Preparing an organization to support a life cycle BIM approach is a complex activity that will fundamentally affect the manner in which the airport operates. A comprehensive CMM should be performed to assess the readiness of the organization to utilize BIM and to identify where investments will be required to improve readiness. The CMM should be used to iden- tify organizational capabilities after the BIM needs assessment. It should also be used as an ongoing tool to assess the growth of organizational BIM competencies and to identify where future investments in BIM training, education, tools, infrastructure, policies, and processes should occur.
The collaborative environment supported by BIM may not be achieved quickly. There will need to be investments in education and training and methods implemented to overcome the cultural resistance to change. The use of a BIM CMM can aid in the identi cation of short- and long-term investments needed to achieve the most effective BIM program for an airport.
Another key to successful implementation of a BIM program is for an airport to identify a BIM champion to navigate the challenges accompanying this type of change to organizational processes. Larger airports have successfully implemented BIM by hiring and developing in-house BIM staff or using semi-permanent extensions of staff. Without some reliable ability to maintain the BIM in house, it is unlikely that airport staff will trust BIM as their primary source of facility data.
The development of a BIM roadmap can communicate the long-term vision for BIM and further reinforce an airport’s commitment to BIM. Organizational development is critical to the success of BIM. While consultants can play a key role in implementing BIM, investments in internal staff BIM skills will accelerate BIM adoption and identify areas where BIM is beneficial. An incremental approach to BIM should be followed to overcome cultural resistance and build wide- spread support.
Checklist
- Select and develop a BIM CMM.
- Identify the airport’s BIM champion.
- Identify those who will maintain the airport’s BIM.
- Provide necessary BIM training tothose maintaining and using the BIM.