A simplified guide on BIM integration to mitigate facilities management risks of modular construction projects

Abstract

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been upscaling throughout the years being highly interoperable. In modular construction, projects have limited scope for alterations at later stages because of exorbitant costs. It is preferable to start with an accurate and well-established platform that will automatically clear obstacles at later stages. As with any project, risks are to be encountered. In this study, Facilities Management (FM) risks are analyzed and BIM-linked approaches are brought together as a guide. The input was derived from a literature review and given the limited studies performed in this scope, interviews with six experts who also validated the outputs have boosted overall quality. Since the modular sector has not yet witnessed early FM integrations with BIM platforms, this investigation had as aim to pave the path for this subject. For modular construction projects to perform to their full efficacy, early involvements are the key. In the study, sub-categories that involve maintenance of module and space management, energy analysis, quality and safety were deemed as major contributors to FM risks if not handled correctly. Being interconnected, cost, scheduling, and quality equally impact the project. For instance, without prior planning for accessing faulty facilities, the facility manager in charge would dedicate more time to figure out another path that could hinder designated quality standards. BIM integration acts as visual aid and database containing project attributes. This study forms simplified guides with suggestions on BIM platforms that modular construction projects can adopt for tackling FM risks while early integrating designers with facilities managers.