A Building Information Modeling Execution Plan (BEP) is a critical document that outlines the processes and protocols for effectively implementing BIM on a construction project. It serves as a guide for all project participants, defining roles, responsibilities, deliverables, and standards for the BIM workflow.
The main purpose of a BEP is to facilitate the organized creation, management, documentation, and sharing of the data contained within the BIM models. It establishes a clear plan for how the "information modeling" aspects of the project will be executed.
Some key components that a comprehensive BEP typically includes are:
- Standards for generating, managing, and exchanging data within the BIM files
- Defined roles and responsibilities for each party involved in the BIM process
- Identification of major project milestones and required BIM deliverables
- Detailed execution plans and delivery schedules showing when information needs to be prepared, by whom, and using what methods/procedures
- Conventions for file naming, software usage, annotations, abbreviations, and symbols to be used consistently across the BIM process
The BEP essentially serves as the "rulebook" that keeps all BIM activities coordinated and aligned with project goals. It is a powerful tool for ensuring accountability and enabling seamless collaboration among stakeholders throughout planning, design, construction and handover phases.
By clearly documenting BIM execution requirements upfront, the BEP helps facilitate the timely exchange of accurate information to the right parties at every stage. Adhering to the BEP maximizes the advantages of BIM such as improved coordination, visualization, simulation and decision-making.
