Reed Construction Data (RCD) has partnered with RCMS Group, a building information modeling (BIM) services provider, to launch a new BIM suite of services for the building design and construction market. The main goal of the alliance is to promote the creation and distribution of content for an audience that consists of building product manufacturers, architects, general contractors and sub-contractors. Both companies will create content and building models for the Autodesk platform.

According to a news release announcing the partnership, there is approximately $400 billion new non-residential development underway in the U.S. each year, with $1.5 billion of that earmarked for building design. Both companies share the view that the BIM market will continue to grow.

Among the capabilities RCMS Group brings to the alliance are several value-added BIM services, including the development of "Builders" BIM model for general contractors and the creation of BIM content for building product manufacturers. RCD's portfolio includes more than 80 publications, 55 websites and various business-to-business services.

This partnership illustrates yet another example of the value of good content and finding ways in which to enhance its value even further for the end user. As professionals continue to demand content and services that integrate into their workflow, the timing of this launch is ideal. Customers will undoubtedly welcome the new BIM services; both companies recognized a need--and see the potential for enormous growth. It will be interesting to follow the progress of this initiative as the BIM market matures.