Optimizing BIM Metadata Manipulation Using Parametric Tools

Building Information Management (BIM) is gaining popularity in the AEC industry for design and construction. Moving into the operations phase of the building, non-geometric information such as indoor environmental quality, and essential building services become increasingly important. The cost of maintaining the information in the BIM model has been a historical obstacle to adoption of BIM during this phase. To overcome this barrier, parametric tools such as Dynamo - often used for developing and manipulating model geometry - have been used to automate the information transfer between the BIM models and facilities management systems. This paper presents a case study investigating this technique, including series of investigations using parametric design tools, APIs and macros to classify, format, manipulate, and assign operations information to BIM elements. This case study demonstrates significant potential for automatic population of this non-geometric data into BIM models and the subsequent improvement for adoption of BIM in the operations phase.