Defining the workflows for information management for the enhancement of digitization across the whole lifecycle

Abstract

The Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations (AECO) industry can be descripted as a fragmented industry, with relatively low productivity and efficiency. Digital solutions like Building Information Modeling (BIM) can increase an organization's productivity. However, the Built Environment has been slow to adopt digital transformation, due to insufficient information management. Existing literature concentrates on addressing this challenge, by focusing on a single aspect of information management rather than providing a comprehensive picture of all the procedures, parties engaged, information, formats and platforms used as well as their interdependencies. Therefore, the objective of this graduation research is to determine the workflows for information management to allow digitization across the whole lifecycle, by examining multiple aspects. The case study findings lead to the creation of a process map, demonstrating more efficient workflows to be followed, by linking the distributed information between the different parties involved throughout the several project stages, while also considering each party’s digital ambitions. The main processes identified during each project stage concern the production of information deliverables by the respective party, using the suitable format. As both geometrical and non-geometrical information is generated during the different project stages, different formats are used, i.e. information models and documentation. Subsequently and at the end of each stage, the respective information is shared to other parties during specific information exchange moments. A collaborative environment is used by the different parties, both during the production and information sharing. Concluding, as digital transformation becomes even more widespread, a growing number of organizations strive for effective information management. To acquire a more reliable view on the subject, it is necessary to look at several aspects at once, hence the development of the proposed process map. To increase the validity of the outcome, more research and elaboration of the process map's elements is advised. Recommendations for the construction industry, with regard to the incorporation of digital ambitions, are also provided together with suggestions for a further enhancement of the company’s information management.