(1) BIM Function of the Construction Unit. The construction unit acts as the initiator, organizer, and manager of engineering projects, serving as the leader throughout the construction process. Its management responsibilities cover the entire project lifecycle, focusing on its own interests. Within a BIM environment, the construction unit, as the ultimate decision-maker, promotes BIM technology adoption to enhance engineering management and technical quality. It reviews models created by each participant at various stages and evaluates related documentation to ensure project success and establish a solid foundation for future operation and maintenance. If the construction unit fully delegates supervision of all parties to a construction management unit, then that management unit assumes the BIM functions on behalf of the construction unit.
(2) BIM Function of the Construction Unit. Construction involves transforming design outputs into physical structures using purchased equipment and materials. The term “construction unit” broadly refers to entities undertaking construction tasks, which may include general contractors, general contracting management units, subcontractors, or labor service providers. Depending on their role, their responsibilities and management scope may differ. Here, the construction unit refers specifically to the general contractor.
The general contractor (including specialized subcontractors and equipment/material suppliers) is responsible for executing and organizing the contracted construction work. Besides completing their own tasks, they coordinate and manage subcontractors, oversee resource supply, and balance the overall project interests with their own. As the project’s physical executor, they provide technical data such as construction organization plans and specialized schemes within the BIM environment and maintain the project model. Employing BIM technology enhances on-site management and technical communication, improving efficiency. This requires ensuring the accuracy and completeness of equipment and material information, developing detailed construction models, and delivering as-built models upon completion.
(3) BIM Function of the Supervisory Unit. Traditionally, supervisory units are commissioned by construction units to oversee construction quality and control project objectives during the building phase. However, supervision does not guarantee goal achievement nor assumes liability for losses caused by factors beyond its control. Supervisory units do not contract construction work but provide services classified internationally as engineering consulting. In China, these services fall under owner’s project management. Acting on behalf of the owner, the supervisory unit oversees construction quality and assumes responsibility for supervision. Its role protects the owner’s rights without compromising contractor interests. Within a BIM environment, the supervisory unit manages and monitors the construction unit’s application and maintenance of construction models, leveraging BIM technology to control onsite quality, safety, and progress.
(4) BIM Function of Cost Consulting Units. Traditional cost consulting firms are engaged by construction units to offer expert advice on investment and cost control throughout construction projects. Their services span project planning, decision-making, and execution phases, providing ongoing consultation to owners regarding engineering costs. They help correct deviations promptly to maximize owners’ investment benefits while ensuring project quality and schedule adherence. In the BIM environment, cost consulting firms act as cost controllers during construction, supporting construction units in model maintenance, maximizing BIM technology usage, and enabling timely and effective cost management.
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up