BIM for Facility Management

by Alan Edgar, Business Analyst, RSP i_SPACE

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is much more than just 3D drafting. The emphasis is on “I” in BIM, the Information, that is stored in these models, not just for design and construction, but valuable information to your organization as you operate and maintain these facilities. This is a large topic, with no one right answer, but we have some advice if you are moving toward an integration of BIM with Facility Management (FM):

Lead your projects.
Because the BIM-based methods are beneficial to architects, engineers and constructors, the chances are very good that your capital remodeling and new construction projects already incorporate BIM-based processes and technology. Through collaboration, coordination, clarity, and content, the resulting dividends are innovation, quality, transparency, and efficiency. However, this requires active Owner participation; setting expectations, providing resources, making decisions, and actively participating in the facility information lifecycle. It may sound like more work up front, but it pays for itself over and over when you consider that the design and construction process is but a fraction of your entire facility lifecycle. If you have a strong foundation for your facility at the beginning, you’ve gained efficiencies in your Facility Management practices and associated work for your staff for years or decades to come.

Avoid shiny objects.
Focus on Business Requirements, Information, and Technology – in that order. BIM discussions tend to be very broad, quite aspirational, and filled with overwhelming opportunities. Instead, collaborate with your team to decide and then write down no more than three measurable business goals. List the information that supports those goals, and only then evaluate BIM-related processes and technology solutions that efficiently deliver targeted information.

Make it simple and streamlined.
At its core, BIM-related solutions should be about making the most streamlined connection possible between business needs and the information available from ongoing facility management, design, and construction projects. To do so, update your contracts and FM information management standards.

RSP i_SPACE is dedicated to helping you lead your BIM-based projects, find and stay focused on your most critical business issues, and build the most efficient lifecycle facility information management platform possible. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Mike Lyner to continue the conversation.