Successful simulation and analysis of buildings inevitably require information exchange between multiple BIM software. The information exchange mode of BIM software based on IFC has been developed and widely used, which brings the possibility to exchange information among BIM software and improve the work efficiency of the construction industry. However, some practical problems arise when IFC based data exchange patterns are applied in practice. Two research methods, interviews and a case study are applied to identify the aspects needed to be considered to achieve a successful information exchange between lighting simulation tools and authoring design tools and factors that hinder the successful exchange of information in real-world applications. Results show that model creation, information exchange, and model simulation determine the success of information exchange. Three factors are hindering the success of the exchange process in practical application: 1) The information exchange format is not selected and applied correctly; 2) the workflow of using lighting simulation software is incorrect; 3) simulation software cannot guarantee the accuracy of information reception and recognition.