Article 3: Information Delivery Manual (IDM) in ISO 19650

ISO 19650-1:2018 Section 5.2 emphasizes the importance of the Information Delivery Manual (IDM) in the context of building information modeling (BIM) and information management in the construction industry. It provides a framework for capturing and specifying processes and information flow throughout the lifecycle of a facility.

What is an Information Delivery Manual (IDM)?

An IDM is a document that captures business processes and provides detailed specifications of the information a user fulfilling a particular role would need to provide at specific points within a project. It outlines the lifecycle processes a built asset will go through, showing relevance and dependencies, and detailing the requirements for the information needed to carry out each process successfully.

Benefits of an IDM

The benefits of an IDM include:

• Improved communication: An IDM ensures that all stakeholders have a clear understanding of the information requirements, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and errors.
• Increased efficiency: An IDM helps to streamline the information management process, reducing the time and effort required to manage and deliver information.
• Enhanced decision-making: An IDM provides a clear understanding of the information requirements, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions and reduce the risk of errors.

Standards Governing IDM

The IDM is governed by several standards, including:

• ISO 19650: ISO 19650 provides a framework for managing information throughout the lifecycle of a construction project.?https://www.iso.org/standard/68078.html
• ISO 29481-1:2016: ISO 29481-1:2016 provides a methodology and format for the IDM.?https://www.iso.org/standard/62084.html
• ISO 29481-2:2012: ISO 29481-2:2012 provides an interaction framework for the IDM.?https://www.iso.org/standard/52883.html
• ISO/WD 29481-3: ISO/WD 29481-3 provides a data schema for the IDM.?https://www.iso.org/standard/62085.html

Key Components of IDM Documentation

IDM documentation typically includes:

• Interaction Maps: Representation of the roles and transactions relevant for a defined purpose.
• Transaction Maps: Representation of a set of messages that are exchanged between participating roles for a particular purpose.
• Process Maps: Visual representations of the processes involved in a project.
• Exchange Requirements: Specifications of what needs to be exchanged to meet requirements at a given project stage.

Interaction Maps:

Interaction maps are a critical component of IDM documentation, as they provide a clear understanding of the roles and transactions involved in a project. An interaction map typically includes:

Roles: A description of the roles involved in the project, including their responsibilities and expectations.

Transactions: A description of the transactions that occur between roles, including the type of information exchanged and the timing of delivery.

Transaction Maps:

Transaction maps are another critical component of IDM documentation, as they provide a clear understanding of the messages that are exchanged between participating roles. A transaction map typically includes:

Messages: A description of the messages that are exchanged between roles, including the type of information and the timing of delivery.

Protocols: A description of the protocols that govern the exchange of messages, including the format and timing of delivery.

Process Maps:

Process maps are a visual representation of the processes involved in a project, and are a critical component of IDM documentation. A process map typically includes:

Processes: A description of the processes involved in the project, including the inputs, outputs, and timing of delivery.

Activities: A description of the activities that occur within each process, including the roles and responsibilities involved.

Exchange Requirements:

Exchange requirements are a critical component of IDM documentation, as they provide a clear understanding of what needs to be exchanged to meet requirements at a given project stage. Exchange requirements typically include:

Information Requirements: A description of the information requirements for each project stage, including the type of information and the timing of delivery.

Format Requirements: A description of the format requirements for each project stage, including the file format and the timing of delivery.

Documenting Processes and Information Flow

A critical aspect of the Information Delivery Manual (IDM) is its role in documenting processes and information flow throughout a construction project's lifecycle. This documentation serves as a roadmap for all stakeholders, ensuring clarity and consistency in information exchange.

According to the buildingSMART Technical website, "The main purpose of an information delivery manual is to make sure that the relevant data are communicated in such a way they can be interpreted by the software on the receiving end." https://technical.buildingsmart.org/standards/information-delivery-manual/

Documenting existing and new processes in an Information Delivery Manual (IDM) involves several steps. IDM can document both existing and new processes, describing the associated information that needs to be exchanged between parties. The outputs from these standards can form the basis for a more detailed specification that can guide software development processes. Here's a general overview of the process:

Step 1: Identify Existing and New Processes Identify the existing and new processes within your organization or project. This can be done by analyzing existing workflows, interviewing stakeholders, and reviewing relevant documentation.

Step 2: Document Existing and New Processes Use a standardized methodology, such as the Information Delivery Manual (IDM), to document the identified existing and new processes. This documentation should include:

This documentation typically includes: Process Maps: Visual representations of project workflows and activities. Exchange Requirements: Detailed specifications of the information needed at each stage. Functional Parts: Reusable components that describe specific exchanges.

Step 3: Develop Software to Support IDM Develop software that supports the documented existing and new processes. This software should be able to:

• Capture and store information
• Automate workflows and exchanges
• Provide a user-friendly interface for stakeholders to access and manage information

Step 4: Implement and Test IDM Implement the IDM software and test it to ensure that it accurately communicates and interprets data between systems.

Benefits of IDM Software Implementing IDM software can bring several benefits, including:

• Improved information exchange and collaboration
• Increased efficiency and productivity
• Enhanced data accuracy and integrity
• Better decision-making and project outcomes

By following these steps and developing software to support IDM, organizations can improve their information management practices and achieve better project outcomes. Here is an example of how IDM can be implemented in software using Python:

This example demonstrates how IDM can be implemented in software using object-oriented programming. The Process class represents a process, and the Exchange class represents an exchange. The Process class has a list of exchanges, and the Exchange class has attributes for name, description, and data. The example creates a process and adds exchanges, then prints the process and exchanges.

Note that this is a simplified example and real-world IDM software would require more complex functionality and data structures.

By meticulously documenting these elements, IDM helps to:

• Reduce miscommunication and errors
• Streamline information exchange
• Enhance project efficiency and collaboration

As noted in the buildingSMART forum, creating a comprehensive list of IDMs (or Use-Cases) can serve "as a basis for further work" in standardizing information delivery across the construction industry. https://forums.buildingsmart.org/t/an-overview-for-idm-information-delivery-manual/105

Implementing IDM documentation practices aligns with ISO 19650 standards, supporting the broader goals of improved information management in building and civil engineering works.

Practical Applications and Challenges

The IDM has several practical applications and challenges, including:

Implementation: The IDM requires implementation and enforcement by all stakeholders, which can be a challenge.

Maintenance: The IDM requires ongoing maintenance and updates to ensure that it remains relevant and effective.

Training: The IDM requires training and education for stakeholders to ensure that they understand the requirements and protocols.

Best Practices for Developing an IDM

To develop an effective IDM, the following best practices should be considered:

• Involve all stakeholders: The IDM should be developed in collaboration with all stakeholders, including the project team, clients, and contractors.
• Use a standardized template: A standardized template should be used to ensure consistency and clarity.
• Clearly define information requirements: The IDM should clearly define the information requirements, including the type of information, the format, and the timing of delivery.
• Establish protocols and procedures: The IDM should establish protocols and procedures for exchanging information, managing and storing data, and ensuring security and access.

Tools and Software for Developing an IDM

Several tools and software are available to support the development of an IDM, including:

• BIM software: BIM software such as Autodesk Revit, Graphisoft ArchiCAD, and Trimble Navisworks can be used to develop and manage the IDM.?https://www.autodesk.com/products/revit ,?https://www.graphisoft.com/products/archicad/ ,?https://www.trimble.com/products-and-solutions/trimble-navisworks
• Data management platforms: Data management platforms such as Procore, PlanGrid, and Fieldwire can be used to manage and store data.?https://www.procore.com/ ,?https://www.plangrid.com/ ,?https://www.fieldwire.com/
• Collaboration tools: Collaboration tools such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Asana can be used to facilitate communication and collaboration among stakeholders.?https://slack.com/ ,?https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/microsoft-teams ,?https://asana.com/

Relevant Case Studies

Case Study: London 2012 Olympics

The London 2012 Olympics implemented IDM to manage construction project data. The project involved the creation of a large-scale infrastructure project, including the construction of new stadiums, arenas, and other facilities. https://www.london2012.com/

Stakeholders

• Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA): The ODA was responsible for delivering the infrastructure for the Olympics, including the construction of new stadiums, arenas, and other facilities.
• London Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG): LOCOG was responsible for organizing the Olympics, including the management of the construction project.
• Contractors and suppliers: Various contractors and suppliers were involved in the project, including architects, engineers, and construction companies.

Platforms and Tools

• Autodesk Construction Cloud: Autodesk Construction Cloud was used to manage and share project data, including building information models (BIM) and other construction documents.?https://www.autodesk.com/products/construction-cloud
• Procore: Procore was used to manage and share project data, including construction schedules, budgets, and resource allocation.?https://www.procore.com/
• Tableau: Tableau was used to analyze and visualize project data, including construction progress, costs, and resource utilization.?https://www.tableau.com/

Benefits

• Improved collaboration among stakeholders: The use of IDM enabled stakeholders to collaborate more effectively, reducing errors and improving communication.
• Increased efficiency in data management and sharing: The use of IDM enabled stakeholders to manage and share data more efficiently, reducing the time and effort required to manage construction project data.
• Enhanced data management and analysis: The use of IDM enabled stakeholders to analyze and visualize project data, enabling better decision-making and reducing the risk of errors.

Facts and Figures

• IDM is a critical aspect of Building Information Modeling (BIM): IDM is a critical aspect of BIM, enabling the creation, management, and sharing of construction project data.
• The London 2012 Olympics project involved the creation of over 100,000 documents and 10,000 models: The project used IDM to manage and share large amounts of data, including documents and models.
• The project used over 100 different software applications to manage construction project data: IDM enabled stakeholders to integrate data from multiple software applications, reducing errors and improving data management.

Case Study: Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House implemented IDM to manage construction project data. The project involved the creation of a complex infrastructure project, including the construction of a new opera house and other facilities. https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/

Stakeholders

• Sydney Opera House Trust: The Sydney Opera House Trust was responsible for delivering the infrastructure for the opera house, including the construction of new facilities.
• Contractors and suppliers: Various contractors and suppliers were involved in the project, including architects, engineers, and construction companies.

Platforms and Tools

• Autodesk Construction Cloud: Autodesk Construction Cloud was used to manage and share project data, including building information models (BIM) and other construction documents.?https://www.autodesk.com/products/construction-cloud
• Procore: Procore was used to manage and share project data, including construction schedules, budgets, and resource allocation.?https://www.procore.com/
• Tableau: Tableau was used to analyze and visualize project data, including construction progress, costs, and resource utilization.?https://www.tableau.com/

Benefits

• Improved collaboration among stakeholders: The use of IDM enabled stakeholders to collaborate more effectively, reducing errors and improving communication.
• Increased efficiency in data management and sharing: The use of IDM enabled stakeholders to manage and share data more efficiently, reducing the time and effort required to manage construction project data.
• Enhanced data management and analysis: The use of IDM enabled stakeholders to analyze and visualize project data, enabling better decision-making and reducing the risk of errors.

Facts and Figures

• IDM is a critical aspect of Building Information Modeling (BIM): IDM is a critical aspect of BIM, enabling the creation, management, and sharing of construction project data.
• The Sydney Opera House project involved the creation of over 50,000 documents and 5,000 models: The project used IDM to manage and share large amounts of data, including documents and models.
• The project used over 50 different software applications to manage construction project data: IDM enabled stakeholders to integrate data from multiple software applications, reducing errors and improving data management.

Conclusion

In conclusion, IDM is a critical component of BIM and information management in the construction industry. It provides a framework for capturing and specifying processes and information flow throughout the lifecycle of a facility. By implementing IDM, stakeholders can improve collaboration, reduce errors, increase efficiency, and enable better decision making. For more information on IDM and its implementation, please refer to the resources listed above.

Useful Resources

For more information on IDM and its implementation, please refer to the following resources:

• buildingSMART International : buildingSMART International is a non-profit organization that aims to improve the construction industry through the use of BIM and other digital technologies.?https://www.buildingsmart.org/
• IDM: Guide to Components and Development Methods: This guide provides an overview of the components of an IDM and the methods for developing an IDM.?https://www.buildingsmart.org/standards/bsi-standards/idm-guide/
• An Integrated Process for Delivering IFC Based Data Exchange: This guide provides an overview of the process for delivering IFC-based data exchange and the role of IDM in that process.?https://www.buildingsmart.org/standards/bsi-standards/ifc-based-data-exchange/
• TechnoStruct, LLC : TechnoStruct is a leading provider of BIM and IDM solutions for the construction industry.?https://www.technostruct.com/
• TechnoStruct Academy - TSA : TechnoStruct Academy provides training and education on BIM and IDM for the construction industry.?https://www.technostructacademy.com/

Sources

• Using Information Delivery Manual (IDM) for Efficient Exchange of Building Design Information, ResearchGate,?https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320405854_Using_Information_Delivery_Manual_IDM_for_Efficient_Exchange_of_Building_Design_Information
• BIM Framework Document: Employer Information Requirements (EIR), Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure,?https://bmdv.bund.de/SharedDocs/DE/Anlage/StB/bim-framework-document-employer-information-requirements-eir.pdf?__blob=publicationFile
• Information Delivery Manual, SlideShare,?https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/information-delivery-manual-215619537/215619537
• An Overview for IDM (Information Delivery Manual), buildingSMART International,?https://forums.buildingsmart.org/t/an-overview-for-idm-information-delivery-manual/105
• Information Delivery Manual, buildingSMART International,?https://technical.buildingsmart.org/standards/information-delivery-manual/

Glossary

• BIM: Building Information Modeling
• IDM: Information Delivery Manual
• IFC: Industry Foundation Classes
• ISO: International Organization for Standardization

References

• ISO 29481-1:2016: Building information models -- Information delivery manual -- Part 1: Methodology and format.?https://www.iso.org/standard/62084.html
• ISO 29481-2:2012: Building information models -- Information delivery manual -- Part 2: Interaction framework.?https://www.iso.org/standard/52883.html
• ISO/WD 29481-3: Building information modelling -- Information delivery manual -- Part 3: Data schema.?https://www.iso.org/standard/62085.html

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