Building Information Modeling (BIM) is defined by BuildingsMART International in the United States as an integration of building information modeling, model application, and business process information management. According to the Unified Standard for Building Information Modeling, BIM represents the digital depiction of various project elements shared among stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. While opinions about the exact definition of BIM vary, most agree on this key point: at every stage of the project lifecycle—planning, design, construction, operation, and maintenance—a unified transmission standard should be used to facilitate the sharing and exchange of engineering information. Additionally, BIM implementation standards are essential to enable effective collaboration across different disciplines.
To fully grasp the meaning of BIM, it is important to approach it from different perspectives and levels. Below, we break down the concept of BIM into four key levels.
Principle Level: BIM has evolved over several decades, starting from the basic integration of plans, elevations, and sections into a single drawing. It progressed to enabling real-time correlation and modifications of 3D models, and further to the vision of all parties collaborating on a shared platform. These principles and aspirations continue to drive BIM’s development and remain the goals we strive for.
Methodology Level: For BIM to be effectively implemented nationwide, a standard methodology is essential, supported by ongoing revisions. This enables all project participants to realize the tangible benefits of BIM adoption. Industry standards and certain national standards fall under this category.
Strategic and Management Level: This level offers practical guidance tailored to specific enterprise conditions. Different organizations can establish BIM implementation rules suited to their unique circumstances. BIM can substantially disrupt traditional project management models, including scheduling and cost control. All stakeholders working on the same platform must adhere to defined rules, operate with different permission levels, and ensure confidentiality in file and data transmission. These considerations are critical at this level.
Implementation Level: This focuses on the practical application of BIM within projects. It includes forming the BIM team, defining its structure and responsibilities, selecting the appropriate BIM technologies and software, and establishing management approaches to oversee project progress, quality, and cost—ultimately aiming to meet predetermined objectives.
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