BIM for Operations Toolbox

BIM allows to recover important databases on buildings: spatial structure, surfaces, manufacturers, models, documents, specifications, volumes, surfaces, materials, finishes, positioning, networks, etc.

Retrieving such data at the end of the project is a game changer for building operations. Transferring such information to building software can tremendously speed up commissioning, shorten intervention time in a yet unfamiliar building, accelerate information gathering about warranties and providers when replacement is needed, facilitate preventing maintenance, etc.

However, such transfer is impossible if the way information is entered in the models is not compatible with the format expected by the software. The lack of time and specialized labor available to transform and adapt data format often leads to the abandonment of BIM for Operation (and sometimes of BIM altogether) and the return to classic methods of commissioning and operations.

Furthermore, the model database is quickly outdated as internal projects and interventions rapidly lead to equipment replacement, change in the floor plan layout, etc. If BIM models are not updated, they rapidly become obsolete and are no longer useful.

The solution was developed based on Archidata’s experience trying to help their client leverage the information from BIM models that were given to them at the end of projects. Here’s the quick story of how we developed our BIM for Operations expertise:

• We first developed tools and workflow to recuperate and transform the data of BIM models so they could be compatible with their software
• We then started accompanying them is establishing what their actual BIM needs for operations ? are and prepare specifications documents shared with firms at the beginning of projects.
• We then put together a workflow that allows to identify when, how and by whom the data that they need should be provided and validated to ensure data quality on the one hand, and to lessen the impact on the project workflow to limit increase project costs.

Along the way, we started developing technical tools to help us validate, recuperate, and update the information from BIM models.

In the last two years, we perfected these tools based on our practical and technical expertise to make them more user-friendly even for non-BIM specialists and available to our clients. We are building a BIM for Operations toolbox that makes BIM possible and reachable to building owners, both in the public and private sectors, that allow for a smooth and gradual digital transition.