15 August 2018 | Herpreet Kaur Grewal
Facilities management needs to make a strong business case for implementing Business Information Modelling (BIM), according to a report from a BIFM leader's forum.
Case studies of successful projects such as the new UBS headquarters in London, will help FM "raise its game and sell BIM's benefits much harder to clients", states the report based on senior management perspectives on BIM.
The Internet of Things will gradually drive BIM's assimilation into the FM sector, and FM will play a greater role in a building's initial design - as long as it can demonstrate deep knowledge of the design and construction process.
BIFM and FMs also need to communicate the benefits of BIM and Soft Landings and how soft landings would have a financial benefit if engaged with in the long term. BIFM as a body is not just talking about this problem, but is also drawing up an action plan to provide solutions.
Key findings from the report include:
- FM has yet to get to grips with BIM and realise its full potential.
- FM is lagging the construction sector in embracing BIM.
- There are not enough intelligent clients who appreciate what BIM can do for building life cycle costs.
- The disconnect between capex and opex means BIM is being squeezed out of the C-Suite's financial calculations.
- This will continue until the financial case for BIM can be quantified.
- FM needs to raise its game and sell BIM's benefits much harder. One way to do so is linking it much clearer to the strategic challenges C-suites are grappling with.
- More BIM case studies - including 'warts and all' examples - are needed to convert sceptics. These should include soft landings success stories as they show FM/BIM working effectively. Also offering a BIM course that's more FM specific.
- The Internet of Things will assist the drive of BIM's assimilation in FM.
- FMs need to be part of the initial design team but in order to justify their place must demonstrate deep knowledge of the design and construction process.
- BIFM to communicate the benefits of BIM and Soft Landings and how soft landings would have a financial benefit if engaged with in the long term.