BIM Levels Overview

Study Notes

BIM Levels

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is a shared digital representation of a built asset that supports design, construction, and operation.
BIM Level 0 (1990s): Basic CAD (Computer-Aided Design) for 2D drawings. Manual data sharing. Minimal collaboration.
BIM Level 1 (2000s): Combines 2D drawings and early 3D models. Limited collaboration via a Common Data Environment (CDE). Separate files for each discipline.
BIM Level 2 (2010s): Fully coordinated models with 4D (Time) and 5D (Cost) dimensions. Federated BIM Models, improved coordination. Supported by structured CDEs and open formats (e.g., IFC). Real-time data sharing.
BIM Level 3 (2020s+): Fully integrated models and cloud-based platforms (iBIM). Includes 6D BIM for lifecycle management (maintenance, sustainability). Seamless, real-time collaboration.

Key Evolution of BIM

Increased collaboration, moving from isolated workflows at Level 0 to fully integrated at Level 3.
Enhanced integration with added dimensions (4D, 5D, 6D) for better time, cost, and lifecycle management.
Technology and standards advancements (e.g., ISO 19650, IFC), supporting open data sharing.

Information Requirements in BIM

OIR (Organisational Information Requirements): Defines information needed at an organizational level for asset management.
AIR (Asset Information Requirements): Specific OIR details for project-specific external contractors or in-house teams for a particular asset.
EIR (Employer's Information Requirements, or Exchange Information Requirements): Specifies the information project teams need to deliver, with standards and processes for construction projects.
PIR (Project Information Requirements): The specific information requirements defined for a particular project to ensure appropriate asset information is delivered.
PIM (Project Information Model): The single source of digital information about assets during design and construction.
AIM (Asset Information Model): The single source of digital information about assets to support organizational asset management systems.

OpenBIM

Focuses on open standards to enhance interoperability.
Key standards include IFC (data exchange), BCF (issue tracking), and COBie (facility management data).
Improves interoperability, data longevity, flexibility, cost-efficiency, quality, sustainability, and collaboration.
Championed by organizations like buildingSMART.

Common Data Environment (CDE)

A central repository for shared asset data and information accessible to all project stakeholders (clients, designers, builders, facility managers).
Evolved through standards like BS 1192:2007, UK BIM Level 2, and ISO 19650.
Different sections for managing information development and approval (WIP, Shared, Published, Archive).
Supports project lifecycles (CAPEX, OPEX), aligning information with project goals and budgets throughout project operation.

ISO Standards & BIM

ISO 19650 (Information Management for BIM): Provides a consistent framework for BIM information management, crucial for reliable data.
ISO 9001 (Quality Management): Ensures accuracy, quality control, and reliability of collected data within the BIM process.
ISO 55000 (Asset Management): Guides the long-term management of assets, utilizing BIM information for efficient maintenance.
ISO 21500 (Project Management): Establishes clear roles, responsibilities, and timelines for efficient BIM project execution.

Data Transfer

Data transfer between AIM and PIM during project delivery phases (A, B, C).
A: Initial transfer of relevant asset data.
B: Continuous updates to the PIM during project developments.
C: Final transfer of updated data to AIM for asset management post-project.

Drivers and Barriers to BIM Adoption

Drivers: Government support, successful project examples, training, technological advancements, clear project benefits.
Barriers: High start-up costs, resistance to change, skill shortages, interoperability issues, unclear legal rules, lack of top-level understanding.

Description

Explore the evolution of Building Information Modeling (BIM) from Level 0 to Level 3. This quiz covers key features and collaborations that define each stage of BIM development. Test your knowledge on how BIM has transformed the construction process and enhanced project coordination.