How to Structure a BIM Workflow Optimization

Building information modeling (BIM) is more than just using Revit. BIM is an initiative that includes tools, processes and people. You may be using Autodesk Revit software; you’ll establish new design workflows; and new skillsets will be required, in addition to possibly new personnel.  

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This article is excerpted from the Applied Software webinar, “A Guide to Intentionally Optimizing BIM Workflows.” You can watch the entire webinar by renowned Revit expert Lance Kirby on demand. It includes practical steps you can take today to improve your company’s BIM process.

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In the 2022 Applied Software BIM optimization webinar, renowned Revit expert Lance Kirby described an example of how a BIM workflow optimization might proceed.

 

1. Identify a benefit you want to accomplish, for example to establish a consistent and repeatable project delivery process.
2. Set a goal for your optimization. You may decide you want to reduce errors and omissions on all projects by 10% this quarter. (Make sure you have a measurement for what it was last quarter, so you can eventually compare.)
3. Set lead Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track, for example:

• Deploy a model checking tool to review one project’s models each week and measure errors.
• Find the root causes on three different types of errors each week – whether it is a lack of training, a tool problem, not following standards – and apply a countermeasure.
• Train project team members on solutions for resolving errors: perhaps a study session each month on the workflow, so they learn how to prevent the error(s).
• Track future occurrences of errors and confirm they have been resolved, or develop a new countermeasure to address the cause.

Figure out what you and your team learned from the optimization. Did you meet your goal? Determine what needed to change to achieve that.

4. Either set a new target of performance for the goal listed in number 2, or repeat the process for the next opportunity.

There are opportunities to address your issues right away. You control the outcome of your BIM workflow optimization by adjusting tools, setting standards, intentional workflows, and content to use the new process. It’s important also to communicate the changes to team members. Rather than going through these steps behind the scenes, communicate your/their progress. When you’re getting people to do something different, be sure to show them how their efforts helped achieve the goal and improved the overall BIM process.

When you and your team can recommit to the reason your organization is using a BIM initiative and understand the motivations that got you to this point, you will have a much clearer inspiration for making your BIM successes repeatable.

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BIM metrics are a way to measure and evaluate your performance. Learn how to measure lead and lag indicators to analyze and understand how teams are winning or need improvement. Follow this link to access renowned Revit expert Lance Kirby’s on-demand webinar “Improve Your Performance Today by Connecting KPIs to Data-Driven Metrics.”