Task Delivery Plans
Latest developments:
New software automates manual BIM processes to improve data quality and consistency
One part of the process for BIM Stage 2 is the production of Task Information Delivery Plans (TIDP). These individual plans are collated into a single document called the Master Implementation Plan (MIDP). This process is largely manual and time consuming. The AutoBIMName platform, currently being developed by Balfour Beatty in collaboration with Leeds Beckett University, Hertfordshire University and industry partner White Frog will partially automate the production of these documents.
The tool clearly set out and auto-populates what information needs to be produced on a project, when and by whom, in alignment with the Exchange Information Requirements (EIR).
Phase 1 of the new plug-in software will be trialled across Balfour Beatty’s UK business units in the Spring. The time savings derived from use of the tool will be measured and monitored as a drive towards the 2025 industry construction excellence goals. It is estimated that this could be up to 1 week per average project, and more for larger sized projects.
With drivers towards efficiency at the centre all projects, it is critical the industry starts to make ambitious steps forward in how they store and manage information. Following contract award, it is important that there is clarity of roles and responsibilities. Upfront controls must also be put in place for effective data management throughout a project’s lifecycle, the MIDP, TIDP and Responsibility Matrix are key tools required to do this.
Rachel Sudlow, AutoBIM project manager says; ‘The software platform is designed to assist the employer and the delivery teams at the very earliest stages. Automating this manual process aims to make BIM more accessible and help promote its value for delivering project efficiencies. The industry as a whole needs to apply more rigour and consistency surrounding early information management planning. Ensuring that things like the TIDP production process is less mundane and labour intensive is a quick win.’