In recent years, the integration of innovative technologies has revolutionized the way infrastructure projects are managed. In this scenario, BIM emerges as a crucial tool, providing a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach that transcends traditional boundaries between different areas of expertise involved. In this post, we will explore the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in infrastructure projects using BIM, highlighting the benefits, challenges, and best practices for effective implementation.

What is Multidisciplinary Collaboration?

The book “BIM Handbook: A Guide to Building Information Modeling for Owners, Managers, Designers, Engineers and Contractors” by Chuck Eastman et al. defines multidisciplinary collaboration in BIM projects as the process by which different disciplines and professionals involved in a construction project contribute their knowledge, skills, and information in a shared digital environment.

In another book, “Collaborative Building Information Modelling: A Conceptual Analysis” by Rafael Sacks et al., multidisciplinary collaboration in BIM projects is defined as the process of integrating different specialties and disciplines involved in a construction project through the exchange of information in a shared digital environment.

In this context, both definitions define multidisciplinary collaboration as an approach that allows the integration of information models from different disciplines, such as architecture, structure, mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, among others, into a centralized model, promoting effective communication, coordination, and informed decision-making throughout all phases of the project lifecycle.

How Does Multidisciplinary Collaboration Apply to Infrastructure Projects?

Multidisciplinary collaboration in BIM projects applies through the integration of various disciplines and specialties involved in the development of infrastructures with different specificities, such as complex infrastructures like highways, bridges, railways, airports, and transportation systems, in a shared digital environment. This allows professionals to collaborate effectively during all phases of the project, from planning to construction and maintenance.

Key Benefits of Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Infrastructure Projects

Below we will address some of the impactful positive aspects of Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Infrastructure Projects, correlating with some specificities:

Reduction of Design Conflicts: By integrating civil, electrical, and transportation engineers into a highway project, for example, it is possible to avoid design conflicts that may arise. To illustrate this type of conflict, we can cite two examples:

1. Conflict between the road layout and lighting or signaling systems, which may not be positioned correctly or with missing information.

2. Location of lighting poles in road or highway projects may be installed where the roadway is planned. Prior identification of this type of interference can allow for the pre-request of pole relocation, or else alter, if possible, the road geometric design in question.

Energy Efficiency: By collaborating with electrical engineering experts, it is possible to design efficient lighting systems on highways, bridges, and ports, reducing energy consumption and operational costs over time.

From the use of BIM, it is possible to simulate how much energy can be generated from solar energy (which has great potential for the Brazilian climate, for example) and for how long this energy captured throughout the day would be sufficient to maintain the road lighting throughout the night. Certainly, there would be a considerable reduction in costs spent on lighting on highways and city streets by using this renewable energy source.

Preventive Maintenance: By considering the entry of maintenance specialists from the early stages of the project, it is possible to design road, bridge, and port infrastructures with easy access for inspections and maintenance, ensuring their longevity and minimizing operational interruptions.

One of the possibilities to optimize preventive maintenance using BIM can be from a model prepared for Facility Management, where it is possible to control the infrastructure components of that Project, allowing to know exactly when preventive maintenance should be performed, to schedule correctly, and to have a forecast of the costs to be incurred in each period for maintenance.

What are the Main Challenges for Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Infrastructure Projects with BIM?

Regarding the challenges for adequate Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Infrastructure Projects, we can mention the following factors:

Software Interoperability: The lack of interoperability between BIM software used by different disciplines makes it difficult to integrate and coordinate models, hindering collaboration between teams. Therefore, a precise definition in the BIM Execution Plan (BEP) is necessary on how the models will be shared, in which CDE, and what the frequency of availability will be.

Detailed Modeling and Precision: Creating detailed and precise BIM models requires technical expertise in each discipline involved, and the lack of this expertise can result in incomplete or inaccurate models, compromising collaboration. It is also worth noting that it is not always necessary for the modeled elements to have all possible details, as they may not always be used, and this will only overload the file containing the Model in question.

Management of Large Data Volumes: Efficient management of large volumes of data is essential for multidisciplinary collaboration, but it can be difficult due to the diversity and complexity of the information involved in infrastructure projects. Regarding BIM Projects of railways, highways, or bridges, which are continuous and linear projects, the files can be very extensive, which ends up requiring equipment with greater processing capacity, causing a reduction in the productivity of the work. Thus, a recommendation I leave is the sectioning by sections in the models for these specificities I mentioned, as the files will be less extensive, and the impact on productivity related to the work will be considerably reduced.

Standardization of Processes and Protocols: The lack of standardization of processes and protocols for the creation, organization, and sharing of BIM models can lead to inconsistencies and errors in the data, making collaboration and informed decision-making difficult. Therefore, a very well-detailed BIM Execution Plan is fundamental regarding which Processes Protocols should be followed, making it clear how all execution phases of the Project will be carried out.

Best Practices for Implementing Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Infrastructure Projects with BIM

In this topic, I will mention some of the Best Practices that we can use to implement Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Infrastructure Projects with BIM.

Establish a Collaboration Strategy: Develop a clear strategy for multidisciplinary collaboration, defining objectives, roles, and responsibilities of each team and discipline involved. This will make all the difference and make it clear how Collaboration will be carried out throughout the entire Project lifecycle.

Invest in Training and Capacity Building: We cannot talk about Collaboration Strategy without mentioning Training and Capacity Building. Empower teams with adequate training in BIM and collaborative tools, ensuring that all members have the necessary skills to collaborate effectively.

Standardize Processes and Protocols: Establish standards and protocols for the creation, organization, and sharing of BIM models, ensuring consistency and data integrity in all disciplines. Also, as mentioned in previous paragraphs, make it clear in the BIM Execution Plans these Processes and Protocols, as well as how they should be followed throughout the Project lifecycle.

Hold Regular Coordination Meetings: Organize regular coordination meetings between multidisciplinary teams to review models, discuss issues, and resolve design conflicts. In addition to fostering collaboration among different teams, this type of meeting creates an environment conducive to continuous improvement through feedback and lessons learned identified in the Projects carried out.

Making Infrastructure Projects more Resilient and Efficient with Multidisciplinary Collaboration in BIM

In conclusion, multidisciplinary collaboration in infrastructure projects with BIM is essential for the success and efficiency of these ventures. By integrating various disciplines and teams, it is possible to leverage the expertise and experience of professionals from different areas to create more innovative, sustainable, and resilient infrastructures. Implementing best practices, such as process standardization, investment in training, and use of collaborative tools, is essential to overcome the technical and organizational challenges associated with multidisciplinary collaboration. By adopting a collaborative approach from the early stages of the project to execution and maintenance, teams can achieve exceptional results and meet the growing demands for modern and efficient infrastructures.