BIM Modelling For Wood Buildings - Compressed

Building Information Modelling for Wood Buildings
AN INTRODUCTORY GUIDE
Building Information Modelling for Wood Buildings, An Introductory Guide was commissioned by Forestry
Innovation Investment Ltd.
For more information about British Columbia wood products and the sustainably managed forests they
come from, visit naturallywood.com
Authors
This guide was prepared by Scius Advisory and BIM One Inc. in collaboration with Associated
Engineering Ltd.
Authors Helen Goodland, RIBA MBA, Scius Advisory
Albert Lam, Architectural Technologist AIBC MBA, Scius Advisory
Scott Chatterton BIM CP, BIM One
Cover image: Building detail courtesy Associated Engineering Ltd.
The guide is meant to provide accurate and authoritative information, but users are responsible for
exercising professional knowledge and judgement in the application of the information.
January 2022
Acknowledgements
This guide is disseminated in cooperation with Building Transformations (formerly CanBIM).
The contents of this guide are based substantially upon insights gathered from interviews with industry
leaders from the following companies. The authors are grateful to them for their participation.
Bird Construction Iredale Architecture

Blackbox Offsite Solutions Kreo Modular
British Columbia Institute of Technology Modular Housing Association of BC
BuildingEvolution Omicron
Bush, Bohlman & Partners PUBLIC Architecture
Chandos Construction RDH Building Science
CREE Building Systems SNC Lavalin
DIALOG Design Structurlam Mass Timber Corporation
École de technologie supérieure | Université du Québec Timber Engineering Inc.
Graham Construction TKD Architecture
Intelligent City University of Northern British Columbia
ii
Forward
BIM is a driving force in the digital transformation of the construction industry. BIM use coupled with lean
processes and collaborative methods are enabling the delivery of more economical, sustainable and
resilient buildings. Projects that implement these innovative approaches are showing significant benefits
throughout the project lifecycle, across the industry supply chain, and for all types and scales of building
projects.
BIM has the potential to unlock the power of timber design and wood fabrication for the building sector.
Wood is a widely used construction material that contributes significantly to carbon reduction goals in
building construction. The adoption of advanced technologies like BIM can enable digital fabrication and
off-site construction that will lead to significant improvements in productivity, reliability, and quality. These
innovations rely on designers and builders being conversant with digital design, collaboration and delivery
methods.
This guide is intended to provide those working on timber projects with an introduction to how BIM works
and the implications of adopting BIM — particularly for small businesses. It also aids those championing
the use of BIM in conveying the value proposition to owners. For owners, the benefit not only lies in a
more reliably executed project but also in its future management and operation. BIM enables the delivery
of integrated, high quality, and well-organized information at building handover, contributing to improved
asset value over the life of a facility.
It is my hope that the current enthusiasm for timber construction will be an important catalyst for the
adoption of BIM in the building sector. I want to thank all the industry experts that contributed to this
guide. Sharing ideas and experiences is a powerful way to build capacity and move the industry forward.
Sheryl Staub-French, PhD, FCAE, Peng

Professor of Civil Engineering
Associate Dean of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Director of BIM TOPiCS Research Lab
The University of British Columbia
iii
Purpose of this guide
Wood is a popular and widely utilized construction material that plays an important role in addressing
climate change due to its ability to store carbon. Wood lends itself to off-site construction techniques—for
example, modern prefabricated light-frame units, mass timber and hybrid systems—which can be factory-
produced to high levels of accuracy for speedy, reliable installation on-site. Today, advanced, highly
engineered wood systems have the potential to disrupt the building industry.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital form of construction delivery and facility management that
fosters collaboration and information exchange across the entire project team, over a building’s entire
service life. For wood projects, BIM enables architects, engineers and builders to unlock the advantages
of off-site construction, leveraging the benefits of emerging timber technologies to deliver cost-effective,
low-carbon buildings.
The purpose of this guide is to introduce BIM to building owners, design and construction professionals
and suppliers who work in the world of wood buildings. It offers an easy-to-understand starting point for
the adoption of BIM practices and illustrates the value that BIM can add in terms of improved efficiency,
reliability and sustainability.
This is not a technical guide to BIM application, standards, etc., which can be found in other industry-
accepted sources and which are referenced throughout. Rather, the contents draw on the insights and
advice gathered from over twenty leading architects, engineers and builders who have worked on a wide
range of advanced wood buildings in Canada. The guide’s five chapters are designed to be either read in
sequence to gain an understanding of the general concepts or broken out to serve as standalone
references for sharing with project partners, colleagues and industry stakeholders. The recommended
readership is identified at the start of each chapter.
Chapter 1: What value does BIM bring to wood projects?

Chapter 2: How is BIM defined? How do I ask for BIM?
Chapter 3: How does BIM work in practice for advanced
wood buildings?
Chapter 4: How do I set up a BIM project?
Chapter 5: What are the keys to success in BIM delivery?
Appendix: Additional resources
iv
Glossary
2D Documents
The traditional means of communicating building project information; soft and hard documents such
as drawings and specifications.
Asset Information Model (AIM)
The Building Information Model used by a building’s owner for its operation throughout its life cycle;
derived from the building project team’s model.
BIM Execution Plan (BIMx)
Typically drafted by the BIM leaders in the project management team, the BIM Execution Plan
documents the vision, goals, requirements and approach the team will follow to ensure the digital
model supports the design and construction tasks.
BIM Technology Stack
The BIM Technology Stack is the software workflow that the building project team utilizes to
accomplish key design and construction tasks. The complexity and types of software can vary greatly
depending on the owner’s goals and building requirements, and the team’s capabilities, methods and
means.
Building Information Model (BIM) and BIM Model Elements
The Building Information Model is the digital asset created by the project team for the purpose of
collaboration. It is not simply a 3D model; it is a digital form of project delivery and facility
management that fosters collaboration and information exchange across the entire project team, and
over a building’s entire service life.
Common Data Environment (CDE)
The Common Data Environment is the central repository where construction project information is
housed, and which provides key stakeholders with a digital representation of a building spanning the
project life cycle.
Communication Strategy and Platform
A Communication Strategy is part of the BIM plan, providing a plan for the timely sharing (and
notification of) information critical for design, construction and operational tasks as part of the building
project. The platform is the means to access and update the team via shared, dedicated databases.
Dimensions
Dimensions describe how the digital model can be used to assist in design, construction and
operation. Dimensions are aspects of the building project—including spatial relationships, project cost
and schedule, or building energy performance—that the BIM can virtually simulate; a “twin” of the
building, to help with analysis and decision-making.
Facilities Management (FM)
The broad operations of managing the built asset, covering the day-to-day, emergency or life cycle
planning for the building.
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Federated Information Model
A Federated Information Model is assembled from several distinct models from different disciplines
into a single, complete model of the building, and is the product of higher Maturity Levels.
Information Management (IM) Plan
The Information Management Plan is integral to BIM, functioning as part of the BIM Plan to manage
the production, collection and organization of information—a key part of facilitating BIM collaboration.
Level of Development, Level of Detail (LOD)
Level of Development describes the degree of richness of technical information in the digital model.
The information can range from a rudimentary 3D form (LOD100) to a fully described digital twin
(LOD 500).
Maturity Level
Maturity Level defines the level of collaboration expected of the project team. It determines who is
involved in the digital model, their level of participation, and when they are required to be involved.
The level of BIM Maturity ranges from none (e.g., paper-based exchange of two-dimensional
information) to full life cycle-based management, supported by integrated, interoperable data
systems.
Operations and Maintenance (O&M)
The technical operations of maintaining the built asset, led by professionals in a broad range of
building services, sometimes referred to as building engineers.
Project Team
The project team comprises the owner, consultants, general contractors, trades and suppliers that are
involved in the design and construction of the built asset. The team may also include owner agents
such as operations and maintenance staff.
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: What value does BIM bring to wood projects? ............................................................................ 1

1.1 Using BIM to deliver low-carbon wood buildings .......................................................................... 1
1.2 Using BIM for off-site wood construction ...................................................................................... 4
Chapter 2: How is BIM defined? How do I ask for BIM? ............................................................................... 6
2.1 Maturity Levels .............................................................................................................................. 6
2.2 Levels of Development (LOD) ..................................................................................................... 10
2.3 Dimensions.................................................................................................................................. 11
2.4 Asking for BIM ............................................................................................................................. 13
Chapter 3: How does BIM work in practice for advanced wood buildings? ................................................ 14
3.1 Information and data ................................................................................................................... 14
3.2 Decision-making .......................................................................................................................... 16
3.3 Digital project delivery ................................................................................................................. 17
3.4 Software tools.............................................................................................................................. 21
3.5 Putting it all together, the BIM workflow ...................................................................................... 25
Chapter 4: How do I set up a BIM project? ................................................................................................. 29
4.1 Getting ready for the first BIM project ......................................................................................... 30
4.2 Project sponsorship – the owner’s role ....................................................................................... 33
4.3 The BIM Execution Plan .............................................................................................................. 35
4.4 Delivering a BIM project .............................................................................................................. 41
Chapter 5: What are the keys to success in BIM delivery? ........................................................................ 42
5.1 Project setup ............................................................................................................................... 42
5.2 Design ......................................................................................................................................... 43
5.3 Prefabrication and off-site construction ....................................................................................... 45
5.4 Construction ................................................................................................................................ 48
5.5 Operations and asset management ............................................................................................ 50
Looking ahead ............................................................................................................................................. 53
Appendices ................................................................................................................................................. 54
A1. Survey of leading BIM practitioners ............................................................................................ 54
A2. Resource lists .............................................................................................................................. 55
A3. BIM software for wood projects ................................................................................................... 59
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Chapter 1: What value does BIM bring to wood projects?
Recommended for Design and construction professionals, suppliers, owners and policymakers
Summary ▪ Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital form of construction
delivery and facility management that fosters collaboration and information
exchange across the entire project team.
▪ Wood is an ideal material for digitally driven, modern methods of
construction. It is a low-carbon material that is easy to mill and prefabricate
off-site. It is light yet robust enough for handling and transportation, and
easy to modify and attach on-site.
▪ BIM describes a dynamic process of creating information-rich models that
support the management of the building throughout its life cycle, from
planning and design through to operation and decommissioning. It provides
timely and easily accessible information when and where it is critical, to
assess and resolve issues, and to execute solutions.
▪ BIM is an important tool for delivering advanced wood buildings efficiently,
particularly when paired with off-site construction methods.
1.1 Using BIM to deliver low-carbon wood buildings

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is at the centre of a
What is a Building Information Model?
digital transformation of the construction sector and the
built environment. BIM is a digital form of construction A Building Information Model is a digital
delivery and facility management that fosters collaboration representation of physical and functional
and information exchange across the entire project team, characteristics of a building. It serves as a
and over a building’s entire service life. It brings together shared knowledge resource for information
about a facility forming a reliable basis for
technology, process improvements and digital information
decisions during its life cycle. Depending on
to dramatically improve client experience, project outcomes the life cycle stage, the Building Information
and building operations. BIM is a “strategic enabler for Model may be:
improving decision-making for both buildings and public
infrastructure assets across the whole life cycle”1. BIM is A Project Information Model (PIM) during
not new, but it is a growing trend around the world. It is “the the building design and construction phases.
technology-led change most likely to deliver the highest An Asset Information Model (AIM) when
impact to the construction sector”2. The wider adoption of used during the facility management/building
BIM could deliver 15 to 25 percent savings to the global operations stage.
infrastructure market by 20253.
The primary benefit of BIM for any project is that it can improve the efficiency of day-to-day design and
construction tasks. How BIM can (and, ideally, should) be deployed throughout the life cycle of the
building for its value to be fully realised is illustrated in Figure 1.
1 EU BIM Task Group, www.eubim.eu/downloads/EU_BIM_Task_Group_Handbook_FINAL.PDF

2 WEF, Shaping the Future of Construction, 2016
www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Shaping_the_Future_of_Construction_full_report__.pdf
3 BCG, Digital in Engineering and Construction, 2016 http://futureofconstruction.org/content/uploads/2016/09/BCG-
Digital-in-Engineering-and-Construction-Mar-2016.pdf; McKinsey, Construction Productivity, 2017

www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/operations/our-insights/improving-construction-productivity
1
Figure 1: The BIM life cycle
BIM’s basic premise is that it facilitates seamless collaboration by different stakeholders at different
phases of the life cycle of a building “to insert, extract, update or modify information in the digital model to
support and reflect the roles of that stakeholder.”4 From design inception to project hand-over, BIM has
been shown to help improve team productivity, reduce uncertainty, control whole-life costs and
environmental data, avoid rework costs, improve safety, reduce on-site waste and avoided errors. Then,
once the building is operational, the as-built digital model and all the data contained within gives the
owner an accurate record of the project and a powerful digital asset management tool. Other benefits
include streamlined team communication, and improved project information quality and management.
Figure 2 summarizes the key characteristics of BIM and their advantages.
Figure 2: Key characteristics and advantages of BIM
4Source: National BIM Standard - US, Version 1.0:

https://buildinginformationmanagement.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/nbimsv1_p1.pdf
2
The value to the owner and the project team is derived from:
▪ Streamlined communication: a federated 3D model of the

“BIM is the foundational platform of
building is accessible to all project participants. It makes for how we deliver projects and it’s the
efficient communication, removes the potential for project basis upon which we build layer upon
divergence and minimizes administration burdens and errors. layer of data and information using
multiple applications.”
▪ Information management: BIM provides a shared model that
federates, organizes and communicates up-to-date ~ Architect
information from all project participants. The model visualizes
and organizes spatial, dimensional and physical data. It
contains embedded non-graphical data, such as cost, “A barrier to wide-spread adoption of
performance (e.g., function, routines, maintenance, energy, BIM practices in the building industry
is our obsession with everything that
embodied carbon) and technical specifications into a single
can go wrong on a project—and
source. reacting defensively against the rest
▪ Process optimization: BIM logically presents physical, of the project team. In contrast, BIM
systemic and informational relationships as a virtual copy of fundamentally demands a team to
work together digitally from start to
the completed building. This allows the team to efficiently
finish. You prove yourself a useful
make design, construction and operational decisions with the
team player or a team laggard very
best available information. The information in the digital model early on.”
is used as the basis for analysis, to make collective decisions
and inform tasks for design, fabrication, construction and ~ General contractor
facilities management.
▪ Accurate digital record: Digital twinning pushes the model further, creating a digital facsimile of the
building, where sensors, equipment and other systems can report operational data. It allows the team
to track, optimize and plan maintenance, retrofits and commissioning. The model becomes the Asset
Information Model (AIM) at hand-over and is the operations and maintenance manual, building
operations dashboard, and a digital record of the building.
BSI: Building Information Modelling and Collaborative Construction

Canada does not yet have a robust suite of BIM standards. For now, BIM practitioners are referring to leading
international standards. The British Standards Institution (BSI) Group is the standards body of the United
Kingdom. The Group is a respected member of the international technical community and has an active presence
in Canada. BSI has published both standards and resources related to BIM, covering the project and business
aspects of adopting and utilizing BIM.
Although not written with timber projects in mind, BSI identified several benefits that would be of value and
particularly relevant for owners when considered in the context of linking the BIM process to Virtual Design and
Construction (VDC):
• Faster and more efficient processes
• Increased productivity and faster delivery
• Reduced uncertainty
• Controlled whole-life costs and environmental data
• Avoidance of rework costs
• Improved safety
• Reduced on-site waste
• Prevention of errors
More information can be found here:
www.bsigroup.com/en-CA/building-information-modeling-bim
3
1.2 Using BIM for off-site wood construction
Wood is a popular and widely utilized construction material that plays an important role in addressing
climate change due to its ability to store carbon. It is structurally strong, light and machinable, lending
itself to modern methods of construction. The use of BIM for the delivery of wood buildings in Canada is
still at an early stage of adoption and, when it is being used, it is primarily at the design phase of the
project. However, there is growing recognition that BIM enables architects, engineers and builders to
unlock the advantages of off-site construction, leveraging the benefits of emerging wood technologies to
innovate design and construction, and deliver projects on-time and on-schedule.
Off-site construction involves the prefabrication or pre-assembly of elements away from the job site to
accelerate construction schedules without compromising quality or cost. Wood structural systems for off-
site construction include modern prefabricated light-frame units, mass timber and hybrid systems, which
can be factory-produced to high levels of accuracy for speedy, reliable installation on-site. Today, wood is
emerging as a material with high potential to disrupt traditional, site-focused construction, which is often
highly uncertain, risky, and prone to levels of poor productivity, resulting in unreliable cost and schedules.
Leading practitioners surveyed for this guide use BIM for a range of off-site construction approaches, but
most commonly when working with prefabricated structural elements and mass timber (Figure 3).
Prefabricated structural elements (beams, columns, trusses,

27%
etc.)
Mass timber panels (CLT, NLT, etc.) 27%

Wood only (single trade) prefab. light wood frame panels
22%
(walls, floors)
Modular volumentric units 12%

Closed or multi-trade prefabricated wall panels (e.g. including
10%
envelope or servicing)
N/A 2%
Figure 3: Off-site construction approaches in wood projects that used BIM

(From the survey of leading BIM practitioners, Appendix A1)
Examples of off-site construction methods using wood
Pre-assembly light wood frame Prefabricated mass timber panels Modular units
panels and elements
Figure 4: Off-site construction methods
4
There are unique considerations when using BIM to plan and build a wood project. At the design phase,
the team can use BIM to develop and verify the primary wood structure and carbon performance of the
project. Then, the construction team can use the digital model to build the project virtually, which helps
them to plan and execute the off-site fabrication of wood and system components and rehearse the on-
site erection of the prefab components. Figure 5 presents a high-level BIM workflow and the steps that
can be added when developing a wood project. This is discussed in more detail in Chapter 4.
BIM Workflow Advanced Wood Building Project Workflow
A. Project Conception Project Setup: Owner Ambition
Owner need: Owner determines:

Goals and requirements Use of wood?
Use, Program, size, etc. Level of off-site fabrication?
What do I need from BIM? Building performance?
Recruit which professionals to lead?
B. Designing the BIM Project Project Setup: Feasibility
Professional expertise: Professionals assist owner:

What are the BIM uses? Owner's ambitions realistic?
What does BIM accomplish? What are realistic project requirements?
Who needs to be involved, and when? Advise on budget, schedule, etc.
C. Implementing the BIM Plan Design, Conceptual
Professionals plan and lead: Design for off-site fabrication:

Manage the building project Primary wood structure?
BIM Implementation & Execution Plan Systems / building envelope?
Collaborative design & construction Set off/on-site scopes of work
Design, Detailed
Design complete building:

BIM-assisted coordination
Virtual Design & Construction (VDC)
Verify construction outcomes
Off-site Fabrication: Wood and Systems Construction: On-site
Parallel to site construction: Quicker site construction:

Prefab. wood structures Prefab. elements delivered "just in time"
Prefab. mech. & elec. systems BIM / VDC assisted site assembly
Prefab. building envelope Shorter timeline to interior fit-out
D. BIM to AIM Hand-over Building Hand-over
Asset Information Model for: BIM/Off-site potential:

Operations & Maintenance Higher productivity & efficiency
Project Record Model More reliable budget & schedule
Lifecycle planning Low-carbon wood building
Figure 5: High-level BIM workflow illustrating the additional steps and considerations for an advanced wood project
“BIM allows for the design of standard assemblies, allowing users to store and apply solutions to new projects without the
need to start from scratch. This also allows for continuous improvement (referencing KAIZEN). Standard assemblies can
be upgraded over time to optimize existing and proven assemblies and kits of parts.
BIM also allows for standardization or “productization”, creating large economies of scale in supply chains. If architects
and engineers leverage the same standard assemblies, we can now provide a consistent, more predictable demand for
standardized components (e.g. mass timber). This unlocks greater opportunity for mass automation in manufacturing to
deliver at scale, resulting in lower cost of material and pre-construction time, as well as a massive uplift to manufacturing
productivity. This is similar to the humble 2x4, produced, delivered and stored at your local big box hardware stores; or
standardized mechanical equipment product lines. BIM can be the key to lower costs while drastically improving quality at
all stages of construction right through to the operation and lifecycle of the building.”
~ Software developer
5
Chapter 2: How is BIM defined? How do I ask for BIM?
Recommended for Design and construction professionals, suppliers, owners and project managers
Summary ▪ BIM leverages digital tools to collaborate and exchange information to
create rich, digital models useful for the entire life cycle of a building project.
To achieve this, three parameters guide a BIM delivery process and are
critical when procuring a BIM project and setting the BIM requirements:
o Maturity Level
o Levels of Development (LOD)
o Dimensions
▪ A BIM project’s success depends on how well it is set up at the start and
the owner needs to be committed to the process. The project’s BIM
requirements need to be included in the RFP and tendering documents.
For owners and project leaders to understand how to ask for BIM to be used on their projects, it is first
necessary to define the basic mechanics of BIM. BIM encompasses a dynamic process of creating
information-rich, digital models for the entire life cycle of a building project. Within this broad definition,
three parameters set the frames of reference for BIM, which can vary depending on the owner’s goals
and building requirements, project type, life cycle phase, etc.:
1. Maturity level: establishes the level of collaboration and integration of the project team with the
BIM process.
2. Level of Development (LOD): describes the depth or “richness” of technical information in the
model.
3. Dimensions: refers to how different data and information are utilized together over the budling’s
life cycle.
2.1 Maturity Levels

Maturity Level defines collaboration, which is one of the key characteristics and value propositions of BIM.
By extension, Maturity Level determines who is involved in the digital model, their level of participation,
and when they are required to be involved. The level of BIM Maturity ranges from none (e.g., paper-
based exchange of two-dimensional information) to full life cycle-based management, supported by
integrated, interoperable data systems (Figure 6).
Organizations such as buildingSMART Canada 5, PennState College of Engineering6 and the British
Standards Institute (BSI)7 have developed reference materials for a common understanding of the levels
of BIM Maturity that describe the communication and collaborative processes of the project team.
5 https://buildingsmartcanada.ca
6 https://bim.psu.edu/
7 https://www.bsigroup.com/en-CA/building-information-modeling-bim
6
Figure 6: BIM Maturity levels—the BIM “wedge”
(Adapted for the Canadian context from Bew & Richards (2008), BIM Client Maturity: Literature Review)
BIM Maturity Levels vary according to client needs, as well as the What is a federated Building
demands of the project itself. For example, Information Model?
a hospital project may require high BIM Maturity Levels due to the
complexity of the building, the number of stakeholders involved, The term federation refers to a group
within which organizations, systems
and the amount and technical complexity of information required
and networks operate in a standard,
by the health care authority client. Other projects may only
collective and connected
require high BIM Maturity Levels from certain project team environment. A federated BIM is
members — who, when, and how involved in BIM is best assembled from several distinct
determined by consultants, contractors and suppliers during models from different disciplines into
project setup. The BIM Maturity Levels are summarized below a single, complete model of the
with comments on the advantages that each level offers the building, and is the product of higher
project team over traditional methods and any limitations or Maturity Levels.
watchpoints to be aware of.
7
Level 0 BIM – Low Collaboration
Each stakeholder creates and manages their own data with little opportunity to share digitally.
Advantages over traditional methods Limitations and watchpoints
None. This is the simplest form of 2D CAD. Level 0 BIM was effectively made obsolete with the adoption
of CAD in the early ’90s when it became easy to exchange
digital files.
Level 1 BIM – Partial Collaboration

Typically, Level 1 involves a mixture of 3D and 2D CAD, as well as a basic Information Management plan. A 3D
model is developed early in the project for visualization purposes (e.g., renderings for regulatory approvals and
leasing). Then, a switch to 2D workflows occurs at the end of the conceptual phase, where the 3D model is used to
set up the 2D CAD process for the ongoing schematic and design development, and finally contract
documentation. Project information is then contained within 2D drawings and accompanying specification
documents.
None. The 3D BIM model is only used to generate The model may be shared within the design team for basic
a 2D set of drawings and is not considered a coordination and information extraction. Each team member
source of data. creates and manages their own data.
Level 2 BIM – Full Collaboration

Level 2 is defined by the utilization of the 3D model to communicate, coordinate and make decisions. At this level,
BIM is "an information exchange process which is specific to that project and coordinated between various
systems and project participants"8 and can be executed using either:
▪ a common file format or compatible BIM software, which allows the 3D models to be integrated into a
composite, federated digital representation of the building, or
▪ a unified 3D model that is updated and shared with all team members at agreed-upon times.
Level 2 BIM is the most prevalent form of BIM practice in Canada today. Project team members use products such
as Autodesk Architect Engineering and Construction Collection9 and work with shared or linked models either
through cloud-based applications or simple model exchange (see Appendix A.2 for commonly used applications in
Canada).
During the design phase, the 3D model can be The model may be shared for basic coordination,
used for planning, design, energy simulations, information extraction and collaboration, but is primarily
clash detection, etc. used to generate a 2D set of drawings and is interpreted
together with paper-based specifications.
Sharing a common 3D model (whether integrated
or unified) allows the team to communicate Switching to 2D erodes many of the advantages offered by a
accurate, up-to-date information, enabling the team 3D model such as efficient decision-making. The information
to make decisions collaboratively and efficiently. management aspects of BIM are typically not implemented
at all.
8 Source: Scottish Futures Trust. More information at: https://bimportal.scottishfuturestrust.org.uk

9 https://www.autodesk.ca/en/collections/architecture-engineering-construction/overview
8
Level 3 BIM – Full Integration
Often referred to as “openBIM”, Level 3 comprises full integration of all project participants into the BIM process
through design and construction. Hand-over of the project documents and data is handled digitally through the BIM
model which then serves as the basis for building operations. The model becomes a digital asset and facility
management tool for the life of the building. The collaboration required of the project team members to deliver this
level of BIM Maturity can be much more intensive than normal practice, and it is common for the terms of
engagement to be laid out in contractual terms.
The owner, consultants, contractor and trades all work within a unified BIM, which is updated and shared at
agreed-upon times. Particularly, the model serves as a digital twin of the building.
The digital model is the primary information record, There is a significant level of project planning up front at
often being guided by the BIM Execution Plan (see which time the project’s modelling and data requirements,
Chapter 4). While 2D documentation can be collaboration protocols and file output protocols need to be
utilized (including drawings derived from the BIM), established.
the model is main source, aggregator and Requires the adoption of open data standards to set clear
organizer of the project information—yielding and consistent parameters for electronic data exchange and
superior use of the data and information. management.
This level of BIM deployment benefits the owner,
builder, trades and suppliers, through reduced
fabrication cost and time. Other project participants
may yield the advantage of better time
management leading to improved project
outcomes.
openBIM
buildingSMART Canada is the Canadian chapter of buildingSMART International and home to Canadian BIM and
digital project and asset life cycle delivery standards and best practices development. There is a wealth of
resources including the Canadian Practice Manual and a range of practical toolkits available at
https://buildingsmartcanada.ca.
buildingSMART defines openBIM as a collaborative process that is inclusive of all participants, promoting
interoperability to benefit projects and assets throughout their life cycle. It is based on open standards and
workflows that allow different stakeholders to share their data with any BIM compatible software. openBIM
ensures that:
• Interoperability is key to the digital transformation in the built asset industry

• Open and neutral standards should be developed to facilitate interoperability
• Reliable data exchange depends on independent quality benchmarks
• Collaboration workflows are enhanced by open and agile data formats
• Flexibility of choice of technology creates more value to all stakeholders
• Sustainability is safeguarded by long-term interoperable data standards
9
2.2 Levels of Development (LOD)
BIM Levels of Development (LOD—also
Level of Development (LOD) Specification
referred to as Levels of Detail) define a BIM
project’s required technical depth and
breadth in the digital model. The
information can range from a rudimentary
3D form (LOD100) to a rich, fully described
digital twin (LOD 500) (Figure 7).
LOD establishes how much detail is

expected for the technical elements within
the model. LOD is communicated to the
consultants, suppliers, contractors, and
trades people when they join the project, to
gauge how much effort will be required, and BIM Forum’s Level of Development (LOD) Specification is an
when. Less common and under-utilized in industry accepted reference that enables practitioners in the
Canada, LOD can also incorporate the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry to
specify and articulate with a high level of clarity the content
building owner’s in-service, life cycle
and reliability of Building Information Models at various
requirements into design and construction.
stages in the design and construction process.
BIM Forum’s Level of Development
Specification provides examples at each Available for free download at: https://bimforum.org/lod/
LOD.
Figure 7: BIM Levels of Development from LOD 100 to LOD 500 (Image source BIMETICA10)
It is essential for the core project team (owner, consultants, contractor) to define and set the LOD for
specific scopes of work pre-project. This ensures that all members of the project team (including the
trades and suppliers) are hired with clear roles and responsibilities and a full understanding of the BIM
requirements for the project.
LOD for wood projects that use off-site construction methods can vary depending on the owner’s goals
and building requirements but are typically based on coordination and fabrication milestones for the
primary wood structural system, including related steel connections and concrete foundations. LOD
facilitates information sharing critical for off-site prefabrication, modular systems or kits of parts, as well as
quick, safe and efficient on-site assembly. Post fabrication, the digital model serves as a virtual “master”
of the building’s structure (already set for fabrication) that governs downstream elements, such as
mechanical systems selection and building envelope detailing.
LOD 100 – Pre-Design
10 A selection of images describing LOD can be found at http://manufacturers.bimetica.com/technical-and-legal-bim-

file-auditing/
10
LOD 100 provides a low level of development with minimal or no non-graphical data. It aligns with the
traditional concept phase where schematic, primitive forms are used to establish the basic concept.
Design elements may be represented non-geometrically (e.g., by a symbol or simple block). LOD 100
outputs are generally used for visuals and communicate the designer’s vision.
LOD 200 – Schematic Design

An LOD 200 model offers a generic graphical representation consisting of approximate size and form.
The LOD 200 model has minimal non-graphical data that may include the approximate size, quantities
and location of a building element. It is still considered a low level of development that is only usable
during early design for the purpose of permit acquisition or marketing. However, there is sufficient
information for the project team to begin preliminary high-level coordination.
LOD 300 – Design Development

At LOD 300, model elements are graphical representations of objects or assemblies. LOD 300 includes
non-graphical data related to the element. Objects are placed accurately to facilitate coordination and
design development. The model can be the foundation for carbon and energy analysis. Coordination
focusing on hard clashes between design disciplines occurs here, and the constructor utilizes the model
to review constructability and coordination. LOD 300 is typically used for Construction Documentation on
relatively simple buildings where complex geometry and data is relatively low (single-family and low-rise
residential, light commercial, light industrial, etc.).
LOD 350 – Construction Documentation

Model elements at LOD 350 are geometrically accurate representations of objects or assemblies that also
include non-graphical data (such as weight, cost, manufacturer, installation information, etc.). Objects are
placed accurately to facilitate coordination. LOD 350 typically occurs on complicated projects where there
is a high degree of detail and/or complex geometry and close collaboration is crucial.
LOD 400 – Construction Phase

LOD 400 model elements are geometrically accurate representations of objects or assemblies, where the
fabricator takes production information directly from the model, eliminating the need to prepare separate
shop drawings. LOD 400 includes non-graphical data related to the object or element. Objects are placed
accurately to facilitate construction coordination, sequencing, logistics, etc. The model allows coordination
between the design and construction teams, including trades, fabricators and suppliers.
LOD 500 – As-Built

At LOD 500, model elements represent the as-built, field-verified physical attributes of the elements in the
project. It includes graphical representations of objects and assemblies along with all the non-graphical
data related to those elements. An LOD 500 model captures any changes between how objects and
assemblies were designed and how they were installed on-site. The model does not need to be highly
detailed, but accuracy is critical. The LOD 500 model forms the basis for the building hand-over and
building operations manual; for example, the size and location of HVAC ducts may be represented,
though information about the location of the flanges may not be required.
2.3 Dimensions
In addition to LOD, BIM can also have different dimensions, which describe the usage of the data and
information federated in the digital model over the building’s life cycle (Figure 8).
11
Figure 8: The Dimensions of BIM applied to wood buildings
3D BIM is primarily focussed on geometry, spatial information and the corresponding data (wall types,
room numbers, etc.). 3D BIM describes the “what” of the project. Each next dimension (4D, 5D, etc.)
enhances the model with an extra data layer providing information on the “how”, “when”, “for how much
(cost)”, and more. Dimensions describe how the digital model can be used to assist in design,
construction and operations, and are key to BIM’s “walk backwards” approach to a building project. Early
12
on-boarding of consultants, the general contractor and key trades and suppliers allows the owner to
establish the dimensions that will best meet the building requirements and satisfy the owner’s goals. This
in turn provides the means to set Maturity Level and LOD to ensure tasks and responsibilities will result in
data and information being collected, produced and shared virtually through BIM.
For wood projects contemplating off-site construction methods, 3D (model), 4D (time) and 5D (cost) will
facilitate the integrated, collaborative design needed to deliver the speed, quality and safety benefits. For
high performance projects, 3D and 6D (model and performance) can be the cornerstone of energy
simulations and virtual envelope detail mock-ups required to meet actual building performance.
“The “I” in BIM is a crucial factor in why BIM is such a significant advantage for executing and managing
building project delivery; otherwise, we're just using BIM as a design tool and underutilizing the vast potential of
this amazing resource. Utilize the information within your model to provide value-added information to your
project.”
~ Architect
2.4 Asking for BIM

The successful delivery of a BIM project starts at the very beginning of a project. For owners to define
how and to what extent BIM is to be used for their projects within the competitive tendering process, it is
advisable to develop a BIM Requirements Specification document to include in RFPs. This document sets
out the requirements, the project participants’ roles and the ownership of the data. It also describes
expectations during the various project stages (design, construction, hand-over, operation, etc.). The
topic of project sponsorship and the role of the owner will be discussed in more detail in Chapter 3.
BC Housing BIM Requirements Specification for Vienna House
SummitBIM (https://summitbim.com) is a B.C.-based BIM consultancy that

assisted BC Housing in developing BIM requirements that were piloted for
Vienna House (www.viennahouse.ca), a proposed zero-emissions timber mid-
rise social housing project in East Vancouver which aims to test out promising
materials, strategies, and processes to advance solutions to affordability,
climate change, and social equity. The project provides an ideal opportunity for
project partners to demonstrate the benefits of following a true digital process
from start to finish, rather than using digital technology to generate traditional
output. BC Housing plans to study the project results to assess how they can
be applied to future projects.
13
Chapter 3: How does BIM work in practice for advanced
wood buildings?
Recommended for Design and construction professionals, owners and policymakers
Summary ▪ BIM leverages the power of collaboration (Maturity Level) and information
management (LOD and Dimensions) to yield better outcomes. BIM
accomplishes this by federating all project stakeholders into a digital twin of
the building, providing a virtual sandbox to design, simulate, rehearse and
validate tasks and operations, to confirm project outcomes will meet the
owner’s requirements.
▪ Establishing a Common Data Environment (CDE) enables project
participants to collaborate effectively and securely, given that the software
used by consultants, contractors, trades and suppliers will vary.
▪ Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) is the method of creating a wood
project virtually before doing it in the real world. VDC is a powerful
extension of BIM that is valuable when using off-site construction methods.
It leverages the digital model to support construction planning, scheduling,
budget and cost estimation capabilities.
▪ BIM software workflows are critical. Each project’s software ecosystem and
workflow will vary depending on the owner’s requirements. It is essential for
teams to establish BIM software workflows early in the project to minimize
technical hurdles.
Day-to-day, BIM’s value comes from the “virtualization” of the building project and its operations. Its major
impact is on project information and data, decision-making and collaboration. This chapter looks at how
information and data can be managed in practice, how BIM supports decision-making processes and
how, in turn, both information management and BIM-based decision-making inform digital project delivery
methods. A brief overview is given of the software tools and technologies available for use on wood
building projects. Finally, to put all these pieces together, a BIM-based project workflow shows the
adaptations and considerations for an advanced wood project.
3.1 Information and data

BIM amalgamates, organizes and communicates high-quality, up-to-date information to the project team
within a Common Data Environment (CDE). The CDE is the central repository where construction project
information is housed, and which provides key stakeholders with a digital representation of a building
spanning the project life cycle. Using BIM mitigates some of the common access, version or
completeness issues of traditional contract documents by digitally contextualizing, collecting in a single
source (the digital model) and/or complementing 2D drawings and specifications. The benefits are better
information accessibility, information quality and digital collaboration, which all lead to improved decision-
making.
Information accessibility
The federated model allows the entire project team to access the information in real time. BIM
contextualizes information in a virtual copy of the building; the model represents physical, dimensional,
spatial information graphically in 3D. It references non-graphical information, specifications, standards,
tolerances, etc., within model elements.
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With this capability comes the need to establish proper sharing protocols, typically in a BIM Execution
Plan, so that the right information from the right source, gets into the right person’s hands at the right
time. This is why the Maturity Level, LOD and Dimensions need to be established pre-project, with the
right professionals assisting in both project setup, and defining the protocols in the BIM Execution Plan.
Information quality
BIM federates or combines all the project “The energy model will only be as good as the data input,
participants’ expertise into the model, and as accurate as the assumptions are reasonable and
providing the team with the best available realistic—garbage in, garbage out.”
information in the digital model for tasks,
coordination and analysis. The risk of poor ~ Building envelope & energy expert
quality, or incomplete information adversely
impacting the project (e.g., for take-offs, modelling and analysis) is reduced. However, the earlier that
project participants get involved, and with a concise BIM Execution Plan that clearly allocates information
accountability, the better informed the project team will be for the building project. The BIM Execution
Plan still requires a communication plan to ensure accurate information from the appropriate team
member reaches the group at the right time, and that an accessible communication platform ensures
information accessibility. A BIM Communications Plan also yields information continuity, minimizing the
time needed for each of the project team members to become familiar with overall project progress
(Figure 9).
Figure 9: The BIM knowledge creation curve compared to traditional practice

(Adapted from 2017, “Crossrail BIM Principles”11)
Digital collaboration
Digital collaboration allows the entire supply chain to participate collectively, using various software tools
and applications to visualize, access and assess project information through the secure CDE. The
contents of the CDE are not limited to assets created in a BIM environment; the CDE also includes
documentation, graphical models and non-graphical assets. It provides a single source of information that
can be used to collect, manage and disseminate all relevant approved project documents and assets.
11Source: “Crossrail BIM Principles” – available at: https://learninglegacy.crossrail.co.uk/wp-

content/uploads/2017/02/12F-002-03_Crossrail-BIM-Principles_CR-XRL-Z3-RGN-CR001-50005-Revision-5.0.pdf
15
Practices and standards for information management
BIM’s demand for deliberate information management can be quite overwhelming for those new to BIM. Retaining
a BIM consultant for this purpose may be important for a team’s first BIM project. A few examples of practices and
standards for guidance:
BS 1192-4:2014 Collaborative production of information:

https://www.thenbs.com/PublicationIndex/documents/details?Pub=BSI&DocId=307854
NBS BIM Toolkit:

https://toolkit.thenbs.com/
3.2 Decision-making
BIM provides the required depth and breadth of information to facilitate collaborative, decisive decision-
making by defining the necessary Maturity Level, Level of Development and Dimensions of BIM
(described in Chapter 2) and providing access and timeliness of data and information through a CDE.
Information freedom
The digital model is the mode of information exchange. It offers the potential for any member of the
project team to see (and potentially interact with) all aspects of the model. While unlimited access and the
free flow of information have many advantages, agreements, procedures and protocols need to be in
place in the BIM Execution Plan, as well as the Model Management Plan (see Chapter 4) to ensure the
model is not cumbersome or confusing. Particularly, project teams need to set procedures on how to
handle, use and collaborate with in-progress or under-development information to ensure shared
information is useful, and to avoid misunderstandings.
“IP concerns [copying, reproduction, etc.] should not really be a big issue: details, documents, etc. are already
available across project teams, planners, etc. Terms that manage IP today can likely be updated to cover digital
BIM assets as well.”
~ Architect
Decision processes
The availability, speed and quality of information offered by BIM requires an owner and project team that
can operate at the same tempo to take advantage of BIM’s decision-making capabilities. Collaborative
strategies (such as Lean Planning Methods 12) can help break down barriers to information exchange and
decision-making. However, teams can execute BIM without strict policies, although it takes a significant
level of trust and a teamwide commitment to put the best interests of the project first. A clear
communication plan and platform helps ensure constructive and timely collaboration properly supports
the decision-making process.
BIM-supported workflows can not only manage the relevance, timeliness and accuracy of information
sharing so the right information goes to the right person at the right time, it can also help prioritize tasks,
thereby reducing the potential for distractions, “paralysis by analysis”, or wasted effort.
12More information about Lean can be found at the Lean Construction Institute website, administered by the
Canadian Construction Association: https://www.cca-acc.com/best-practices-resources/lcic
16
“BIM for decision-making is currently limited due to fear of sharing information and liability—paradoxically,
withholding or ignoring information is actually riskier and increases legal exposure.”
~ General contractor
3.3 Digital project delivery

“Using Revit, we were able to build the building the first time virtually—with limited budget and effort impact and
no actual risk. This allowed us to build the project for real the second time with more foresight and a lot more
confidence.”
~ Site manager
BIM as a digital twin of the project is ideally suited for Virtual Design and Construction (VDC). VDC is the
method of creating a construction project virtually before doing it in the real world. VDC allows the general
contractor to virtually “shake out” performance, constructability and coordination before physical
construction starts—where people, material and equipment are hired, purchased and mobilized. Where
BIM and VDC integration provides a significant advantage for advanced wood buildings is through
leveraging BIM’s integrated model, for coordination, sequencing, and fabrication and construction. These
are discussed below.
“BIM lets us build virtually. It offers true integrative design and life cycle analysis, as well as construction planning
and sequencing—all without handling physical materials. From simulating in-service buildings to rehearsing
construction operations, the BIM is a risk and uncertainty management tool: what is designed, can be built, and
will ultimately work.”
Coordination
The digital model helps coordinate the work during design and construction. With the right practices
agreed upon and adhered to in the BIM Execution Plan, BIM can relieve much of the burden of paperwork
and reduce errors associated with traditional project administration. BIM helps the team to identify
downstream issues and challenges early, to resolve them before they become a problem. For example,
BIM, as a single source of updated information, supplements (or replaces) the hard copies and Change
Order documents that are often confusing or misplaced during construction.
BIM Project feasibility tools

Scottish Futures Trust BIM adoption tools help owners and project managers with BIM project feasibility for public
projects over £2 million.
More information available at: https://bimportal.scottishfuturestrust.org.uk/
17
“BIM is well-known to be a useful tool for design coordination, but where it can yield significant benefit is in the
integration of construction, building operation and asset management. 4D (time), 5D (building) and 7D
(operational) information during design, as defined in the BIM Plan, informs the design team’s “design intent”,
ensuring these critical downstream requirements are accounted for and designed into the building. This also
highlights the importance of collaborative frameworks, including those traditionally left out: occupant
representatives, FM staff, etc., that can help set building requirements, and check them over the process of
design.”
~ Project manager
Sequencing
3D, 4D and 5D dimensions are used for the virtual sequencing or virtual build of the project. This is
particularly important when coordinating with the off-site construction processes and transporting and
installing the prefabricated wood elements—each of which needs to be identified and tagged so the right
piece goes in the right place. VDC planning can help the project team realize the benefits of “Just in
Time” delivery (minimizing wait times, reducing the need for on-site storage, decreasing potential for
damage, etc.). Builders who are experienced with off-site constructed wood structural systems, may
conduct numerous virtual builds ahead of the final erection program to rehearse each construction task
before they get on-site, where errors, assumptions and re-work can have significant cost, schedule and
safety implications.
“Information continuity—that “golden thread” of information from design through to execution—is perhaps the
most under-rated but critical factor of success on a building project: you can’t react to what you don’t know. Along
with the right project delivery model, BIM is one of the best tools to support information continuity on a project
from start to finish.”
Fabrication and construction
BIM is the cornerstone of Designing for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA). DfMA leverages BIM —and
the collaboration, coordination and detailed information inherent with higher Maturity Levels and LOD—to
directly input element information (beams, panels, etc.) into manufacturing software to instruct fabrication
equipment. This can eliminate communication and coordination errors between design and fabricator,
reduce or eliminate shop drawings, and fabricate components precisely.
“Today, BIM is capable of accuracy far beyond the construction capabilities of the AEC industry. The limiting
factor is common practice: we use powerful computer programs to produce ‘dumb’ paper construction drawings
rather than computer-aided manufacturing.”
~ DfMA expert
As BIM unlocks the benefits of off-site construction, the lines between design, fabrication and on-site
assembly begin to blur. Indeed, BIM is starting to open the door for DfMA for buildings —a design
approach commonly associated with the mass-production of consumer goods and vehicles. While some
manufacturers have developed BIM “objects” of their products for insertion into the model for take-offs
and sizing (there are numerous aggregated libraries available), the shift to full DfMA using BIM is not yet
18
mainstream. DfMA requires a shift in mindset for designers as it puts questions of manufacturing and
assembly at the front end of the design discourse. While DfMA has huge potential benefits for the
industry, it requires designers who are well-trained in manufacturing processes, constraints, parameters,
assembly sequences and scheduling, and on-site logistics to implement successfully—and includes close
collaboration and coordination with manufacturing and fabrication specialists (engineers, trades, machine
operators, etc.).
“BIM streamlines the structural and fabrication design, eliminating design duplication, and minimizes
downstream construction errors while improving build quality—saving time, money and headaches.”
~ Supplier
There are numerous systemic barriers to the adoption of DfMA such as lack of capacity, contractual
conflicts and prevailing industry culture13. However, the emerging wood systems (such as mass timber)
and the advanced technology used in manufacturing plants are starting to force change with several
manufacturers pushing for access to the digital model from which to fabricate the components. For
example, using advanced digital tools, companies such as Intelligent City in British Columbia are finding
ways to simplify the design of a building product, assembly or whole building, so it is possible to
manufacture and assemble it more efficiently, in the minimum time and at a lower cost.
Building Transformations —a nationwide community of practice and a complete online resource for
owners, consultants, contractors and the construction supply chain
Building Transformations (formerly CanBIM) is a not-for-profit organization that serves as a national voice on all
aspects of digital construction. It is a community of practice that convenes events, symposia and online webinars
looking at how digital project delivery impacts how firms procure, design, construct, and operate today’s built
environment from pre-design to building operations. There are pre-recorded sessions from industry leaders that
offer instruction and insights in digital transformation in the construction industry, covering a range of
stakeholders and project phases, and using real-world examples.
https://www.canbim.com
13Sheryl Staub-French, Erik A. Poirier, Francisco Calderon, Imen Chikhi, Puyan Zadeh, Divyarajsinh Chudasma,
Shitian Huang, “Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) for Mass
Timber Construction” (2018) www.naturallywood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/bim-dfma-for-mass-timber-
construction_report_bim-topics-research-lab.pdf
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Working at the intersection of planning and manufacturing —Intelligent City’s Approach to BIM
and DfMA
Monad Granville Project (images courtesy Intelligent City)
Vancouver-based Intelligent City (https://intelligent-city.com) has developed a highly integrated one-stop solution
to design and pre-fabricate sustainable, net-zero, multi-family urban green buildings at better quality and lower
costs for owners, operators, and tenants. The company’s Platforms for Life (P4L) solution incorporates mass
timber, design engineering, Passive House performance, automated manufacturing, and proprietary parametric
software. Because of this high level of integration, Intelligent City has developed a workflow that converges typical
BIM planning and DfMA principles.
While typical BIM serves the purpose of sharing 3D models between project team members, the levels of
development required for fabrication or construction is usually added by contractors or manufacturers at a later
stage when feedback on design is expensive, and sometimes impossible, to incorporate. Intelligent City’s
approach is quite the opposite. Their mass timber building components and systems were developed with
manufacturing possibilities and constraints in mind. From the outset, the team established integrated processes
for design, engineering, software development, building systems development and manufacturing automation,
ensuring that each part is calibrated to work efficiently within their technology ecosystem. As a result, sets of
parametric rules are defined, with which an infinite variety of building designs can be realized—all of which are
guaranteed to be producible.
By developing a building system based on manufacturing principles, Intelligent City has also created a design
system as a digital tool. Instead of adding manufacturing information to a BIM model, the company works with
highly informed digital models from the beginning. Manufacturing information such as shop drawings, computer
numerical control (CNC) or robot code is stored as meta data. This allows BIM models to be shared with different
levels of information based on the type of collaboration with consultants, trades, and contractors. This approach
allows detailed quantity extraction and accurate costing at the earliest stages of design.
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3.4 Software tools
The BIM software landscape is developing quickly and there are “The architecture, engineering and
many tools that lend themselves to wood building projects. On construction industry often get
the following pages, a series of figures lay out the ecosystems of seduced by the power of digital tools.
software from a snapshot of the global universe down For example, demanding a 100%
clash-free model is unrealistic: a
to an illustrative Technology Stack suitable for a wood building in
virtual model is not the real thing. The
Canada. Figure 10 presents a constellation of software tools and
project team must set priorities and
technologies developed by Jens Voshage that demonstrates the applying BIM tools strategically where
breadth and depth possible with BIM across the design, it can provide a project (and building
construction and operations supply chain. Voshage has owner) the most benefit.”
experience both with CREE14, a EU-based pioneer in the
development of turnkey, digital delivery of hybrid mass timber
~ Senior BIM technologist
technology for high-rise projects, as well as an BIM instructor
with British Columbia Institute of Technology.
Figure 11 lays out the range of software tools in use in Canada for delivering wood buildings roughly
organized by LOD, BIM Maturity level and/or applicable project phase. It is important to note that the
technologies used by project teams may vary based on the owner’s requirements, the project team’s
methods and means of delivering the building project, cost, expertise and other factors. Figure 12 offers
insights from industry on the BIM software ecosystem as it applies to wood buildings in Canada.
To determine which tools would work best for a particular project, the software workflow should be
established pre-project, during development of the owner’s goals and project requirements and set out in
the BIM Execution Plan (see Chapter 4). Once the goals of using BIM have been established, it is
possible to set up the BIM software requirements. Lastly, mapping the project team’s software resources
helps to establish the necessary information exchange procedures. While some file exchanges may
require a few touch-ups to reconcile the data, other systems may require parts of, or the entire, model to
be re-built—a consideration for some proprietary VDC systems.
A plan to manage the practical aspects of information exchange and software interoperability needs to be
developed at the time that the software systems are being selected for the project, including compatibility
or project administrative requirements for the different software being deployed. Typically, this is done in
a BIM Execution Plan. For wood projects, this means that that the structural engineer, suppliers and
specialist fabricators all need to be involved in the project as early as possible, as they have critical
software requirements, workflows and information exchanges that need to be set up to lead to early
execution of off-site fabrication, and rapid on-site erection.
“BIM has gained a solid place among consultants and is used every day by most firms. And the specialization
in wood construction is the movement from the digital world to the physical world undertaken by CNC
interfaces and “Industry 4.0” assembly systems.
The integration of software suites with manufacturing is where I believe we will see the largest changes in the
next few years, which will have the biggest downstream affect on the built environment. Software “bridges” are
the backbones that make this movement possible and will need to be further developed and scrutinized to fully
realize the advantages offered by manufacturing and assembly technology.”
~ BC-based mass timber supplier and fabricator
14 www.creebuildings.com
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Figure 10: BIM software ecosystem for wood buildings
(Image source: Jens Voshage)
22
Figure 11: BIM software ecosystem for wood buildings in Canada
23
Figure 12: Insights from interviewees on the BIM software ecosystem arranged by lifecycle stage
Distilled from the range of software options presented in Figure 11, Figure 13 presents a simplified
flowchart of software tools that BIM practitioners working on advanced wood projects are using today.
Brief introductions to each software application are provided in Appendix A3.
Figure 13: Illustrative BIM software workflow suitable for wood buildings
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3.5 Putting it all together, the BIM workflow
Building on Figure 13, the workflow diagram in Figure 14 sets out the steps in delivering a project using
BIM and highlights the additional considerations when working with advanced wood projects, from
inception to hand-over. It contextualises the BIM tasks with the project program highlighting how the
digital model and information development proceeds in lockstep to the design and construction of the
building.
BIM Workflow Advanced Wood Building Project Workflow
A. Project Conception 1. Project Setup: Owner Ambition

Establish the owner’s goals and building requirements Consider the structural wood systems
Programming, site constraints, use, size, etc. Determine the level of off-site fabrication
Articulate BIM performance requirements Establish the project's key success factors
What does the owner need from BIM?
Define and ask for BIM
How does the owner ask for BIM from the project team?
Establish the need, team, Maturity Level, LOD and important Dimensions
Recruit the Project Team 2. Project Setup: Feasibility

Core consultants, contractor, key trades and suppliers Set the owner's ambitions
Establish the overarching project requirements
B. Designing the BIM Project Advise on the budget, schedule, etc.
Project planning
The project team aligns their BIM approach to the owner's goals and requirements
BIM execution planning
BIM Execution Plan documents the need, team, Maturity Level,
LOD and important Dimensions
BIM performance requirements describe what does BIM need to accomplish
Technical requirements
The BIM Implementation Plan sets out the technology and capacity the team needs
The Implementation Plan also describes the software requirements
(versions, exchange formats, etc.)
C. Implementing the BIM Execution Plan 3. Design, Conceptual

Project team integration and implementation of the BIM Execution Plan Select and design the primary wood structure
Mapping high-level BIM workflows Design the building systems and envelope
Deliver the building project as set out in the BIM Execution Plan Set off/on-site scopes of work
Define on / off-site scopes of work 4. Design, Detailed

Recruitment / Tender - Project Delivery Team Determine level of BIM-assisted coordination
Set commitment to Virtual Design & Construction (VDC)
Verify construction outcomes
On-board the full project team
Mobilize for off-site scope of work 5. Fabrication: Wood and Systems

Accelerate the schedule via off-site construction (wood
structure, envelope, mechanical systems. etc.)
Mobilize for on-site scope of work 6. Construction: On-site

Prefabricated elements are delivered "just in time"
BIM / VDC assisted site assembly
Accelerate the timeline to interior fit-out
D. BIM / AIM Hand-over 7. Building hand-over

Facility management and maintenance Realise improved productivity and efficiency
Project record model Provide value to owner via reliable budget and schedule
Lifecycle planning Deliver low-carbon wood building
Figure 14: BIM project workflow illustrating adaptations and considerations for advanced wood projects
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Revit-based software workflow example
A Revit file and Use Guide is provided with this document to demonstrate how Revit can be used to
design and deliver wood buildings. Using a series of best-practice details for a selection of innovative
wood buildings, it demonstrates Revit-based Levels of development and how information can be
embedded to support collaborative design development and project delivery. It also provides a
tangible example of how files can be used to pull information from the BIM to accomplish carbon
calculation or cost analysis for the project team to assess and make decisions on a low-carbon, wood
building project. The workflow demonstrated in the guide demonstrates the multi-software workflow
that is commonly utilized today to accomplish a range of task. This workflow can have utility for owner,
consultants, construction managers / general contractors, as well as wood suppliers and fabricators.
The files are available on canbim.com:
PDF file: BIM Parametric Detail Users' Guide

Revit 2021 file: BIM Parametric Revit Details
Sample detail
26
Practical digital tools for timber—Offsite Wood
Wood-specific digital tools are starting to become available. In 2021, the Quebec Wood Export Bureau
launched Offsite Wood which offers a library of structural wood product families - glulam post and
beam, mass timber floor assemblies, and custom enclosure systems - as a free BIM plugin for Revit.
The details, models and objects have been developed for several Quebec-based manufacturers and
include the dimensions, fire resistance, sustainability profile, life-cycle data, Environmental Product
Declarations, and product families.
For more information, visit: https://offsitewood.org
27
UBC Brock Commons Tallwood House: mass timber project software workflow
Precise integration of services with mass timber structure (source: CADMakers)
BIM VDC application: Experimental Tall Wood Student Residence

Key BIM Team: Fast & Epp (prime), Structurlam (mass timber supplier), CADMakers (VDC Integrator), Acton
Ostry Architects, Urban One Builders, Stantec.
CADmakers (www.cadmakers.com) manage the BIM through design, fabrication and construction, to ensure the
BIM yielded what was needed, and that the wide range of software preferred by the project team would be
federated and leveraged in a useful way, such as with the highly successful virtual sequencing of the mass timber
kit of parts. For example, the suite of software used by the team included:
• 3DEXPEREINCE, Dassault Systèmes

• AutoCAD, Autodesk
• Cadwork, Cadwork informatik AG
• Cambium, Hundegger
• CATIA, Dassault Systèmes
• RFEM and ETABS, Dlubal
• SketchUp, Trimble
• VectorWorks, Nemetschek
Specific team members may have also utilized more than one program: for example, Structurlam utilized
Cadwork and Cambium for mass timber modeling and fabrication, and utilized CATIA for 4D construction with
CADMakers, the VDC Integrator on the project.
More details available at www.naturallywood.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/brock-commons-design-

modelling_case-study_naturallywood.pdf
28
Chapter 4: How do I set up a BIM project?
Recommended for: Consultants, contractors, owners and policymakers
Summary ▪ BIM’s success starts with proper setup of the building project to
leverage BIM throughout project delivery from design to operations.
▪ The BIM Execution Plan provides the critical framework for BIM,
aligning the team’s roles, responsibilities and activities.
▪ One of the largest shifts that BIM projects require is the extent of owner
involvement. For an owner’s first BIM project, a BIM consultant can act
as the owner’s representative to guide the process.
This Chapter looks at how to organize the team members to deliver a BIM project effectively. To
understand the roles and responsibilities of the project team members when embarking on a BIM project,
it can be useful to take a high-level view of the three key perspectives or layers as to how projects are set
up and managed.
1. Project sponsorship layer – The owner or project sponsor.

2. Project management layer – The prime and key consultants, contractor and/or project
manager.
3. Project delivery layer – The project team, all other consultants, trades and suppliers.
Each layer has its own set of work practices. PAS 1192-2 (British Standards Institute, 2013) provides a
helpful outline of core BIM related activities from this high-level view (Figure 15). The activities are
corroborated by practitioners in Canada and discussed in more detail on the next page.
“Projects often haphazardly adopt BIM, leading to “BIM for the sake of BIM”. BIM is setup for success at the
start of a project: aligning BIM requirements to the project’s goals and getting the team on-board to leverage
BIM to successfully deliver a client’s building.”
~ Engineering firm BIM specialist
29
Figure 15: Outline of core BIM related activities in PAS 1192-2 (British Standards Institute, 2013)
(Sourced from RICS “Building Information Modelling for Project Managers”, 2017)
4.1 Getting ready for the first BIM project

Regardless of discipline or company size, industry leaders agree that BIM will touch all aspects of the
business—from how new business is won through to project execution. There are management
considerations at the organizational level, the project team level and the individual level, as discussed
below.
Organizational Level: Creating a BIM culture
Managers must strategically choose which technological changes to embrace, given the constrained
bandwidth for absorbing organizational change. This is particularly true for architecture, engineering and
construction firms working with wood in Canada. Most firms are small with extremely limited technology
budgets; organizational structures tend to be flat, organic, and it is not uncommon for roles to be ill-
defined, with staff doing more than one job.
30
The biggest barriers to BIM adoption are a rigid corporate culture and lack of buy-in at the leadership
level. There is no doubt the transition to BIM will have its challenges, but the long-term benefits can be
significant.
Project Team Level: Establishing a framework for collaboration
To realize the advantage of sharing mission-critical information for effective decision-making means not
prioritizing one team member’s needs above any other and having the right people in the room early on
with a clear understanding (and agreement) of how the team structure and dynamic will work.
Traditional project delivery methods, such as Design-Bid-Build or competitive bidding, tend to create
internal competition within the team and may place undue emphasis on the opinions of one team member
over others, potentially jeopardizing the best interests of the project. This is largely due to how the roles
and responsibilities are established and, most significantly, how risk is apportioned. Experienced industry
professionals suggest that project teams contemplating their first BIM project consider the form of
contract/project delivery method, legal requirements surrounding information management and protection,
and setting up a Team Charter. BIM technical and software requirements must also be set up with team-
wise collaboration foremost in mind.
Individual Level: Technical readiness and fluency
BIM’s information and data organizational capabilities are enabled by powerful software: in Canada, the
most used is Autodesk’s Revit Building Suite. However, to unlock this potential, individual project team
members need to be competent in its use. At this time, training for Revit is focused on design application
and training programs, which are available at most local technical colleges and through specialized BIM
consultancies; a good deal of training is also available through software resellers and eLearning
platforms. However, the technical depth and focus of these courses may be more than is necessary for
owners, and/or misaligned with the needs of contractors or trades. Communities of practice are emerging,
coalesced by organizations such as Building Transformations that represent industry leaders from a wide
range of disciplines. Currently, specialized training on BIM/VDC for wood projects is being developed in
partnership with qualified BIM consultants. Specialty wood suppliers and fabricators are developing in-
house expertise with specialty VDC and DfMA software that plugs into the digital model, with training
support from software resellers.
“Using items from existing BIM libraries can be very convenient - but putting materials/products into BIM
libraries takes time and money. Consequently, the newest and most innovative products/materials can
potentially not be found in any library. Hence BIM projects need a motivated team to make sure the information
is truly up-to-date.”
~ BC-based mass timber expert
31
Figure 16: Quotes summarizing the practical suggestions gathered from interviews with industry leaders for
architecture, engineering or construction companies contemplating their first BIM project
32
4.2 Project sponsorship – the owner’s role
Set the project goals and requirements
The successful BIM project starts with the end in mind and with a clear understanding of the value
proposition of a digitally delivered project. The project goals and requirements need to be hard-wired into
the Requests for Proposal (RFP), contracts and terms of service for the key consultants, contractor and,
potentially, key suppliers and trades that will make up the project management team (see Chapter 2 on
how to ask for BIM). BIM’s potential for life cycle planning will require a more intensive and potentially
broader stakeholder consultation, including leasing and operations staff.
BSI – Little Book of BIM

To help orient decision-makers and get senior-level buy-
in, the UK-based BSI put out a helpful “Little book of
BIM” in 2021. It serves as a quick reference to some of
the key terms which are commonly used in describing
BIM and its related processes, as well as links to the key
standards. Available for download at:
www.bsigroup.com/en-CA/building-information-
modeling-bim/bim-design-construction/little-book-of-
bim/thank-you-little-book-2021-ga-03ri
Articulate BIM performance requirements: what does the owner need from BIM?
The owner defines and aligns goals and building requirements to the digital model’s performance
requirements. This ensures the project team joins the project with a full understanding of the capabilities
and resources they need to have available. Figure 17 sets out the key topics the owner’s BIM
requirements should cover for wood buildings utilizing off-site prefabrication.
Defining the wood building project’s conceptual off-site, on-site and building performance goals need not
be technical or complex; goals and requirements need to be clear for the design and construction
professionals to relate to BIM uses. However, it is a significant advantage if the owner can, at a minimum,
understand Maturity Level, LOD and Dimensions.
33
BIM Project Organization
Owner Wood and Steel Suppliers Tenants

Architect and Fabricators Leasing Staff
Construction Manager/ Envelope Trade Property Manager
General Contractor
Structural Engineer
Envelope Consultant
Goals Use, form & size target Relevant Management Owner to designate and
Net-zero carbon life cycle Team members to coordinate – per the building
performance goal designate, recommend tenant and operational
recruitment and coordinate requirements – net-zero
Budget & timeline target
for wood off-site construction service life, wood building
Wood off-site construction operations
Extent of Pre-design to hand-over Early design to hand-over Pre-design, consultation,
Involvement design to hand-over
Project Goal Sets goals and building Advises design, fabrication Consult during goals and
Setting & Plan requirements and construction building requirements
development
BIM Planning & BIM Planning Follows and advises BIM Consulted during BIM
Utilization Sets and leads BIM Plan Plan Planning (as required)
Virtual Design & Full BIM Workflow, full project Integrated BIM Workflow, Not typically required
Construction coordination and collaboration scope of work coordination
and collaboration
Information Full exchange of project-critical Supports scope-related Provide project-critical
sharing information exchange of project-critical information as needed
information
Figure 17: Example of owner’s BIM requirements for wood buildings utilizing off-site prefabrication
Define how BIM is to be used for designing and building advanced wood systems
In addition to the owner’s typical RFP practices and stating the BIM goals, the owner must clearly state
their desired ambitions relating to the advanced wood technologies and off-site construction processes (if
applicable), using the BIM parameters described in Chapter 2:
▪ BIM Level: Advanced Wood Building Management Teams require Maturity Level 3 to successfully
federate the digital model for off-site fabrication, and Virtual Design and Construction that
supports speedy, safe site erection.
▪ LOD: Higher LOD for wood and carbon performance provides the depth and breadth of
information needed to design the primary wood structure, energy and envelope performance, and
coordinate on-site construction with the off-site fabricated elements.
▪ Dimension: 4D (time), 5D (cost) and 6D (performance) are dimensions that align with advanced
wood buildings leveraging off-site construction, providing critical insight of the downstream impact
on construction and final building performance.
▪ Other BIM considerations: Contract type for collaboration, agreements managing information and
data sharing (privacy, security, etc.) and owner-side technology requirements.
Recruit the advanced wood building team
34
Specialists may be required when contemplating a wood project that proposes to use innovative
technology and/or off-site construction methods. The core team may consist of the following, depending
on the owner’s ambition:
Owner Wood Suppliers and Fabricators

Architect Steel Specialty Suppliers and Fabricators
Construction Manager/General Contractor Envelope Consultant
Structural Engineer Envelope Trade
4.3 The BIM Execution Plan

The project team validates and articulates the project goals in the technical requirements for BIM-
delivered design and construction. This requires the technical and professional expertise of the
management team because it is reliant on seamless integration of BIM and the design, construction and
operational outcomes. The consultants, engineers, general contractors and key trades and suppliers
need to understand, strategize, establish and agree to the scope of work that will deliver the owner’s
building.
This step is essential for ensuring efficient BIM project Organization for Collaboration
delivery. Only the necessary tasks and activities, and the
BIM requirements that support them, are rationalized, set BIM’s built-in requirement for collaboration can be
and agreed upon by the team. These requirements are supported by collaborative requirements in contracts
or project agreements. For organizational
then established in the BIM Execution Plan (or BIMx),
considerations, three key items need to be
which formalizes the mechanics of implementing BIM on
determined:
projects and how BIM’s performance will result in project
success. • Who collaborates: Who will need to be a
part of the collaborative effort and when,
Figure 18 provides an example of a BIM use matrix or for the project to be successfully delivered?
pick-list which the owner, with expertise from the project • How to collaborate: Which digital platform
management team, can use to set out the BIM functions. to use, and what will be the team
One example of a software tool that can help owners with practices?
this process is Plannerly15, which has developed a series • When to collaborate: Defining a schedule
of ISO 19650-compliant BIM planning templates. (See according to weekly model exchange and
next page for a description of the ISO 19650 standard.) project milestone dates.
15 Plannerly ISO 19650 templates page at: https://www.plannerly.com/what-is-iso-19650
35
Plan Design Construct Operate
Building maintenance
Programming X Design authoring Site utilization planning X
scheduling
Construction system Building system
X Site analysis X Design reviews X
design analysis
X 3D coordination X 3D coordination X Asset management
Space management/
Structural analysis X Digital fabrication
tracking
X Energy analysis 3D control and planning X Disaster planning
X Mechanical analysis X Record modeling Record modeling
X Electrical analysis
X Code validation
Phase planning Phase planning Phase planning Phase planning
X X
(4D modeling) (4D modeling) (4D modeling) (4D modeling)
X Cost estimation X Cost estimation X Cost estimation Cost estimation
Existing conditions Existing conditions Existing conditions Existing conditions
modeling modeling modeling modeling
Figure 18: Example BIM use matrix for owner’s project planning
The BIM Execution Plan is the tool that the project team uses to define and detail how BIM will be
employed by the entire project team, to satisfy the owner’s goals and building requirements for the
foreseeable service life of the building. The BIM Execution Plan can be as simple or complex as the
project requires. However, this is an important and usually substantial document that is intended to be
maintained by the project team (often the BIM leaders) throughout all phases of the project.
ISO 19650 organization and digitization of information about buildings and civil engineering works,
including building information modelling (BIM)
As the use of BIM grows, there is a need to create an international framework that allows the industry to work
together across projects and national borders. First published in 2018, the ISO 19650 standard series now has 5
parts and is the industry accepted standard for managing information over the whole life cycle of a built asset
using BIM.
The suite of ISO 19650 standards is available here: www.iso.org
The UK BIM Alliance has developed guidance documents for ISO 19650 that are available here:
https://www.ukbimalliance.org/information-management-according-to-bs-en-iso-19650/
BuildingSMART Canada leads the development of BIM standards in Canada and is developing a Canadian
Annex to ISO19650. https://buildingsmartcanada.ca
36
The BIM Execution Plan defines tasks, schedules Key Components of a BIM Project Execution Plan
and information requirements, designates BIM
leaders, and defines information exchanges such The following categories might be considered chapter
as the project technology infrastructure (project headings and need to be addressed within a typical
BIM Project Execution Plan (BIMx):
management software, shared file servers,
communications platform, etc.) that will ▪ Plan overview
complement the BIM process. Figure 19 presents ▪ Project information
a simplified BIM project execution planning ▪ Key project contacts
procedure. ▪ Project goals/BIM uses
▪ Organizational roles/staffing
▪ BIM process design
▪ BIM information exchange
▪ BIM and facility data requirements
▪ Collaboration procedures
▪ Quality control
▪ Technological infrastructure needs
▪ Model structure
▪ Project deliverables
Figure 19: Example BIM project execution planning procedure

adapted from PSU “BIM Project Execution Planning Guide”
37
The BIM Execution Plan runs BIM Project Execution Planning Guide
parallel to and in support of the
project. It is used to manage
information processing and
coordination, decision-making
and the production of the digital
model to deliver the building
project. The objective of the plan
is to eliminate uncertainty of what
to model, information
requirements, etc., and to ensure
BIM is only used where it
provides value to the building
project. While the BIM Execution Penn State University’s “BIM Project Execution Planning Guide, Version
3.0” is widely used to assist with the BIMx planning process. It provides
Plan can be extensive and
template worksheets, procedures and guidance on developing BIMx
detailed depending on the
Plans.
project, some of the key planning
elements documented in the Plan Available for free download at https://bim.psu.edu
include:
▪ BIM goals and use planning: The goals and building requirements developed during the
Management Team’s project planning is often developed into a list or matrix that aligns them to
relevant BIM deliverables, specific tasks, and the program(s) of choice that will be utilized. The
Management Team provides their expertise to define the required Levels, LOD and Dimensions
for the rest of the Project Team.
▪ BIM mapping and information exchange: Mapping of the BIM process designs (often as a flow
chart) the parallel BIM Plan: visually designating tasks, their responsible parties, tasks’ required
input/output and information exchange, and their deliverables at each phase of the building
project (see “Management and quality control planning”).
▪ Technological infrastructure: The mapping also allows the team to consider software
requirements and logistics, such as program versions, licenses and networking, as well as any
hardware requirements, such as project servers or databases, or ensuring the team has powerful
enough computers to work together.
▪ Common Data Environment (CDE): Centralised repository of information providing many
advantages in terms of collaboration, but it must also be set up considering some administrative
or logistical items, including:
• Where will the CDE “live”? In the cloud, at the architect’s server, or other?
• How does the team manage file versions, file naming and software compatibility?
What agreements are necessary to protect the data of the owner, and other participants,
without negatively affecting project tasks and activities?
▪ Management and quality control planning: Management planning details the who, what, when,
how and why of BIM project delivery. Model management, led by the BIM leaders, becomes
important as the design team acclimates to a BIM workflow. Effective management underpinned
by clear role assignment and reporting structure is required for the project team to ensure that the
model data remains coordinated, well-structured and efficient. Secondary benefits include
reduced errors, improved consistency between team members and gains in production efficiency.
▪ Communications: Communication planning is set by the project management team (with
feedback from the entire project team) and managed by the BIM leaders. The communication
plan and platform are practically inseparable from the BIM process; it ensures the information in
the BIM gets to the team effectively and in timely fashion.
38
▪ Implementation planning: To be set up correctly from the start to fully utilize BIM for wood, off-
site construction, the project team must be able to use BIM correctly for successful project
performance. The goal is for the project team to be fully aware and agree upon the BIM
capabilities, tasks and outputs at the time of recruitment.
The management team advises and supports the owner with developing the strategy to recruit
the project team, including recommending when and how to procure the necessary consultants,
trades and suppliers. This may include non-typical strategies such as design-assist and design-
build for trades and suppliers, or can be more traditional, procuring through public, competitive
tenders post-design phase; this is completely dependent on the owner and project management
team’s experience and judgement on best means and methods to achieve the project’s goals and
requirements.
Project team on-boarding and familiarization with the BIM Execution Plan
All members of the Project Delivery Team (all consultants,

“BIM planning is not just for BIM: it also acts
key trades and suppliers) can be procured or hired as as a pre-project rehearsal. The team can
necessary by the owner, but all should be familiar with the discuss, shake out and plan the project before
BIM Execution Plan, reviewing it regularly to maintain actual design and construction.”
cohesion between the Plan and project. This can include
BIM on-boarding or workshops as part of project start-up ~ Project manager
meetings.
Mapping high-level BIM workflows
Workflow planning, accomplished as part of BIM mapping and management planning, maps out the day-
to-day tasks of project participants, which can act as a work plan. The project sponsor and management
team work together to ensure the BIM Plan supports the tasks and activities that will deliver on the
owner’s goals and building requirements. The BIM Plan’s overlay of relationships, key information
exchanges and responsible parties, creates the parallel BIM workflow for all participants to follow from
project start to finish. Workflow mapping helps manage when and how project participants might (or might
not) participate in the BIM process, coordinating and optimizing productivity and project delivery efficiency
at the project level. Not every scope of work needs to be deeply and technically involved in the BIM; there
are three high-level workflows to consider (Figure 20).
The production workflow within the BIM environment and the information exchange necessary to support
it are quite different from traditional processes—necessitating deliberate communication planning
regardless of the specific BIM software employed. With BIM, more information is being exchanged, with
more project participants (including the owner, general contractor and key trades and suppliers), starting
at an earlier stage in the design process, lasting through to project hand-over if necessary.
39
Figure 20: High-level BIM workflow descriptions
Adhering to the BIM Execution Plan
Typically, any changes to the BIM Execution Pan as the project progresses must be agreed upon by the
project’s BIM Leaders. Any updates approved by the owner are shared with the applicable team members
and the BIM plan is updated to reflect the change. While a BIM project may have more people than is
typical involved, effective upfront planning, coordination of design and construction tasks, and proficiency
with BIM mean that the process can eliminate duplication of effort and reduce errors. The team’s efforts
are focussed on critical tasks leading to a tapering down of effort from the detail design stage onwards.
However, for this to work, the BIM Execution Plan must be managed and adhered to. The upfront effort to
plan, coordinate and streamline can be derailed if a consultant, contractor, trade or supplier breaks away
from the BIM Execution Plan and the BIM workflows. When this happens, the project reverts to traditional
project delivery and all the efficiency benefits are lost.
“In North America and Europe, high-performing project teams tend to work as if they belong to the same
organization—it’s likely not a coincidence that these teams are the most successful leveraging digital off-site
construction successfully for mass timber.”
~ Wood off-site construction expert
“BIM paired with off-side construction (DfMA) will fundamentally change the industry. From moving most
construction into fixed facilities with controlled environments, to equipping a shrinking workforce with digital tools
and new skills, very few professionals have learned to leverage this potential—yet.”
~ Wood off-site construction expert
40
4.4 Delivering a BIM project
BIM’s highly collaborative, accessible information does change project delivery on a day-to-day basis. It
can alter the owner-consultant-contractor relationships and open new opportunities, strategies and
tactics—even new business models. These are captured in the experiences of BIM practitioners in
Canada in Chapter 5.
While BIM can be utilized as an Asset Information Model (AIM), this is still quite unusual in Canada today.
Section 5.5, Operations and Asset Management, provides a description of how an AIM can be utilized by
the owner for operations and maintenance, as a project record model, and for life cycle planning of the
built asset.
From visualization to construction sequencing – digital project delivery solutions for 1 Lonsdale Avenue
in North Vancouver
BIM VDC Application: High-performance envelope details, construction coordination and sequencing
BIM Team: Hemsworth Architecture, Equilibrium Consulting, Naikoon Contracting Ltd.
Erected in just 10 days, 1 Lonsdale Avenue Commercial Building was built to rigorous Passive House design
standards to meet the owner’s energy efficiency and sustainability goals. Hemsworth Architecture, Equilibrium
Consulting and Naikoon Contracting Ltd. used BIM early in the design process to visualize and develop the
project design, optimize the structural system, then “virtually” build the project before the mass timber elements
arrived on site. A rendering of the project is on the far left and an image of the completed building is on the far
right.
More details available at www.naturallywood.com/project/1-lonsdale-avenue-commercial-building
41
Chapter 5: What are the keys to success in BIM delivery?
Recommended for: Design and construction professionals, suppliers, owners and project managers
Summary ▪ Insights from industry leaders offer practical lessons when using BIM for
each stage of project delivery (project setup, design construction, and
facility management and maintenance).
This guide has drawn on the advice of consultants, general contractors and trades who are working on
advanced wood projects using BIM. Their experiences with the project delivery process are summarized
in this chapter, from initial setup to facility management and maintenance. Even though BIM is an
evolving field in Canada and the approach to BIM may vary from practice to practice, these experienced
practitioners offer practical lessons from the field for those embarking on BIM for the first time, in the
context of designing and building with wood where possible. Each section sets out the keys to success
and the potential watchpoints, challenges and limitations.
5.1 Project setup

Keys to success Watchpoints
The right team at the right time BIM technical limitations

When BIM is well defined in RFPs, the early selection BIM are data rich, but the ability to utilize the
and hiring of consultants, the contractor, key trades information to the fullest potential can still be
and suppliers leads to more resolved designs earlier logistically difficult due to software limitations. BIM
that can significantly improve construction outcomes. programs are technically complex and require
Hiring a BIM consultant can help the owner to define hands-on use to become proficient. BIM adoption
the BIM goals and needs. may impose a steep learning curve on some
owners, consultants, contractors and suppliers.
Plan! Plan! Plan!
A successful BIM project takes more planning up Information liability
front. The BIM Execution Plan is where all the BIM BIM’s requirement for sharing information and
administrative information resides and allows the collaborative decision-making brings fears of
team to proactively discuss and agree upon liability arising from perceived loss of professional
information requirements, exchanges and processes control, or the potential misuse of information.
required for design and construction. These concerns are best addressed in agreements
as a team pre-project, to ensure everyone is
This can be a significant advantage compared to
comfortable before the project starts.
traditional project delivery because it helps the team
to manage expectations and alleviate uncertainties Intellectual Property (IP) concerns
before the project team fully mobilizes. The use of federated BIM can raise concerns about
Maximizing prefabrication and modular IP related to proprietary digital assets or processes.
Shared ownership of the BIM asset and
The decision to utilize off-site wood construction must
components typically requires IP to be defined in
be made at the start of the project. The benefits,
RFP documents and project contracts.
challenges and considerations of off-site construction
sets the tone for the entire project and must be set up Information Management (IM)
at the conception of a building project. The speed, IM is a critical part of BIM but is not typical in
cost and effort advantages may be significant. traditional projects. As project complexity increases
The specialty wood fabricator should be included as —higher levels of BIM Maturity and LOD—
part of the design team. The BIM Execution Plan organizing information in BIM can be
helps with coordination between structural design, off- overwhelming. A BIM Manager (or “champion”)
site construction and on-site construction (services, should be a designated role within the project team
site erection, etc.), often catching errors and conflicts tasked with managing the information framework.
early, minimizing the need for rework later. Another option is to have an external BIM
consultant act as the BIM manager.
42
priMED Mosaic Centre, Edmonton AB – fostering project resiliency through BIM collaboration
BIM VDC application: BIM design, construction & management under a Hanson Bridgett IPD Standard
Agreement
BIM Team: Cuku’s Nest Enterprises Ltd (owner), Manasc Isaacs Architects, Chandos Construction, Clark
Engineering, Manasc Isaac (Elec. Engineer), Fast & Epp
Completed in 2015, the Mosaic Centre is a high-performance office building that utilized an innovative hybrid
timber, steel and concrete structure. A key element of the combination of BIM within an IPD collaborative
framework is team resilience. During construction, an unexpected issue related to the design of a shear wall could
have resulted in an additional cost of $270,000. An impromptu meeting on-site found a solution that reduced the
cost to change the wall to $80,000 while meeting the structural requirements. Utilizing BIM under IPD, the team
developed a level of trust and a working relationship that solved difficult issues for the benefit of the project, while
balancing individual needs: the team later found enough savings elsewhere in the project to cover the outstanding
cost increase that could have become a cause for dispute.
More details available in the report Strategies for Collaborative Construction – Integrated Project Delivery Case
Studies
5.2 Design
Coordination and clash detection Information quality

BIM is a powerful tool for coordination and clash BIM’s information advantage is only as good as the
detection and, as software capabilities continue to quality of data. This is particularly important when
evolve, more of these tasks can be automated. BIM including time-sensitive data that might become
can also include visualization tools such as VR/AR or outdated quickly such as wood commodity material
“walk-throughs” that can catch issues the clash pricing data, carbon databases or in-services
detection process may not be looking for—such as for energy performance information.
critical envelope details. However, setting a goal of
Poor BIM etiquette leads to bad
100% clash-free is not desirable; it should be focused
on project-critical outcomes. experiences
Despite growing adoption in BIM software, the lack
Site and as-built integration of application of best practices and management
Laser scans of the site or as-built conditions provide protocols has resulted in disappointment and
highly precise information (e.g., point clouds) that can frustration. In the absence of industry accepted
be integrated into BIM to help in designing and standards (which are emerging), the quality of BIM
planning for renovations or retrofits—especially useful etiquette can be varied.
for phased projects.
43
Automating data integration Project cash flow needs to recognize

With appropriate plugins, BIM can automate upfront planning and setup time
information or data integration tasks. For example, The amount of upfront planning and setup time to
solar path data can parametrically design sun- leverage BIM’s advantages downstream are more
shading, instead of manual modelling—which can be than may be contemplated in a traditional project.
imprecise, prone to error, or be time-consuming. This means the cash flow requirements need to be
front-end loaded.
Communicating the design BIM exposes the design-construction gap

Buildings with complex systems (structure, services, The hand-off from design to construction can
etc.) benefit from having the complex elements expose significant coordination and communication
modelled to a high LOD for coordination and clarity. issues. The use of BIM in conjunction with
This allows the specialty trades, fabricators and collaborative project delivery frameworks (e.g.,
suppliers to view and navigate a 3D model to better IPD, Lean, etc.) can help to bridge this knowledge
understand their scope during tendering, resulting in a gap. Many of the specialty wood fabricators and
more accurate price. installers are BIM-capable and these approaches
help them to get involved in the design early.
Digital specifications
Specifications linked with the digital model add Using BIM for CAD
significant value as the central source of accurate
The BIM Plan must be set up and strictly followed
information, reducing risk of errors and
to support successful delivery of downstream tasks
miscommunication. Several software developers have
such as off-site construction or virtual design and
automated specification generation software that
construction. Today, where BIM is employed for
populates specifications based on model elements
wood projects, it is predominately used to produce
utilized within the digital model.
2D contract documents. These BIM do not have
Timely feedback to inform design the information, the precision or the configuration to
Being deliberate and disciplined with BIM can provide be fully leveraged for VDC. This is partially due to a
accurate, up-to-date information that can provide misunderstanding of BIM or not knowing off-site
instant feedback to the team. For example, energy construction requirements, such as fabricator’s
modelers can utilize BIM to start their simulations software, CNC equipment, etc. All have
early (and run more options) to usefully inform the requirements that must be incorporated into the
project design. BIM Execution Plan. Similarly, high-energy
performance, such as VDC-supported passive
Computational design house detailing, also need to be incorporated into
Computational design—BIM design utilizing the BIM Execution Plan to be successful.
parametric, formula-based constraints—is a powerful
method to assess, select and rationalize possible
solutions, as well as visually communicate the impact
on building design. During the early stages of the
project, the design team can utilize parametric
modeling and the computational power of the cloud to
simulate dynamic variables, analyze design scenarios
and develop best case options. As the design team
changes specific project variables, such as structural
requirements or design limitations, the model can
reflect the real-time impacts of the metrics in the
digital model.
44
Letting designers design again
BIM, and the digital workspace it supports, can shorten communication lines through team integration or
automation of calculation and simulation tasks. This can provide instant feedback, allowing for quicker iterative
design and analysis. However, the expertise to understand results or interpret the feedback is still required. Digital
tools can streamline design, but they do not eliminate the need for skilled technologists, trades, etc., rather
enhance their knowledge and expertise.
An article from 2020 describes one Archicad workflow that provides quicker, useful feedback to designers:
www.thomsonarchitecture.ca/2020/08/15/archicad-ecodesigner-and-passive-house/
BIM/VDC can unlock the scheduling advantages of a prefabricated mass wood structure
A unique feature of Brock Commons’ design and construction processes was the intensive use of virtual design
and construction (VDC) tools and methods. The schedule and performance advantages afforded by the precision
of advanced timber fabrication and modular elements—and unlocked using BIM and VDC—meant that the 18-
storey wood structure was complete less than 70 days after the prefabricated components arrived on site,
approximately four months faster than a typical project of this size.
Image sources: CadMakers (images of detailed model), naturallywood.com
The Brock Commons Construction Modelling Case Study is available at www.naturallywood.com/resource/brock-

commons-construction-modelling-case-study
5.3 Prefabrication and off-site construction

Quality and precision off- and on-site Control project schedule volatility
Using BIM, factory manufactured components Project schedule volatility needs to be controlled to
(including elements such as mass timber panels) can prevent coordination issues with fabrication
be made off-site with precise dimensions, timelines and the installation of prefabricated units.
configurations, fit, etc., that align with the model. BIM can help with scheduling to avoid unforeseen
BIM and VDC can also support the installation knock-on costs (rescheduling the crane, storage of
planning and process of prefabricated elements. This prefabricated elements, etc.) but the modelling
is particularly important for wood post and beam, CLT scope and protocols need to be established upfront
or modular systems, but extends to other scopes of and budgeted for.
work. For example, BIM virtual mock-ups and
sequencing can be invaluable for Passive House
envelope details, mechanical systems in tight service
rooms and planning for weather protection.
45
Multi-trade prefabrication Construction liability concerns
Most wood off-site construction offerings are single Modelling and manufacturing tolerances must be
trade processes. BIM unlocks the potential to coordinated in the BIM Plan and in specifications;
combine trades, whereby insulation, windows, today, BIM and CNC fabrication accuracy and
services, rainscreen and other elements can be precision exceeds human capabilities. However,
added off-site. This takes more coordination upfront some fabricators question the accuracy and clarity
than traditional projects but can dramatically improve of BIM for off-site construction given prevailing BIM
the time taken to enclose the building while protecting practices among some consultants of producing a
the wood structure from the weather. design model that is only capable of generating 2D
documents. Instead, what needs to be precisely
Designing for fabrication modelled and what does not, has to be agreed
Integrating the fabricator’s model into the project’s upon upfront.
BIM, ensures manufacturing constraints are
Prefabrication requires upfront effort
realistically included into project considerations.
Having the fabricator as an integral part of the BIM Prefabrication requires significantly more effort
team can allow them to assess aspects of the design upfront with a larger team, which changes the
that are suited for prefabrication as well as review project plan and cash flow requirements.
logistics, such as delivery or site requirements, and
help plan on-site erection. Consultants, trades and suppliers need more time
and effort to coordinate during the crucial design
Schedule and cost reliability phase, even with the help of BIM.
Amalgamating and setting structural and fabrication
design within BIM requires close, upfront coordination Software interoperability
between the structural engineer of record and the Software interoperability and workflow must be
fabrication supplier. Both need to be brought onto the discussed and defined in the BIM Execution Plan.
team during the design phase and allowed to The BIM software used for design is different from
collaborate freely and integrate their BIM to BIM for Fabrication and Construction. Revit is the
accomplish this. The current practice of modelling the leading BIM design platform but is not commonly
project twice for off-site construction—once by the used by fabricators, who prefer more structural-
structural engineer during design and again for specialized programs such as Solidworks or Tekla.
fabrication during construction (shop drawings)—is
costly, time consuming and error-prone. Minor design
issues can explode into significant construction
challenges.
46
oN5 four storey mass timber commercial building, Vancouver
BIM VDC application: High-performance envelope details, construction
coordination and sequencing
BIM Team: Hemsworth Architecture, Timber Engineering Inc., Naikoon
Contracting Ltd.
The design model was created in Vectorworks by Hemsworth
Architecture, then converted into a Solidworks structural model by
Timber Engineering Inc., forming the model for CNC fabrication of the
cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure and envelope panels.
The Passive House performance envelope details were developed
collaboratively within the Vectorworks model and fully finished offsite.
The model was re-built in Revit by Naikoon Contracting Ltd. to allow the
Rendering team to collaboratively plan and sequence site construction down to 15-
minute increments, while ensuring critical connection and envelope
details, safety and delivery on the tight urban site was completed
successfully. Several virtual builds were conducted to refine the
sequencing. Given the tight mid-block site, the panels were flown in from
the back of the delivery truck.The prefabricated structure and envelope
was erected in 13 days.
BIM Model For more infromation: www.naturallywood.com/project/on5-building/
Automated CLT production Virtual build Installation
47
5.4 Construction
Visualizing the work Keeping BIM updated during construction

BIM allows project stakeholders to visualize final Actively keeping the digital model up to date during
outcomes prior to construction. This extends to: construction can be time-consuming if not properly
▪ Reviewing digital versions of final built form, planned (fees, process, etc.). Software add-ons
based on submittals and alternates. help facilitate tracking and assigning
▪ 3D envelope details, steel to wood responsibilities when changes are made either
assemblies and connections. during the design phase or on-site, allowing the
▪ Linking to photos, 3D scans, etc., that can be project team to communicate and track changes so
used to monitor the work on-site. the model maintains similarity with the constructed
▪ Virtual replacement for shop drawings and building.
field mock-ups that can add fees and slow Today, 3D point cloud scans can be conducted on-
down progress. site, and compared with BIM for clash detection
▪ Producing model-based site instructions that during construction. This workflow provides the
can be incorporated into the record model for design team with accurate as-built conditions while
hand-over. concurrently progressing the building system
Augmented Reality (AR) powered by BIM brings coordination for ease of constructability. This can
computer-generated objects into the user’s physical be valuable when a tenant fit-out is occurring at the
environment, overlaying the digital model with the real same time as base building construction.
world. Using mobile applications, headsets, and other
Some trades may have limited BIM
smart devices, AR can superimpose digital objects
into the real world. AR is gaining popularity on capabilities
construction sites to aid in constructability. It can be While specialty mass timber trades and fabricators
used to track and document how projects are are generally well-versed in BIM, the overall
progressing and can even improve site safety where success of a BIM project relies on all key trades
AR devices (like glasses or mobile devices) can scan being able to participate. Most trade companies are
labels placed in specific areas or objects. small and BIM/VDC software can be expensive.
Designates within the project team can function as
Coordination and sequencing BIM support for those with limited capabilities—but
The federated BIM allows the team to rehearse the this can result in contractual/administrative
construction of the entire project starting with conflicts.
administrative requirements such as site organization, However, most cloud collaboration platforms have
staging, temporary works, crane deployment and scalable licensing according to the needs of the
safety planning. Allowing the project team to user. For example, a license for a project team
“populate” the construction model with the who, when member who only needs to view the model and
and how can improve project resilience (the ability to communicate with the project team costs less than
manage unforeseen situations) and predictability. 4D a fully featured license allowing a modeler to
BIM at its most detailed can become a step-by-step upload and manipulate the model. Additionally,
assembly program for key building elements—or the there are readily available free BIM viewers.
entire building.
A single source of truth
The federated model allows the builder to plan
construction from one centralized model of the
building, rather than extrapolating from a series of
separate drawings and specifications. The use of BIM
under a collaborative framework and with information
liability addressed, reduces the risk of information
getting lost in the hand-off from designer to builder.
48
Installation instructions
Some scopes of work can be coordinated during
design and used as installation instructions during
construction. For example, when mechanical
engineers and trades collaborate in the digital model
during design, the equipment layout, runs and
mounting can all be “pre-coordinated” with structural,
code requirements, etc. This results in an efficiently
laid out system that can be installed quicker and with
fewer conflicts. This is useful in mass timber buildings
where the wood ceilings and services remain
exposed.
Tekla – Bjergsted Financial Park, Stavanger, Norway
BIM VDC application: Interdisciplinary, mass timber design, fabrication and construction
Key BIM Team: Degree of Freedom (Structural Engineer), Helen & Hard and Saaha (Architect), Creation Holz
(mass timber technical support) Moelven Limtre AS (mass timber fabricator)
Retaining key project team members early and adopting BIM collaboration, the team designed the CLT and LVL
structure with the help of Tekla, creating a 3D model detailed enough to allow fabrication without additional shop
drawings beyond the BIM.
Tekla notes:
“It is very important to highlight that the BIM model from designers is used directly by the timber fabricator,
translated into their own software, and later used for the CNC machine at the factory. There are no additional
form/shop drawings, as everything is detailed in 3D.”
More information available from Tekla: www.tekla.com/bim-awards/finansparken-bjergsted
49
BIM for construction: Trades are critical BIM team members
At a minimum, contractors,
trades and suppliers should be
comfortable with navigating and
pulling information from the BIM,
and updating information as the
project progresses, for mass
timber on-site construction
(OSC) to be successful.
However, for teams to fully

benefit from wood OSC, trades
will need BIM skills and be a
part of BIM delivery. For
example, in B.C., Johannes
Schneider and Olav
Felgendreher (Pacific
Timberworks) combine
expertise in both engineering
and carpentry, using BIM as an
extension of their experience to
support numerous successful
mass timber projects in Canada.
Connecting design teams with

trades who have both field
experience and the technical
competencies to help design
practical connection and
envelope details, incorporate
site assembly considerations
and coordinate with other
trades, is critical to ensure a
prefabricated building design
SketchUp digital envelope "mock-up". can be built efficiently, quickly
Image courtesy Pacific Timberworks and safely.
Traditional design and construction silos in Canada will need to be significantly disrupted to unlock the
advantages and benefits of wood OSC. The trades have traditionally been the most isolated from the design
phase—yet, they have the experience and know-how critical to ensuring what is designed can be built.
5.5 Operations and asset management

The use of BIM for facility management and operations and maintenance (FM & O&M) is the key value
proposition for owners. It is developed from the start to serve as a long-term business and operational
planning tool. However, the use of BIM for FM & O&M is at the earliest stages of adoption in Canada—
particularly when it comes to wood buildings. The adoption of BIM, so far, has primarily been driven by
the efficiencies afforded to the design process. The industry practitioners interviewed for this guide were
cautious about providing insights given they have little experience in this area. Many of the following
comments are based on professional opinion as opposed to track record.
50
Commissioning and verification Discontinuous relationships

BIM has considerable utility for commissioning, BIM facilitates information continuity across a
especially with complex mechanical and electrical building asset’s life cycle if properly managed.
systems or for energy performance. Indeed, BIM However, leveraging BIM to manage information to
offers the opportunity for comprehensive and/or facilitate long-term building operations is hampered
focused simulation, delivering high-quality information by the fact that the BIM champions are currently
for system optimization. within the design or construction team and most
building projects end after the warranty period.
Transitioning the PIM to the AIM needs to be
contemplated at the start of the project Operations and maintenance activities are
The BIM Project Information Model (PIM) can often under-resourced with limited digital
transition into the Asset Management Model (AIM) at or BIM utilization
hand-over if it is properly defined as part of the project With an increasing number of affordable and easy
requirements at the outset. It needs to be included in to use facility management (FM) platforms on the
the BIM Execution Plan and the model must be market, more building owners are expected to see
updated throughout the fabrication and construction the value of setting up Asset Information Models for
phase. The delivery of an AIM is rarely done for wood long-term FM. The pressures of sustainability and
buildings in Canada but as the shift towards controlling building operational and maintenance
prefabrication continues, it may become more costs means that digitization is gaining popularity.
common.
Traditionally, O&M plans have been triage-driven
The transition from PIM to AIM can be more involved (fixing things when they break instead of scheduled
than traditional turn-over (ideally requiring LOD 500, maintenance), often relying on low-bid contractors
6D-8D information). However, an as-built model can with limited understanding of the asset they are
still be provided and provide for building operations retained to manage. The operations and FM
regardless of the LOD, depending on the client and process for many buildings is one of the last
project demands. sectors of the real estate industry to make the shift
Digital Twin for facility management from analog to digital processes.
Depending on the level of digital expertise of the
facility management staff, the digital model can be
used as a digital twin of the completed building for the
purpose of optimization, monitoring, performance
tracking and troubleshooting. If kept up to date, the
model can also facilitate renovations or repurposing
as well as end of life decommissioning, providing
information about assemblies, equipment and
materials. It can even be used for deconstruction, and
for re-use, salvage and environmental concerns.
“BIM adoption by owners and owner operations and FM staff are rare. This can be a significant barrier to a key
benefit of BIM—using the digital twin as a means to operate, optimize and plan the building asset throughout its
full life cycle.”
~ Project manager
“Today, BIM’s data power is woefully under-utilized globally. Technical and regulatory challenges aside,
integrating shared databases, perhaps at the regional or provincial level, could make highly accurate climatic,
energy or cost modelling (to name a few) a 1-click operation.”
~ BIM specialist, Canadian engineering firm
51
UBC – Built Space Digital Twin
BIM and digital twin for FM and

O&M planning is about leveraging a
data-rich “copy” (BIM) of the
physical building asset. This can be
as simple as Code-marked
equipment and systems for
managing and planning for O&M
and can include fully integrated FM
software with Internet of things
devices, used to track and optimize
building performance—often in real-
time. For example, BuiltSpace is a
Canadian company that has
developed a Service Twin platform
to solve the “as-built” data
acquisition/verification challenge.
The system captures shared high-fidelity construction, materials, service workflow, equipment commissioning,
operational and asset condition data at the point of service. This submission describes digital construction,
commissioning, and hand-over of submetering assets by QMC Submetering Solutions.
More details available at www.builtspace.com
52
Looking ahead
The analog to digital shift in the construction industry is well underway. Investments in construction
technology are soaring and businesses of all sizes are looking for ways to get involved. The industry
practitioners interviewed for this guide recognize the opportunity to embrace digitization and
industrialization afforded by the evolution of advanced timber systems. Many are looking ahead and
thinking about future applications of BIM and the digital tools that enable efficient building design,
construction and operation.
Figure 21: Insights from interviews with industry leaders in Canada on the future of BIM
53
Appendices
A1. Survey of leading BIM practitioners
A key source of information for this guide was a survey of leading BIM practitioners who were selected
based on their experience in innovative and/or off-site wood construction projects. Additionally, insights
and advice gathered from the interviews are quoted throughout the guide.
Survey respondents
The survey was organized into two groups of BIM practitioners to capture perspectives from those at the
leading edge of BIM adoption (“pioneers”) and those who are interested in BIM but have only recently
embarked on their BIM journey (“fast followers”).
Pioneers Fast followers

• Are considered experts in BIM (have • Understand BIM and have some
completed at least one BIM project). experience with BIM in practice.
• Have a history of exploring and pushing • Have expressed interest in using BIM but
the limits on BIM—theoretical or in have not yet completed a BIM project.
practice.
The following professions were represented in both groups:

Architects Project Managers
Engineers General Contractors
Structural Wood & Mass Timber Suppliers
Mechanical Modular Building Supplier
Energy Researchers
Owner Representatives BIM Instructors
Industry professionals were invited in May and June 2021 by email to either participate in an in-depth
interview or to complete an online survey. 25 interviews were completed with 14 pioneers and 11 fast
followers. The online survey gathered 19 responses from 10 pioneers and 9 fast followers. 84 percent of
the respondents were based in British Columbia with the remaining 16 percent from across Canada.
54
A2. Resource lists
The following lists of software programs, platforms, apps and other resources were generated from the
survey of practitioners and organized in order of popularity. In the survey of leading BIM practitioners,
respondents identified applications that they used when working on wood projects.
Primary BIM programs
BIM Programs
Revit https://www.autodesk.ca/en/products/revit/overview
Sketchup https://www.sketchup.com/
Navisworks https://www.autodesk.ca/en/products/navisworks/overview
Archicad https://graphisoft.com/solutions/archicad
Vectorworks https://www.vectorworks.net/en-CA
Cadwork https://www.cadwork.com/cwen/Home
Infraworks https://www.autodesk.ca/en/products/infraworks/overview
Civil 3D https://www.autodesk.com/products/civil-3d/overview
Tekla https://www.tekla.com/us
Other programs mentioned

Autodesk BIM 360 https://www.autodesk.com/bim-360/facilities-management-software/
Ops O&M & FM BIM
Dlubal REFM https://www.dlubal.com/en-US
55
Add-ons and Plug-ins applicable to wood projects
BIM add-ons, plug-ins, etc.

Enscape https://enscape3d.com/
Revizto https://revizto.com/en/
Rhino Gh https://www.rhino3d.com/
(Example: for Revit) https://www.rhino3d.com/inside/revit/1.0/
Autodesk Cloud Construction (formerly BIM360) https://www.autodesk.com/bim-360/
Bluebeam https://www.bluebeam.com/
CTC BIM https://www.ctcsoftware.com/
Dynamo https://dynamobim.org/
Lumion (Visualization) https://lumion.com//index.html
56
BIM add-ons, plug-ins, etc.
Renderworks (Visualization) https://www.vectorworks.net/products/features/renderworks
Archiframe (Timber Structures) https://archiframe.fi/en/
Assemble Systems https://assemblesystems.com/
AutoTurn for Revit (Vehicle Simulation) https://autoturnonline.com/integrated/
Avail (Library) https://getavail.com/
CSiXRevit (IM Transfer) https://www.csiamerica.com/products/csixrevit
CWC R-calculator https://cwc.ca/design-tools/effective-r-calculator/
Cyclone Register (Laser Scan) https://leica-geosystems.com/products/laser-
scanners/software/leica-cyclone/leica-cyclone-register
DRofus (IM) https://www.drofus.com/
Edge-GTS (VDC) https://edge-gts.com/
FARO (Measuring & Site Data) https://www.faro.com/en
Fuzor (VDC / Fabrication) https://www.kalloctech.com/
Hilti (Library) https://www.hilti.ca/content/hilti/W1/CA/en/engineering/softwa
re0/hilti-software/mep/bim-cad-library.html
Ideate (IM) https://ideatesoftware.com/
ElumTools (Lighting Simulation) https://lightinganalysts.com/software-
products/elumtools/overview/
Keynote Manager (Revit Keynote Manager) https://revolutiondesign.biz/products/keynote-
manager/features/
Naviate REX (Rebar Extension) https://www.naviate.com/
NBS Plugin (BIM Specification Plugin/App) https://www.thenbs.ca/
Openings Studio (ASSA) (Library / Design Tool) https://www.assaabloy.com/group/en/about-us/our-
solutions/openings-studio
Pix4D (drone flights) (3D Drone Scanning Data) https://www.pix4d.com/
PyRevit (Revit Pattern & Document Manager https://revitpure.com/blog/10-amazing-pyrevit-features-to-
(link via RevitPure) save-insane-amounts-of-time
SEMA (BIM file format converter) https://www.sema-soft.de/en/whats-new/special-offers/sema-
solution/bim-ifc-with-sema/
StructSoft (Revit Structural frame tool) https://strucsoftsolutions.com/
Synchro (Construction Management) https://www.bentley.com/en/products/brands/synchro
TwinMotion (Visualization, animations & VR) https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US/twinmotion
Uprev (Revit Revisions Manager) https://apps.autodesk.com/RVT/en/Detail/Index?id=55136708
45846828779&appLang=en&os=Win32_64
Victaulic tools (Pipe/Mech. Design tool) https://www.victaulicsoftware.com/
WinEst (Estimating Software & Database) https://gc.trimble.com/
Xrev (IM / Sheet Tool) https://www.xrev.com.au/
57
Other BIM add-ons and plug-ins mentioned in the context of high-performance, advanced
wood building projects
BIM2PH (Passive House Institute BIM Tool) https://passivehouse.com/04_phpp/06_bim2ph/06_bim2ph.html
Interactive Thermal Envelope Tool (BC https://thermalenvelope.ca/
Housing web-based tool)
CWC Wood Design Tools (On-line listing of https://cwc.ca/design-tools/
wood design tools)
Design PH 2.0 (Passive House Design tool) https://designph.org/
Dietrich’s timber framing software www.dietrichs.com/en/applications/timber-framing-software
GESTIMAT (Greenhouse gas emissions https://cecobois.com/calculatrices/
estimator) – via https://cecobois.com/
Graphicsoft Eco Designer https://graphisoft.com/downloads/ecodesigner
BIM-based energy analysis
e-SPECS for Revit (Revit-based https://e-specs.com/products/especs-revit/
Specification & Manual creation tool0
Insight (Autodesk simulation engines and https://www.autodesk.com/products/insight/overview
building performance analysis)
Offsite Wood https://offsitewood.org/
PassiveLink (Revit exporter for PHPP) https://www.passivlink.com/
RETScreen (NRCan Low-carbon planning, https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/maps-tools-and-
implementation, monitoring and reporting publications/tools/modelling-tools/retscreen/7465
tool)
Simpson String-Tie (Revit BIM Library) https://www.strongtie.com/drawing/drawing-finder-for-revit
Stora Enso BIM Toolkit (Wood Supplier https://www.storaenso.com/en/products/wood-products/bim-
Library & Data) toolbox
StrucSoft MWF (Wood Pro https://strucsoftsolutions.com/mwf-pro-wood/
Revit-based wood framing tool)
QWEB Offsite Wood Construction (Revit- https://quebecwoodexport.com/en/bim-offsite-wood-construction-
based Wood Element Library) at-your-fingertips-with-qweb/
WoodWorks Software 2.0 (2020 edition, https://woodworks-software.com/canadian-edition/
wood structural engineering program)
58
A3. BIM software for wood projects
Kreo Modular – DfMA Conceptual BIM
Applicable project phase Pre-design
Used by Owner, architect
Link https://modular.kreo.net
About the software
Developed by Kreo Software, Kreo Modular is an example of AI-powered parametric software that
deals with the manufacturing and assembly of structures upfront. It configures the project to suit the
kits of parts, components or prefabricated elements that are offered by manufacturers. For example, for
its European clients, Kreo has preloaded all the mass timber products manufactured by Stora Enso
and the system links to availability, pricing, energy efficiency information and more.
There are also standard modular units that are familiar to the North American market and other
structural systems are being uploaded on an ongoing basis. Kreo also preloads geo-based zoning data
along with standard building typologies so users can find their project location and the system will
configure and optimize the design based on the modules available.
Applicability to wood buildings
Generative tools such as Kreo Modular link to and/or inform the digital model and are well suited for the
fast conceptual design of componentized, prefabricated and/or modular wood construction. Kreo
Modular’s ability to automatically generate and price out iterations of primary wood structures based on
zoning, efficiency, building type and structural system in a matter of minutes, demonstrates the power
of digitization and prefabrication to dramatically improve efficiency right from the start of the project.
Image source: Kreo Software
59
Autodesk Revit – BIM Design & Construction
Applicable project phase Design
Used by Owner, consultant team, construction manager/general contractor, wood

supplier and fabricator
Link www.autodesk.ca/en/collections/architecture-engineering-
construction/overview
About the software
Revit is one of North America’s most used BIM software platforms, and the one that the industry
leaders interviewed for this study use the most. Autodesk has a substantial ecosystem of design,
analysis and construction that either directly plugs in or complements BIM design and construction.

A Revit file and Use Guide is provided with this document to demonstrate how Revit can be used to
design and deliver wood buildings. Using a series of best-practice details for a selection of innovative
wood buildings, it demonstrates Revit-based Levels of development and how information can be
embedded to support collaborative design development and project delivery. It also provides a tangible
example of how files can be used to pull information from the digital model to accomplish carbon
calculation or cost analysis for the project team to assess and make decisions on a low-carbon, wood
building project. The workflow demonstrated in the guide demonstrates the multi-software workflow that
is commonly utilized today to accomplish a range of tasks.
60
Passivlink Lite & One-click LCA – Energy & life cycle assessment
Applicable project phase Design
Used by Architect, mechanical and envelope engineer, construction manager/

general contractor, wood supplier and fabricator
Links www.passivlink.com
www.oneclicklca.com
About the software
Passivlink Lite and One-click LCA are examples of BIM plugins that support building performance
analysis. Passivlink Lite exports Revit data to the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP).
One-click LCA pulls data such as building areas, energy consumption, water consumption, construction
site operations, emissions and removals from the digital model, and links to a database of ISO 14040
and ISO 14044 compliant Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) to generate a snapshot of the
project’s life cycle impacts.
The integration of analytical tools to evaluate the operating and embodied energy and emissions of
buildings is evolving and new and improved tools continue to emerge. The ability to quickly evaluate
the environmental impacts of wood buildings is important given wood’s thermal resistance and
significant role as a low embodied carbon material. These “embedded” functions are a critical
advantage of federated BIM, making for easier assessment of the project based on the different scopes
of work and building components.
With the increased uptake of Revit, more software developers are creating plugins for a wide range of
compatible specialty applications. Nevertheless, the level of integration with BIM software can still vary
in terms of levels of development, project type and other factors. For example, there is an extensive
area of opportunity for further developing and integrating local LCA databases following the level of
development (LOD) models. Further, compatibility with Revit (or other BIM systems) is not guaranteed
and some plugins can be expensive, highly specialized and/or not suitable for all projects. For
example, Trimble offers a free Connect Extension 16 for BIM tools that do not have native integration to
One Click LCA.
16 https://oneclicklca.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360021976039-Trimble-Connect-Integration
61
CATIA – Manufacturing design
Applicable project phase Design, Fabrication
Used by Architect, structural engineer, construction manager/general

contractor, wood supplier and fabricator
Link www.3ds.com/products-services/catia
About the software
CATIA allows architects, engineers, owners and governments to build and collaborate beyond the
limits of traditional project execution methods, with a range of 3D modeling and experience solutions
that span throughout the whole design, engineering and delivery process.
Like Revit, CATIA can be used to create high levels of development models fully compliant with
industry standards (IFC). However, CATIA also allows designers to develop models that conform to
prefabrication or industrialized construction methods such as modular or off-site fabrication. Like Kreo,
it can also geolocate the model so the construction project can be managed in the context of the city or
territory.
Manufacturing software like CATIA is particularly suited to designing, planning and fabricating wood
structural systems and is growing in popularity among leading wood designers.
With CATIA, manufacturers can use the digital model in parallel to Revit to design the prefabricated
wood structure for fabrication. Understanding the software compatibility, and its impact on the
workflow, is a critical consideration pre-project, and requires the right consultants, general contractors,
trades and suppliers to be retained early enough to be incorporated into RFP’s, BIM Plans, etc., during
project setup.
CATIA was used to model the mass timber installation and sequencing for UBC Brock Commons
Tallwood House.
Image courtesy of CADMakers
62
Autodesk Construction Cloud (formerly BIM360) & Navisworks – Coordination & planning
Applicable project phase Construction
Used by Architect, structural engineer, construction manager/general

contractor, trades
Links https://construction.autodesk.com
www.autodesk.ca/en/products/navisworks/overview
About the software

BIM360, which is now part of the Autodesk Construction Cloud platform, is an Information Management
platform that allows the project team, the owner, consultants and general contractor to collaborate,
review, coordinate and assess the project as the design matures.
Navisworks combines design and construction data into a single model. It is effective at identifying and
resolving clash and interference problems before construction, and it can aggregate data from multiple
trades to better control outcomes.
The Autodesk Construction Cloud platform offers the ability to virtually collaborate and coordinate the
federated BIM for construction during the design process, which is vital for managing the construction
team’s downstream tasks, construction risks and trade planning.
Navisworks is popular among wood designers and builders for its ability to digitize the project review
process and improve coordination. It is the tool commonly used to conduct virtual builds prior to
construction. Project teams can use Navisworks to visualize the sequencing to ensure prefabricated
wood structures, which are fabricated off-site, will not conflict with downstream, on-site scopes of work.
Image source: Autodesk Construction Cloud platform 17
17 Autodesk Construction Cloud, https://construction.autodesk.com/products/autodesk-bim-collaborate/
63
FARO Digital Mapping – As-built model
Applicable project phase Construction, hand-over
Used by Owner, architect, structural engineer, construction manager/general

contractor, trades
Link www.faro.com
About the software

The digital model can be linked to specialized technologies that document the construction process
through to completion. FARO provides 3D measurement or inspection tools that can capture existing
situations to a high degree of accuracy. Faro’s As-Built™ software provides on-demand, accurate and
complete information of the as-built site.
BIM is an ideal platform for as-builts. Integration of scanning tools and software such as FARO Digital
Mapping can provide detailed physical as-built information for the Revit-based BIM—especially for
renovations and additions. This eliminates re-work and errors if the team is fully BIM capable.
FARO Laser Scanner technology and FARO BuildIT Construction Software™ can be used to
demonstrate that the construction follows the digital model, which can be valuable when dealing with
tight tolerances achievable through offsite construction.
Image source: FARO BuildIT Construction Scan vs Model Surface Deviation Analysis 18
FARO – Case Study, https://www.faro.com/en/Resource-Library/Case-Study/digital-construction-verification-to-

18
meet-strict-tolerances
64
Autodesk BIM360 OPS – Operations & FM
Applicable project phase Facility management & maintenance
Used by Owner
Link www.autodesk.com/bim-360/facilities-management-software
About the software

BIM360 Ops is an Autodesk product that transfers the building project’s BIM into an Asset Information
Model (AIM). The AIM is the building’s digital twin that allows facilities management staff to track,
optimize and plan maintenance of the building asset after it is built. Drawing information and data from
the as-built BIM streamlines information flow, providing continuity from design intent (energy
performance, embodied carbon, etc.) to operations for the life of the building.
Commonly used for large, complex facilities, the use of BIM for facility management and maintenance
is still in the early stages of adoption when it comes to the operations of wood buildings (which may be
smaller and simpler). Nevertheless, efficient facility management and maintenance for the life of the
building offers tremendous value and cloud-based, collaborative tools such as BIM 360 OPS are
getting easier to use.
AIM can enhance facility management, providing the foundation for mobile access to operations and
maintenance information (including 3D information), wayfinding, integration with Internet of things
networks and real-time monitoring of building automation systems and performance tracking. For wood
buildings, it is critical for operators to know how to maintain wood structures, what to do if they are
damaged and how to repair or replace them; all this information can be prepared by the project team
and incorporated into the AIM.
65

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Building Information Modelling for Wood Buildings

Authors Helen Goodland, RIBA MBA, Scius Advisory

Albert Lam, Architectural Technologist AIBC MBA, Scius Advisory

Scott Chatterton BIM CP, BIM One

Cover image: Building detail courtesy Associated Engineering Ltd.

Bird Construction Iredale Architecture

Sheryl Staub-French, PhD, FCAE, Peng

Chapter 1: What value does BIM bring to wood projects?

Asset Information Model (AIM)

BIM Execution Plan (BIMx)

BIM Technology Stack

Building Information Model (BIM) and BIM Model Elements

Common Data Environment (CDE)

Communication Strategy and Platform

Facilities Management (FM)

Information Management (IM) Plan

Level of Development, Level of Detail (LOD)

Operations and Maintenance (O&M)

Chapter 1: What value does BIM bring to wood projects? ............................................................................ 1

1.1 Using BIM to deliver low-carbon wood buildings

1 EU BIM Task Group, www.eubim.eu/downloads/EU_BIM_Task_Group_Handbook_FINAL.PDF

Digital-in-Engineering-and-Construction-Mar-2016.pdf; McKinsey, Construction Productivity, 2017

Figure 2 summarizes the key characteristics of BIM and their advantages.

Figure 2: Key characteristics and advantages of BIM

4Source: National BIM Standard - US, Version 1.0:

▪ Streamlined communication: a federated 3D model of the

BSI: Building Information Modelling and Collaborative Construction

Prefabricated structural elements (beams, columns, trusses,

Mass timber panels (CLT, NLT, etc.) 27%

Modular volumentric units 12%

Figure 3: Off-site construction approaches in wood projects that used BIM

Examples of off-site construction methods using wood

Figure 4: Off-site construction methods

BIM Workflow Advanced Wood Building Project Workflow

A. Project Conception Project Setup: Owner Ambition

Owner need: Owner determines:

B. Designing the BIM Project Project Setup: Feasibility

Professional expertise: Professionals assist owner:

C. Implementing the BIM Plan Design, Conceptual

Professionals plan and lead: Design for off-site fabrication:

Design complete building:

Off-site Fabrication: Wood and Systems Construction: On-site

Parallel to site construction: Quicker site construction:

D. BIM to AIM Hand-over Building Hand-over

Asset Information Model for: BIM/Off-site potential:

2.1 Maturity Levels

Level 1 BIM – Partial Collaboration

Level 2 BIM – Full Collaboration

Advantages over traditional methods Limitations and watchpoints

8 Source: Scottish Futures Trust. More information at: https://bimportal.scottishfuturestrust.org.uk

• Interoperability is key to the digital transformation in the built asset industry

LOD establishes how much detail is

LOD 100 – Pre-Design

10 A selection of images describing LOD can be found at http://manufacturers.bimetica.com/technical-and-legal-bim-

LOD 200 – Schematic Design

LOD 300 – Design Development

LOD 350 – Construction Documentation

LOD 400 – Construction Phase

LOD 500 – As-Built