IDD, or Information Delivery Manual (IDM), is a critical concept within Building Information Modeling (BIM) that defines the processes and information requirements for specific stages of a project. The primary purpose of IDM is to ensure that all stakeholders have access to the necessary information at the right time, facilitating better decision-making and more efficient project delivery.

Key Concepts of IDD

  1. Process Mapping:

    • IDD involves detailed mapping of processes across different phases of a project, such as design, construction, and operation.

    • This mapping identifies the information needs and responsibilities of each stakeholder at each stage.

  2. Information Requirements:

    • Clearly defines what information is required, who provides it, and when it should be delivered.

    • Ensures that all stakeholders are aligned on the data that needs to be exchanged and the format in which it should be provided.

  3. Standardization:

    • Promotes the use of standardized data formats and processes to improve interoperability between different software tools and project participants.

    • Supports compliance with national and international BIM standards, such as ISO 19650.

Components of IDD

  1. Process Diagrams:

    • Visual representations of the workflow and information exchanges between different parties.

    • Help in understanding the sequence of activities and the flow of information throughout the project lifecycle.

  2. Exchange Requirements (ERs):

    • Detailed specifications of the information that needs to be exchanged at each stage of the project.

    • Include details such as data format, level of detail, and specific content required.

  3. Model View Definitions (MVDs):

    • Define subsets of the overall BIM model that are relevant to specific exchanges.

    • Ensure that only the necessary information is included in each exchange, reducing complexity and data overload.

Benefits of IDD

  1. Enhanced Collaboration:

    • Facilitates better communication and coordination among project stakeholders by providing a clear framework for information exchange.

    • Reduces misunderstandings and errors by ensuring that everyone has access to the correct information.

  2. Improved Efficiency:

    • Streamlines the information delivery process, reducing delays and ensuring that critical information is available when needed.

    • Supports more efficient project management and decision-making.

  3. Higher Quality and Consistency:

    • Promotes the use of standardized processes and data formats, leading to more consistent and high-quality project deliverables.

    • Helps in maintaining the integrity and reliability of the information throughout the project lifecycle.

  4. Risk Reduction:

    • Reduces the risk of errors and rework by ensuring that information is accurate, complete, and delivered on time.

    • Supports better risk management and mitigation strategies by providing a clear and structured approach to information delivery.

Implementation of IDD

  1. Define Objectives and Scope:

    • Clearly outline the objectives of the IDD and the scope of its implementation within the project.

    • Identify the key stakeholders and their information needs.

  2. Develop Process Maps and Exchange Requirements:

    • Create detailed process maps and define the exchange requirements for each stage of the project.

    • Ensure that these are aligned with the overall project goals and BIM standards.

  3. Create and Validate Model View Definitions:

    • Develop MVDs that specify the subsets of the BIM model relevant to each exchange.

    • Validate these MVDs to ensure that they meet the information requirements and are practical for use.

  4. Implement and Monitor:

    • Integrate the IDD into the project’s BIM execution plan (BEP) and ensure that all stakeholders are trained on its use.

    • Monitor the implementation to ensure compliance and make adjustments as necessary.

By gopi