Mastering BIM is the natural next step for the experienced project manager looking to progress their career.
Empower tool
Building information modelling (BIM) has brought greater efficiency to projects, added value for stakeholders and increased awareness of physical and data security. Its use empowers engaged clients to specify their asset requirements to achieve operational efficiencies with their built assets.
Torch bearer
This new approach to technologies, processes and behaviours has also created new roles, responsibilities and authorities. The BIM-enabled project manager, for example, now plays a crucial role in advising clients, and internal and external stakeholders on the benefits of BIM, and in implementing and managing BIM processes throughout the project life-cycle.
Engagement party
Many clients are still disengaged from the BIM process, either through lack of knowledge or awareness. Ultimately, they may not fully appreciate what they want to achieve from using BIM on their projects, or what value can actually be realised. This can leave clients as passengers, rather than an integral part of the process. It is the project manager’s role to engage clients and identify exactly what they want to achieve from BIM, and the purpose of any data requirements throughout the project life-cycle.
All together now
A BIM-enabled project manager should demonstrate a deep knowledge of the BIM process, and be able to foster a positive and collaborative environment, in which a project can realise the full potential of BIM. It is also important to simulate the BIM life-cycle processes, both on the client side and the delivery side, before putting them into practice. Technical requirements have to be balanced with project management skills, so you can confidently implement a BIM methodology.
Mine of information
It is vital to have a good command of delivery documentation, such as organisation information requirements, asset information requirements, employer’s information requirements (EIR) and the BIM execution plan, among others. The EIR is particularly important, as it enables you to communicate the client’s requirements to stakeholders in a clear, structured format.
Peter Morton is a principal consultant at Turner & Townsend, and course tutor for RICS’ Certificate in Building Information Modelling (BIM): Project Management.
Article first published in Modus February 2018