Golden Matrix
Contents |
[edit] Background
The concept of the 'Golden Thread' was coined by Dame Judith Hackitt in her 'Golden Thread Report'. The term was utilised in many educational BIM seminars, and it's meaning has since evolved through interpretation within the BIM industry.
For any project delivered using BIM software, standards and processes, there is a recognised need to 'weave' or integrate the processes and deliverables for each project data contributor's exchange data, across all project stages. This it the driver behind the development of a legible integrated and interactive multifaceted matrix.
The resulting framework that supports this outcome is the 'Golden Matrix', which expands upon the original concept of the 'Golden Thread'. The term 'matrix' relates to the organised arrangement of interrelated processes and data deliverables, allowing for planning and monitoring of successful outcomes over the cycle from authoring to delivery.
[edit] Concept
"Golden Matrix" describes the scenario whereby the process from inception at Tier 1/ultimate client, to occupying tenant or landlord, is planned and delivered via a proven agreed and managed system of protocols, standards, models and data derived from 'Endo-BIM sources, which is handed over at the operations phase. The handover data set is then integrated in to O&M Manuals or CAFM software systems.
The handover data set is developed by each of the project contributors listed in the BIM Execution Plan. The project data contributors are typically:
- Lead Designer
- Task Teams
- Professional consultants
- Suppliers
- Installing/commissioning personnel
- Operations phase maintenance personnel
[edit] Process
To successfully achieve an implementable handover data set for the operations phase of a project delivered using BIM software, there is a need for:
- Proven precedent project studies
- Robust standards useable by all contributors
- Interim Information Management processes to confirm protocols are being implemented correctly
- BIM Coordination meetings to feedback to Project Data Contributors
- Knowledge of intended CAFM/O&M system that will receive the handover data set
[edit] Principles
Expanding upon the principles for the 'Golden Thread' to a 'Golden Matrix' was necessary to accommodate the overall interconnected process that defines, manages and captures the whole handover project data in an organised and deliverable set of formatted and auditable volumes.
The handover data-set must be developed within overarching protocols and processes to deliver data that is:
- Derived from Endo-BIM sources
- From a single data source e.g. project CDE
- Accurate trusted truthful and verified
- Has an audit path back to the data author
- Authored in an Open File Format
- Compliant with standardised schemas
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Building Safety Regulator.
- Building information modelling BIM.
- BIM protocol
- CDM.
- Duty holder.
- Digital twin.
- Fire.
- Golden Thread.
- Golden Thread report published by CIOB and i3PT..
- Grenfell articles.
- Hackitt review of the building regulations and fire safety, final report.
- Information Rejection.
- The golden thread and BS 8644-1.
[edit] References
See below:
Building Regulations Advisory Committee: golden thread report - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
https://www.thenbs.com/knowledge/what-is-the-golden-thread
D30-D5.2-Second-Report-on-CEN-existing-standards.pdf (net-ubiep.eu)
D29-D5.1-First-report-on-CEN-existing-standards.pdf (net-ubiep.eu)
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.
Building Safety Regulator, 19 August
Gill Kernick appointed Independent Chair of Residents’ Panel.
Connecting knowledge, technology and conservation
Building competence for the future of built heritage.
Building Regulations and Building Safety Act
CIOB publishes free advice for non-domestic clients.
Building Safety Newsletter from MHCLG.
An extraordinary record of steel engineering worldwide.
Households living near new pylons to save on bills.
ECA warns growth must not outpace grid capacity or skills.
The role of the client and decision making
CIOB response to built environment professions call for evidence.
Construction's sustainability reporting revolution
Tracking upfront embodied carbon with digital tools.
ECA welcomes procurement reforms
Public spending must back British jobs and skills.
Campaigning for Edinburgh: the Cockburn Association 1875-2049
The role of the civic voice in protecting character. Book review.

















