Project Execution Planning for Building Information Modeling

This research outlines a four-step structured procedure for creating and implementing a BIM project Execution Plan. (RES-CPF 2010-1, page 7)

1. Identify high-value BIM uses during project planning, design, construction and operational phases.
2. Design the BIM execution process by creating process maps.
3. Define the BIM deliverables in the form of information exchanges.
4. Develop the infrastructure in the form of contracts, communication procedures, technology and quality control to support the implementation.

The research identifies 25 benefits/uses of BIM for consideration on a project, as shown in the figure below.  (RES-CPF 2010-2, page 9)

The team is to map the process to understand the overall BIM process, to identify the information exchanges to be shared between multiple parties, and to clearly define the processes performed for the identified BIM uses. (RES-CPF 2010-2, page 15)

Level 1: BIM Overview Map showing the relationship of BIM Uses which will be employed on a project and containing the high-level information exchanges that occur throughout the project lifecycle.

Level 2: Detailed BIM Use Process Maps created for each identified BIM Use on a project to clearly define the sequence of various processes to be performed and to identify: responsible parties for each process, reference information content, and the information exchanges which will be created and shared with other processes.

Project teams must understand what information is necessary to deliver each BIM Use. An Information Exchange Worksheet and the procedure for filling out the worksheet is provided to assist project teams in defining the exchanges. (RES-CPF 2010-2, page 23)

The 14 specific categories that support the BIM project execution process are shown in the figure below. 
(RES-CPF 2010-2, page 27)

A series of four collaborative meetings followed by work tasks which take place between the meetings have been defined to assist project teams in developing the BIM Plan: (RES-CPF 2010-2, page 37)

• Meeting 1: Identify BIM Goals and Uses.
• Meeting 2: Design BIM Project Execution Process.
• Meeting 3: Develop Information Exchanges and Define Supporting Infrastructure for BIM Implementation.
• Meeting 4: Review Final BIM Project Execution Plan.

Organizations can obtain the greatest benefit from BIM if they are willing to develop typical means and methods for BIM project implementation by using the BIM Project Execution Planning procedure.
(RES-CPF 2010-2, page 41)

By analyzing the successes and challenges within the implementation case studies, the following 10 recommendations for successful implementation were identified.  (RES-CPF 2010-2, page 45)

1. Each project team needs a BIM Champion.
2. Owner involvement is critical throughout the entire process.
3. It is essential that the project team fosters an open environment of sharing and collaboration.
4. The BIM Project Execution Planning Procedure can be adapted to different contracting structures.
5. There is great value in early planning.
6. The BIM Plan should be treated as a living document.
7. Once an initial plan is developed, it must be reviewed regularly.
8. The appropriate resources must be made available to ensure planning success.
9. Developing an organizational BIM Project Execution Plan before project inception can decrease project planning time.
10. The BIM Project Execution Planning Procedure can be adapted for multiple uses and situations beyond the original scope of the project.

RES-CPF 2010-2, BIM Project Execution Planning Guide, Version 2.0

This guide provides a structured procedure for creating and implementing a BIM Project Execution Plan.  This guide is directed toward readers with a fundamental understanding of BIM concepts.  The guide includes worksheets, maps and templates for use in the BIM process, including:

• BIM Goal Worksheet
• BIM Use Descriptions
• BIM Use Analysis Worksheet
• Template Process Maps
• Lab Example Process Maps
• Information Exchange Worksheet
• BIM Project Execution Plan Template