Project information model PIM

[edit] Introduction

A project information model (PIM) is an information model developed and maintained during the delivery phase of a built asset project. It contains the information required to develop, construct and commission the asset and is progressively developed in response to the project's information requirements.

The PIM forms part of the information management process defined by the BS EN ISO 19650 series. It can contain graphical information, alphanumeric data and documentation and may comprise information produced by the client, designers, contractors, specialist subcontractors, manufacturers and other members of the project team.

The term PIM was previously associated particularly with the Level 2 BIM framework and PAS 1192-2:2013. BS EN ISO 19650 has subsequently replaced the PAS 1192 series as the principal framework for information management using BIM, although the term PIM remains in use.

[edit] Development of the project information model

The PIM is progressively developed throughout the delivery phase of a project. The nature and level of information required at any point depends on the project's information requirements, the stage of delivery and the decisions that need to be made.

During early design stages, the information model may contain relatively simple representations of the proposed asset, including massing, spatial arrangements and generic objects. As design development progresses, information can become increasingly specific and may include geometry, specifications, performance requirements, quantities and other information needed to support design, procurement and construction.

During construction, the PIM is developed to incorporate information required for fabrication, installation and construction. It may include detailed models and other information relating to manufactured and installed components, construction sequences, testing, commissioning and changes made during delivery.

The information required for the PIM is defined through the project's information requirements and information delivery planning. Information is produced, reviewed, authorised and exchanged at defined points in accordance with the project's information management processes.

On completion of the delivery phase, relevant information from the PIM can be incorporated into the asset information model (AIM), which provides the information required for the operation and management of the completed asset. The PIM and AIM are therefore distinct information models serving different purposes, although information from the PIM can form an important source of information for the AIM.

[edit] Information contained in the PIM

A PIM can include a combination of structured and unstructured information, including:

• graphical information such as three-dimensional models, drawings and diagrams;
• alphanumeric information such as schedules, specifications, quantities and asset data;
• documentation such as reports, calculations, certificates, operation and maintenance information and other project records; and
• information in different file formats, including open exchange formats such as Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), where these are required by the project's information requirements.

A PIM may comprise a number of separate information containers produced by different organisations or disciplines. These can be combined into a federated model where appropriate. Federation does not necessarily mean that the constituent models are merged into a single file; individual information containers can retain their authorship, responsibility and provenance while being brought together for review and co-ordination.

COBie can be used to structure and exchange asset information, particularly information required for operation and maintenance. It is not, however, synonymous with the PIM and should be regarded as one possible information exchange format or data structure within an information management process.

[edit] Information exchanges and the common data environment

The PIM is developed and exchanged through the project's common data environment (CDE). A CDE is the agreed source for collecting, managing and disseminating information produced by the project team. It is not simply a software application or repository; it comprises the information-management workflow, processes and technology used to manage information.

Information is progressively developed and shared through controlled workflows. Under the ISO 19650 approach, information containers pass through defined states, including work in progress, shared, published and archived information, subject to appropriate review and authorisation processes.

Information exchanges take place when information is required to support a particular decision or project activity. The required information, exchange dates, formats and other requirements should be established through the project's information requirements and information delivery planning.

The detailed requirements for producing and exchanging information are established through the information management process and may include information standards, methods and procedures, responsibility matrices, naming conventions, classification systems, security requirements and requirements for checking and authorisation.

[edit] Information management responsibilities

Information management responsibilities should be clearly allocated between the organisations and individuals involved in a project. Depending on the contractual arrangements and project structure, responsibilities can include establishing and maintaining the CDE, defining information standards and procedures, planning information delivery, checking information, managing information exchanges and ensuring that information is appropriately authorised.

The information management function should not be confused with design responsibility or model co-ordination. Responsibilities for producing, checking and co-ordinating information are allocated in accordance with the project's information requirements and agreed responsibilities. An information manager may facilitate the information-management process and administration of the CDE, but the precise role and responsibilities depend on the project's contractual and organisational arrangements.

Information remains subject to the rights, responsibilities and liabilities established by the relevant appointments and contracts. The CDE provides controlled management and exchange of information; it does not in itself transfer ownership or authorship of information between project participants.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Asset information model.
• Asset information requirements.
• BIM.
• Common data environment.
• Construction Operations Building Information Exchange (COBie).
• Data drops.
• Employers information requirements.
• Federated building information model.
• Information model.
• Types of building information model.