A Process Mapping Procedure for Planning Building Information Modeling (BIM) Execution on a Building Construction Project
Open Access
- Author:
- Saluja, Chitwan
- Graduate Program:
- Architectural Engineering
- Degree:
- Master of Science
- Document Type:
- Master Thesis
- Date of Defense:
- October 19, 2009
- Committee Members:
- John Messner, Thesis Advisor/Co-Advisor
John Messner, Thesis Advisor/Co-Advisor
Chinemelu Jidenka Anumba, Thesis Advisor/Co-Advisor
M Kevin Parfitt, Thesis Advisor/Co-Advisor - Keywords:
- Information Exchange
Process Mapping
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
BIM Execution Planning Procedure - Abstract:
- The implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction Industry is still in its formative stages. Project organizations frequently struggle with the development of a comprehensive BIM implementation strategy which considers process integration along with information interoperability throughout the lifecycle of a project. To successfully implement BIM on a project, it is critical for the project team to perform detailed and comprehensive planning. This research establishes a Process Mapping Procedure for planning BIM implementation on a project. This Procedure provides an opportunity for the project team to map the implementation process for the various uses of BIM on a project. By mapping the detailed process, key information exchanges can be identified, and a method for documenting and planning these information exchanges is presented. The process maps aim to specifically address which organizations will be using BIM on the project, what will they be performing with BIM applications, and how will they share information between the primary BIM Uses. Each project team member should develop detailed process maps for each BIM Use. Additionally, an information exchange documentation method was created to assist project teams in the accurate definition of key BIM deliverables. Information elements included in this method include information delivery schedule, responsible party, and information content for the BIM deliverables. A procedure has been documented to assist in the completion of process maps and information exchange worksheet. The BIM Process Mapping Procedure was validated through the creation of template process maps, quasi-experiments, and a case study assessment. The survey results from the quasi-experiments show that the Procedure was adequately detailed to create process maps. The focus group discussion following the case study indicated a comprehensive Procedure. Overall, the BIM Process Mapping Procedure can increase the level of planning for a project by familiarizing the team with the strategies and processes of their team members to achieve a more informed and effective transition of information between responsible parties.