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What is BIM?
BIM is the process of BuildingInformation Modelling and is the action or the creation and
maintenance of adatabase of information relating to a building. This data is digital and
isrecorded in such a way as to serve as a useful tool for the future life of thebuilding. For
example, details of structure and specifications of windows wouldmake the task of replacing
windows quicker and easier. The data can be used toinform maintenance decisions potentially
saving time and money over the fulllifecycle of a building.

The BIM process can beconducted at different levels, depending on the specifications of the
client,represented by either a project or facilities manager. It is important todetermine what
level of detail is required from the outset as this will informprovision of digital storage space
and to some extent what system the modelwill be created in. Broadly the level of detail can be
equated to cost, themore detailed and complete a building information model the higher the
cost andthe greater the potential benefits and cost savings in the long run. The level of detail is
often confused with the level of development of a BIM project which can cause issues when
determining the scope of a project. Levels of development are the stage of completeness of a
project whereas the level of detail is the amount of information included in a model. See
Approaches to BIM for more detail.

There are a number of formatsand types of software designed to host BIM models. They range
from simplespreadsheets to specially designed software. Whichever format is chosen it
isimperative that all parties involved in the project can access the data andagree to the
arrangement. Certain software specialises in different areas of the construction cycle, for
example TEKLA Structures which provides detailed modelling functionality for precast
concrete and rebar and is aimed at the fabricator market.

Interoperability is theconcept of multiple disciplines and often organisations accessing

andmanipulating BIM data on one server within a set of established parameters.Clear
definition is required over who can access, update and alter what levelof data within the model.

The process should be driven bya BIM Manager from an early stage for a successful project. A
BIM Manager cannot be aspecialist in any one area and ideally has full knowledge of the
completesurvey, design and build process. The BIM Manager is not a new role butsuddenly
one very much in demand due to the massive increase in BIM projects, therole has evolved
from the existing CAD manager.

There is extensive debateover which professional is best suited to fill the role of BIM Manager.
RIBAand RICS both feel that their members are suited to the role as both architectsand
quantity surveyors are well trained in delivering these projects andrecording data.

Government objectives
The UK government aims to promote BIM as a tool. They will lead by example by ensuring
that all centrally procured government construction projects are using level 2 BIM as a
minimum by 2016.

In February 2015, the government published Digital Built Britain, Level 3 Building Information
Modelling - Strategic Plan . This strategy document claims that delivery of the level 2 BIM

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programme has enabled the government to help secure 20% savings on CapEx against 09/10
benchmarks, although the greater benefit is seen to lie in the operational stages of the project
life-cycle. The government hopes to have a series of early adopter projects operated at level 3
BIM by 2017.

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