IFC data integration for Microsoft Excel

Overview

Use the IFC Excel integration to extract data from IFC models into Microsoft Excel. Create synchronized Excel Online tables for ongoing analysis, or export .xlsx files for one-time workflows.

The integration supports Microsoft 365-based workflows where IFC files remain in your tenant and Excel workbooks are stored in SharePoint.

Benefits

• Synchronize IFC attributes and model data with Excel Online.
• Share linked Excel extracts with internal or external project teams.
• Use Excel formulas, formatting, tables, pivots, and charts with IFC data.
• Use the same Excel data in Power BI, Power Automate, or other Microsoft 365 workflows.
• Export local .xlsx files for workflows that do not need a live connection.
• Keep IFC files and generated workbooks in your Microsoft 365 tenant.

Why use it

The Excel integration helps BIM, project controls, and reporting teams use model data in familiar Microsoft 365 tools. It reduces manual exports and supports repeatable reporting workflows.

For security-sensitive environments, processing stays client-side and files remain in your Microsoft 365 tenant.

Features

• Query IFC model data with natural language.
• Generate linked Excel Online worksheets from IFC queries.
• Filter IFC data by category or selected model elements.
• Create a unique Excel Online link for each synchronized query.
• Store generated Excel Online tables in SharePoint.
• Refresh synchronized workbooks when source IFC data changes.
• Export .xlsx files for temporary or offline workflows.

How it works

1. Generate an IFC query and create a synchronized Excel Online workbook:

2. Open the SharePoint location of the generated workbook:

3. Continue the analysis in Excel. Add formatting, pivot tables, charts, calculations, or Power BI connections.

Add formatting:

Add functions and calculations:

Add pivot tables and pivot charts:

Add Python scripts:

Add Power Automate workflows:

Add IFC data to data models:

Use the data in Power BI:

4. Share the synchronized Excel workbook with colleagues, teams, or Microsoft Teams channels:

Use cases

1. Link existing Excel calculations to synchronized IFC data.
2. Build Power BI reports from IFC query outputs.
3. Use Excel formulas and tables for model-based calculations.
4. Use Excel add-ins to send IFC data to other tools.
5. Export local files for temporary calculations that do not need a live link.

FAQ

Where are Excel Online files stored?

Excel Online files are stored in your SharePoint environment. By default, the workbook is saved near the source IFC file. You can change the storage location during setup.

Is a new Excel Online link created for each query?

Yes. Each synchronized query creates its own Excel Online table.

How do I create only one synchronized Excel Online table?

Select the query that should be synchronized, then create the Excel Online link for that query. Use that workbook for further processing and sharing.

How can the Excel integration support AEC project management?

The integration makes IFC data available in Excel for reporting, quantity checks, model reviews, and project controls. Teams can connect model data to Excel calculations and Power BI reports without manually re-exporting the same information.

Can I customize data queries in Excel?

Yes. After you create the IFC synchronization, customize the workbook with formulas, tables, scripts, Power BI reports, or other Excel-based workflows.

Is the Microsoft Excel integration secure?

Yes. IFC file processing is client-side. Your IFC files stay in your Microsoft 365 tenant and are not uploaded to Flinker or external software platforms. For more details, see Microsoft App Compliance.