This is the latest in a new series of blogs looking at the fundamentals of building information modelling and the role of the Global BIM Network.

Change management initiatives require complex long-term thinking and behavioural shifts. It is easy to lose speed and direction. Yet, when it comes to BIM, a four-part framework provides both a route map for stakeholders starting their BIM journey and a cross-check to those that have already begun. 

 The framework is based on four pillars or areas:  

• public leadership;  

• communication and communities;  

• collaborative framework; and  

• capability and capacity development. 

In this blog we look at the second of these pillars – communication and communities – and how stakeholders can employ three specific actions to develop this strategic area. 

ONE Engage with industry stakeholders early and frequently. This is essential in supporting any industry change process and can be done in many ways. Global BIM communities are engaging with industry stakeholders through mechanisms such as events, feedback loops, websites, social media, case studies, training, and co-authoring documents. Many are using iterative processes enabling stakeholders to be part of the conversation, contribute their own perspective and for all to learn from each other. For example, Empresa de Desarrollo Urbano (EDU), the Urban Development Corporation of Medellin, in Colombia is gaining optimal results by working in close collaboration with contractors.  

TWO Participate in and provide encouragement for regional and special interest networks to disseminate best practice. Many networks are working at many levels. For example, the Latam BIM Network, the BIM network for Latin American Governments, brings together eight countries in the region to fast-forward national digital transformation processes through employing BIM in the construction sector. In Slovenia, the voluntary, independent organization siBIM enables engineers and people working in associated roles to learn from each other’s experiences and enhance their professional development in BIM. 

THREE Use mass communication tools to reach audiences. These tools could include online media, events, web, and social media. They are used to spread and share messages about BIM as widely as possible. Good examples are the EU BIM Task Group’s website and the LinkedIn and YouTube initiatives by Chile’s Planbim. 

The Global BIM Network’s Information Collection contains many examples of how communication and communities are enabling BIM processes and practices. 

To join the Global BIM Network, email us or visit our website to register.