Integrating HBIM models in the management of the public use of heritage buildings

Abstract

The greatest challenge in managing public access to heritage buildings and ensuring the long-term feasibility of their reuse is to establish a sustainable relationship between visitors and assets. The aim of this paper is thus to identify the potential role of Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) for public use in heritage buildings. The study, which is part of a design science research project, limits its scope to the development of the two first stages of a comprehensive HBIM protocol for the public use of heritage, focusing on visitor management, programming preventative conservation, and heritage interpretation and dissemination to solve the difficulties detected in the management of these four areas. The methodology followed involves a literature review, case study analysis, interviews with stakeholders, field visits, and analysis of technical documents. Results indicate that HBIM can help to improve and optimize the management of the public use of historic buildings.