European engineering consultancy association EFCA has launched new guidance to assist consultancy firms in implementing the recently published ISO 19650, an international quality standard governing the organisation and digitisation of information about buildings and civil engineering works.

The new standard helps the client, project manager and contractor to agree issues, develop a shared understanding and exchange data more easily. EFCA believes that ISO 19650 will help roll out BIM across the industry and bring stakeholders together within a project. Besides making the construction sector more competitive, BIM is driving innovation and sustainable growth and is a tool to deliver improved infrastructure quality, say EFCA.

An EFCA spokesperson commented: “Using 3D modelling software, layering it with data, and working very closely with all partners in construction and engineering projects is critical if European companies are to survive in the challenging and rapidly changing market. BIM means a more efficient use of resources, more effective communications and collaboration within the partnership, greater flexibility and improved long-term planning.

“Our free guidance on introducing the ISO 19650 standard and highlighting its far-reaching benefits is timely. For engineers, BIM under ISO 19650 represents unprecedented opportunities for improving their added value during the construction process. The EFCA booklet will help all stakeholders optimise their use of the ISO 19650 standard.”

Click here to download the EFCA guide, BIM and ISO 19650 from a project management perspective.