The Green BIM Process Model for Efficient Information Exchange in Sustainable Building Design

Abstract

The adequate application of Building Information modeling (BIM) in sustainable building design known as green BIM, ensures the exchange of accurate information to reduce the buildings' carbon emissions and enhance the overall sustainability performance. However, a major challenge in sustainable building design is the persistent exchange of inaccurate data, resulting in flawed decisions. This study develops a Green BIM Process Model to explicitly guide the multidiscipline team to use the diverse BIM software to efficiently exchange cumbersome sustainability information. The process model focuses on building massing; fabric and layout optimization; and mechanical electrical & plumbing systems. After a critical literature review, the major components of efficient information exchange in the BIM-based sustainable building design process were established. Then, an in-depth interview was conducted with 26 construction professionals and analyzed using the narrative analysis technique. As a result, the best practices for the holistic coordination of the established major components were ascertained. Afterward, the Green BIM Process Model was developed by using Integrated DEFinition techniques to explicitly model the relationship between the established major components. The novel Green BIM Process Model provides a pragmatic approach that defines how the multidiscipline team can exchange accurate information and in turn, make viable decisions that can enhance the sustainability performance of buildings.