BIM Manager (Building Information Modeling)

Understanding the BIM Manager: A Key Role in Construction Projects

What is the role of a BIM manager?

A BIM manager most of the time typically plays a role of a civil engineer/project manager. They implement all the procedures in Building Information Modeling and Digital Construction during the design, construction, and handover of a project. Part of this procedures, BIM Managers are in charge of applying the BIM Execution Plan (BEP).

A BIM manager leads and supports the use of digital technology to create BIMs in construction industry. The BIM manager can have a wide variety of responsibilities, depending on who they are working for. They work closely with BIM coordinators and modelers.

BIM managers can go from implementing and managing project support tasks to quality support, and IT. During the project, they must consider all the factors necessary to implement and complete the project. So they can categorize and use them to transform the BIM environment into a productive and collaborative environment.

They do so by:

  1. Defining a Building Information Modeling strategy
  2. Implementing systems for communication and data exchange in the organization
  3. Ensuring seamless collaboration among different parties
  4. Managing people and resources
  5. Monitoring the process for potential improvements
  6. Implementing tools for designing, developing, delivering, and maintaining a particular facility.

Building Information Modeling is often seen as something complicated, hard to implement. But in fact Building Information Modeling should be seen as an opportunity because of four main reasons:

  1. Improve the communication
  2. Reduce the disgn errors
  3. Collect data
  4. The future

What are the differences between BIM Managers and BIM Coordinators?

BIM Managers and BIM Coordinators play distinct roles in the implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in construction projects.

While both roles are integral to the successful application of BIM, they differ in their focus and responsibilities.

  • The BIM Manager is generally responsible for overseeing the BIM strategy across an entire organization or large projects. This includes managing the BIM software and licenses, defining and implementing BIM standards and protocols, and ensuring the organization stays updated with the latest BIM practices for better decisions.
  • On the other hand, the BIM Coordinator focuses on a specific project. Their jobs are involved in coordinating BIM workflows between different disciplines, managing digital construction models, and mitigating risks like data security and interoperability issues.

What are the benefits of having a BIM manager for a project?

Having a BIM manager oversee construction projects leads to a lot of very important benefits. They include:

  • Better coordination and collaboration;
  • Better time management and fewer delays;
  • Reduced costs and higher ROI;
  • Increased productivity and faster delivery;
  • Reduced risk of information losses, which especially tend to occur when a new team takes over a project;
  • Improved maintenance and effective prevention of costly reparation;
  • Reduced energy consumption and better environmental;
  • Enhanced stability and safety.

Career path as a BIM Manager

How to become a BIM Manager?

To become a Building Information Modeling manager, here is everything you need to arm yourself with:

  • An HNC (Higher National Diploma) or HND (Higher National Certificate) in a subject related to construction, such as civil engineering.
  • Experience in an AECOO role (many employers are looking for at least 5 years’ experience).
  • Familiarity with the modeling process in Building Information Modeling.
  • Excellent IT skills.
  • Great verbal and written communication skills.
  • Extensive knowledge of quality and document management processes.

What is the job description of a BIM Manager?

A BIM Manager job description might outline the following key tasks:

  • Develop and implement BIM protocols and systems for new projects, ensuring they match the company’s standards and the project’s requirements.
  • Coordinate project model deliveries, reviewing models for accuracy and compliance.
  • Lead BIM coordination meetings to discuss project updates and address potential issues.
  • Maintain and enhance the BIM elements of the client Common Data Environment (CDE), including processes and procedures for reliable information exchange.
  • Provide support to project teams in preparing bids and implementing BIM technology effectively.
  • Manage the BIM project lifecycle, sharing knowledge with the company’s staff and clients for successful project outcomes.
  • Oversee drafting staff and the development of software operations.

Damien Lefranc, BIM Manager at Legendre discussed his career path, his job and his experience using BIM. Discover here this article to learn more about his experience.

The BIM Execution Plan

BIM managers have to apply the BEP, defined by the project management team.

What is a BEP? A BEP defines client’s BIM objectives and uses. It is different from EIR (Employer Information Requirements) (read more about it here).

What are the benefits of a BEP? Learn more about it here.

How to write a BEP? Catenda made a BEP template, that will save you time. Download it for free here.