Value of BIM-enabled FM

The ability to capture manufacturer information in 3D parametric objects reduces the need for duplicating asset information. BIM is considered an enabler to improve the quality and reliability of data, which will in turn result in increased workflow efficiencies. The quality of data will improve as more people become accustomed to working in a BIM environment.

Data is exchanged in a standard common format, allowing for flexibility and continuous use throughout the life of a building, and compatibility with existing FM packages. The information exchange specification, COBie, was developed to provide the information needed to maintain, manage and operate facilities. However, it should be noted that while there is an agreement that COBie is necessary for structuring data, which in turn produces greater interoperability between different software. FM still needs to provide details on what information is to be provided, when and by whom.

BIM provides various users with the ability to extract and analyse views that are specific to their needs, which will assist in making decisions and improving the maintenance of facilities. For example, 3D visualisation can help FM technicians to better utilise their perceptual and cognitive reasoning for problem solving.

BIM visualisation provides accurate geometrical data that can support the analysis of building proposals and the simulation and benchmark of performance. For example, intelligent algorithms could be created to automate decision making for FM applications which was never possible before the addition of digital data.

Scenarios showing the benefits of BIM-FM interventions, such as troubleshooting broken equipment and improving ergonomic conditions, are emerging. Other important BIM-enabled FM applications are in monitoring and controlling, emergency management, space management, and personnel development and training.

For refurbishment projects, BIM and associated technologies such as laser scanning are expected to reduce the cost of producing as built information and the accuracy and reliability of FM information. Researchers are already exploring ways of integrating scanning technology with BIM. This also extends to the enhanced data capture of existing buildings with non-destructive testing techniques to analyse materials and existing properties, as these will not be captured in a scan.

BIM Academy have recently done some work on a large infrastructure project in the far east implementing an integrated BIM-enabled FM system. BIM Academy have put together some potential FM labour saving figures based on faster access to reliable information, using the system and the following example shows a potential maintenance cost saving of 7% per year; this cost saving for large estates could massively outweigh the implementation cost of such a system.

Example:

• Based on a 500,000 sqm sample floor area
• Assumed 20,000 work orders per annum
• Time saved through improved access to via integrated system = ½ hour per work order
• Cost per hour for technician processing w/o = $450 (salary + overheads)
• Cost saving per annum accessing information faster = $4,500,000
• Annual saving per sqm = $9
• Annual maintenance cost per sqm (Based on IFMA guidance) = $150
• Saving against current maintenance cost per sqm = 7%