VA's Office of Construction and Facilities Management (CFM) has determined that Building Information Modeling (BIM) represents both an enhanced technology and a process change for the architecture-engineering-construction-facilities management industry. VA is committed to moving both the organization and its service providers to BIM as effectively and efficiently as possible, and to integrating BIM process requirements and Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) methodologies into its delivery requirements.

Mechanisms that improve collaboration and communication in the construction process are becoming ever more critical. The Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Construction Innovation is releasing the National Building Information Modelling (BIM) Guidelines which demonstrate how open and consistent processes allow practitioners to work together in developing shared “virtual building and infrastructure” projects. A set of case studies will also be published, outlining the lessons learnt in implementing BIM in Australian building projects. Written specifically to the Australian market, the BIM Guidelines are based on experience, industry consultation and practical examples that promote consistency in the implementation of digital models for building projects. They are based on internationally accepted standards and will support stakeholders in achieving interoperability throughout the life cycle of a facility – enabling online collaboration between design and construct project team members. The BIM Guidelines place architects, engineers, contractors and subcontractors that use BIM along a continuum developed by the Australian Institute of Architects in conjunction with this CRC project. The Guidelines will provide a process for progressing to a higher level along the BIM implementation scale.