When you start working on a workshared Revit model you will probably meet with a BEP (BIM Execution Plan). Maybe you will ask yourself do you need this document for your Revit projects?
In short, yes. Before you start any modeling in Revit on a workshared project, you will need a functional BIM Execution Plan. Regardless of whether it was the client’s requirement, the BEP should be written by the BIM manager or BIM coordinator for every single project. It will streamline the work in Revit and focus the project team on important things. Probably the main rule of BEP is to have the end in mind. So the very first step is to determine what is the “end” in that project. What is scope of work? Is it concept design, schematic design, detailed design, construction? Which procurement route will be used (IPD, DBB or DB)? Which BIM Level (1 or 2)? How BIM model should look like at the end in terms of geometry and information? Which LOD and LOI? What should be modeled and what doesn’t need to be modeled? The BEP is closely related to project management so BIM manager should cooperate with project manager when working on BEP. The main Agreement is a starting point for the BEP. The BEP will define internal procedures but also it will define interdisciplinary coordination, and responsibilities of all project stakeholders (in terms of BIM).
In general, the two BEPs will be developed on a project – by designer and by general contractor. Also there will be two Revit models. In most cases, BEP doesn’t need to be written from scratch for every single project but from a template. In best case, the template is created specifically for the office but you can also find BEP templates online. Note that BEP and BIM Standard are two separated documents. BIM Standard is broader document created for an office while BEP is more specific and it covers a specific project. Of course, BEP rely on BIM Standard and while every project is specific it will define procedures for the single project. There is also EIR (Employer Information Requirements) document which details client’s requirements and expectations with regard to BIM, including roles and responsibilities, technical issues, submittals, and the management of models. In fact, the BEP is the response to the EIR.
In case you don’t have a BEP for a project, you can at least create a Project Revit Manual. It is an internal document that briefly defines working procedures and modeling rules. You will update this document as project advances and procedures change. It will be the central place for all existing and new project team members all the time until the project completion.
