BIM Execution Plan (BEP)

What is the meaning and purpose of BEP in construction?

BEP stands for BIM Execution Plan. The BIM execution plan (BEP) is an essential document for project team to ensure the successful deployment of a BIM project. It usually details the expectations of the use of Building Information Modeling according to the specificities of the project (rehabilitation, new construction, subdivision, etc.). In addition, this document describes the methods of organization and graphic representation for the operation as well as the BIM processes, workflows, models, uses.

BIM Execution Plan Definition: A Collaborative Framework for BIM Implementation

Once the customer has defined the context of the project and its associated BIM objectives, it is necessary to translate them according to the actors and their BIM maturity. And this, throughout various phases of the project (programming, design, construction, operation, maintenance…).

These elements are specified in the document commonly known as the “BIM Execution plan” (BEP). It includes in particular:

  • The procedures defining the needs and therefore the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders (BIM management plan), and a strategy for key delivarables
  • The BIM work methodology relating to information exchange
  • What data do we need? For who? At what moment? How should they be structured? What coordination processes should be put in place?
  • The BIM infrastructure, i.e. the collaboration platform. This includes topics such as insurance and liabilities, lifespan, technical order and functionality, data security, collaboration procedures.

This BIM execution plan (BEP BIM) must be established as early as possible and can evolve throughout the life cycle of the project. It details the expectations for the use of BIM according to the specificities of the project (rehabilitation, new, allotment, etc.). This document describes the methods of organization and graphical representation for the operation as well as the processes, models, uses.

A BIM agreement is not binding. It is up to the authors of the BEP guide to make it contractual. And thus to include it in the ordered list of reference documents and contracts.

What content is typically included in a BIM Execution Plan (BEP)?

It must specify:

  • The nature and duration of the operation and the list of actors involved in the project (in particular the actors in charge of BIM: BIM managers, coordinators, referents,) ;
  • The list of all the software tools used by each of the players;
  • The list of BIM uses: the process of enrichment of the 3D model by the actors (information modeling);
  • A table of the tasks distribution for every actor at each phase;
  • The Common Data Environment (the collaborative platform);
  • The exchange format used. Native format or IFC format;
  • The level of detail (LOD) and level of information (LOI) of the model according to the stages of progress of the project;
  • BIM deliverables: the model.

Why is BEP important in a BIM project?

A BEP plays an important role in the success of a BIM project. Having a BEP can bring many benefits to the project team, such as:

  • It gives the rules of production
  • It provides a clear understanding of the objectives and expectations of the client
  • It also allows you to integrate your BIM goals into the project
  • It is a collaborative and contributive document

Is the BIM Execution Plan (BEP) mandatory?

The BIM Execution Plan is sometimes also called “Building Information Modeling Protocol”. The BIM Agreement is a binding contractual document, co-signed by the project management stakeholder and supported by the project management contract. It may be, for the information of the contracting authority, annexed to the main contract for project management.

Its drafting is the responsibility of the project partner who ensures the mission of BIM Management. To claim the mission of BIM Management is to be able to write a BIM execution plan and then to apply it. In other words, to organize the BIM progress of the project, and the precise modalities of collaboration between its stakeholders and project teams.

When the actors of the project commit themselves through the BEP, they must bear their responsibility and perform their scope of work successfully.

Therefore, the BIM execution plan is not a requirement for all projects. However, when the client decides to use this document, each actor involved must assume their responsibilities and respect their obligations.

The BEP meets the expectations of the client (its objectives or BIM use cases) set out in its specifications.

It oversees the procedures for exchanges between those involved in project management. Also, it aims to clarify their respective missions and scope of intervention. So, although not mandatory, the BEP seems essential to the smooth running of the project.

Need a BEP Example? Download Our Free Template (DOC/PDF) and Get Started Quickly

Catenda has designed a BIM Execution Plan (BEP) template to save you some time, you can download it for free here. The template includes some example to help you to write your BIM Execution Plan.