Our interpersonal coexistence requires rules and social conventions in order to function smoothly. This also applies to construction projects - construction site regulations, laws and ISO standards define processes and guidelines for safe construction practice. ISO 19650 stands out in particular, as it sets the normative framework for BIM.
With the increasing importance of BIM as an efficiency driver for complex projects, it is crucial for modern construction processes. In this article, we show which components are included in ISO 19650 and how it has a concrete impact in construction practice.
The most important facts in brief
DIN ISO 19650 standardizes information management
It lays down key framework conditions for BIM
An appropriate software solution facilitates ISO-compliant processes
What is ISO 19650?
ISO EN 19650 is an international standard that deals with information management in construction and the construction industry. It was developed on the basis of the older PAS 1192 standard in order to standardize the flow of information throughout the entire life cycle of a construction project.
It ensures that relevant information is captured and provided in a consistent format. This factor can significantly improve efficiency, quality and collaboration in the construction industry.
A key aspect of ISO 19650 is the focus on Building Information Modeling (BIM). BIM is a digital representation of the physical and functional character of a building or infrastructure. It makes it possible to store all relevant information about a project in a central database and thus facilitates coordination between the various players in the construction industry.
Efficient information management
The standard also specifies how information should be organized and managed throughout the entire life cycle of a project, from planning and design to maintenance and dismantling.
This enables project stakeholders to effectively share, update and archive information, resulting in more efficient project delivery and better long-term management of buildings and infrastructure.
What are the advantages of ISO 19650?
ISO 19650 offers benefits that go far beyond the mere standardization of information management - because it takes a holistic view of the topic throughout the entire life cycle of a building. It makes a significant contribution to transforming construction processes into a digitalized future and increasing efficiency, quality and sustainability:
Increased efficiency: The standard facilitates the use of BIM, which helps to optimize the entire construction process. With BIM, planning changes can be implemented quickly and precisely, saving time and resources.
Better collaboration: ISO 19650 sets clear standards for the exchange of information between the various construction project partners. This promotes collaboration and communication, reduces conflicts and improves the overall quality of the project.
Cost control: Thanks to the structured management of information, costs can be presented transparently. With a consistent overview of budgets, resources and schedules, cost overruns can be identified at an early stage and handled proactively.
Long-term value retention: The standard takes into account the entire life cycle of a building or infrastructure. This facilitates the long-term management, maintenance and renovation of buildings.
What are the components of ISO 19650?
ISO 19650 consists of several areas that are organized on two main levels: the management level and the project level. Each level has its specific requirements and objectives that contribute to the effective implementation of the standard.
Management level
Strategic information management: This level is about establishing clear guidelines for information management within the company. This includes defining guidelines, responsibilities and processes in connection with information management and BIM. The organization must ensure that all relevant parties are involved in the process.
Infrastructure and resources: In order to meet the requirements of ISO 19650, the necessary technical resources and tools must be provided. This includes software, hardware and training so that information management can be carried out effectively.
Skills development: The standard places great emphasis on the training and development of employees. Those involved in information management and BIM must have the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the requirements of the standard. Training plans and measures are an integral part of this level.
Project level
Start and initiation: At the beginning of a project, objectives and expectations regarding information management must be clearly defined. This includes defining the information requirements and naming the responsible parties.
Planning and design: During this phase, detailed information requirements and BIM execution plans must be created. This includes the definition of standards for the provision of information, data exchange and coordination between the project participants.
Implementation and construction: During the construction phase, the information must be created and updated in accordance with the previously defined standards and processes. Collaboration between the various teams and the control of information quality are crucial here.
Operation and maintenance: After construction is before long-term operation. Information about the building or infrastructure must continue to be maintained and updated to ensure long-term benefits.
Conclusion - ISO EN 19650, a revolutionary standard in the construction industry
ISO 19650 and its impact at management and project level is revolutionizing the construction industry as an international standard. It provides clear standards for information management and the implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM). It thus lays the foundation for increased efficiency as well as better collaboration and cost control in construction projects.
As comprehensive as the advantages of ISO 19650 may be, its correct implementation and use requires powerful tools that translate its potential into actual construction practice.
Viewpoint for Projects is an indispensable companion for your team during all phases of the construction project and facilitates the management of even the most ambitious projects. With the ISO 19650-compliant software in your toolbox, you can control all aspects of the construction project with an efficient and transparent workflow.
The ability to create and track risk registers is key to consistently maintaining ISO compliance and completing the construction project successfully and efficiently.
Just as ISO 19650 is driving the digital revolution in traditional construction processes, Viewpoint Field View is a powerful, cloud-based tool that provides support in actual construction practice. The pioneering software solution is the logical further development of analog data collection methods in the field. With customizable mobile forms for smartphones and tablets, it makes pen and paper a relic of bygone construction site days.
Together, both tools unleash their concentrated digitalization power for state-of-the-art construction processes and make the full BIM potential of ISO 19650 usable in a wide variety of projects - and are therefore a decisive competitive advantage.
