Egyptian BIM Code Draft PDF
Egyptian BIM Code Draft PDF
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ............................................................................................................................ ii
List of Figures ................................................................................................................................. v
List of Tables ................................................................................................................................. vi
List of Abbreviations .................................................................................................................... vii
1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 1
2. Scope of BIM Code ................................................................................................................ 2
3. Integrated Delivery using BIM ............................................................................................... 3
3.1. BIM Overview.................................................................................................................. 3
3.2. BIM Maturity Levels ........................................................................................................ 3
4. BIM Uses ................................................................................................................................ 6
4.1. Parametric Data ................................................................................................................ 7
4.2. Time ................................................................................................................................. 7
4.3. Cost................................................................................................................................... 7
4.4. Energy and Sustainability................................................................................................. 7
4.5. Facility Management ........................................................................................................ 8
5. Main Requirements of BIM Implementation.......................................................................... 9
5.1. Common Data Environment............................................................................................. 9
5.2. Interoperability ............................................................................................................... 10
5.2.1. Incoming Data Management ................................................................................... 10
5.2.2. Intended Use of BIM Model ................................................................................... 11
5.2.3. BIM Exchange between Software Platforms .......................................................... 11
5.3. BIM Model Structure ..................................................................................................... 11
5.3.1. Project Folder Layout ............................................................................................. 12
5.3.2. Collaboration........................................................................................................... 12
5.3.3. Division of BIMs .................................................................................................... 13
5.3.4. Referencing ............................................................................................................. 13
5.3.5. Operational Efficiency in Collaboration ................................................................. 13
5.3.6. Model Division within the Same Discipline ........................................................... 14
5.3.7. Inter-Disciplinary Referencing ............................................................................... 15
5.4. Level of Development .................................................................................................... 15
5.5. Digital Fabrication.......................................................................................................... 18
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Project Information Delivery........................................................................................... 2
Figure 2: Adjusted BIM Maturity Levels for the Egyptian Construction Sector ........................... 4
Figure 3: Structure of Common Data Environment (CDE) .......................................................... 10
Figure 4: Information Management Process ................................................................................. 28
Figure 5: Relations between AIM and other systems ................................................................... 31
Figure 6: BIM Execution Plan Procedures ................................................................................... 34
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Examples of Status Codes .............................................................................................. 13
Table 2: Model Division by Discipline ......................................................................................... 15
Table 3: Levels of Development ................................................................................................... 17
Table 4: Cross-disciplinary model coordination ........................................................................... 25
Table 5: Sample of Project Information........................................................................................ 37
Table 6: Sample of Project Schedule-Related Information .......................................................... 38
Table 7: Sample of Key Project Contacts Documentation ........................................................... 38
Table 8: Sample of BIM Goals ..................................................................................................... 38
Table 9: Sample of BIM Uses ....................................................................................................... 39
Table 10: Sample of Organizations Roles and Responsibilities ................................................... 39
Table 11: Sample of Project Meetings .......................................................................................... 40
Table 12: Sample of BIM Coordination Meetings ....................................................................... 40
Table 13: Sample of BIM Coordination Schedule........................................................................ 40
Table 14: Sample of Software Requirement Schedule ................................................................. 41
Table 15: Sample of Schedule for Documenting Information Exchange ..................................... 41
Table 16: Sample of File Storage Documentation ........................................................................ 41
Table 17: Sample of Schedule for Documenting Design Deliverables ........................................ 42
Table 18: Sample of Schedule for Documenting Construction Deliverables ............................... 42
Table 19: Sample of Quality Checks ............................................................................................ 43
Table 20: Sample of Model File Naming ..................................................................................... 43
Table 21: Sample of Documenting the Software Version ............................................................ 44
Table 22: Sample for Documenting the Discipline Codes............................................................ 44
Table 23: Sample of Sheet Naming Conventions ......................................................................... 47
Table 24: Sample of Sheet Sequence Numbering......................................................................... 47
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
1. INTRODUCTION
In construction projects, the process of producing design information requires some
improvements. The techniques for this improvement need some protocols and standards to
standardize the whole process from the early beginning of the project and to facilitate working
with an integrated design management mindset.
The construction industry nowadays requires the enhancement of several points in the planning
and development since the use of papers, documents, and 2D drawings is not proficient any
longer. This prompted the development of 3D advanced models that can be used to allow for
better data management. This approach is known as Building Information Modeling (BIM).
BIM is changing how facilities are planned, designed, constructed, and operated. It has increased
advanced development and innovations that will essentially change the construction industry and
lead to the conveyance of an intelligent building environment. This changing innovation will
enhance the profitability, the level of incorporation, and the coordinated effort over different
levels in the development of projects. Since BIM is expected to develop and progress with time,
the objective of this Code is to be used as a part of the business' endeavors to facilitate the use of
BIM and to clarify the prerequisites for utilizing BIM at various projects’ phases.
Through the use of computer-based simulations, BIM allows studying and validating the design
and the construction plans of projects before their implementation. It is significantly more than a
fundamental 3D model; it is a business approach that coordinates enormous amounts of project-
related data. It moves clients far from the conventional "document-centric" approach, towards a
"data-centric" approach which supports the lifecycle operation of the facility. It brings about a
more powerful methodology for the stages of the design, estimation, scheduling, construction,
and operation. In addition, BIM considers the combination of various developments over the
different project stages such as project scheduling, automated quantity take-offs, automated
material take-offs, and energy analysis, etc.
This BIM code is essentially a Best Practice that provides information needed to advance the
knowledge and understanding of the Building Information Modeling (BIM) and the importance
of its incorporation in the construction industry. It offers recommendations and guidance for
achieving different levels of implementation of BIM in Egypt based on the current conditions of
the construction industry. The Code discusses the main uses of BIM for the Integrated Delivery
(ID) of projects, the key requirements for BIM implementation in construction projects, the
workflow in BIM-based projects over the different project phases, and the basis for preparing
BIM execution plans for projects. Also, it gives a brief overview on the implementation of BIM
during the operational phase of projects.
Figure 2: Adjusted BIM Maturity Levels for the Egyptian Construction Sector
Level 0 BIM:
This level supports no collaboration. In this stage, 2D CAD (Computer Aided Design tools) for
drafting is adopted, but there is no incorporation of any BIM enabling software. Also,
distribution of information is mainly via paper or electronic prints.
Level 1 BIM:
This level represents the current level for most organizations that are involved in the construction
sector. In this level, the collaboration is more augmented within the internal departments of the
organization itself and 3D CAD models are more common. However, these models are mainly
used for conceptual work. The attachment of data representing different aspects of the project
into the model is minimal and 2D drawings are mostly used for documentation of work and
production of shop drawings.
Level 2 BIM:
This level is divided into two milestones; the first milestone witnesses an improved collaboration
environment among a limited number of stakeholders and it can be referred to as level “2A”,
while the other milestone represents an extended collaboration protocol among the main
stakeholders in a project and it can be referred to as level “2B”.
The nature of the current collaboration environment does not necessitate the presence of a single
shared model accessible to all stakeholders. It comprises the sharing of data through common file
formats like IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) and COBie (Construction Operations Building
Information Exchange). Therefore, each party is entitled to use any type of BIM software on the
condition that it is interoperable with the formats agreed upon for information exchange purpose.
The division of Level 2 into two sub-levels is due to the nature of the construction sector in
Egypt. Normally, the consultant (Owner’s representative) is the first entity to adopt the current
collaboration tools and to provide a reliable and integrated BIM model as an output of the design
process. The contractor, engaged in the project, is expected to share the same information
exchange protocols to communicate the changes occurring to the BIM model. In case the process
extends to include all the relevant sub-contractors communicating through 3D CAD models and
the model itself for each entity is not only used for visualization purposes, then that’s the Level
2B BIM. However, if the model is used only for visualization by the contractor while other
management procedures such as scheduling and cost estimation are done independently of the
model then that’s an incomplete Level 2 BIM which is denoted by Level ‘2A’.
Level 3 BIM:
This level represents the “Optimistic View” of collaboration among different construction
stakeholders and throughout all the construction processes and disciplines. It is formulated by the
presence of only one shared project that acts as a central hub. This project is accessible to all
parties; thus, duplication or loss of information can be greatly eliminated. This environment is
backed up by cyber security measures for protecting the ‘cloud-based’ data. It shall also require
risk-sharing partnerships among all participants in the project. As such, a paperless project is
extended till the execution of the project, where rugged tabs replace the conventional shop
drawings.
4. BIM USES
BIM technology relies on three fundamental pillars, namely: Parametric object Modelling,
Intelligent Modelling and Bi-directional Associativity.
Parametric Object Modelling:
BIM applies constraints that are similar to the hierarchy in an object-oriented programming.
Where a class of a parametric BIM object allows the occurrence of numerous ‘instances’ in the
model. Each instance inherits the parameters of the what’s called its belonging ‘family’ (the class
it belongs to). Yet each instance has its own values for these parameters (called attributes). The
structure of attributes remains the same for instances of the same family, while the values differ
to distinguish the unique properties of each instance. These BIM objects may represent the
physical building elements or other abstract elements like annotations or model lines. This
concept which relies on the inheritance of attributes and methods in a hierarchical structure
allows the building up of extensive taxonomies of objects with complex relations in an efficient
manner. It’s worth mentioning that any attribute that has a visual effect on the related BIM
object, once modified or updated, transforms the visual shape of the BIM object immediately
with respect to the change that was done and that’s explained by the ‘Intelligent modelling’
concept.
Intelligent Modelling:
Based on what was explained in “parametric object modelling”, any change in one of the BIM
instances is applied globally in all views and related documents. Unlike drafting CAD systems
where lines and polygons representing one element are unconnected in each view, BIM objects,
no matter any view, preserve their own properties. So, any change is applied to the BIM instance
itself, independent of the view. Also, the structural hierarchy of BIM properties and attributes
prohibits the duplication of a certain value and ‘intelligently” detects any discrepancy in them.
Bi-directional Associativity:
One of the key powers of BIM is what is called “Bi-directional Associativity”. They are rules
and expressions that govern the way the surroundings of a BIM instance respond when an action
is applied to this instance. The strength of any BIM authoring tool is in the degree of intelligence
in applying bi-directional associativity such that:
1. The least manual modifications are needed from the user.
2. The modifications applied to the surrounding BIM objects imitate the behavior of their
real-world counterparts. For instance, when a wall is shifted, all BIM objects attached to
this wall instance are expected to move with it.
These three pillars are the cornerstone in achieving the BIM uses that are described in below
Sub-sections (Parametric Data, Time, Cost, Energy and Sustainability, and Facility
Management). As such, BIM tools are superior in modelling building’s form, function and
linking the change in its behavior.
4.2. TIME
The 3D model can help in site layout management where it contains temporary site components
such as cranes, lorries, and other items. These components and visualization tools can be used in
planning and monitoring the construction sequence as well as the on-site safety precautions as
the project progresses. Schedule visualization can be performed by project stakeholders to be
able to make sound decisions based on multiple sources of accurate real-time information.
Within the BIM model a chart can be used to show the critical path and to visually show the
dependency of some sequences on others. Visualization of different construction scenarios or the
effect of design changes is enabled through the available BIM tools.
4.3. COST
Quantity Takeoff is performed using the accurate information included in the model. The
contractors and quantity surveyors can easily and quickly estimate quantities and costs of
materials, areas, and other needed information. They do not need to do this manually so no over-
consumed time or estimation errors occur. Cost data is added to each element in the model so
that rough estimate of materials’ cost can be calculated automatically. This enables parties of the
project, especially designers, to efficiently use value engineering.
1
BS1192: Collaborative Production of Architectural, Engineering and Construction Information -Code of Practice
published by the British Standard Institution (BSI). This code of practice sets out methods for managing the
production, distribution, and quality of construction information.
2
PAS1192: Publicly Available Specification. It is used for the information management in the delivery of
construction projects using BIM. It is sponsored by the Construction Industry Council (CIC) and published by The
British Standards Institution (BSI).
5.2. INTEROPERABILITY
Interoperability between software packages is of fundamental significance for fruitful BIM
working. Whether it yields 2D CAD for consequent drawing creation or yield 3D for perception
or examination, the planning and strategies used to develop the BIM will decide its fruitful
application inside other software packages.
In general, for the correct application of interoperability the following guidelines shall be
followed:
A duplicate of received CAD/BIM information should be kept in its format in the project
incoming subfolder.
The appropriateness of received information might be affirmed before making it widely
accessible through the project Shared area.
Modifications of approaching CAD/BIM information need to be minimized. Only the
person responsible for coordination shall have the right to perform modifications.
Interoperability, for 3D data and information exchange, shall be achieved between BIM
software using the international standard (e.g. buildingSMART3), such as the IFC4
(Industry Foundation Classes) file format. The latest version is IFC 2x3.
Modeling is performed to the Level of Detail (LOD) required to create every discipline's plans
and elevations precisely at the characterized scale, or to convey the Employer's Information
Requirements (EIR) in the event that they exist.
Preceding data exchange between various software platforms, the accompanying assignments
shall be completed:
3
buildingSMART: It is a worldwide community founded in 1995 of industry participants and users with the intent
to technically, politically, and financially support the use of BIM models and advanced digital technology in the
construction industry. It helps facilitate the management of information through the development and adoption of
open data standards
4
IFC: A data model developed by buildingSMART specifying how information is to be exchanged to facilitate
interoperability in the construction industry by allowing the exchange of data between different software
applications.
The model structure shall be taken into account and agreed upon by disciplines included
in the modeling, internally or externally, and shall be documented in the BEP.
Every single file shall not contain more than one building.
Each model file shall contain data from only one discipline or project stakeholder. except
for the cases where multiple disciplines of the building services converge.
The Geometry of modelled Building Elements may be refined with respect to the actual
details in real-world. The level of segregation is dependent on several variables, but it is
essential to attain a workable version of the model on the available hardware.
The ownership of model data and keeping track of it throughout the project lifecycle is a
necessity. Thus, the model ownership in each phase, and even within each period in
different phases, shall be defined. In addition, the process of “transfer of ownership” shall
also be explicitly mentioned in the contract or its appendices (e.g. In the BIM model
responsibility matrix).
The existence of a central model in projects made up of multiple, discrete model files is
essential. This model acts as a central hub for linking the different files of the project and
detecting any discrepancies or coordination errors.
The Project folder should consist of folders based on the disciplines, deliverables and a folder of
Contract Documentation. The disciplines folders should be divided based on phases, zones,
levels, and status, respectively. At the top-level folder, a “Families” folder contains any
specialized families that are created or used in the BIMs.
5.3.2. Collaboration
The Owner may designate a web-based collaboration system for use by the Engineer. If the
Owner does not designate a web-based collaboration system, then the Designer shall provide a
web-based collaboration system for sharing individual and merged BIM files.
The web-based collaboration system shall provide:
Real-time access of the Project Team which includes but is not limited to the Owner,
Engineer, and other users as required by the Owner.
Automated versioning of BIM files.
Maintenance of the previous versions of BIM files.
Access-controlled workspace or folders for each organization to upload its BIM files.
The web-based collaboration system shall be password-protected such that the Designer shall
ensure that the collaboration system conforms to any Information Technology (IT) or security
requirements set by the Owner. Also, the detailed protocols associated with the use of the web-
based collaboration system shall be documented in the BEP.
Division of models enables multiple users to work on a model simultaneously. An agreed level
of dividing the model (if any) shall be stated in the BEP, and the extents of these divided sub-
models shall be properly referred to in other models.
The use of a container model to include all the divided models shall be encouraged and the
agreed LOD of the container model (if any) must be stated in the BEP.
5.3.4. Referencing
The design team shall agree on a Coordinate System as stated in the BEP to geo-reference the
site plans and building models. To obtain a coordinate from an AutoCAD DWG file submitted
by other suppliers within Revit the following shall be done:
1. Link CAD file center-to-center.
2. Move and rotate the CAD file to the Revit building model without moving the Revit
building model.
3. Obtain the coordinate from the CAD file then delete the link and notice the change in the
shared coordinate.
A separate model shall be developed for each discipline involved in a project, whether internal or
external. It is the responsibility of each discipline to prepare a model in compliance with the
Volume Strategy. However, a discipline can reference another discipline’s Shared model for
coordination.
In order to allow the cross-disciplinary work to be as efficient as possible and to reduce the waste
of the design process (rework), an initial conceptual model shall be derived from each discipline
to act as a starting point for other disciplines to start their work. This initial model shall be
sufficiently detailed at this stage of development to help provide more suitable deliverables from
various disciplines. The initial model shall be well referenced to allow on-going updating as the
model evolves into the more detailed version.
A standard code for status should be included in the BEP to identify the level of details that an
engineering discipline can design upon. This code shall differentiate between different issues of
the model. Table 1 provides an example of the status code.
Table 1: Examples of Status Codes
In the case of internal revisions, the model Status Code shall be incremented by changing the last
digit e.g. M001 – Initial Model, rev.01. However, in the case of revisions made to reflect the
latest inter-disciplinary review, the incremented digit shall be made in the tens digit e.g. M010 –
Initial Model, ID rev.01.
The status of which major amount of (re-)work shall be made must be included in the BEP to
prevent producing a large number of wasted design.
The model structure shall be agreed on by all disciplines and recorded in the BEP. The following
guidelines shall be followed:
Division of a model allows various users to work in parallel on a model, consequently increasing
efficiency and effectiveness on projects of any size. For proper model division, the following
guidelines shall be followed:
Appropriate model divisions shall be established and elements assigned, either
individually or by category, location, task allocation…etc.
Only the required models should be opened for a better hardware performance. It is better
to use only the required models instead of opening or referencing them and turning off
their display.
Accidental or intentional misuse of data shall be avoided through proper management of
access permissions and model ownership.
Table 2 shows an example of the model division in the architectural, structural, mechanical, and
electrical disciplines.
Table 2: Model Division by Discipline
Each separate discipline shall have its own model and shall be responsible for the contents of that
model in compliance with the Volume Strategy. For coordination purposes, a discipline can
reference another discipline’s Shared model.
For successful coordination of activities, the guidelines stated below shall be followed:
No deviation from the agreed project coordinates and direction of North shall take place
without the permission stated in the Project BEP.
Proper communication for the ownership of elements is determined through the project
Model Responsibility Matrix. The BEP includes such matrix which defines the originator
for each model and the intended Level of Model Development at each stage.
In special cases, multiple disciplines may be incorporated in a single model, such as in
cases when an equipment requires connection to various services.
The LOD definitions ought to be viewed as least prerequisites, a component has advanced to a
given LOD just when every one of the necessities expressed in the definition has been met.
Likewise, it ought to be noticed that the prerequisites are aggregate; for a given component each
LOD definition incorporates the necessities of all past LODs. This means that for a component to
fit the bill for LOD 300 it must meet every one of the necessities for 200 and 100 and in addition
those expressed in the LOD 300 definition.
Level of Development vs Level of Detail
The “Level of Detail” shows the extent by which the model geometry and features resembles the
real-world building. Whereas, the “Level of Development” refers to the degree by which the
semantic and geometric data attached to a BIM element has been thought through. It also
represents the “development” of the model with respect to the amount of information presented
in each of the project phases.
In essence, Level of Detail can be considered as an input to the BIM object, while Level of
Development is reliable output. Table 3 provides a description of the different Levels of
Development with an example for each level.
5.6. DELIVERABLES
5.6.1. Hard Copy Deliverables
A hard copy of mechanical, electrical, architectural, structural, topographical and property line
surveying drawings shall be provided using AutoCAD for each milestone or phase of the project.
For each phase or milestone of the project, BIM model must be submitted for it and all electronic
files related to it. The data required from these deliverables is essentially a mature model that
contains all the information needed for construction and final record drawings with all the
coordination needed between all involved disciplines.
To fulfill the requirements of As-Built drawings and to ensure that BIMs are being updated, both
the design team and construction team must cooperate together and coordinate with each other.
The design team is the one responsible for the delivery of As-Built drawings.
There must be a printed hard copy from the contract documents at the site as any deviation in the
actual construction from the contract drawings must be highlighted in the contract drawings and
resubmitted with the following requirements:
Any existing utilities in the construction area are provided with their location and detailed
description.
Any change in the building from the contract drawings and the effect on the utilities
provided with its new location and detailed description.
All underground utilities and facilities provided with the location and detailed
description.
Updated grade or alignment of roads, structures, and utilities if any changes were made
from the contract drawings.
Updated elevations if changes were made in site grading from the contract drawings.
All changes or modifications from the original design and from the final inspection. Even
if the materials used have been changed not only the changes in design.
These deviations or changes must be continuously highlighted by the contractor during
construction to keep them up to date. This operation must be conducted during the lifecycle of
the construction and these documents must be available all the time for inspection.
The BIM manager in the Design Team shall prepare the BMP and submit it to the client for
approval. The Design BMP shall mainly cover the following points:
The Contractor is required to submit a Construction BMP in which the Contractor shows the
strategy for using the BIM technology in the construction activities. The Construction BMP shall
mainly cover the following points:
Strategy used by the Contractor to comply with the BIM requirements in the project.
The BIM software that shall be used by the Contractor, subcontractors, and fabricators.
The selected file formats and strategy for software compatibility.
Strategy followed to ensure that all information from subcontractors is modelled.
Strategy for digital fabrication.
Proposed meetings for subcontractors that are integrated in the project schedule.
The Programming phase of the project focuses on gathering information and setting the project
team. In this phase there is often no BIM model yet, but the team starts analyzing the site’s
topography and surroundings as well as the climate data (e.g. prevailing wind, solar availability,
potential use of natural ventilation, etc.). The data gathered in this phase is considered as an
essential input for the design of the project so as to achieve the required goals.
In the Conceptual or Pre-Design phase of the project, the owner sets the goals and identifies the
needs for the project regarding space, components and the budget, while the Design Team
analyzes the project requirements and the needed surrounding environment in order to choose the
suitable location for the project. After choosing the location, a complete study shall be performed
for the existing conditions and underground utilities, energy analysis, and surveying in addition
to selecting the suitable planning tools to be used.
The work-flow in this phase shall require bringing together knowledgeable, diverse and
specialized team members by holding several meetings and by setting effective communication
pathways.
In the planning of the project execution, both the design and construction teams shall identify the
deliverables of their teams as well as the different milestones of the project.
In this phase, several deliverables shall be required which are:
In this phase, an initial design scheme is developed to define the general scope and conceptual
design of the project showing the relationships between building components, and allowing the
owner to verify that the architect has correctly interpreted the desired functional relationships
between various activities.
The Design Team shall begin the design process using a BIM authored data file(s) in addition to
using analysis tools, static images, and interactive 3D for better understanding the design
concepts.
The Schematic Design Phase requires using a model with a Level of Development (LOD) 100
(Refer to the Level of Development).
In this phase, several deliverables shall be required which are:
Architectural model
Civil model
Initial interference report
Schematic energy model and analysis
Projected energy cost report
Square meter cost estimate
Program and Space validation
In this phase, the Design Team continues to build on the schematic design decisions giving a
clear and coordinated description of all aspects of the design including Architectural,
Mechanical, Plumbing, Electrical and Fire Protection Systems and providing a basis for
preparing the construction documents.
At the end of this phase, the client should receive drafted to-scale drawings that show the
project’s site plan, floor plans, and exterior elevations. The design development drawings shall
be used as the basis for the construction drawings and preliminary cost estimates. The Design
Development Phase requires a model of a Level of Development (LOD) 200.
In this phase, several deliverables shall be required which are:
Architectural model
Civil model
MEP model(s)
Structural model
Detailed energy model
Specialty consultant model(s)
Projected energy cost estimate
Systems and energy cost estimate
In this phase, the detailed construction documents will be developed showing the requirements
for the construction.
The construction documents consist of Drawings and Specifications that are necessary for the
Contractor in order to build the project as conceived by the owner and architect. All information
needed to describe the “detailed design” shall be derived from the BIM models provided only,
except for the Specifications. Moreover, the documentation of the models shall not occur outside
the BIM Authoring software.
The Documentation Phase requires minimum LOD 350 with LOD 400 as needed and agreed
upon.
In this phase, several deliverables shall be required which are:
Architectural model
Civil model
MEP model(s)
Structural model
Specialty consultant model(s)
Detailed energy model and analysis
Pre-Bid interference reports
Projected energy cost report
Program and space validation
Quantity cost estimate
AutoCAD files
In the Construction phase, design models and/or drawings will be released to the Contractor for
reference only, and the Contractor shall develop the model with further details for construction
and fabrication with fully annotated drawings for/by the sub-contractors.
The Design and Construction Team shall work concurrently and shall hold coordination
meetings to resolve design conflicts or coordination issues. The model(s) shall be updated, when
required, by both the Design Team and Contractor in order to incorporate any changes agreed on.
Also, as-built mark-ups shall be maintained on site by the Contractor(s) during construction.
In this phase, several deliverables shall be required which are:
At the Project close-out phase, the needed documentation will be collected for the efficient
operation of the space or for the study and preparations of future projects. For this process to be
completed, the following requirements shall be fulfilled:
The consultant shall compare the detailed design against the final implementation (As-
Built) according to the information provided by the Contractor.
The Contractor develops the As-built model so that it can be used for the purposes of
space management and building maintenance, or in case any modifications are to be
made during occupancy.
Operation and maintenance manuals are to be provided by the Contractor for the purpose
of facility (asset) management.
The transition between capital delivery phase and the operational phase is a critical process. The
following sections provide a framework which the organizations shall follow. These provisions
allow organizations and professionals to correctly manage the process of asset information
exchange during the operational phase of an asset until demolition and disposal.
A detailed description of operational phase provisions is included in the following Section.
It is necessary for the project members to share and coordinate their models in order to resolve
any potential conflicts and to avoid costly works and any possible delays at the construction
stage. Thus, it is important to follow the recommended coordination flow for the project team
throughout the different phases of the project lifecycle phases.
Table 4 lists the various roles of the project members at the different phases of the project, their
interaction with the Employer and how the design model is developed and changed across the
project life-cycle with a high level of coordination between team members.
For example, the role of the Contractor in the project early stages from the conceptualization to
the detailed design phase shall occur in case the project is issued as design-build.
Table 4: Cross-disciplinary model coordination5
5
Coordination Plan, retrieved from: BIM Execution Plan [Doc]. (2009). Indiana University-University Architect's
Office.
Understanding the roles of the various stakeholders throughout the project phases depend to a
great extent on the project requirements and conditions. As an example of some projects, the
Architect and the Consulting Engineer can be formed as a single entity performing both roles.
It specifies how to develop an AIM to be used with existing enterprise systems to support
the organizational information requirement (OIR).
It covers the domain of recording information related to disposal, decommissioning or
demolition of assets.
It specifies data and information required by the AIM and illustrates their relationship to
the PIM.
It specifies the type and nature of data and information to be used in the information
exchange and within the AIM.
It enables revising the AIM as the asset changes, and providing criteria for AIM creation,
validation, updating, maintaining, and monitoring.
It is recommended that the asset management policy, strategy, and plan be compatible with the
requirements of BS ISO 550006.
6
BS ISO 55000: A guide published by the British Standards Institution (BSI) that defines concepts and
terminologies needed for developing a long-term asset management system that incorporates corporate mission,
values, objectives, policies, and stakeholder requirements.
The organization shall determine and document the information requirement based on the asset
management system in order to meet the organization function. The OIR shall be conveyed to in-
house teams or external contractors through a task or project-specific AIR.
Determining the information requirement in an organization is a cyclic, iterative and flexible
process which can be updated based on the organization needs and managerial functions. These
updates shall be reflected on the AIR and consequently on the AIM. If the information available
within the AIM is not suitable or sufficient to satisfy the OIR, then the organization shall amend
the relevant AIR to obtain the necessary data and information.
AIR shall be specified, based on OIR, as part of a contract or as an instruction to in-house work
teams. In addition, AIR shall specify the required data and information to be captured and fed
into the AIM.
Any information that might be needed by the organization shall be drawn from the AIM. Each
asset may have its own AIM or multiple assets may be grouped in one AIM according to
organization preference. The AIM shall then serve the organization need during the operational
phase. The (AIM) acts as the only source for approved and validated information related to the
asset(s).
The AIM model shall include data and geometry including but not limited to ownership, history,
specification, design and analysis of the original installation of the asset and any subsequent
changes, 3D object-based model(s) of the environment and the location of the asset, spaces, data
about performance, operation and maintenance manuals, expenditure, health and safety
information. The AIM shall be created using various reliable resources such as:
Assignment of roles and authorities to maintain, retain, retrieve, access to, and
archive information and data.
Data disposal, and unwanted information handling according to organization’s
requirement and security and privacy requirement.
Assurance activities, version control, integrity checks and validation checks, fitness
for purpose with respect to AIR.
Monitoring information exchange, quality of information, continuous update and
verification to meet organizational needs.
Requirements for the storage of information and data following integrity, security,
and confidentiality requirements.
Retrieval, distribution, and availability of information and data to designated parties
according to agreed schedules or defined circumstances.
Requirements for the archival of designated information and data, as in the case of
retaining audit records and knowledge preservation.
Enable a clear communication and understanding of the strategic goal for BIM
implementation by all stakeholders.
Help project team to collaborate on various phases of the project and prevent unnecessary
tasks to gain the maximum benefit of executing BIM according to the needs of each
project.
Maintain the schedule of deliverables throughout the project to achieve the project
benefits and reduce possible delays which ensures finishing on time and budget; because
of BEPs focus and work on the most important details only.
Add transparency to the process, as it makes the shared data available for all teams and
stakeholders; it makes sure that all BIM shared data can be directly accessed by
stakeholders and can be updated frequently.
Describe the additional resources and training needed to implement BIM on project
successfully.
The BIM execution plan should include the following categories; information for each category
can vary according to the need of the project:
Overview information: The reason for developing the project execution plan.
Project Information: The critical information about the project such as project key facts,
organizational chart, description, scope, phases, and critical schedule dates.
Key Project Contacts: The contact information for the project personnel as reference
information.
Project Goals/BIM Objectives: The strategic goal, uses, and the scope of BIM in the
project. It also includes information about the level of details needed, programming, and
software platforms.
Responsibility Matrix: The definition of the roles and responsibilities of the coordinator
of the BIM execution process as well as the required staff to successfully develop and
implement the plan through various stages of the project.
BIM Information Exchange: The elements of the model and defines the level of details
required to implement the BIM use in the project.
Collaboration Procedures: The model management procedures such as file structure and
permissions, and the schedule and agendas of the regular meetings.
Model Quality Control Procedures: The procedures to ensure that the project
participants successfully meet the defined requirements; these procedures should be
monitored throughout the project stages.
Technology Infrastructure Needs: The network infrastructure needed for the plan
execution such as the hardware and software needed to successfully implement BIM in
projects.
Model Structure: The methods to ensure the model accuracy such as the file naming
structure, coordinate system, measurement units, and how the information will be shared.
Project Deliverables and Delivery Strategies: The project deliverables required by the
owner and should also include the delivery strategy that will be used in the project.
A four-step procedure is recommended to develop a detailed BEP. The procedures are designed
to provide a structured process to be followed by owners, program managers, and early project
participants to develop detailed, consistent plans for projects.
The four steps consist of identifying the BIM goals and uses on a project, designing the BIM
execution process, developing information exchanges, and identifying the supporting
infrastructure to successfully implement the plan. The four-step procedure is illustrated in Figure
6, and is discussed in details in this chapter.
Define
Design BIM Develop
Supporting
Identify BIM Project Information
Infrastructure
Goals and Uses Execution Exchange
for BIM
Process Requirements
Implementation
The first step of the four-step procedure presents the planning process in the BEP. It focuses on
clearly defining the overall goals for the BIM implementation to express the potential value of
BIM use on the project.
It is important to define goals that will provide incentive for implementing BIM on the project.
These goals should be measurable, specific to the project, and set from both a project and
company perspectives so as to improve the success in the different project phases such as the
planning, design, and construction, as well as the operational phase of the facility.
BIM goals could include items such as achieving higher productivity, reducing the schedule
duration, reducing the cost of change orders, or facilitating the access to operational data for the
facility. Goals may also advance the capabilities of the project team as the owner may need to
facilitate information exchanges between design, construction and operations, or to increase the
overall quality of the project. Quality goals include targeting more energy efficient design
through energy modelling and analysis, or higher quality installed designs through detailed 3D
coordination of systems.
Once the goals are defined, the project teams should identify the tasks they would like to perform
using BIM. The process of identifying BIM uses should focus on the desired outcome of the
project, therefore the project teams should identify the BIM uses associated with each phase of
the project. It is important that each team considers all the potential uses and their relation with
the project goals first, and then identify the responsible party for each BIM use. Also, each team
should rate the capabilities of the involved parties to achieve the set potential uses.
For example, the organization needs to determine whether it has enough resources to implement
this use, and whether the team has the know-how and enough experience to implement this use
successfully. Then, the team should define the values and risks associated with each use, and
finally, the team should determine whether or not to implement each BIM use.
After identifying each BIM use, the project teams should design and understand the
implementation process for each use and for the whole project. Therefore, the teams should
follow specific and structured procedures to successfully design the BIM project execution
process.
In this step, the teams should develop process maps. The use of these process mapping
techniques allows teams to design the BIM execution process effectively. This allows enables
teamsto understand the overall BIM process, to define the various processes to be developed for
each BIM use, and to identify the information exchange that will be shared between parties.
These process maps serve as the basis for other implementation topics such as: Contract
structure, BIM deliverables, and information technology infrastructure.
Level 1: Overview Map
The overview map shows the relationship between the BIM uses which will be used on the
project, and the high-level information exchange that will be shared throughout the lifecycle of
the project. Preparing the overview map can be done by the project team as follows:
After creating the BIM overview map, the core of the BIM use shall be decomposed into a set of
processes in a sequential order, then the project team shall define the dependency between these
processes, by identifying the predecessor and successors of each process, the detailed process
map shall be developed.
The detailed process map shall include the information exchanges for each process, responsible
party and the resources of the information needed to implement BIM. A gateway can be used in
the detailed process map to represent decisions, and quality control checks required before
completion of BIM tasks.
Finally, the project team shall review and document these maps for future use in other projects;
they may also use it to compare the actual process and the planned process.
The project team shall define the information exchanges between project processes to
successfully implement BIM on projects, so the team should understand the information
necessary for each BIM use to be able to define the input and output for every process and the
deliverable of one process that could be used as input for another process.
Each item in an Information Exchange should have a party responsible for authoring the
information. This party should complete the task with the highest level of efficiency and the team
may use information exchange worksheet to complete this task.
An example for information exchange work-sheet is available in the appendices.
The final step in the four-step procedure to create BIM project execution plan is to define the
supporting infrastructure required to implement BIM effectively, there are specific categories to
support the BIM project execution process such as:
1. Project Information
2. Project Schedule
3. Terminologies/ Definitions
4. Key Project Contacts
5. BIM goals and Uses
6. Roles and responsibilities
Information for each category can vary significantly according to the project needs; therefore it
should be tailored to the project team for every project.
Project Information:
The information included in this section must be the most important ones only that will be
reviewed throughout the life cycle of the project and can help others to understand it. This
section may include the following items:
Project owner
Project name
Project location and address
Contract type and delivery method
Brief project description
Project numbers
Project schedule/milestone
Additional information (e.g. special project characteristics, method of payment, unique
owner requirements)
Table 5 provides a sample of projects information which can be edited according to the project
requirements and conditions.
Table 5: Sample of Project Information
Item Description
Project name
Project owner
Project location and address
Project numbers
Brief project description
Contract type
Project Schedule
It includes BIM milestones, start and finish of each project phase, and the stakeholder
responsible for each phase.
Table 6 provides a sample of the projects schedule-related information which can be edited
according to the project requirements and conditions.
Table 6: Sample of Project Schedule-Related Information
Terminologies/Definitions:
This differs from project to another according to the terms that need to be defined and clarified.
e.g. BIM: Building information modeling, a digital representation of facilities function and
characteristics.
Each party should assign at least one person as a representative to share his/her contact
information among project stakeholders.
Table 7 provides an example of how to include key contact in BEP where BIM contact for each
organization involved in the project should be listed below. Such information can be edited by
addition or deduction according to the project requirements and conditions.
BIM Goals:
In each project phase, state the BIM goals and BIM uses as per Tables 8 and 9 respectively. After
defining BIM Goals, BIM uses which will be implemented are selected from the following table,
by marking in front of each use. BIM uses ranking worksheet shall be produced according to
project requirements and stakeholders.
For each BIM use, roles and responsibilities must be defined, which organization will implement
it and the number of staff required to perform each use also the lead contact. Such roles and
responsibilities are completed throughout the project lifecycle depending on which phase the
project has reached and the available details and information.
7
BIM Uses, retrieved from: BIM Project Execution Plan for Architects, Engineers, and Contractors [Doc]. (2018).
University of South Florida.
Involves mapping the processes of BIM uses where it gives specific information exchanges for
each activity, it includes an overview map of BIM uses [Level 1], detailed map for each use, and
elements on each map [Level 2].
1. Project Meetings:
In this sub-section meetings are coordinated according to Table 11 where the type of meeting
(e.g.: owner updates), meeting location, participants and project phase are stated.
In this sub-section meetings related to BIM activities (ex.: BEP coordination) are listed in the
table below.
The deliverables for each project phase should be stated together with the deadline for each
deliverable. A sample for the schedule format that can be used is shown in Table 13 and can be
modified according to the project requirements and condition.
Project Phase
Deliverable
Date
Electronic communication:
1. Software Requirement:
Information about the software used for each BIM use and each discipline should be listed as
shown in Table 14.
Stating schedule for the exchange of information between project teams and it should be
analyzed in project’s early stages to avoid any errors or data loss throughout the project life
cycle. Information that shall be included can be stated as per Table 15.
3. File Storage:
Project Deliverables:
In the following tables, the deliverables for design and construction that are required in the
contract must be stated. In case extra deliverables are required, team members may share or state
them below.
1. Design Deliverables:
Design Development
Construction Documents
100% Construction Documents
Construction
Record Documents
2. Construction Deliverables:
Quality Control:
Quality Control (QC) of deliverables must be accomplished at each major BIM activity such as
design reviews, coordination meetings or milestones. Each BIM model coordinator in all BIM
teams of all disciplines shall check the model quality, level of detail, accuracy, and updates
before exchanging information with project parties and ensure that all deliverables are applicable
and comply with this handbook.
QC checks:
Hierarchy of Systems Coordination:
In case of clash or interference occurrence with other system/model, Architect/Engineer (A/E)
shall agree on a hierarchy resolution sequence for resolutions with the agreement of project team.
For example, the list may be stated as below:
1. Structure.
2. Architecture. Etc.
Model:
The project team shall define the naming conventions for the models in accordance with the
following format:
The software version designator may be in the following list where team members shall agree
upon the used software:
The discipline code for both model and sheet files are listed in Table 22:
Interiors
CH Civil Shore AF Architectural
Protection Finishes
CR Civil Recreation AG Architectural
Graphics
CS Civil Site Interiors I- All Interiors
CX Civil Security ID Interior Demolition
CT Civil IN Interior Design
Transportation
CU Civil Utilities IF Interior
Furnishings
IG Interior Graphics
Fire Protection F- All Fire
Protection
FA Fire Detection and
Alarm
FX Fire Suppression
Utilities U- All Other Utilities
Civil Works W-
DQ Process RA Resource
Equipment Architectural
DE Process Electrical RM Resource
Mechanical
DI Process RE Resource Electrical
Instrumentation
Mechanical M- All Mechanical Other X
Disciplines
MS Mechanical Site Contractor/Sho Z
p Dwg
MD Mechanical Operations O
Demolition
Naming conventions for sheet views generated in the model shall be in accordance with the
format illustrated in Table 23:
The sheet sequence number shall consist of four numerical characters utilizing the list shown in
Table 24 or as agreed by the project team:
Table 24: Sample of Sheet Sequence Numbering
The files generated by the CM and trade contractors during the coordination process should
follow naming conventions similar to those described in the model file naming and the sheet file
naming sections.
GLOSSARY
Asset: Item, thing, or entity that has potential or actual value to an organization.
Asset information model (AIM): Data and information that relate to assets to a level
required to support an organization’s asset management system.
Asset information requirements (AIR): Data and information requirements of the
organization in relation to the asset(s) for which it is responsible.
Asset management: The coordinated activity of an organization to realize value from
assets
Project information model (PIM): Information model developed during the design and
construction phase of a project.
Information Management Process (IMP): Process to manage information related to the
operational phase of an asset.