Mentor Announcement #4 Summit 2019

Hi there.

It is my pleasure to announce the fourth mentor who is going to lead the workshop Project Management in OpenBIM.

David Delgado Vendrell

Biography

David is an architect (MSc. Arch) by ETSAV (UPC, Polytechnic University of Catalonia), and CEO of DDV (since 2004), a BIM consultancy especially focused on implementing this technology in the public sector and also private companies working in the different stages of the asset life-cycle.

He is a specialist in the use of the ARCHICAD platform and the fostering of openBIM. He is the Director of the Master’s in BIM Management (en, es, pt) of ZIGURAT, Global Institute of Technology, and also collaborates as a lecturer in other BIM educational programs. He is an active member of the BIM User Group of Catalonia (GuBIMCat). He is a member and the Vice-President in Design Area of buildingSMART Spanish Chapter, to whom he represented in the recently closed IUG (International User Group) of buildingSMART International. He also collaborates in the “We Build the Future” Commission of ITEC in Catalonia, in the representation of the CoAC, the national Architects Association. He has co-authored the BIM classification system “GuBIMclass”, an initiative of GuBIMCat and Infraestructures de Catalunya.

Motivation

We are professionals, with a technical background and rational approach, from a sector immersed in the process of digitization that other industries already addressed years ago.

To embrace this challenge, we undoubtedly should face the involvement of the most critical resource for this process to be successful: people!

In this sense, my primary motivation to be part of BILT Academy as a mentor is to push for the combination of these two aspects: technical and human. For many years now, BIM talks about collaboration. But, most of the times, people don’t have an appropriate response to those collaboration expectations due to a lack of suitable communication skills.

As a person who also loves communication and social interaction, BILT Academy becomes the ideal environment to explore and enhance this aspect: young professionals, highly qualified, interested in innovation and with the desire for real collaboration. It will be a pleasure to be part of it!

KLO1 – The basic of processes within the framework of buildingSMART standards

• Learn which are the main buildingSMART standards, especially about Data and Processes.

• Understand the basics of IDM (Information Delivery Manual), as the international standard for defining the information that should be exchanged between project participants in the AEC project lifecycle.

• Learn the basics of Process Mapping, exchange requirements and BPMN as the standard to represent which is defined in an IDM.

KLO2 – Agile and Scrum as an alternative for an openBIM project management

• Understand how concurrent engineering processes can help to have a suitable response to changes in BIM design stages.

• Learn the basics of Agile Methodology

• Learn in detail what is Scrum and Kanban, as agile approaches: definitions, team members, ceremonies, artifacts, hierarchies, board examples and metrics.

KLO3 – Applying Scrum and Kanban to an openBIM workflow using visual web-based tools

• Learn how to apply Scrum and Kanban methods in digital cloud-based boards, as Trello.

• Explore the main features of Scrum and its relation with usual BIM design workflows using Trello boards, triggers and other complementary tools.

• BIM projects use case.

At the end of this class, students will comprehend and apply how the Agile methodology combined with BIM workflows, instead of a system based on strict rules to develop their designs, becomes a support guide, as alternative project management to their future projects, where the value is the primary goal of the client.

QnA

What does openBIM mean to you? In which way is it different from closedBIM workflows in the AEC industry?

We can define openBIM as basically an approach based on BIM collaborative processes in which data exchanges occur using open and neutral standards (not proprietary). ClosedBIM processes are wrongly seen as the opposite of openBIM ones. Beyond that controversial binomial, there is a distinctive border, which is the one between native environments (editable ones) vs QC environments (at least, read-only). When we are producing deliverables from BIM authoring platforms, our environment is mostly native. If there is some workflow in which we are using some open standards (such as IFC or BCF), then we could say that there is an openBIM collaborative framework. In my opinion, the “model as a reference” approach, in which openBIM is based, should be the critical point of any BIM collaborative process which must assure and guarantee authorship, data access across the life cycle and data quality-driven results.

To combine technology and humanity, you are planning on using appropriate communication/collaboration methods, based on openBIM standards eg buildingSmart standards. in what way are they different/more efficient compared to conventional standards/closed BIM workflows?

In my opinion, one of the fields in which openBIM, and especially the use of IFC, enables the best performance is in Quality Control within the framework of BIM coordination processes. Many of BIM technicians are applying excellent QA methods within their native environments. Nonetheless, BIM authoring tools can hide or disrupt some results due to their own internal data architecture. In that sense, we can produce or export these data into an IFC Schema-based models; in other words, a neutral and non-propietary file, to validate them. That enables us to put the QC focus on specific standardized property subsets, without the risk of dealing with native misleading data. And this is where a consistent Information Delivery Plan (IDM, another openBIM standard) is needed, which documents exchanges of information in a project.

In which steps/phases of a project do you see the most relevant usage of project management tools, such as Scrum and Kanban?

Design stage, whether in early phases or more advanced ones, is the suitable one to apply Agile methodologies. The results of this stage are the ones in which the client (or the owner) has the biggest expectation. Although designers start their projects with an initial quite-well defined project requirements, it is usually a phase exposed to high levels of changes during the whole period. Agile methodologies enable those professionals to interact in a more flexible, efficient and effective way, not just among the team, but especially with the client.

What is the most important message you want to hand over to the students attending your lab?

Whether if we are good creating a well-performed work breakdown structures in response and following apparent immutable client requirements, what I would like to show that it is quite easy to change our habits. And it starts with ourselves, in our daily practices using friendly tools within the framework of more flexible collaborative practices. We need to adapt our procedures using BIM, as methodology based on digital technologies, in combination with client-oriented project management approaches if we think that value is the crucial factor which client prioritize.


BIM Server for Project and Model Management

Hey folks,

I was writing a little report about how to set up the BIM Server and how to prepare BIM models coming from different native software.
The open BIM Server is an open-source online platform which allows project management to merge IFC models and to provide insight into the models’ accuracy. Additional, diverse plug-in packages can be used, for example, model walk-throughs, queries, checkers and many more.

The goal of this report was to create a use case when having three different models:

  1. the structural model in Revit.
  2. the architectural model in ArchiCAD.
  3. the landscape model from AutoCAD.

One of the main focus was it to prepare the IFC exports so that when merging all models on the BIM Server all elements are allocated as supposed.

By doing so I have noticed that for example the project base point in all three software is interpreted differently.
Further, the properties of the elements have obtained special attention. Especially for the non-structural elements created in ArchiCAD and the structural elements created in Revit.

Read more about it and other findings which you should mind when merging IFCs on the BIMServer. Find the full report here.

Relatics for Project Management

Recently I did a little study in Relatics, a System Engineering tool. This allows you to manage and organize complex projects, creating work breakdowns and organization hierarchies. You can create project structure in it and can even link documents, like PDFs, IFCs etc.

Relatics is based in the Netherlands but used all over Europe. Unfortunately, it’s not open source, but I think when you ask them to get a trial as a student you will get one.

 

Since there are not really any tutorials to find online, I am uploading my studies work, which is a report about how to create a system engineering concept as a functional designer, and also how to use the structure as an end user. As an example, I have chosen a one-family house project. Check it out on our BILT Academy Slack environment.

 

Mentor Announcement #10

The final mentor and workshop announcement for our very first Academy Summit… Multi-platform workflows with… Martin Taurer.

One of our unique free minds within the building industry and the BIM world comes to the BILT Academy summit 2018, you shouldn´t miss this one.

Motto: Just shut up and BIM!

Martin Taurer

Livingroomcraftz                                                                                                  Noordeinde 9B                                                                                                                        NL-2611KE Delft                                                    martin.taurer@livingroomcraftz.com

Biography

Martin Taurer is the founder of LivingroomcraftZ and a pioneer when it comes to Building Information Modelling within the Building Industry. Together with his partner Silvia Taurer he runs LRCZ since 2008 and is specialized in implementing and practicing Building Information Modelling Management in Architecture and Structural Engineering projects.

After graduating as Architect from the Graz University of Technology, 1989, he continued working as certified Architect in Germany, Brazil, Austria and the Netherlands. Early 2000 he was part in developing and managing localization and translation of the Autodesk Revit product line. As product manager, Martin was part of major Autodesk developments and could gather working experience in Boston, Sydney and Tokyo until 2007. Due to his intensive utilization of software within the AEC industry his interests, knowledge and skills of smart and efficient workflows have grown over the years. Hence, working as BIM consultancy in Tokyo at 3D Innovation was his kick-off as BIM specialist. This lead to the idea of establishing Livingroomcraftz as a BIM consultancy.

Motivation

Martins personal motivation within the building trade is to communicate and collaborate efficiently in an economically feasible way. In order to do so, he started teaching at the Technical University in Delft as BIM specialist. Additionally, joining the BILT Academy Summit 2018 is a one-time opportunity to show students the latest technologies used by professions in the industry.

“BIM and IPD methodologies are beneficial rather than adversary tools for the architectural design process. My personal aim is to bring this thought process to young people – caring means sharing. Transparent communication between all stakeholders of the design process produces better quality and is simply more fun than writing stupid emails and filling out RFI forms. And the tools we have at hand make it possible. I find that exciting – possible students will think so too…“

“Proactive contribution to the educative community is a means of actively shaping the future of the industry – I am personally actively involved in the Open Source world via DynamoBIM – there we share our knowledge for free. And the same thought goes along with education. It’s sharing our knowledge to shape the future experts within the building industry.“

“And – last but not least – the best things in life are free. Ideally, in nerd-space (where I tend to retire to once in a while) it’s the pure thought that counts and not the money.”

By Martin Taurer

Martin at the BILT Academy Summit

As the name already says Martins workshop will be focusing on multi-platform approaches. The basic idea is that it´s open to everyone with experimental ideas and diverse working approaches. The usage of multiple software solutions is welcome BUT one important thing you should not forget collaboration is one of the major challenges.

To get an idea:

You will receive an architectural design of a building either in PDF and DWG, as a Revit model, as an IFC model, or even on Paper. Design issues will be included which need to be resolved, how? you can use all kinds of 3D BIM software, Visual scripting but also programming. The openBIM Server will be settled up for you to collaborate together.

One thing for sure, Martin will be the correct person to ask and work together when it comes to multi-platform solutions. check his BLOG 🙂

His Key-learning Objective

  1. Utilize BIM/IPD Tools creatively                                                                                            How to use different tools to cover unusual challenges
  1. Think outside the box                                                                                                                If there is no tool available, let’s create a new one
  1. Step onto the platform                                                                                                  Utilize current methods of design development and design communication to fully utilize the integrated process

 

Mentor Announcement #7

Is it time to reveal one more mentor, and we are very proud and happy to announce that it is the one and only ….

… Marzia Bolpagni!

Bio and Motivation

Marzia is a Building Engineer, Strategic BIM Advisor at Mace and a PhD Candidate at Politecnico di Milano.

Having plenty of experience both in research and in practice, Marzia is a big part of the international BIM Society- a member of BIM Excellence Initiative, Assistant Editor and Italian Language Editor of the BIM Dictionary, member of the Italian Organization for Standardization (UNI) CT 033/GL 05 and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) TC 442 working groups on Building Information Modelling, UK BIM Alliance and mentor at the BILT Academy. Currently also the leader of the Task Group on LOD at the European Committee for Standardisation CEN TC 442 WG2 coordinating experts from 11 countries, worked as BIM researched at VTT (Finland), ITC-CNR (Italy), and presented her work in BIMLUX in Luxembourg, Digital Construction Brussels, ICEBIM in the UK, BIMAarhus in Denmark and BIMtecnia is Spain.

Marzia has felt highly motivated to be a mentor at BILT Academy since the very early days- believing that communication in a community, sharing of knowledge and education is a great way to go when talking about BIM implementation. As a person who spent a lot of time herself in the university and received plenty of mentoring and guidance, Marzia believes that students should use the opportunity to meet highly skilled professionals and colleagues, learn best practices at international level and familiarise themselves with international affairs in AEC fields. After all, Marzia is highly grateful for all the help she has received and simply cannot wait to give back to the future generation of professionals.

Don’t wait to kick off your knowledge in BIM now and join Marzia for her workshop!

Key Learning Objective and the Workshop

When we talk about BIM, there are three important parts- technology, process and policy. Technology is widely used every day and it is easy to find tutorials, but how about policy and process? During the workshop Marzia will discuss the ‘other two’- process and policy fields.

  • How important is process and policy field?
  • What is the document process, regulations and standards on an international level?
  • What is a BIM Execution plan and how to create it?

The workshop will focus on examples from different countries, the students will get an opportunity to work on a BIM Execution plan together with Marzia, understand the structure and most important parts of it and review it together.

 

Mentor Announcement #6

A proper model organization including model control via clash detections are one of the most important topics when it comes to appropriate model management.  We, the BILTAcademy are more than happy to announce its fifth and sixth mentor, Arik and Moty, who is going to hold a workshop table on this topic (Lab3). Coming especially from Israel in order to participate at the BILTEurope and BILTAcademy Summit. Many thanks to you, we are looking much forward.

Arik Shiby

Founder & CEO of WeBIM Ltd.                                                            Ariks@webimit.com

Biography

As the CEO of WeBIM, the leading company regarding BIM in Israel, Arik is a specialist when it comes to model and project management. With his broad knowledge and ambition, he started 2015 to establish and manage BIM Israel Forum. It aims to unite all the companies from the building and infrastructure industry to create a local BIM standard (Israel). Recently, he founded the REAL BIM FORUM which brings together all the BIM manager to enhance dialogue and cooperation in the assimilation of BIM in the industry.

Personal Motivation

Arik is involved in the architectural and building industry in Israel for over 25 years, first as senior design lecturer at the SADNA environmental college in Tel Aviv, and after as the AEC (Architectural, engineering, construction) industry product manager for 17 years. As the leading persona of the BIM scene in Israel and through his experiences in lecturing at colleges and preparing and conducting professional conferences for hundreds of participants, his passion for educating students about BIM technologies is part of his DNA.

 

Mentor Announcement #5

Moty Vaknin

CTO at WeBIM Ltd.                                                                                        motyv@webimit.com

Biography

Moty Vaknin Is a CTO at WeBIM, a Company based in Israel. WeBIM is an innovative company that has a strong passion to improve the construction industry by applying BIM methodology throughout the whole project lifecycle. Moty also is an education manager for ATC (Autodesk Training Centre) and education manager for AAP (Autodesk Academic Centre) in Israel. With over 10 years working and training in BIM Platform, Moty is one of the forerunners of the BIM revolution in Israel,

Personal Motivation

As someone who has been a part of the BIM community for over 10 years and has taught hundreds of students, I am aware of the impact that the BILT Academy will have on the next generation of the construction industry. I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge regarding BIM methodology 3D-7D and hopefully inspire the next generation to take BIM one step further.

WeBIM at the BILT Academy Summit 2018

Arik and Moty are going to give a workshop table within 3x75min. Their aim is it to showcase students the importance of model management.

We show the type of issues and how we manage all the issues between teams. How does an appropriate model exchange look like? How is it possible to conduct accuracy and how to use clash detection tools within this term?

Key learning Objective

  • Understand the clash detection method, how and when the clash detection has to be done within a building execution process.
  • Explore the importance of doing a clash detection while comparing 3Dmodels before and after doing the clash.
  • Understand how we are managing all the issues between team and consultant.

Collaborative Design for Students

The first quarter at my University is over; this means a lot of nice projects and research papers have been finished within the last 2 weeks.

One of these courses is Collaborative Design which I would like to present to you within this blogpost.

The main approach was it to collaborate within one Consortium existing out of three companies, Architects, Urban Planners and Structural Engineers. The task was it to create within only eight weeks a development project in Strijp T, an industrial area in Eindhoven. This should include a Project management plan, a design including 3D model, IFC based, and a communication platform.  The main focus was it to concentrate on how to collaborate and create a multi and interdisciplinary working environment. In fact, we were all somehow familiar with the BIM methodology but everyone within their own profession. This is why I would like to show you how we approached this task and made it happen to collaborate altogether within one working environment.

  1. Setting up a Project Management Plan

We used the online environment Relatics in order to set up our project management. There are several parts included which I am going to show you with this graph below:

#1 Project Requirements:

It includes all of the municipality’s vision goals. What needs to be developed and why, including all requirements such as functionalities and buildings properties, size, area, material etc.

#2 Organization Hierarchy:

Includes all participating companies in there set up and functionality towards the project.

#3 Process Breakdown (Process Mapping)

This is one of the most important parts for organizing a project in first place. Most consultancies are creating process plans and event-logs in order to keep track of the whole building planning, modelling and realization process. This allows comparing the “as-planned” situation with the “as-modeled” and “as-built”.  For the process planning we used the software Visio.

The second big challenge within a project was how to set up an appropriate 3D BIM model, especially how to organize and manage it.

  1. Model Management

Every company in our consortium, Architects, Urban Planners and Engineers, had one file in which every team member had access to and could work in. We decided to export weekly all three files to IFC and upload it to the BIM Server.  This allowed us to present it easily towards the professor to show how our design progress was.

An additional solution for managing and organizing the workflow within each company’s model, we decided to use BIMCollab, the BCFmanager. It’s a very handy tool in order to communicate within a bigger project; you can assign tasks and issues towards specifically chosen persons and can so keep track of your models development.  Additionally due to its BCF file format it can be read as IFC from almost every AEC software. This allowed us also to upload the IFC models including the BCF report on the BIM Server.

In this graph bellow a common workflow is visualized. Three 3D models, explained in all Level of Development, steady IFC and BCF exports of each model plus collecting all models together on the BIM Server.

 

If you wanna know more about it don´t hesitate to contact me or to read the full research paper on issuu.