Free BIM Execution Plan - Templates for Consultants & Contractors

A well-structured BIM Execution Plan (BEP) is the backbone of any successful project. A BIM Execution Plan outlines how BIM will be implemented, including naming conventions, file structures, and data management practices. This is particularly important in complex projects where multiple teams and disciplines must collaborate effectively. For architects, contractors, and general contractors, a clear BEP ensures everyone is on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and costly rework.

Project BIM goals

A BIM Execution Plan (BEP) should clearly define the project's BIM goals, and these goals should align with objectives that have a direct material impact on the project. Some of the most common BIM goals include:

• Improved Design Coordination: Ensuring that all disciplines (architecture, structure, MEP) are aligned and that clashes are minimized.
• Enhanced Visualization: Using 3D models to communicate design intent more effectively to clients and stakeholders.
• Regulatory Compliance: Meeting local building codes and submission requirements through BIM.
• Cost and Time Efficiency: Reducing rework and streamlining workflows to save time and money.
• Facility Management: Providing a digital twin for ongoing maintenance and operations post-construction.

Roles and Responsibilities

A typical contract includes several parties working together on a project. For example, there may be plumbing, electrical, and mechanical contractors, as well as architects and structural engineers. A BEP will need to define the roles and responsibilities of each party, including:

• Project Manager: Oversees the BIM process and ensures alignment with project goals.
• BIM Manager: Manages the BIM execution, including model coordination and data management.
• Discipline Leads: Responsible for their respective models (e.g., architecture, structure, MEP) and ensuring they meet the LOD requirements.
• Quality Assurance: Ensures that the BIM models adhere to the defined standards and protocols.

By defining a proper workflow and schedule for each party, the BEP can help ensure that everyone submits their work on time and that the project stays on track for construction and project delivery.

Software and Tools

The BEP should specify the software and tools that will be used for BIM execution. There are multiple software ecosystems that are commonly used for BIM implementation, such as Bentley Systems, Autodesk, Graphisoft, and Trimble. The choice of software will depend on the project requirements, team expertise, and interoperability needs. In our experience, horizontal civil infrastructure projects often use Bentley Systems, while vertical construction projects typically use Autodesk Revit.

For example, in civil infrastructure projects, Bentley's OpenRoads and OpenRail are often used for road and rail design, with ProjectWise as the Common Data Environment (CDE). In contrast, vertical construction projects may use Autodesk Revit for architectural and structural modeling, with Autodesk BIM 360 or Autodesk Construction Cloud as the CDE.

By ensuring that your entire supply chain is aligned on the same software platform, you can reduce the risk of software compatibility issues and streamline collaboration.

LOD Requirements

Level of Development (LOD) defines the detail and accuracy of the BIM model at various stages.
The BEP should outline the LOD requirements for each discipline and phase of the project. For example:

• LOD 100: Conceptual design with basic geometry and massing.
• LOD 200: Schematic design with more detailed geometry and spatial relationships.
• LOD 300: Detailed design with accurate dimensions and materials.
• LOD 400: Fabrication-level details for construction.
• LOD 500: As-built model with verified dimensions and conditions.

A gradually increasing LOD makes sense to prevent overdevelopment of the model at early stages, which can lead to wasted effort if designs change frequently. For example, to obtain construction approvals, a lower LOD (e.g., LOD 100–200) is often sufficient for massing and regulatory review. Higher LODs can be developed later as the design matures, and a detailed FM model needs to be created for fabrication or project handover.

File Naming Conventions

File naming conventions are crucial for maintaining organization and clarity in BIM projects. An independent and well-defined naming convention helps all project stakeholders quickly identify and locate files. The BEP should define a standardized naming convention that includes:

• Project Code: A unique identifier for the project.
• Discipline Code: Identifiers for different disciplines (e.g., AR for Architecture, ST for Structure, MEP for Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing).
• Document Type: A code indicating the type of document (e.g., DR for Drawings, 3D for 3D Models, etc.).

Detailed naming conventions can be found in our guide for file-naming conventions in a BIM CDE.

Get Started with a BIM Execution Plan

If you're new to BIM or looking to improve your project's digital delivery, starting with a BIM Execution Plan is essential. It sets the foundation for successful collaboration, reduces risks, and enhances project outcomes. You can download a copy of our BIM Execution Plan for reference, or request a customized BEP tailored to your specific project needs.