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Episode 4: BIM vs. Partial BIM

Published on January 7, 2006 | Last Updated on September 13, 2025

Adopting the graphical language of Figure 3.1 (Episode 3), a Building Information Model is sprung into digital existence whenever the object-based model includes different data colours; inter-disciplinary information generated in two or more disciplines or domains. That lacking, the model can only be labelled as a partial BIM.

 

This episode is available in other languages. For a list of all translated episodes, pleaser refer to https://bimexcellence.org/thinkspace/translations/. The original English version continues below:

 

Graphically, partial BIM is when the model includes only same data colours; intra-disciplinary information generated within the same discipline or domain. In more rigorous sense, the (full) BIM label must only be bestowed on models/processes including multiple data shapes/types. As an example and applying this understanding of BIM, an architectural firm that uses ArchiCAD®, Revit®, or Bentley Architecture® to create its design model cannot brand its activity as BIModelling unless it shares its model (or part of it) with an engineer or a builder. Similarly, those firms using a BIM application for speedier and better-coordinated 2D documentation have, in fact, only partially deployed BIM. In a nutshell, BIM is more of a process than of technology adoption (more about that in future episodes).

To be continued; next Episode will discus BIM Data Sharing Methodologies

  • Bilal Succar

    I'm a consultant, researcher, and Adjunct Professor (École de technologie supérieure, Canada) specialising in digital transformation for the built environment. I advise governments, industry bodies, and research institutions on implementation roadmaps, maturity frameworks, and digital competence strategies. My main role is to lead ChangeAgents AEC, a Melbourne-based consultancy I established in 2004. I'm also the technical founder for the assessor.io platform, head editor of the international BIM Dictionary, and a co-founder of the BIMe Initiative (BIMei). I combine my consultancy work, peer-reviewed research (see Google Scholar), and BIMei Community efforts to release performance improvement frameworks, templates and tools. Most of these are freely available to - hopefully - assist stakeholders to align policy with practice, enhance collaboration, and accelerate digital innovation at scale.

Cite as: BIMe Initiative (2025), 'Episode 4: BIM vs. Partial BIM', https://bimexcellence.org/thinkspace/the_bim_episode-2/. First published 7 January 2006. Viewed 26 October 2025

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