Implementing BIM And Data Management

In this first episode on Building Information Modelling (BIM), Ian will demonstrate the tremendous potential of BIM even on small projects. BIM is a process of generating and managing building data during its complete life cycle, from conceptual design through operation of the building and on to its eventual end. It is a centralisation of data allowing much closer collaboration between the various different areas of the construction process and provides comprehensive information gathering from one accessible source.
Ian will look at the impacts and benefits of BIM, the process, collaboration, and the intrinsic function of life cycle and BIM. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• BIM is a sophisticated 3D model that  enables you to look at all aspects of the design and enable people to collaborate via one platform.
• The key aspect of BIM operation is information management. The Common Data Environment (CDE) is where all the data is kept and may require many programs and software to enable the input, access and normalisation of the data.
• A 3D model is stored within BIM and is incorporated with 4D scheduling, to generate schedules of construction, 5D cost estimation, 6D sustainability and energy, and 7D facilities management.
• The adoption of BIM in the organisation involves persuading the stakeholders and team members of the substantial advantages it offered. The initial setup will be complex so it is important to have everybody agreeing on implementation.
• It is advisable to create a structured BIM implementation plan. This document will enable everyone's role to be defined and the goals and requirements to be established. 
• Research, test, trial and understand the available software before you commit to a final BIM implementation package. For smaller projects fully integrated BIM software is available and can be much more cost effective.
• Monitor, evaluate, adjust and repeat. Once your BIM is in place you should be consistently improving your processes to streamlined and accurate usage.  

BEST MOMENTS
‘As a result of that (collaboration) you have greater ability to sort out clashes and issues and not miss things, so that when the design eventually gets on site, it is much more robust and unlikely to have variations and issues.’
‘Some of the 5D cost estimation models actually do have tender modules built in so it can produce all your tender documentation.’
‘There are rumoured future dimensions coming. The one that’s often bandied around is 8D which is Health and Safety so you can bolt in all your Health and Safety systems around your construction model.’ 
‘Equip yourself with an understanding of all the available features so you can choose the right software for your needs.’
‘When starting out with new software it is necessary for the project leader to ensure that their staff get the appropriate training for using the software.’
‘I must stress that you have to implement it correctly at the very beginning. You need to get your naming conventions in, you need to get everybody on to the same page.’ 

VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://www.ianjrogers.com/

ABOUT THE HOST
Ian Rogers is an entrepreneur running businesses in the Real Estate, Construction and Facilities Management arena. Ian has over 40 years’ industry experience, as he was effectively born into construction with his father having his own building company and Ian spending time working on sites from the age of 11!. As a result Ian has seen the industry from a trades person perspective, as a chartered quantity surveyor working on large commercial projects, as a project manager and then working on structured project finance