The role of a BIM Manager is critical in ensuring the smooth integration of Building Information Modeling processes throughout a project. They develop and implement the overall BIM strategy, establish workflows, and oversee the use of various BIM tools across teams.
BIM Managers also lead and mentor the BIM Coordinator team, ensuring proper collaboration and adherence to industry standards. Their focus is on high-level management, risk mitigation, and ensuring that the BIM implementation aligns with project goals. In contrast, BIM Coordinators focus more on day-to-day operations, ensuring that the technical aspects of the BIM process are being executed correctly and efficiently
The BIM Manager
Role:
The BIM Manager is a strategic position responsible for the overall BIM implementation and management at an organizational or project level
Responsibilities:
Standards Development:
- Establish and enforce BIM standards, protocols, and workflows (e.g., ISO 19650, PAS 1192).
- Ensure compliance with Employer’s Information Requirements (EIR) and project BEP
Software & Tools:
- Select and manage BIM software, tools, and licenses.
- Oversee training and upskilling of team members in BIM tools
Coordination Oversight:
• Supervise BIM Coordinators and ensure seamless collaboration between disciplines.
Strategic Planning:
- Develop BIM Execution Plans (BEPs).
- Define project-specific BIM goals, such as clash-free design or COBie compliance
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Collaborate with clients, consultants, contractors, and stakeholders on BIM
deliverables. - Conduct project kick-offs and BIM progress meetings.
Data Management:
- Ensure accuracy and security of BIM data within the Common Data Environment (CDE).
Skills Required
- Deep understanding of BIM processes, tools (e.g., Revit, Navisworks), and standards.
- Strong leadership and organizational skills.
- Strategic and long-term planning capabilities.
Focus
Big-picture BIM implementation, standardization, and organization-wide strategy
The BIM Coordinator
Role
The BIM Coordinator is a tactical position focusing on the day-to-day coordination of BIM activities on specific projects.
Responsibilities
Model Coordination:
- Manage and coordinate federated BIM models across disciplines (Architectural, Structural, MEP).
- Perform clash detection and resolution using tools like Navisworks or BIM 360.
Data Quality:
- Ensure models meet LOD specifications and project requirements.
- Conduct QA/QC checks on models
Collaboration:
- Facilitate interdisciplinary coordination by conducting coordination meetings.
- Assist team members in resolving modeling issues
BIM Execution:
- Implement the BIM Execution Plan (BEP) on the project level.
- Support the team in delivering BIM outputs (e.g., shop drawings, 4D simulations)
Technical Support:
- Provide guidance on using BIM tools.
- Troubleshoot technical challenges in modeling workflows
Skills Required
- Advanced technical knowledge of BIM tools (e.g., Revit, Navisworks, Dynamo).
- Problem-solving skills for resolving modeling and coordination issues.
- Detail-oriented and collaborative.
Focus
- Project-level coordination and hands-on technical support.
Key Differences
