Major Challenges in implementing 5D BIM
No proper BIM information management Framework
Major barrier is the lack of understanding BIM framework and its implementation strategies. A well thought out, Exchange Information requirements and BIM Execution Plan and is required to definemodel progression and corresponding level of information need or Level of development. A clear definition of BIM use cases and Goals to ensure all stakeholders are aligned to project requirements, right from the beginning is absolutely essential.
Data Input accuracy and operator skillsets
BIM is still largely people-based for feeding building data, which can be limited based on their individual capacity. Inaccurate or insufficient data results in inefficient outcomes. Models need to be developed in line with the BIM use cases, including but not limited to field construction, work and cost breakdown structures
Tools available to support 5D BIM
Currently 5D BIM involves using multiple softwares to reach the desired goals, raising a need for users to learn and use multiple tools, causing resistance and losing interest. There is a need in robust platform that facilitates and connects model authors to cost estimators.
Software Interoperability
AEC professionals use different stream specific software for generating models and not all have the same level of capabilities to support 5D BIM. Proprietary software and file types cause issues in interoperability and vendor neutral file formats lose information when transformed, causing inefficiencies.
To overcome this challenge, advancement is being made to improve the interoperability of data exchange between BIM models and costing tools through open data standards such as Industry Foundation Classes (IFCs).
Cultural Resistance
Cultural resistance in its aspect, hinders BIM’s effectiveness for cost.
At an organzation level, Several BIM-capable project participants are not prepared to share BIM information between firms, to protect their Intellectual Property and Standards.
At a project participant level, cost estimators fear losing their jobs to softwares, while truly 5D BIM is incomplete with expert judgement, allowing estimators to focus on analysis of the data and not manual quantification
Lack of Collaboration
BIM is a collaborative framework. A lack of integration and collaboration in authoring BIM models decreases the reliability and effectiveness of 5D. A balance needs to be found between stakeholders collaborating on the project, where interdependencies and integrations related to scope needs to be addressed.
