BIM-FM Implementation: An Exploratory Invesigation

Considerable amount of research has been developed that investigate the benefits of Building Information Modelling (BIM) for design and construction. However, as suggested in the UK Government Strategy, the relevant gains and difficulties related to the adoption of BIM in the operational stages of the project life cycle are considerably less explored in the available literature. In this respect, a gap of knowledge exists in relation to the value that design and construction information modelling can generate after construction is finished. Moreover, the difficulties involved in shifting from traditional to BIM-Based FM processes are not known. In this article a discussion is proposed that address some of the issues involved in the adoption of BIM from an owners' perspective. In addition, enablers and barriers to BIM implementation in FM are identified. The discussion is drawn from the results of a case study carried out during the design and construction stage of a major re-development project in Manchester, UK. Data was gathered through interviews with designers, contractors and client’s representatives, real-time observation of BIM development and use and documental analysis. Results indicate a lack of awareness related to the benefits that BIM can offer to FM processes. It also suggests that guidance is necessary for the establishment of the necessary steps for the implementation of BIM for FM purposes such as the identification of key deliverables (capabilities), the establishment of the level of integration, the definition of the maturity level and the standard BIM protocols.