What is an IFC file or model?

FC (Industry Foundation Classes) is a standard data format for building information models. It can be used for exchanging BIM models between BIM solutions. IFC file or model can include data about 3D objects representing building elements, their properties and connections between the different elements.

An important property of IFC is that it is an open format. It is not controlled by any individual commercial entity.

IFC is the most widely supported BIM format in the industry, and thus a very powerful and flexible way to exchange BIM data.

Yes, IFC is a standard, but no, it doesn’t guarantee consistent, complete and usable data. For that you need a smart BIM workflow and BIM data processing. You need BIM dataflows and Simplebim.