How can you manage clashes in BIM models?

1 Define clash rules

Before you start detecting clashes, you need to define the clash rules that specify the criteria and parameters for identifying and reporting clashes. Clash rules can vary depending on the project scope, requirements, standards, and objectives. For example, you can set different clash rules for hard clashes (physical collisions), soft clashes (clearance violations), and 4D clashes (schedule conflicts). You can also define the severity, priority, and responsibility of each clash type. Clash rules help you to filter and organize the clash results, and to focus on the most critical and relevant clashes.

2 Use clash detection software

To automate and streamline the clash detection process, you need to use a clash detection software that can integrate with your BIM software and import multiple models from different disciplines. Clash detection software can run clash tests based on the clash rules you defined, and generate clash reports that show the location, description, and status of each clash. Some examples of clash detection software are Navisworks, Solibri, BIM Track, and BIMcollab. You can use these tools to perform clash detection at different stages of the project, such as design, coordination, construction, and operation.

3 Resolve clashes collaboratively

After you identify the clashes, you need to resolve them collaboratively with the relevant stakeholders and team members. You can use a cloud-based platform or a common data environment (CDE) to share and communicate the clash information with the parties involved. You can also use a BIM issue management tool to assign tasks, track progress, and document resolutions. You should resolve the clashes in a logical and systematic order, starting from the most severe and urgent ones, and following the project standards and guidelines. You should also verify and validate the clash resolutions by running new clash tests and updating the models accordingly.