A framework for the integration of information requirements within infrastructure digital construction

It can be anticipated that the adoption of digital construction/BIM processes on projects will enhance the efficiency of the management of an asset over its lifecycle. Several initiatives have been taken to foster the implementation of Standard Methods and Procedures (SMP) related to BIM, such as the UK government’s mandate for them to be adopted on all centrally procured public sector projects. However, this research identifies that there are still many barriers hindering the adoption of BIM. To help break down these barriers the initial stage of this research involved the implementation and analysis of BIM SMP on a highway infrastructure project in the UK. This entailed adopting the relevant procedures during construction of the project in order to better understand the challenges faced when adopting BIM, barriers to adoption and the type of information generated over the course of an infrastructure project. The analysis highlighted that there was still a need to align SMP with existing construction processes as this was considered to be one of the greatest barriers to adoption. Further, it was observed that over 90% of the information handed over on completion was in flat file formats, therefore losing the benefits of data that can be readily queried and updated. Based on the findings of the initial stage, the research explores the process and digital construction domains in order to analyse how project specific requirements can be identified. The research then explores which of these processes can be automated in order to enhance the reliability of the information that is collected. The thesis finally presents a framework that has been developed to help engineers identify the project specific information requirements and processes that are required to assure the successful implementation of a digital construction approach. The framework that was developed was then trialled on an airport infrastructure project and identified processes that would have enhanced the implementation and delivery of the digital construction model