMlegacy that connects the intrinsic HBIM database with heritage documentary databases was designed. BIMlegacy was used to manage a complete heritage registration project in a case study. The results were validated through a focus group with external professionals. The theoretical definition of the BIMlegacy platform structure is a contribution to knowledge as it could be used as a basis to develop new systems. BIMlegacy allows non-technical heritage stakeholders to collaborate effectively, which is a notable practical contribution.