A Literature Review of BIM Definitions: Narrow and Broad Views

Abstract

In the scientific community, it is difficult to find a consensus on defining BIM. Just as the acronym BIM has developed in different ways, it is also understood in different ways. Depending on its understanding, different definitions emerge. It is defined differently by organizations and standards, differently still even by academics. Many years of academic discourse on the subject have failed to produce a solution. Despite the fact that the acronym BIM has already done its work for the construction industry, it still stirs up excitement. There is still no clear definition, as the view of BIM varies from one perspective to another. This article attempts to sort out the definitions cited so far by important organizations and key academics. This review was based on a deep literature study that has attempted to be inclusive and consistent. The question still remains open: do we need a single, correct definition of BIM? The aim of this article is to try to answer this question, open up a renewed discussion and come to a satisfactory consensus. BIM can be identified with an activity, product or system. This article breaks down the definitions of BIM, identifies six key attributes of BIM, presents the evolution of the understanding of BIM and proposes new definitions in a narrow and broad approach.

Interpretable Data-Driven Methods for Building Energy Modelling—A Review of Critical Connections and Gaps

“…However, an effective implementation of the DT concept in buildings is challenging due to the need to incorporate multiple data streams from building information modelling (BIM), building performance simulation, machine learning tools/platforms, etc. BIM is, in itself, an evolving concept with respect to which there are different points of view, narrower or broader [25], and poses the challenge of proposing a unique definition [61].…”

“…In this framework, digitalisation can be leveraged to develop solutions, specifically customised for the built environment and construction industry, to be able to cope with the social and economic challenges outlined previously, as well as with the critical nature of climate evolution. Regarding the digitalisation of building assets, building information modelling (BIM) has developed over time as a multi-faceted concept [25] that presents open challenges from a cognitive [26] and knowledge management standpoint. The recent developments from BIM to digital twins (DTs) [27], involving multiple domains of knowledge within the building sector and across life cycle phases (from "cradle to cradle" [28]), are promising when seen from the perspective of building performance modelling [29], and data-driven methods are becoming [29] crucial instruments [30] for improving energy efficiency [31], fostering renewable energy source penetration and enhancing energy flexibility, by means of data-driven analytics.…”

Design Decision Support for Healthcare Architecture: A VR-Integrated Approach for Measuring User Perception

“…This research introduces a novel design approach to using building information modelling (BIM) by framing it as a collaborative workflow, aligning with the broader perspective of BIM in the field [28]. The integration of game engine and VR technologies further expands BIM's collaborative scope, facilitating dynamic interactions between endusers, information systems, and advanced software tools in the context of healthcare design.…”

Research on Pathology Information Management of Educational Architectural Heritage Based on Digital Technology: The Case of James Jackson Gymnasium

“…Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology was initially introduced in 1974 [8] and was subsequently implemented on a technical level by Autodesk in the early 21st century. BIM is based on three-dimensional digital technology and integrates various relevant information in construction projects into an engineering data model [9]. This model serves as the cornerstone for interdisciplinary collaboration and facilitates comprehensive lifecycle management of buildings, spanning from architectural design and construction to subsequent monitoring, operation, and maintenance.…”