4.1 Use this practice to organize information that describes new or existing buildings of any size. The concepts presented here can also be applied to other categories of construction where a standard corresponding to UNIFORMAT II does not yet exist.

4.2 The hierarchical structure of UNIFORMAT II enables the user to focus on building elements in functionally consistent groups. It can be applied by an administrator initiating a data system as a facility standard, as well as a consultant reporting on building conditions.

4.2.1 A consistent method of arrangement for subject matter expedites the preparation and use of source documents, and simplifies the process of comparing information from several sources.

4.3 This practice is suitable for arranging the content of individual reports, managing physical files, as well as automated data applications. Personal computers operating commercially available software are able to meet the functional requirements of this practice.

4.4 This practice provides a consistent and comprehensive outline suitable to track the evolution of specific building conditions in one or many buildings. It can be applied to historical building data as well as new information.

4.5 Administration of this practice will reveal categories of building data that have been overlooked in prior data gathering efforts that did not rely on a systems approach. The comprehensive hierarchy of Systems and Elements, readily displays the amount and depth of information distributed among the categories and levels. The pattern of available information highlights voids among the categories. It is also possible to quickly focus on the quality and sufficiency of cataloged data to determine whether an appropriate level of detail exists to address the needs of decision makers.

1.1 This practice covers the organization of building information to support informed decision making. The kinds of data considered in this practice include text, numeric, and graphic data. The system of organization is applicable to a wide range of data collection and organization tasks from routine in-depth analysis of a single building, to situations where many buildings must be evaluated and prioritized in a short time frame.

1.2 The organizational structure is based on Classification for Building Elements and Related Sitework—UNIFORMAT II (Classification E1557), a system which groups building elements according to the way buildings are constructed and function.

1.3 The use of UNIFORMAT II provides a set of recognized summary levels that are relevant throughout the industries that design, construct, and manage buildings.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.