Building Information Modeling Foundations

This unit introduces the core concepts of BIM by unpacking what is meant by building, information, and modeling, and differentiating BIM from traditional CAD workflows. Students will explore the technology, standards, collaboration models, maturity levels, and people-led practices that support effective BIM adoption and prepare a basic strategy and checklist for initial project use.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze and explain the fundamental components of BIM (building, information, modeling) and contrast BIM workflows with traditional CAD approaches
• Evaluate BIM maturity levels, collaboration models, and business drivers to justify BIM adoption and recommend an initial organizational strategy
• Apply knowledge of BIM objects, open standards, authoring tools, and digital workflows to produce a project onboarding checklist and basic implementation plan
• Demonstrate communication and change-management practices for people-led BIM implementation, including contractor-led quality planning and use of collaborative/digital tools