From that at this level the changes

From the diagram, it is understandable that thereare 4 levels used to measure the BIM maturity. Let’s analyze them: Level 0 isthe use of CAD. The information is exchanged via electronic prints or paperdrafting, or combination of both. This level goes back to the Automated CADDrafting concept, presented previously. This means that at this level thechanges and all the Quality Assurance, Quality Control processes are donemanually. In conclusion, at Level 0, there is no collaboration. Level 1is the mixed use of 2D and 3D accepted as a partial collaboration process. Incomparison with Level 0, the drawings are shared electronically.

The data isstandardized and structured in a common data environment, however, there is nocollaboration between the different disciplines. Every discipline develops andcontrols the information either as a 3D model or 2D drawings. On the otherside, while at this level the changes are applied automatically across thebuilding model, the Quality Assurance and Quality Control processes are stilldone manually.

This level refers back to the 3D CAD Modeling concept, which wealready know as the first step towards true BIM integration. Level 2is the use of 3D BIM models. At this level, all the disciplines are using 3DCAD Models, which are not necessarily shared. The design information is shared, which gives the opportunity to all the parties involved in the project toextract data from the common file format and carry out the Quality assuranceand Quality control processes.

In other words, at this level parties need touse software, capable of exporting files to a common format set as a standard. This is a must in order to ensure the collaboration amongst the differentdisciplines. Level 2 refers to the previously mentioned BIM Modeling concept wherenew dimensions are introduced. 4D is applicable during assembly and operationphases for activities such as scheduling of site activities, logistics, deliveries and time management. While 5D is related to cost estimation process. Level 3is the fully integrated working process between all the parties involved in aproject. In contrast to Level 2, at Level 3 all the disciplines use a centrallyshared project model.

This means that all the parties can access and modify thesame model while eliminating the risk of conflicting information. Updates arecarried out in real time and there is no more need to up and download the wholemodels but only the parts needed by using web services. In addition, a new 6Ddimension linked to the lifecycle management of a building is expected to beintroduced.

This level of maturity is what the industry aims for. However, inorder to jump to Level 3, all the companies within this industry have to havereached Level 2.