Enabling lean design with management of model maturity

Abstract

Traditional construction management has struggled with an ad hoc approach to design, increasing the number of negative iterations and sacrificing potential value. Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been driving information management in design, but its use has yet to be described in a way which makes it compatible with planning tools such as Last Planner™. Level of Development (LOD) could allow for this by attributing maturity to the BIM-model, yet previous studies of LOD implementation have shown potential for improvement. This paper researches current approaches, experiences and requirements for using maturity-based management in design. A study of two large projects with maturity-based management using interviews and an analysis of measurements was conducted in addition to a literature scoping study. The paper formulates five aspects of BIM-based workflows which needs to be addressed in order to manage their development. In addition, the study reveals how use of maturity-based management can provide a foundation for managing BIM-based workflows according to lean principles. Finally, the paper concludes with practical recommendations for enabling lean design with management of model maturity, such as how to specify maturity levels or how to disaggregate the model into disciplinary sections.