BIM is a digital process that involves creating, managing, and sharing information about a building project throughout its lifecycle. This information can include 3D models, drawings, specifications, schedules, and other data that can be used to coordinate the design, construction, and operation of a building.

Asset management, on the other hand, involves managing physical assets of a building throughout its lifecycle, including maintenance, repair, and replacement. Asset management aims to optimize the performance, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of a building’s assets, ensuring that they meet the needs of the building’s occupants and stakeholders.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Asset Management are closely related in the context of the construction industry. The relationship between BIM and asset management lies in the fact that BIM data can be used to support asset management processes. BIM data can provide valuable information about a building’s assets, including their physical characteristics, performance data, and maintenance history. This data can be used to make informed asset management decisions, such as when to replace a component or which maintenance tasks are required.

For example, BIM data can be used to create a digital twin of a building, which can be used to simulate different scenarios and identify potential issues before they occur. This can help asset managers to optimize the performance of a building’s assets and reduce maintenance costs.

Types of Building Information Models Used in Asset Management

There are several types of building information models currently in use. They include:

• 2D Building Information Model

• 3D Building Information Model

• 4D Building Information Model

• 5D Building Information Model

• 6D Building Information Model

• 7D Building Information Model

2D Building Information Model

The first type of construction models is in 2D dimension. It consists of a straightforward X-axis and Y-axis. Typically, these models are created by hand utilizing manual techniques or by using CAD drawings.

3D Building Information Model

The most widely used BIM models nowadays are 3D building information models, commonly referred to as coordinated models. The X, Y, and Z axes of a building are the three-dimensional geographic structures that make up a building. In a common data environment (CDE), 3D BIM comprises the development of both graphical and non-graphical building information.

BIM 3D models are used for record drawings, design development, and documentation, as well as for schematic designs. You can keep your employees informed about the most recent design trends by using 3D BIM.

4D Building Information Model

A four dimensional BIM model reveals an additional dimension of information known as a schedule element or time element. A 3D BIM, which is the first stage in this model, is applied before the fourth dimension, also known as the time element, or 4D BIM. So, 4D BIM is 3D BIM with a schedule.

A 4D BIM model gives a construction project a new level of information. Scheduling is used to provide the data for this procedure. As the project progresses, these particular details are added to the components that are being built.

5D Building Information Model

This is 4D BIM + Cost or Estimate. Cost, scheduling, and design are all integrated into the 3D output of 5D BIM modeling. This model is tasked with visualizing the progress made with regard to the project and forecasting/predicting the flow of financing for it. Any architectural project benefits from the unrivaled accuracy and viability that visualization provides.

The rate at which the project cost is updated and amended differs significantly between the conventional method and 5D BIM modeling. The cost reports can always be changed thanks to the 5D approach. This develops as a result of unanticipated events, like a redesign or other changes.

Since 5D BIM is all about evaluating price, appearance, constructability, schedule, or anything else within the project’s limits, it can also fill the early design gap by enabling all parties involved to sit down and calculate both the project design costs at this time as well as how potential revisions can affect the project from different standpoints.

With the help of 5D BIM, you can conceptualize and assess each component of your project in advance, giving you the information you need to make decisions with remarkable accuracy.

6D Building Information Model

This BIM component is often referred to as integrated BIM or iBIM. In order to improve business outcomes, 6D BIM entails the incorporation of additional pertinent data that supports facility management and operation.

The 6D method entails that a designer’s original model be updated or changed as the building is being built. This specific model can be delivered as a “as-built” model to the owner. The information required in the event of any future maintenance will be included in the model. Information on warranties, user manuals, operations, and maintenance, among other things, is included.

7D Building Information Model

Essentially, 7D BIM consists of 3D, a timetable, cost intelligence, and sustainability. 7D building information modeling is used by both builders and project managers to maintain and run a project throughout its entire life cycle. BIM project management would be improved with the use of a 7D CAD from the design phases all the way to demolition.

Some of the asset data that can be tracked using this dimension includes warranty information, technical specs, and operation manuals.

Applications of Building Information Modeling in Asset Management

BIM has several applications in asset management, including asset data management, predictive maintenance, energy analysis, space management, life-cycle cost analysis, and facility management. By leveraging BIM data, asset managers can optimize asset performance, reduce costs, and improve overall building performance.

Asset Data Management

Building Information Modeling (BIM) can be used to create a digital database of asset information, including asset details, maintenance schedules, and performance data. This data can be used to inform asset management decisions, such as when to replace a component or which maintenance tasks are required.

Predictive Maintenance

Using BIM, it is possible to mimic various situations and spot potential problems before they arise. By resolving issues before they become significant, this can assist asset managers in planning for maintenance chores and minimizing downtime.

Energy Analysis

Energy analysis and usage optimization are both possible with BIM. Asset managers can examine a building's energy efficiency and spot areas for improvement, such improving the insulation or changing out inefficient machinery, using BIM data.

Space Management

BIM can be used to manage space allocation and occupancy. Using BIM data, asset managers can examine occupancy rates, identify underutilized spaces, and predict future space requirements.

Analysis of Life-Cycle Costs

Life-cycle cost analysis, which takes into account the costs related to a building asset over the course of its life, can be done using BIM. This information can be used by asset managers to optimize asset performance and cut costs.

Facility Management

BIM can be used to support facility management, including space planning, maintenance management, and asset tracking. BIM data can be used to inform facility management decisions and improve overall facility performance.

BIM Processes in Asset Management

Building Information Modelling (BIM) can be a powerful tool for asset management, as it allows for the creation and management of a digital representation of a building or facility, which can be used to improve operations and maintenance.

Here are the steps to carry out building information modelling in asset management:

• Define The Scope and Objectives

Determine what information you need to capture and manage in the BIM, and what the ultimate goals of the project are.

• Collect Data

Collect all relevant data about the building or facility, including architectural and engineering drawings, 3D models, equipment and system specifications, maintenance and operational records, and other relevant information.

• Create a BIM Model

Use software to create a BIM model that includes all relevant data about the building or facility. The BIM model should be a detailed, 3D digital representation of the building or facility, with all equipment and systems included.

• Populate The BIM Model

Include all relevant data in the BIM model, such as equipment and system specs, maintenance and operation logs, and other important details.

• Integrate With Asset Management Software

To facilitate the tracking and management of machinery and systems, integrate the BIM model with asset management software. This integration will allow you to perform predictive maintenance, manage work orders, and track asset performance.

• Train staff

Train staff on how to use the BIM model and asset management software, so they can effectively manage the building or facility.

• Monitor and Update

Monitor the BIM model and asset management software to ensure they are up-to-date and accurately reflect the building or facility. Update the model as necessary to reflect changes to the building or facility.

Importance of Building Information Modelling in Asset Management

There are several benefits of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in asset management. Some of the most significant benefits include:

• Improved Accuracy

Building information modelling(BIM) provides a highly accurate and detailed digital representation of the building or facility, allowing for more precise asset management.

• Better Collaboration

BIM enables improved collaboration and communication among stakeholders, including owners, operators, maintenance staff, and contractors.

• Reduced Costs

BIM can help reduce costs by enabling better asset management practices, including more efficient maintenance, improved planning, and reduced downtime.

• Enhanced Sustainability

By offering comprehensive data on energy use, water use, and other environmental issues, BIM can enhance sustainability by enabling more effective resource utilization.

• Enhanced Safety

BIM can help enhance safety by providing detailed information on the location and condition of assets, allowing for better planning and execution of maintenance and repairs.

• Increased Productivity

BIM can increase productivity by providing real-time data and insights, enabling operators and maintenance staff to work more efficiently.

• Improved Asset Performance

BIM can help improve asset performance by enabling predictive maintenance, enabling operators to identify and address potential issues before they become problems.

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