BIM (Building Information Modelling) is well known for its application in the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors, however, this technology is making waves in other disciplines, such as facility management. By leveraging detailed insights into a facility’s physical and functional characteristics, BIM ensures that facility operations are cost-effective, sustainable, and, perhaps most importantly, happier places to work.
Integrating facility management in the design phase
Modern construction is highly collaborative. BIM works in construction by bringing together various stakeholders and disciplines so that designers, architects, and engineers can have input into the early stages of a project. This proactive approach helps identify and resolve potential clashes and problems, reduces costs, and speeds up the project lifecycle.
What if facility management expertise was added to that process? That would allow things like space utilization, maintenance, and operational requirements to be baked into the design process from day one, ensuring greater functionality and longevity for the facility.
How BIM transforms facility management
BIM provides a vast, comprehensive database of all the pertinent information about a building project, including asset and facilities management data. Centralizing all this data means that managing the placement and maintenance of infrastructure within the building becomes far more efficient.
Here’s how BIM can drive improved facility management:
Better maintenance planning
As mentioned above, BIM collects intricate details about building components. Some of this data includes specifications, warranty information, and even maintenance schedules. Early access to this information ensures proactive maintenance planning that can extend equipment lifespan and overall output.
Better lifecycle management
The wealth of data compiled within BIM systems means facility management teams can plan for the entire lifecycle of assets. Therefore, decisions about maintenance, repairs, and renovations are data-driven, ensuring the facility’s lifecycle is maximized, and resource use is optimized.
Better space management
Access to precise 3D models allows for optimal space management. However, these benefits are not just about packing in as many components as possible. It also allows designers to consider the overall flow of the building and how facilities fit into that picture.
Additionally, this spatial data allows teams to plan for future needs, ensuring the space can adjust and adapt to changing conditions or requirements.
Better communication
BIM tools also serve the collaborative nature of modern building planning. All stakeholders have access to essential information, allowing each discipline to bring their experience and expertise to the project. Moreover, these tools allow faster and more efficient communication, reducing project delays and costs and driving better contract management and execution.
Utilizing BIM for effective preventive maintenance and asset management
All assets within a facility represent an investment. Maximizing their lifecycle and minimizing downtime and repairs is essential for achieving a return on this expenditure.
BIM software is a centralized repository of information on each asset. Facility managers can leverage this data to open the door to many benefits, including:
Asset tracking: BIM is an effective asset management tool. It collects data such as when an asset was installed, how long it is under warranty, maintenance schedule and history, and more. Knowledge about asset performance and condition helps extend the lifecycle.
Predictive maintenance: BIM tools can help organizations keep track of historical data and performance metrics. From here, teams can predict maintenance needs and implement timely preventative maintenance that reduces downtime and costs.
Inventory management: Another huge benefit of using BIM for facility management lies in the software’s ability to manage inventory. This process eliminates manual inventories and ensures accurate, real-time record-keeping accessible to all stakeholders.
Real-time data integration: IoT devices and sensors can easily integrate with BIM systems to provide real-time data asset performance. Again, this can help with timely interventions that help minimize downtime.
Maintenance coordination: By centralizing building component data, firms can establish a single source of truth. This setup allows everyone from facility managers, maintenance staff, and contractors to understand performance and maintenance schedules, meaning response times are lower and workflows are more efficient.
Overcoming the challenges of implementing BIM in facility management
Implementing any system comes with a set of challenges. However, the benefits of BIM for facility management are so pronounced that overcoming these hurdles is a must.
Data integration
Firms that want to use BIM must integrate with their existing facility management systems. Ensuring interoperability could involve combining several platforms to harness the power of centralized data fully, which is a not insignificant challenge.
Solution: Developing standardized data protocols can resolve these issues and ensure all connected systems play well together. Working with quality BIM software vendors will ensure a smooth experience.
Data accuracy and management
Implementing any new data system raises questions about data quality and responsible stewardship of sensitive information.
Solutions: Again, establishing solid data protocols is a must. Data quality checks and audits will go a long way toward ensuring accuracy and reliability. Furthermore, robust access controls, encryption, and the utilization of a Common Data Environment (CDE) can ensure sensitive information and intellectual property is accessible to stakeholders without compromising privacy.
Costs
Implementing any new system comes with costs, and a BIM solution is no exception. Some of the expenses that firms must consider are subscription costs, hardware, and training.
Solution: The costs of BIM software and any attendant expenses should be offset against savings and productivity increases. Conducting a cost-benefit analysis can give an insight into potential ROI and help make the case for investment in the boardroom.
Additionally, the advent of cloud-based BIM tools can reduce hardware spending, making these innovative platforms more accessible. While costs are always a consideration when adopting new tools, some research reports that one BIM use case had an ROI of as much as 39,000 per cent.
Skills gap
BIM tools exist on the cutting edge of technology. As such, many stakeholders and facility managers will lack the required skills and experience to get the most from these platforms. Any barriers to adoption can reduce the returns on your BIM investment.
Solution: Quality BIM vendors provide the support and training facility staff need to get up to speed on these new tools. Other proven methods to explore include appointing an internal BIM champion, using digital adoption platforms (DAPs) to drive contextual learning, or leveraging BIM consultants to support the transition toward a new system.
By implementing BIM technology, many facilities have enhanced operations, saved money, increased sustainability, and improved the quality of their workplace.
Anna Liza Montenegro, Director of Marketing, Microsol Resources, develops design technology conferences for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals as a forum to exchange innovative strategies, and best practices, and facilitate discussions into the technology trends driving significant change in building design and construction.
