Process of matching work items between bim model and cost estimating software

Abstract

This article is focused on the process of matching work items into an organized structure in order to semi-automatically identify work items and link them between BIModel and cost estimating software. Several sources are suggesting a computer aided cost estimation based on historical cost data, which is a desired method of cost estimation. However, it is only achievable, if cost data are collected in an organized way and if format of cost data is structured according with defined standards. Those standards can be internal standards of a company, or national, even international standards that clearly define the structure of work items. Since work items are generally named differently throughout various bills of quantities, it should be more suitable to mark and recognize work items by numbered codes that will be defined specifically for each and every work item. The question is, what level of detail of a particular work item should these numbered codes reflect. More specifically, should these numbered codes represent a general group of work items (such as concrete grade, steel grade, size of masonry), or should they represent a detailed representation of work items (such as diameter of reinforcement, type of plaster, etc.). It also states the possible benefits for various stakeholders (client, contractor, designer, architect) throughout the life cycle of a project. It is to support the good practice of BIM in AEC industry. A semi-automatic e-procurement process is presented on the basis of matching work items into an organized structure. This semi-automatic e-procurement process is presented from the main contractor's point of view, however, it also takes into consideration other project's stakeholders. The article takes into consideration two contractual relations, these are Design - Build contract and Design - Bid - Build contract.