Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG) FAQ

Building the Foundation for the Next Generation of WBDG

WBDG is strengthening its digital infrastructure to support the next generation of standards delivery, knowledge exchange, and workforce development.

This effort enhances usability, connectivity, and long-term platform reliability while establishing the foundation for a more dynamic, integrated interface that connects standards, guidance, and education within a unified digital environment.

Strengthening the Platform

WBDG is advancing toward a dynamic and interconnected experience that supports:

  • Digitized, interactive federal facility criteria, including UFC content
  • Improved search and cross-referencing across disciplines 
  • Deeper knowledge sharing across federal and industry communities
  • Integrated education pathways supported by a modern Learning Management System

 

These enhancements strengthen how codes and standards are assembled, stored, and applied across the building lifecycle, reinforcing WBDG’s role as an authoritative bridge between policy and practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will existing WBDG content remain available?

Yes. Federal facility criteria, guidance, and education resources remain accessible. Enhancements focus on improving organization, navigation, and digital performance while preserving trusted content.

No. Official criteria remain governed by their respective authorities. This initiative improves digital access and usability without altering governance, approval processes, or compliance requirements.

Users may notice refinements to navigation, search functionality, and content organization. Improvements are introduced in a measured manner to preserve stability and ensure continuity.

WBDG will introduce enhancements that improve connectivity across standards, applied guidance, and education resources. Beginning May 1, users will experience enhancements to navigation, search functionality, content organization, and learning integration.

All improvements are implemented with reliability and long-term performance as core priorities.  As new capabilities become available, updates will be communicated here and across NIBS channels.

See “How can I  stay informed?” for more information.

Yes. While WBDG’s mission and legislative foundation remain unchanged, the platform is advancing to deliver a more dynamic and interconnected experience.

Enhancements will expand access to digitized federal criteria, strengthen knowledge-sharing across disciplines, and deepen integration with structured learning and credentialing pathways.

NIBS looks forward to sharing updates as new capabilities are introduced.

The enhanced platform supports:

  • Faster access to current federal criteria
  • Improved interpretation of standards through applied guidance
  • Greater visibility into emerging practices and innovation
  • Structured professional development aligned with federal priorities

Updates will be shared through WBDG communications channels as enhancements are introduced.

WBDG will also launch a WBDG newsletter to provide regular updates on new features, digitized standards, learning opportunities, and platform enhancements. A subscription option will be available soon.

Questions or Feedback

WBDG values continued engagement and feedback.

For questions regarding this modernization effort, please contact us using the following link: