Development of an ideal-typical target process chain for the application of the BIM method in the life cycle of buildings

Funded by: Federal Institute for Research on Building, Urban Affairs and Spatial Development (BBSR) as part of the Zukunft Bau research initiative

Project duration: 07/2015 to 09/2017

The BIM method has so far only been used as an isolated solution in Germany. In order to achieve the so-called "BIG open BIM", which provides for holistic work across all specialist disciplines on a data model, the software is no longer the decisive hurdle, but above all the lack of standards and changed processes, as well as the lack of legal certainty. As part of the Zukunft Bau research initiative, a research project is now to develop an ideal-typical target process chain using the BIM method along the life cycle of a building. This target process chain is the prerequisite for the development of a guideline for implementing the BIM method over the entire life cycle of buildings.

Procedure and work status

Actual process in the life cycle of buildings (design)

As a basis for the development of an ideal-typical target process chain, the actual processes without the use of the BIM method in the life cycle of buildings are first analyzed. For the scenario under consideration, a public client who will both own and operate the new building was used. Further scenarios can be derived from this. The actual processes are then defined and modeled on the basis of literature research (including standards, guidelines, regulations, etc.), other research projects and expert interviews (including workshops). These also include an analysis of the scope of services and the information and communication interfaces.

Workshops

To ensure that the results correspond to current practice, the process chain is validated in close consultation with a team of experts consisting of the practice partners and the participants in the project network.

Target process in the life cycle of buildings (design)

Based on the modeled actual processes, the ideal-typical target process chain is developed iteratively using the BIM method in consultation with the practice partners and those involved in the project network. In addition, all relevant information and communication interfaces are identified and integrated.

How much BIM can a medium-sized project take?

Our three-part film series lets those involved in the project have their say and clarifies the contribution that BIM can make, especially for medium-sized companies in the construction industry. The new construction of a retail park in Thuringia served as the BIM project. In our video series, project developers, architects, contractors and other project participants have their say. The project was also scientifically supported - resulting in the BIM guide for SMEs, which you can access here.