What are the best practices for managing BIM data and information throughout a project lifecycle?

2 Implement BIM standards

To ensure that your BIM data and information are compatible and interoperable, you should implement BIM standards and guidelines that are widely accepted and recognized in the industry. For example, you can use the ISO 19650 series for BIM information management, the IFC schema for BIM data exchange, and the COBie specification for BIM data delivery. You should also follow the best practices for naming, organizing, and classifying your BIM files and objects.

3 Use BIM collaboration platforms

To facilitate the communication and coordination of BIM data and information among different project participants, you should use BIM collaboration platforms that enable cloud-based sharing and access. These platforms allow you to store, manage, and update your BIM models and documents in a centralized and secure location. They also provide features such as version control, change tracking, clash detection, and data validation.

4 Conduct BIM reviews and audits

To ensure that your BIM data and information are reliable and compliant, you should conduct regular BIM reviews and audits throughout the project lifecycle. These reviews and audits can help you identify and resolve any errors, inconsistencies, or gaps in your BIM models and documents. They can also help you monitor and measure the performance and quality of your BIM processes and outcomes.

5 Document BIM changes and issues

To ensure that your BIM data and information are transparent and traceable, you should document any changes and issues that occur during the project lifecycle. This includes recording the reasons, sources, and impacts of any modifications, additions, or deletions to your BIM models and documents. It also includes reporting any conflicts, discrepancies, or problems that arise from your BIM activities and solutions.

6 Deliver BIM data and information

To ensure that your BIM data and information are useful and valuable, you should deliver them in a timely and appropriate manner to the relevant project stakeholders. This includes providing the required BIM deliverables and outputs for each phase and discipline. It also includes ensuring that your BIM data and information are formatted, structured, and presented in a way that meets the needs and expectations of the end-users.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?