The benefits of BIM integration with facilities management: A preliminary case study

Abstract

There is an increasing recognition that, to maximize the benefits of Building Information Modeling (BIM), it should be deployed in such a way that it remains useful beyond the design and construction phase of projects. This means that it should be utilized in the facilities management phase of a constructed facility. This paper focuses on the identification of benefits gained from the effective integration of BIM in Facilities Management. Drawing on literature from previous research, it argues for the adoption of strategic approaches towards holistic consideration of benefits. The paper also presents the findings of a preliminary case study based on exploratory interviews with key personnel on a major university building project, and review of project documents. Qualitative descriptions of benefits were obtained from these interviews and are summarized in the paper. The paper concludes with a discussion of the benefits of BIM/FM integration, with a view to a comprehensive determination of project gains within the lifecycle of a project. The paper offers some conclusions that are aimed at the holistic consideration of benefits through the project phases preceding handover and including those in the lifecycle stage for a more wholesome assessment of the effectiveness of BIM implementation in FM.