BIM Execution Plan: Step-by-Step Guide for AEC Teams 2025

Steps on How to Create a BIM Execution Plan (BEP)

A BIM execution plan (BEP) is one of the most crucial documents needed for clarity and smooth collaboration of a project, leading to predictable results in digital construction.

Be it an infrastructure project, high-rise development, or industrial facility, a well-structured BEP lays down the BIM project planning, roles, responsibilities, data standards, workflows, and deliverables needed for successful delivery.

Here, in this guide, we are going to describe to you the entire BIM process outline, how to start developing a BEP, and how a strong BIM workflow plan will support your overall project execution plan.

1. What is a BIM Execution Plan, and why is it needed?

A BIM execution plan is a particular project document that stipulates how Building Information Modeling processes need to be implemented throughout the lifecycle of a project. It outlines objectives, their modeling standards, responsibilities, information exchange protocols, design coordination workflows, clash detection procedures, and construction documentation strategies.

A BEP ensures:

• Standardized Construction Planning

• Streamlined BIM management

• Reduced design and coordination errors

• Predictable project outcomes

• Better multi-disciplinary collaboration

• Clear communication between facility managers, engineers, architects, and contractors

You can learn more about the global standards of BIM on the NBIMS site.

2. BIM Execution Plan Types

You need to understand that there are two types of BEPs before you create one:

a. Pre-Contract BEP

Developed during the bidding or tender stage. It outlines how the bidder intends to deliver the BIM requirements.

b. Post-Contract BEP

Created after the award of the contract. It finalizes the BIM workflow plan, deliverables, modelling standards, and collaboration methods.

Both kinds are prepared according to the Employer's Information Requirements (EIR).

You can easily explore the BIM standards and guidelines at buildingSMART International.

3. Develop: BEP-Step by Step Application BIM Execution Plan:

Below is a structured step-by-step BIM process outline for developing an efficient BEP.

Step 1: Define Project Information and BEP Objectives

Start with the basics:

• The name, description, and scope of the Project

• Customer and stakeholder details

• Objectives of BIM include clash detection, 4D planning, 5D cost estimation, facility management, etc.

• Expected BEP outcomes

• Link to overall project execution plan

This step ensures that BIM project planning aligns with construction requirements and stakeholder vision.

Step 2: Identification of BIM Uses and Required Deliverables

The Most Common BIM uses are:

• 3D modelling

• Coordination and clash detection

• 4D scheduling

• 5D cost modelling

• Quantity take-off

• Energy analysis

• As-built documentation

• Digital twins

Each of these should be matched up with:

• Inputs

• Outputs

• Deliverables

• File formats

• Timing

• Responsible parties

This sets the basis of your BIM management strategy.

Step 3: Define Roles and Responsibilities

A BEP has to keep roles apart so there's no confusion to avoid.

Typical roles include:

• BIM Manager

• BIM Coordinator

• Discipline Leads

• Model Authors

• Quality Assurance Reviewer

• Information Manager

For each task, specify:

• Daily responsibilities

  
  

• Decision-making authority

• Tools & software

• Required approvals

  
  

• Inter-disciplinary communication methods

You can explore BIM role definitions on Autodesk BIM resources.

Step 4: Establish Modelling Standards and Level of Detail (LOD)

Your BIM execution plan should explain modeling guidelines, such as:

• LOD (100–500)

• Naming conventions

• File structure

• Template usage

• Colour coding

• Annotation & dimension standards

• Element classification

• These rules make all models consistent.

You may refer to the global standards, such as LOD specifications available at BIMForum

Step 5: Explanation of BIM Workflow Plan and Collaboration Strategy

A detailed BIM workflow plan ensures smooth project execution. Include:

a. Data Interchange Techniques

• Common Data Environment (CDE)

• Cloud collaboration tools

• File sharing protocols

• Data security measures

b. Coordination workflows

• Model federation rules

• Clash detection frequency

• Coordination meeting schedule

• Issue tracking system (e.g., BCF, Navisworks, BIM Track)

c. Approval and reviewing process

• Submittals

• Approvals

• Model audits

• Sign-offs

Your workflow must also support construction planning, especially if integrating 4D or 5D BIM.

Step 6: Technology Stack and Software Requirements Defined

Your BEP should contain the following components:

• BIM authoring tools are Revit, ArchiCAD, Tekla, etc.

• Coordination tools are Navisworks and Solibri

• CDE platforms are BIM 360, Trimble Connect, and Asite

• Formats are IFC, RVT, DWG, COBie

• Hardware requirements

You can link each tool with its purpose in the BIM project planning lifecycle.

You can review IFC and openBIM standards at buildingSMART International.

Step 7: Creation of Clash Detection and Coordination Strategy

• A successful BEP includes:

• Clash detection frequency

  
  

• Types of clashes to be detected

• Tolerance limits

• Software for conflict checking

• Issue assignment process

Clashes need to be identified early to reduce any kind of rework, delays, and cost overruns. This aligns closely with the project execution plan and overall risk management.

Step 8: Quality Control and Model Validation Strategy

Quality control includes:

• Modelling Audits

• Compliance checks of LOD, naming standards, and geometry

• Data accuracy verification

• Clash-free model validation

• Interdisciplinary review rounds

A robust QA/QC methodology strengthens BIM management and project effectiveness.

Step 9: Information Delivery Plan (IDP)

The IDP describes:

• What information is needed

• When it is needed

• Who provides it

• What format is required

• Delivery milestones

This helps in avoiding delays, and teams are on par in working.

Step 10: Finalization of BEP Approval, Updates, and Maintenance

Once drafted, the BEP must be:

• Reviewed by all stakeholders

• Approved by Project Leadership

• Stored in the CDE

• Updated throughout the project lifecycle

A BEP is a living document update it as required during project execution.

4. Best Practices to Develop a BEP

✔ Keep the BEP simple and active

Avoid overly complex systems that teams cannot implement.

✔ Align BEP to EIR and contract

Comply with client requirements.

✔ Do regular meetings of the BEP review

This keeps everything relevant through all stages.

✔ Offer training for all team members

Ensures everyone follows the BIM process outline.

✔ Integrate BEP with the main project execution plan

Ensures BIM processes support construction timelines.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Poorly defined responsibilities

• Lack of version control

• No clear clash detection workflow

• Overly complex LOD needs

• Missing deadlines in the Information Delivery Plan

• Not aligning BIM with construction sequencing

Avoiding these improves BIM project planning, with success in the execution.

6. Conclusion

The BIM execution plan is very instrumental in providing modern construction projects with much-needed accuracy, efficiency, and smooth coordination.

A well-structured BEP brings clarity to the team, reduces rework, boosts collaboration, and supports the general BIM workflow plan and construction planning strategy.

When done right, a BEP forms the backbone of successful BIM management, ensuring projects stay on time, within budget, and aligned with stakeholder expectations.

Have a project in mind? Contact us today and let’s build a better world together!