There are different important stages that are present in a project. These are the stages without which the project is incomplete. Also, successful completion of these stages is very much necessary for the success of the project. Among these stages, one of the important stages is the stage of design. There are several aspects of this stage. This stage consists of different forms of work. In this project, the report is written from the perspective of a new design trainee. This trainee is recruited from a design company. Now a report regarding the use of BIM technology in the design stages of construction projects is being prepared. There was a particular project that was considered here. The project is about designing a car showroom. This report is about how the BIM can be used in this project to advance its design. Moreover, the description of how a “common data environment” can be used in this project was also included in this report. Here, the description of the stages of BIM is illustrated. Moreover, the difference between the approaches of old and new RIBA methods is present here. Also, it can be seen that there are different forms of effects of the policies, rules, and standards published by the governments on the projects of construction. These effects are also present in this report.
The full name of BIM is “Building Information Modeling”. This can be considered as a collaborative process. This helps to prepare designs, and plans, and prepare designs of structures in 3D. Moreover, the use of this also spreads in construction management. With the use of these projects, they can be managed well. This provides very minute details regarding a project that enables users to design the building easily (Muhammed, 2023). In this, different forms of software are used. All of this software does different forms of work. Also, with the use of this, the collaboration of data into a single place is also possible.
Maturity Stages of RIBA 2013
This can be referred to as the measure of how much the BIM is adopted in a project. In this project, it is required to build a car showroom. So, the measure of BIM adoption is very much necessary for this project. This is measured in terms of some factors (King, 2019). The first factor in this regard is collaboration. This means the connectivity & exchange of data between organizations & people. Another factor regarding this is the management of BIM data. Here, it is checked to what extent the BIM data is maintained in the entire life cycle of the project. Another factor in the disregard is “lifecycle integration”. This defines the level of integration of data in the different stages of the project. All of these can be considered in the project of the car showroom for checking the BIM implementation (Amin & Abanda, 2019). The stages of maturity are as follows.
Figure 1: BIM Maturity Levels
Level 0
This level can be referred to as low collaboration with BIM. In this stage, the design is prepared in 2D by means of CAD tools. Also, the files are shared digitally. It can be seen that in this form of design, almost no tools of BIM are used (Elhussein & Abd, 2021). For this reason, the benefits of BIM cannot be obtained by this process.
The next level of maturity is level 1. At this level, the “common data environment” is used. This is used for collecting data. Also, the data is shared throughout the project. At this level not only 2D but also 3D drawing of the structure is also made (Bianda et al. 2023). This is done by the combination of data that is collected here. This can be referred to as a partial collaboration.
Level 2
This is another level of maturity of BIm that can be achieved in this project. This can be achieved by producing 3D models of the showroom. This 3d model will show all the details and information of the showroom. The details of the model and project data will be present in a common file. Hence, it will be possible to combine all the data in one place. In addition to this, the details of strategies for managing time and cost estimates will also be available at this stage. This level can be referred to as full collaboration.
Level 3
This is the last level of BIM. At this level, it can be seen as a common model that is by cloud. Any person who is linked with the project can have access to this model in accordance with the role of the person (Othman & Elsawaf, 2021). This level can be termed as full integration.
Application of the RIBA DPoW stages for the BIM-enabled design
When used in conjunction with BIM-enabled design, the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Digital Plan of Work (DPoW) stages provide an organized approach to project management. Throughout the building lifecycle, these stages—from strategic planning to operation—enable cooperation, information sharing, and decision-making. By giving architects, engineers, and various other stakeholders a digital platform to communicate and manage data, BIM (Building Information Modeling) improves the DPoW. This integration increases overall project efficiency, minimizes errors, and maximizes coordination. The integration of BIM technology with RIBA DPoW stages results in a more efficient, transparent, and cooperative design process, which in turn produces superior construction and facility management outcomes.
Latest BIM maturity levels
Building information modeling (BIM) maturity levels are often categorized from 0 to 3 or more as of the most recent knowledge revision in January 2022, representing the construction sector's evolution in adopting BIM methods. Level 0 denotes no teamwork, but Level 1 includes some basic 3D modeling. Level 3 denotes sophisticated integration and data sharing, while Level 2 denotes cooperative working with defined procedures. The industry has been working to reach higher degrees of maturity, placing a strong emphasis on cloud-based collaboration, interoperability, and more extensive use of data. Beyond Level 3, further developments are expected, with an emphasis on improved integration and information sharing during the construction process.
Comparison of RIBA 2020 with RIBA 2013
RIBA stands for “Royal Institute of British Architects”. This specifies the details of the stages of the projects along with what is needed to be delivered through the project. There are two forms of RIBA that can be seen. The older version of RIBA is RIBA 2013 and the latest version of this is RIBA 2020. It is to be noted that most of the designers of the company where the trainee is recruited are traditional form of designers (Ren, 2019). Hence, the RIBA 2013 best suits them. However, because of the different advantages of AIBA 2020 over AIBA 2013, this can be used in this project in place of AIBA 2013. The difference between these two plans is mainly in terms of the “pre-contract” stages. The differences between these two are as follows.
Clarity of stages
One of the biggest differences between these two lies in the clarity of the stages of pre-contract. In the 2020 plan, there can be seen a more detailed description of each of the phases of this stage. This makes it easy for the designers to understand the required activities.
It can be seen that nowadays construction projects emphasis is given to sustainability. The 2020 plans make it easy to integrate sustainability into the project. With the help of this, the strategies of sustainability can be integrated together in the project (Rahman et al. 2023). Also, with the use of this in the stage of pre-contract EIA can also be done. Sustainable design is also the result of this.
Digital collaboration
It can be seen that the use of digital technologies has changed the scenario oif different industries. So, the integration of digital technologies in a project is very much necessary. It can be seen that the use of the 2020 plan of RIBA helps in incorporating digital technologies more easily. This makes sure the collaborative BIM software is used along with building good communication with the stakeholders.
Industry standards
It is to be noted that the 2020 plan takes into account the newly made industry standards more than its older version. It carries out each work in accordance with the new codes of practice and regulations.
Client engagement
The 2020 plan provides a good approach for engaging clients in the project. As a result of this, the client can have a cleaner expectation from the project (Saad et al. 2022). Also, the process of documentation and decision-making becomes easy with this.
Stages of BIM on RIBA 2020
The RIBA 2020 implementation consists of some stages. These stages are the key by which proper plans can be made with the integration of the BIM tools. These stages are as follows.
Figure 2: Stages of RIBA
Stage 0: Strategic Definition
This is the first stage of this., The main idea of this is to find out what design is needed for a particular project. It is to be noted that not all the projects suit the same design. So, for this reason, different forms of designs are adopted for different projects (Laovisutthichai & Lau, 2021). In this stage of design, the possible options for the project are decided considering the budget and site conditions of the project.
Stage 1: Preparation & Briefing
It is the next stage and can be considered as the actual starting of a project. At this stage, the outcomes that are needed for the project are decided. In addition to the outcomes, the quality requirements and “spatial requirements” are also checked (Goonetillake, 2019). The things that are done at this stage are “feasibility study”, and preparing the budget of the project.
Stage 2: Concept Design
In this stage, the design of the project is prepared. It can be seen that there may be different options available for doing the design of the project. In this stage, the best option that suits the project are found. After this, the actual design of the project is prepared.
Stage 3: Spatial Coordination
In this stage, the main thing that is done is to consider the practical aspects of the prepared design. The research regarding the project meeting the “legal requirements” is done in this stage. The application of planning is submitted at this stage.
Stage 4: Technical Design
The main idea of this stage is to prepare for the construction phase. So, it can be said that this is a stage where the planning before the construction activities start is done. This consists of taking permits for the works. Also, checking building regulations also falls in this.
Stage 5: Manufacturing
This is the stage where the actual construction work is performed. It can be seen that there are different forms of activities carried out in a construction project (Kurwi, 2019). The preparation of the different elements is carried out in this stage.
Stage 6: Handover
This is the stage where the project is completed. After the completion of the project, it is handed over to the client.
Stage 7: Use
This is the last stage of the project. In this stage, the property is used till its life span.
How the CDE supports the BIM-enabled design and construct project
A key component of BIM-enabled design and construction projects' support is the Common Data Environment (CDE). It acts as a central hub for the collaborative storage, management, and sharing of project information. Organized data management is facilitated by distinct states or folders within the CDE. For example, project documentation may start in the "Planning" stage and evolve into the "Design" state. Folders like "constructing" and "As-Built" hold essential data as the project moves forward. Throughout the course of the project, this structured method promotes cooperation, lowers errors, and enhances efficiency by guaranteeing stakeholders have access to the appropriate data at the appropriate time.
Common Data Environment (CDE)
This can be referred to as a centralized system that is used for collecting, managing, and sharing documents between the stakeholders of a project. The features that it has are as follows.
Figure 3: Common Data Environment
Centralized storage
All the details of the project in the form of documents & models are placed in a central virtual location.
Access control
It is to be noted that permission is needed to access the items of this. Also, with permission only some specified folders can be accessed.
Version control
Here, documents of different versions can be stored. It also prevents overlaps.
Collaboration
This makes it possible to collaborate the people like designers, architects, and engineers for working together.
Workflow management
This manages the flow of work. Also, the works are reviewed and distributed.
Security
It considers the controlled access. Also, encryption is used for the security of sensitive data.
Stages of CDE
There are some stages in which the CDE is implemented. In this project of creating a car showroom also, this method can be implemented. This is generally used in terms of construction stages (Charef, 2019). The details of the stages of this are as follows.
Pre-construction stage
Preparation of the CDE platform
In this stage, the first thing that is done is to select the software for preparing the platform. Then the permissions are configured and storage is set.
Reference document
Planning data is collected in this stage. Also, data from the site surveys and the assets that are present are collected.
File structure creation
Here, folders are created for storing documents & models.
Workflow
Here, work is reviewed and approval for the project is taken.
Design stage
Design file upload
In this stage, the prepared design documents and models are uploaded into the system.
Coordination review
The review of the prepared designs is done here. Also, possible clashes are detected.
Managing revisions
If the revision of the designs was done then these are uploaded in this stage.
Design approvals
After reviewing the designs these are taken for final approval.
Tracking issues
The presence of issues in design are found here.
Construction stage
Contractor access
In this stage, controlled access to the contractors is permitted.
Drawing submission
The different design documents are submitted.
Field management
Daily work and progress are managed.
Snagging
Defects are managed here.
Project closeout
All the prepared files of the project are handed over to the client.
Effects of policies, standards, and legislations on construction
The effects that the policies, standards & legislations have on the construction projects are as follows.
Figure 4: Effects of policies, standards, and legislations on construction
Cost
It can be seen that when it tries to work to meet the regulations of the government it results in increasing the cost of the project. This cost includes taking permits, training of employees, cost of “equipment & material” and changes in conditions.
Methods & material
In the environmental laws, it is often seen that it is instructed to adopt sustainable materials. These materials are not always readily available (TUDublin & Prenka, 2020). So, many times it becomes hard to collect these materials.
Timeline
For regulations, time is spent obtaining permits, and doing inspections. This resulted in the project taking more time.
Labor
The regulations make it difficult to hire laborers from different regions of the world. Moreover, a high cost of wages needed to be spent on the labor that resulted in increasing the cost of the project.
Disputes
Because of the guidelines disputes between parties are created.
Applications of RIBA DPoW and CDE in a BIM enabled design effect of industry, professional and government policies, legislation, and standards on construction activities for a BIM-enabled design and construct project of making a car showroom
The Common Data Environment (CDE) and RIBA Digital Plan of Work (DPoW) are essential to BIM-enabled design while building an auto showroom. Project management is made methodical with DPoW, which provides guidance from idea to operation. CDE acts as a central point for exchanging joint data. BIM projects are impacted by professional, governmental, and industry norms; standards provide interoperability. Standards for quality and data security are mandated by law. Adoption of BIM may be encouraged by government programs for efficiency. Collaborative approaches are shaped by professional guidelines. The combined effect improves the general effectiveness of the BIM-enabled car dealership project by streamlining the construction process, encouraging collaboration, and guaranteeing compliance with changing requirements.
Allocation of roles and resources for a BIM-enabled car showroom construction design and construction project
Role distribution is essential for smooth cooperation in a construction project with a car showroom facilitated by BIM. BIM Manager maintains compliance by supervising digital processes. Using 3D modeling, architects may visualize their designs. Discipline-specific models are contributed by structural and MEP engineers. Quantity surveyors handle data pertaining to costs. Project managers schedule assignments and deadlines. BIM is used by contractors for planning purposes. As-built models help facility managers with future upkeep. Software licenses, collaborative tools, and skilled modelers are allotted according to expertise. Effective assignment of roles and resources promotes communication, encourages teamwork, and maximizes the application of BIM technology over the course of the project, all of which contribute to the success of the project as a whole.
Standard for information management process in BIM
There are different things are included in this. These are the process of managing the car showroom project with the use of BIM. ISO provides different standards for managing information with the use of BIM. Maintaining the consistency of data also falls in this. Moreover, standards should alos be maintained in exchanging data among the stakeholders. It can be seen that this also plays a key role in defining the responsibilities of people involved in the project.
Standards- Classification system
The standards of the BIM system are as follows.
Exchange of information
Doing the classification of the construction projects
Standards for doing the exchange of data
Use of a single language for the exchange of information
BIM dimension
There were different software used in this project of making the “car showroom”. The first one in this regard was the CAD software. Also, the MS project was used for the management of the project activities. In addition to this, tools for doing “cost estimation” was also used.
Impact of Legislation
It is expected that there are different effects of the legislation can be present in the project. If the building codes are needed to be followed exactly, then the cost of the project may increase. Moreover, if the space & safety provisions of the government is needed to be maintained then the loss of useable area will be more. Laws regarding the protection of the consumer results in delaying the project.
Key roles & responsibilities
There are different people present in the project. All of these people have their own responsibilities in the “car showroom” project. It is required during the entire time of the project. It can be seen that exchanging information between teams is very much necessary for making everyone aware of the project details.
Responsibility Matrix
The main idea of this is to define the responsibility of the individuals. Moreover, with the use of this the responsibilities of individuals are distributed among people. Also, the responsibilities that the individuals should take is also obtained from it.
Discussion
There are different things that can be found in the project. It can be seen that this project was mainly focused on finding out the several aspects of design considerations. The project that was taken here is a project of making a car showroom. It was observed that BIM can be a good option for designing this project. Along with BIM, if CDE is also integrated into this project then this will result in taking the level of the project higher (Elsawaf & Othman, 2020). There are some stages in which the CDE should be implemented in this project. It was also, seen that the policies & regulations of government are made for the benefit of projects but still, there are several reasons for which the projects are getting affected by the policies.
Conclusion
There are several aspects of designing a project are present in this report. It can be seen that designing is one of the vital aspects of a project. This defines how the structure is going to look like. This report was prepared from the point of view of a trainee working in a design organization. The task that was selected here was designing a car showroom. Several aspects of the design of the project were included here. It can be seen that BIM can become one of the best tools for this project. This has the potential to elevate the level of the project. Also, efforts should be made to adopt RIBA 2020 rather than the traditional methods for preparing the plans for the project. This is because the new RIBA is more advantageous than its older version in many ways. Also, the effectiveness of BIM implementation can be measured by the level of maturity of BIM. Also, the details of CDE and its implementation in this project were presented in this report. The different roles of individuals are also present here.
References
Journals
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