When discussing BIM applications, we often consider the entire building lifecycle—from design through operation and maintenance. But how exactly should BIM be used at each stage? Today, we will explore what BIM applications should include at each phase and their intended purposes.
1. Conceptual Design Phase
At this stage, the focus is on the building’s volume, including its length, area, volume, location, and orientation.
BIM Deliverables:
- BIM Execution Plan (BEP) signed by the team
- Base (terrain) model
- BIM volume model
- Finalized BIM models and documentation for the stage
Purpose: To provide analysis for the master plan execution; develop multiple alternative design solutions; create volumetric models for each option to compare spatial area and volume; and finalize and archive the conceptual BIM model and related documents before proceeding to the basic design phase.
2. Preliminary Design Stage
This phase generally includes building components or systems with approximate length, shape, position, orientation, and quantity, along with non-geometric attributes.
BIM Deliverables:
- Architectural model
- Integrated Design Report (combining building and structural models)
- Preliminary cost estimates derived from the BIM model
- Construction license application and approval
- Finalized BIM models and documentation for this stage
Purpose: To conduct basic design and prepare for approval using the selected BIM volumetric model; integrate architectural and structural designs; assist in updating project cost estimates; secure construction permits through legal review; and finalize and archive BIM models before entering the detailed design phase.
3. Detailed Design Stage
This stage involves detailed design of building components or systems, with accurate length, shape, position, orientation, quantity, and inclusion of non-geometric data.
BIM Deliverables:
- Architectural model
- Structural model
- Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) model
- Cost estimation from the MEP BIM model
- Integrated building, structural, and MEP models with spatial coordination report
- Detailed Bill of Quantities (BOQ) derived from the BIM models
- Finalized BIM model and updated BEP for this phase
Purpose: To develop detailed designs for contracting; update structural and MEP designs based on the latest architectural models; support cost-related decision-making; integrate architectural, structural, and MEP models to identify and resolve conflicts, verify effective net heights, and ensure adequate workspace for construction and maintenance; generate detailed cost estimates for contract documents; and finalize BIM models with an updated execution plan ahead of construction.
4. Construction Phase
During construction, detailed models are created and organized by manufacturing processes and assembly sequences to support construction management. 2D drawings are also produced as needed to highlight key assembly points.
BIM Deliverables:
- Integrated construction model of major equipment
- Material details, quantities, and areas for quantifiable projects
- Construction drawings and interface integration drawings (CSD/SEM) generated from BIM models
- Verification of construction models and drawing generation
- Finalized BIM model for the stage
- Completion model
Purpose: To produce construction models from architectural, structural, and MEP designs organized by construction methods and sequences for informed management decisions; provide contractors with detailed material quantities and references; generate specialized documentation; support change requests by delivering approved models and status records for review; finalize and archive BIM models before moving to project completion; and allow owners to specify information requirements for the completion model as it evolves during construction.
5. Completion Stage
This phase includes BIM components that align with the detailed design model, updated according to the as-built conditions.
BIM Deliverables:
- Completion models categorized by discipline
- Usage license documentation
Purpose: The contractor prepares the as-built BIM model, accurately reflecting all modifications and the final status of the building, structure, and MEP systems. This model undergoes review by the engineering company and architect before approval is granted to obtain the use permit.
6. Facility Management Phase
In this phase, BIM components are developed based on the actual completed building or system, reflecting the true as-built conditions.
BIM Deliverables:
- Final completion model that matches spatial configurations and incorporates changes or corrections made by the owner or facility manager
Purpose: To integrate information on completion status, key systems, and equipment for efficient facility management.
That covers what BIM applications should include at each stage and their purposes. I hope this overview provides useful insights for everyone!
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