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all data is BIM, and not all BIM is data but they rely on each other. You can’t truly implement BIM without accurate data, and it is increasingly impractical to build without BIM and data working together. first – before jumping to shiny new tools. Many organisations already have a BIM strategy, and data functions should support, not contradict, these plans.

Role of ISO 19650 and standards

The ISO 19650 standard is a helpful guide, setting out how BIM and data should work together. It advocates the creation of a Common Data Environment and Federated Information Models, emphasising the importance of data standards. While this provides high-level direction, it does not offer specific details on how to implement these models. That responsibility lies with client organisations and the construction technology sector.

As we apply BIM and data together, it is most important to remember that built environment data is not fundamentally different from data in other sectors. The volumes of data are not massive compared to industries such as social media or e-commerce. However, the challenge lies in ensuring that the data accurately reflects the real world, especially when managing both alphanumeric, document and model data.

Why definitions matter

In infrastructure projects, the way we define our data can have life-ordeath consequences. A seemingly trivial task, like defining whether a culvert is a tunnel, becomes critical when it comes to maintenance, safety and investment. The definitions may seem arbitrary, but they influence how assets are managed, and hence how safe and sustainable they are over time.

Our tools and data standards –whether UniClass, CoBIE, XML, or CSV – are built on common formats that are familiar across industries. This makes the task of managing construction data less about technology and more about the specificity of definitions.

As the construction sector continues to evolve, it is clear that BIM and data can no longer exist in silos. These two disciplines must come together to create a more efficient, accurate and digitally-integrated future for construction. The BIM Engineers believe that organisations need to focus on building strong foundations, fostering collaboration across teams, establishing clear data definitions, and adopting a common, unified approach to BIM and data management.

Wherever BIM goes next, it is going to need a lot of data to get there. The industry needs to be prepared.