Advancing Information Modelling in healthcare Facilities Management

Abstract

The BIM paradigm began with high expectations for the construction industry. The design and construction elements of the construction cycle have achieved significant saturation levels in the UK. However, BIM for facility management is limited and has meagre adoption rates, which does not show a tendency to improve in the current literature. Furthermore, there are profound financial, health and safety implications for delays in adopting the BIM paradigm for FM, as shown by the financial increase in high-risk backlog repairs.

This study proposes a Legacy BIM strategy that addresses the mechanisms and enablers for integrating existing buildings and BIM FM for public healthcare. The study identified a BIM skills gap and the organisational difficulties organisations are experiencing with adopting BIM FM. The adoption model for BIM has transitioned from a technical diffusion model to a socio-technical system model. Furthermore, this study explores integrating existing buildings in a digitalised information model for BIM FM in public healthcare.

Methods included using results from a secondary questionnaire followed by interviews and observation in multiple-case study organisations with facility management personnel. Multiple-case studies provided data into the mechanisms influencing adoption and activities that can be classed as the enablers for facility management information modelling solutions. Insights derived from an empirical and critical assessment situated in critical realism about the BIM paradigm and facility management deliver a Legacy BIM Strategy for practitioners. The study raises questions about the suitability of the current BIM standards and guidance for FM, the use of COBie for information exchange in facility management, and the asymmetry of BIM knowledge between facility management, design and construction. Additionally, the lack of BIM expertise and training for facility management teams is a concern. The research output of a Legacy BIM Strategy is a solution for owners/occupiers with existing estates, using the strategy to assess BIM FM readiness, planning and implementation.

Date of Award	4 Dec 2023
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bath
Sponsors	EPSRC
Supervisor	Ricardo Codinhoto (Supervisor) & Kemi Adeyeye (Supervisor)