Efficient information management is essential in construction and infrastructure projects, and ISO 19650 emerges as a key reference in this context. This international standard establishes principles and requirements for managing information throughout the lifecycle of a built asset, emphasizing the use of digital methodologies and collaborative processes. In today’s post, we will explore the main concepts introduced by ISO 19650, highlighting how it facilitates collaboration among teams, enhances data quality, and promotes operational efficiency in construction projects. Understanding these concepts is crucial for any professional in the field aiming to optimize processes and ensure successful project delivery.

What are the main concepts defined in ISO 19650?

ISO 19650 presents several key concepts that are essential for efficient information management in construction projects. Here are some of the key ones:

Information Lifecycle

The standard addresses information management throughout the entire lifecycle of the asset, from initial conception through operation and maintenance. This ensures that information is appropriate, up-to-date, and relevant at each stage of the project.

Common Data Environment (CDE)

The CDE is a shared digital environment where all project information is collected, managed, and accessed centrally. It facilitates collaboration and communication among all parties involved in the project, ensuring everyone works with the latest and most accurate information.

OIR (Organizational Information Requirements)

OIR describes the information that an organization needs to manage its assets effectively throughout their lifecycle, from planning and construction to operation and maintenance.

The primary goal of OIR is to ensure that the information provided during a construction project meets the specific needs of the organization. This includes information to support decision-making, asset management, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

OIR may include data on asset performance, maintenance requirements, financial information, regulatory compliance, and other critical aspects of asset operation and management.

OIR serves as a basis for developing other information requirements, such as AIR (Asset Information Requirements) and EIR (Exchange Information Requirements). AIR specifies the information needed for asset operation and maintenance, while EIR defines the information needed for project delivery.

PIR (Project Information Requirements)

PIR defines the information needed to support the execution, control, and delivery of the construction project. They cover all data and documents that must be generated, shared, and managed during the various project phases.

The primary goal of PIR is to ensure that all parties involved in the project have the appropriate and accurate information to make informed decisions, coordinate activities, and ensure the quality and compliance of work.

PIR may include information on technical requirements, schedules, budgets, material specifications, technical drawings, progress reports, regulatory compliance, and any other information necessary for the successful execution of the project.

PIR are closely related to other types of information requirements, such as OIR (Organizational Information Requirements) and AIR (Asset Information Requirements). While OIR covers the organization’s general information needs throughout the asset lifecycle, PIR specifically focus on the information needed for the project delivery phase.

AIR (Asset Information Requirements)

AIR specifies the information that the asset owner organization needs to operate and maintain the asset efficiently throughout its lifecycle. They detail the data and documents that must be delivered to support asset management activities.

The primary goal of AIR is to ensure that the information needed for asset operation and maintenance is available and accessible. This includes technical, maintenance, operational, and compliance information that is essential for the continuous management of the asset.

AIR may include:

Technical data: Technical specifications, operation manuals, as-built drawings, and other technical documents.

Maintenance information: Maintenance plans, preventive maintenance schedules, maintenance records, and spare parts information.

Operational information: Operation procedures, performance requirements, and safety information.

Compliance: Documentation required to comply with legal regulations and applicable standards.

AIR are derived from OIR (Organizational Information Requirements), which cover the organization’s general information needs. They are also related to EIR (Exchange Information Requirements), which specify information exchange requirements during project execution. AIR focus on the information needed after project delivery, ensuring that the asset can be operated and maintained according to the organization’s needs.

EIR (Exchange Information Requirements)

EIR specify the information requirements that must be met during project execution, detailing which information must be provided, in what format, and at which stages of the project lifecycle.

The primary goal of EIR is to ensure that all stakeholders receive the information needed to make informed decisions, coordinate activities, and fulfill their responsibilities in the project. They serve as a basis for creating a BIM (Building Information Modeling) execution plan.

EIR may include:

Technical requirements: Software specifications, file formats, level of detail, and other technical aspects related to information production and management.

Management requirements: Processes and procedures for coordination, quality control, reviews, and approvals of information.

Business requirements: Delivery schedules, parties’ responsibilities, and acceptance criteria for information.

EIR are based on OIR (Organizational Information Requirements) and AIR (Asset Information Requirements). They translate organizational and asset needs into specific requirements for project delivery. EIR provide a clear link between what the organization needs in terms of information and how those needs will be met throughout the project.

PIM (Project Information Model)

PIM is a set of data and documents that describe all aspects of a construction project, originating from PIR (Project Information Requirements). It covers from initial design and conception to construction and asset delivery. PIM includes both geometric information (3D models, technical drawings) and non-geometric information (specifications, requirements, reports).

The primary goal of PIM is to provide a consolidated database that supports the execution of the construction project. It serves as a single source of truth for all stakeholders, ensuring everyone works with the most accurate and updated information.

Components of PIM may include:

3D models: Digital representations of the project, including architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing models.

Technical drawings: Plans, sections, elevations, and construction details.

Specifications: Documents detailing materials, standards, and construction methods.

Reports and records: Progress reports, meeting minutes, quality records, and other documents related to project management.

Cost and schedule information: Detailed budgets, construction schedules, and cost analyses.

PIM is a precursor to AIM (Asset Information Model), which is used during the asset’s operation and maintenance phase. After project completion, PIM information is transferred to AIM to ensure the continuity of information management throughout the asset lifecycle.

AIM (Asset Information Model)

AIM is a set of data and documents that describe all aspects of a built asset, including geometric and non-geometric information. It is primarily used during the asset’s operation and maintenance phase, after project delivery, and originates from AIR (Asset Information Requirements).

The primary goal of AIM is to provide a consolidated and reliable database that supports effective asset management throughout its lifecycle. It ensures that all necessary information for operating, maintaining, and eventually decommissioning the asset is available and accessible.

Components of AIM may include:

Updated 3D models: Digital representations of the asset as built.

Technical documentation: Operation manuals, technical specifications, and maintenance instructions.

Maintenance records: Preventive and corrective maintenance history, maintenance schedules, and spare parts information.

Performance data: Information on asset performance, energy efficiency, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

Compliance documentation: Compliance certificates, inspection reports, and regulatory documents.

AIM continues the work of PIM (Project Information Model), which is used during the project’s design and construction phase. PIM information is transferred to AIM to ensure that all relevant data for asset operation and maintenance is available after project completion.

BIM Execution Plan (BEP)

BEP is a strategic plan that describes how BIM aspects will be implemented in the project. It includes procedures, standards, and responsibilities, ensuring that information management is carried out according to established requirements and promoting efficiency and consistency in BIM use.

Levels of Information Need (LOIN)

LOIN specify the level of detail and amount of information required for each project phase. They help ensure that information is sufficient to support decision-making at each stage of the asset lifecycle, avoiding over or under provision of data.

Transforming Construction with ISO 19650 Concepts

In summary, the key concepts introduced by ISO 19650 represent a significant advancement in information management in construction projects, especially with the increasing use of BIM. From clear definition of Organizational Information Requirements (OIR) and Project Information Requirements (EIR), to the implementation of Common Data Environment (CDE) and Project Information Model (PIM) and Asset Information Model (AIM), each aspect of this international standard aims to promote more efficient collaboration, improve data quality, and facilitate smooth transition from project phases to operation.

Understanding and applying these concepts not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to delivering more sustainable and high-quality projects, setting the stage for a more integrated and technologically advanced future of construction.