An introduction 1

Building Information Modelling

What is BIM

BIM is a data-driven process which involves the creation of an information rich 3-dimensional
model, spacially coordinated across all engineering disciplines, representing the virtual build form.
Using a fully informational modelling workflows facilitates sharing data with all project team
members ensuring improved quality, coordinated design, streamlined production,and construction
ready projects. BIM is not just for ‘building’, but can be utilised for all types of infrastructure projects,
like highway systems, storm & sanitary systems, utilities, retaiing walls, bridges etc.

BIM is a collaborative way of working, underpinned by the digital technologies which unlock more
efficient methods of designing, creating and maintaining our assets from earliest concept through
to operation. It has been described as a game-changing ICT and cultural process for the
construction sector. A number of countries globally are starting to realise the opportunities it brings
and are now investing in developing their own capability.
Background
In May 2011, the UK Government published the Construction Strategy which aimed to reduce the
cost of public sector assets by up to 20% by 2016. A strategic objective has been set to achieve
maturity Level 2 (figure 1) building information modelling (BIM) on all public sector asset
procurement, with equal applicability to private sector building, infrastructure, refurbishment and
new-build projects. This will address the problem of information being inaccurate, incomplete and
ambiguous which results in unnecessary additional capital delivery costs amounting to 20-25%.
This additional 20-25% is considered waste and can be reduced if the appropriate standards,
processes and procedures are implemented. BIM generates information models and their
associated information that are used throughout the lifecycle of building/infrastructure facilities or
assets.
BIM in CH2M HILL
CH2M HILL’s delivery of both plant and facility information models over the years has led to an
advanced integrated delivery platform. Building Information Modeling (BIM) has captured the
industry’s attention for improving facility lifecycle delivery. After delivering hundreds of projects
using BIM, CH2M HILL’s design process using BIM provides significant value and return on
investment, such as:
 Project stakeholders achieve greater understanding through virtual “walk-throughs” of the new
facility, leading to earlier and better quality decisions.
 Improved design quality results in decreased risk of craft and complex during construction and cost
overruns.
 Project life-cycle costs are optimized, including the use of simulations and analysis tools increasing
the opportunity for analyzing building performance.

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Benefits BIM Level 2 BIM
It is made up of 7 core standard
 Design occurs virtually within a 3D world with all
disciplines working simultaniusly together. documents (Note: some of these are yet

 Quickly and easily perform desing iterations or to be made available). These documents
develop desing scenarios. then cross reference to other documents
 Automated clash detection to identify and are listed as tabbed below each core
interferences, potential on-site errors or conflicts. standards.
 Perform desing and constructability reviews
facilitated via models walk-throughs. 1.PAS 1192-2:2013 Specification for
 Model componets contain data like, size, material, information management for the
producer, cost. capital/delivery phase of construction
 The Master Information Delivery Plan (MIDP) is in projects using Building Information
place prior to the start of the design process.
Modelling
 Whole life asset management using the
information within BIM for operation and 2.PAS 1192-3:2014 Specification for
maintenace activities.
information management for the
 Exact quantity take-offs and precise programme
operational phase of assets using
scheduling, reduced waste, by ordering the exact
quantities, just in time. building information modelling

4.CIC (Construction Industry

To simplify the description of technologies and ways
Council) BIM Protocol (First Edition
of working, the concept of maturity “Levels” has been
defined (figure 1). The purpose of the maturity levels 2013)
is to categorise types of technical and collaborative
working to enable a concise description and 5.Government Soft Landings (G)SL
understanding of the processes, tools and techniques
to be used, thus allowing simple referencing as to 6.Classification (final agreed UK
where various documents should be applied. Classification system not currently
finalised – likely to be available in Easter
Maturity Level Definitions
2015). The following are Classification

Level 0. Unmanaged CAD probably 2D, with paper (or systems in existence and being
Figure 1 BIM maturity levels
electronic paper) as the most likely data exchange developed for BIM:
mechanism.
7.Digital Plan of Work (dPoW) (not yet publicly available – likely to be available Easter 2015)
Level 1. Managed CAD in 2 or 3D format using BS 1192:2007 with a collaboration tool providing a common
data environment, possibly some standard data structures and formats. Commercial data managed by
standalone finance and cost management packages with no integration.

Level 2. Managed 3D environment held in separate discipline “BIM” tools with attached data. Commercial
data managed by an ERP. Integration on the basis of proprietary interfaces or bespoke middleware could be
regarded as “pBIM” (proprietary). The approach may utilise 4D Programme data and 5D cost elements.

Level 3. Fully open process and data integration enabled by IFC / IFD. Managed by a collaborative model
server. Could be regarded as iBIM or integrated BIM potentially employing concurrent engineering processes.
© 2014 CH2M HILL
 Building Information Modelling

Contact Us

Vasileios K. Vernikos
Head of BIM Development
Transportation - Europe

CH2M HILL
Elms House
43 Brook Green
London, W6 7EF, United Kingdom
Direct +44 (0)1214560643
Fax +44 (0)20 3479 8001
Mobile +44 (0)7889855197
www.ch2mhill.com

About CH2M HILL

Employee-owned CH2M HILL is a global leader in full-service consulting, design, design-build, operations, and program management services
for public and private clients. With US$6.4 billion in revenue and nearly 30,000 employees worldwide, we deliver innovative, practical,
sustainable solutions—helping clients develop and manage infrastructure and facilities that improve efficiency, safety, and quality of life.
CH2M HILL has long been recognized as a most-admired company and leading employer, and as an industry-leading program management,
construction management, and design firm as ranked by Engineering News-Record (2011)

ch2mhill.com

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