Building Information Modelling

Learning Outcome 1: Discuss the term Building Information Modelling (BIM) in the context of local, national and global developments in the construction industry.

Learning Outcome 2: Describe the basic concepts surrounding Building Information Modelling

Learning Outcome 3: Discuss the differences in purpose between Building Information Modelling and its associated outcomes, and traditional forms of construction information.

Learning Outcome 4: Assess ways in which the design and construction process of an asset influences the way that asset is managed and maintained.

Assignment Brief and Guidance:

For several years, you have been employed by a medium-sized construction firm that specialises in commercial and industrial buildings. In the past year, the firm has been asked to tender for a number of projects that require the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a part of the project process. Unfortunately, the firm has not used BIM and consequently, were unable to tender for these projects. The management team has recognised that the use of BIM is becoming an expected standard for the tenders they wish to win and have asked that you help them to prepare for making BIM a part of the company's processes. They ask that you prepare a research file that will assist them in going further into the topics.

You are asked to Critically analyse the impact of Building Information Modelling on the construction industry and how it can positively affect both the capital and operational phase of a facility. To support this, you should analyse the importance of BIM in the construction industry. Analyse the way that key terms and consistency of these terms should inform all members of a project team. Underpinning this, the managing directors need a clear explanation of what BIM is and the way that standards (particularly ISO 19650) are embedded within BIM to ensure quality of output.

In addition, you will need to give a critical evaluation and create a BIM Execution Plan and understand how BIM Dimensions can influence various elements of a building project. This will need to be developed from an explanation of key themes surrounding BIM, explanation of the terms that support BIM Dimensions on a project and analysis of ways in which BIM can be utilised on a building project.

Also, based on a given project, you are asked to help the managing directors understand key differences between traditional and BIM related processes in relation to construction and how collaborative working can aid and support a BIM process. You will need to discuss how BIM can inform a project outcome for the design team and asset owner over and above traditional methods.

Key for the managing directors will be how information is created, managed and used through various stages of a project as well as the roles that are required as part of a BIM-enabled project and how they aid in the development of the project at all stages.

Finally, you should evaluate ways in which BIM information is used, shared and managed and evaluate the roles required to successfully deliver BIM project.

Note: This assignment brief and guidance provide an outline to assist you in addressing the learning outcomes. You may need to conduct additional research and include relevant examples and case studies to support your arguments. Provide a list of sources used in the assignment following the Harvard referencing style.