What are some best practices for creating construction models optimized for accessibility and usability?

1 Use standard formats

One of the first steps to ensure accessibility and usability is to use standard formats for your construction models, such as BIM (Building Information Modeling), IFC (Industry Foundation Classes), or DWG (Drawing). These formats are widely supported by various software applications and platforms, and can facilitate the exchange and integration of data across disciplines and phases. Standard formats also help to maintain the quality and consistency of the model information, and reduce the risk of errors or conflicts.

2 Define clear objectives

Another best practice is to define clear objectives for your construction models, such as what level of detail, accuracy, and functionality you need to achieve. This will help you to plan and manage your modeling process, and to prioritize the most relevant and useful information. For example, you may need different models for different purposes, such as conceptual design, structural analysis, cost estimation, or fabrication. By defining your objectives, you can also align your expectations and requirements with your clients and collaborators, and avoid unnecessary or redundant work.

3 Follow naming conventions

A simple but effective way to improve the accessibility and usability of your construction models is to follow naming conventions for your files, elements, layers, and attributes. Naming conventions are rules or guidelines that help you to organize and label your model information in a consistent and logical way. For example, you can use prefixes, suffixes, codes, or categories to indicate the type, function, location, or status of your model components. Naming conventions can help you to find, filter, sort, and edit your model information more easily and efficiently.

4 Document your models

Another important best practice is to document your construction models, such as by adding notes, comments, annotations, or metadata to your model files or elements. Documentation can help you to explain the rationale, assumptions, limitations, or specifications of your model information, and to provide additional context or instructions for your clients and collaborators. Documentation can also help you to track the changes, updates, or revisions of your model information, and to ensure the transparency and accountability of your modeling process.

5 Test your models

The last best practice we will discuss is to test your construction models, such as by performing quality checks, validations, simulations, or reviews of your model information. Testing can help you to verify the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of your model information, and to identify and correct any errors, inconsistencies, or gaps. Testing can also help you to evaluate the performance, feasibility, and sustainability of your model solutions, and to optimize them for the best outcomes. Testing can also help you to demonstrate the value and benefits of your construction models to your clients and collaborators.

6 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?