Coordinated Planning: How to Get Started with BIM

 

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is more than just 3D modeling; it's a fundamental shift in how we approach building design, construction, and operation. At its heart is coordinated planning, ensuring all disciplines—architects, structural engineers, MEP specialists, and contractors—are working from a single, consistent, and collaborative information model. This approach minimizes costly conflicts, reduces RFI volume, and streamlines the entire project lifecycle.

If you’re looking to transition your team or firm to this powerful methodology, here’s a straightforward guide on how to get started with BIM.

1. Define Your BIM Goals (Why BIM?)

Before installing software, you need a clear "why." BIM implementation is an investment, so understand what success looks like for your organization.

Conflict Detection: Reduce field clashes and rework.

Visualization: Improve client and stakeholder communication.

Quantity Takeoffs: Generate accurate material quantities faster.

4D/5D Planning: Integrate schedule (4D) and cost (5D) information.

Facility Management: Create an accurate "digital twin" for post-construction maintenance.

Tip: Start small. Choose one or two achievable goals for your first pilot project, like clash detection, instead of trying to implement every BIM dimension (3D through 7D) at once.

2. Establish Standards: The BIM Execution Plan (BEP)

The BIM Execution Plan (BEP) is the bible for your project's digital workflow. It's a mandatory step to ensure coordination is achievable.

Specify Software & Versions: Clearly state which platforms (e.g., Revit, ArchiCAD, Tekla) and specific versions everyone must use.

Define Model Origin & Coordinates: This is critical for coordination. All models must be linked to a single, shared coordinate system and an agreed-upon base point.

Level of Detail (LOD): Determine the required geometric detail and information richness at various project stages (e.g., LOD 100 for conceptual design, LOD 350 for construction documentation). 

Nomenclature & Structure: Establish file naming conventions, object naming, and how models will be broken down (e.g., by building, by floor, by discipline). This is vital for merging and checking models.

3. Invest in the Right Tools and Training

BIM is a process enabled by technology. Don't underestimate the need for robust software and skilled personnel.

Core Modeling Software: Select industry-standard software that aligns with your discipline (e.g., Revit, Civil 3D, Solidworks).

Coordination/Clash Detection Software: Tools like Navisworks or Solibri are essential for aggregating models from different disciplines (Architecture, Structure, MEP) and performing automated interference checks.

Mandatory Training: Provide hands-on training for all team members—from modelers to project managers. Ensure they understand not just how to use the software, but why the BIM process is structured the way it is.

4. Implement a Coordinated Workflow

Coordinated planning requires regular, structured meetings and a central hub for data exchange.

Central Data Environment (CDE): Use a cloud-based platform (like Autodesk Construction Cloud, Trimble Connect, or similar) to host the master models and documents. This ensures everyone is always accessing the latest version.

Regular Coordination Meetings: Schedule weekly or bi-weekly meetings. These aren't just for discussion; they are for reviewing the clash reports generated by the coordination software.

The Model Check Process:

Model Submission: Disciplines upload their models to the CDE by a specified deadline.

Model Aggregation & Clash Detection: The BIM Manager or Coordinator merges the models and runs automated clash checks (e.g., pipe vs. beam, duct vs. ceiling).

Issue Resolution: Clash reports are generated, prioritized, and assigned to the relevant team member for resolution in their native modeling software. This is the core of coordinated planning.

5. Start with a Pilot Project and Iterate

Don't implement BIM firm-wide overnight. Select a small, manageable project to serve as your testing ground.

Document Everything: Track the time spent, the number of clashes found and resolved, and the feedback from the construction site (if applicable).

Measure Success: Did you achieve your initial goals (e.g., reduce RFIs by 20%)? Compare the BIM project metrics against a similar, traditionally-managed project.

Refine the BEP: Use the lessons learned from the pilot to update and refine your standards and processes before rolling BIM out to larger, more complex projects.

By taking these measured steps—setting clear goals, establishing robust standards, investing in training, and embracing a collaborative, model-centric workflow—your firm can successfully transition to coordinated planning and harness the power of BIM.