MDO's Approach to CWMF Mandates
Following the announcement by the OGP BIM Requirements are now introduced into the CWMF from January 2024. As a result, consultants responsible for designing and overseeing public works must incorporate BIM into their scope of services. Over the course of four years, the requirements will be extended in stages to include contractors, eventually covering all projects valued more than €1 million.
MDO sees this mandate as an opportunity to promote our expertise in the field, aiming to elevate project design management, cost-efficiency, and team collaboration. However, the success of this endeavour hinges on the client's articulation of their High-Level Information Requirements. The individuals or consultants overseeing this process for clients hold significant responsibility in ensuring alignment between information requirements, software capabilities, and data formats to achieve the desired objectives. These objectives encompass furnishing information appropriate to client handover, while meeting regulatory, compliance, and operational standards outlined in the Organisational Information Requirements (OIR).
The CWMF outlines seven essential steps required to fulfil BIM mandates. MDO has crafted a set of recommendations tailored to facilitate the process for clients, especially those with limited experience in the area.
Step 1: Information Manager
According to the CWMF, a client should appoint an Information Manager who can facilitate, manage the transition and develop the organisational BIM Strategy. The three main Client’s Information inputs are:
- Organizational Information Requirements (OIR)
- Project Information Requirements (PIR)
- Asset Information Requirements (AIR)
These shape the Project’s Exchange Information Requirements (EIR) which is a crucial document for all tendering purposes. MDO’s Recommendations for EIR facilitates a series of documents which can be issued to all project parties on behalf of the clients which constitutes the Appointing Party role.
Step 2: Develop a plan and adopt ISO 19650
Developing a plan for BIM adoption in line with ISO 19650 standards is undeniably advantageous for organisations. With the introduction of this new mandate and a feasible lead-in time of four years for industry adaptation, it's crucial for the plan to prioritise addressing the gaps that could hinder the procurement of required public works contracts. MDO is well advanced is obtaining the ISO19650 Certification to enhance our practice capability in advising all parties, including clients as Appointing Parties.
Step 3: Choose appropriate software and hardware
BIM implementation extends beyond just models; factors such as cost estimation and sustainability are becoming increasingly significant. The individual responsible for managing information on behalf of the client plays a pivotal role in ensuring that information requirements, software capabilities, and data formats align effectively to achieve the desired outcome for client handover.
Step 4: Set Goals
For Clients (Appointing Party), the goals should be integrated within the OIR, AIR and PIR (refer to step 1). In the design and construction supply chain, the emphasis should be on implementing flexible systems capable of delivering high-quality information that meets the requirements of clients and other stakeholders. Ideally, they should also be equipped to challenge any excessive or deficient requirements during tender stages. MDO can support clients in developing information requirements for construction tenders.
Step 5: Choose the Team
According to the CWMF, when a client forms a team for the BIM project, it is important to define all the roles within the project team. As a result, the team dynamic is also crucial in encouraging a positive uptake of the new software and workflow. At MDO, we have created a BIM Capability Assessment Template in our BIM recommendations for tenders. This template ensures that our clients can assemble a proficient team capable of successfully executing a BIM project.
Step 6: Training
At MDO, we recognise the importance of client training in overseeing a BIM project effectively. Therefore, we are committed to supporting all project stakeholders in enhancing collaboration throughout the project lifecycle. For instance, as part of our comprehensive approach, we offer training sessions focused on utilising the project's Common Data Environment (CDE).
Step 7: Monitor, Evaluate and Adjust
Once a client has embraces BIM and initiates its implementation within their organisation, the next crucial step is refining the processes for continuous improvement. At MDO, in our role as the Lead Appointed Party, we excel in fostering communication and collaboration among project stakeholders and clients. Our office has developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to systematically evaluate projects at every stage, conducting audits at Project’s Gateways to ensure project integrity. Any critical issues identified are promptly communicated to the team for resolution as the project progresses to subsequent stages. Utilizing this information, we provide clients with insights into gaps and opportunities for improvement in future projects, helping to enhance project outcomes and client satisfaction.