As buildings become increasingly complex, the data created, shared, and managed during their project lifecycles also grows in complexity. Managing this data is critical. The ISO 19650 framework establishes key concepts for data management across the different phases of a project’s lifecycle.
This blog will explore this topic by focusing on four key areas: the role of information management throughout the building lifecycle, the different types of information models used, the Autodesk software available for each project phase, and finally, a practical guide to implementing these systems within your company.
The building lifecycle is typically split into six distinct stages:
- Pre-Design
- Conceptual Design
- Design Development
- Final Design and Documentation
- Construction
- Operations and Maintenance.
Throughout these stages, a vast amount of data is created and exchanged. While this information is heavily utilized during the first five stages (from pre-design to construction), it is often underutilized in the sixth stage: Operations and Maintenance.
Effective data management relies on understanding key concepts: BIM, PIM, and AIM.
- BIM (Building Information Modelling) refers to the process of creating, sharing, and managing digital representations of a built asset. Central to BIM is the CDE (Common Data Environment), a centralized data repository that acts as the single source of truth for all project participants.
- PIM (Project Information Model): This is the information model associated with the Delivery Phase of a built asset. It progressively develops from the initial design intent model into a comprehensive virtual construction model.
- AIM (Asset Information Model): This is the information model associated with the Operation Phase. It provides owners and facility managers with accurate as-built data for asset management, maintenance planning, and future renovations. Ultimately, the AIM helps optimize operations, maintenance, and lifecycle management.
With these concepts in mind, let’s look at the Autodesk tools that facilitate data management during these phases. For the Project Design Phase, Autodesk Docs and Autodesk Collaborate Pro. For the Construction Phase, Autodesk Build is available, and for the Operations Phase, Autodesk Tandem and Eptura are used.
When implementing new data management systems, starting with a pilot project is crucial. This implementation should be cautious and incremental. Start with a single project and ensure team members are adequately skilled up during the process. This pilot approach allows companies to mitigate challenges and resistance to change, secure buy-in by showcasing the project’s success, and establish and standardize new workflows.
Following a successful pilot, the system can be rolled out to the rest of the company. This next phase involves scaling the validated processes, ensuring rigorous standardization, and implementing continuous optimization. Throughout this entire process, it is critical that all team members are adequately upskilled to ensure that high information management standards are maintained across all project lifecycle stages.
By fully utilising the information created, shared, and managed in the earlier stages, building asset owners can advance their operations management, unlocking significant long-term benefits.
