The evolution of BIM: understanding the Information Management Framework in a changing industry

Leading experts highlight the need for professionals to upskill and adapt to lead the next decade of digital construction.

A decade has passed since the UK's BIM Level 2 mandate came into effect for centrally funded construction projects, marking a turning point in BIM adoption across the industry.

10 years is a long time in construction, and expectations of BIM have continued to evolve. In late 2024, the UK BIM Framework was rebranded and expanded to become the Information Management Initiative (IMI) Framework, signalling another industry shift from BIM adoption towards a broader focus on information management across the built asset lifecycle.

Michael Dougan, senior consultant at Turner and Townsend, is the course trainer for RICS’ Certificate in Information Management Using BIM.  The course has been comprehensively overhauled to reflect the industry’s shift toward Information Management, evolving from the earlier ‘Certificate in Building Information Modelling (BIM)’ to better align with align with guidance, such as the IMI Framework and incorporates real-world workflows from complex, large-scale infrastructure and real-estate projects.

For Michael, training across the industry is now critical for surveyors striving to keep pace with a changing profession.

The shift from BIM to IM

Michael says: ‘For years, the term BIM insinuated to clients, consultants and facilities managers that we were talking about 3D design models. That has changed. We now see the industry shifting to 'Information Management', which concerns the way we ask for, plan for, deliver and manage project and asset information.

‘Training is vital. We need professionals who can bridge the gap between those who understand modelling tools, and the wider project team who manage and share project information.’

Developing the overarching skills and practices that support BIM

 Michael explains that the industry is undergoing a fundamental shift in how we manage design, construction, and operational data. ‘It’s a sign of the times that the course has moved away from its former focus on BIM and expanded into the overarching skill of information management,’ he says.

By moving away from a siloed approach to 3D modelling, the course now emphasizes the high-value discipline of managing information as a strategic business asset.

‘We’re now providing students with a practical and current view of the industry's progress towards better information management. We’re helping professionals to navigate the leap from BIM to actual Information Management by setting out the necessary knowledge and methodologies.’

Exciting new steps on the digital journey

BIM adoption and the subsequent shift to IM are not developments that exist in a vacuum. The past decade has seen rapid reshaping of practices across the industry. Michael is quick to tell those striving to maintain relevant skills and understanding of how Information Management connects with the technologies that are reshaping our understanding of construction and assets, day by day. ‘The course touches on Digital Twins, the Internet of Things (IoT) and the onset of Artificial Intelligence.

‘Learning how to support these advanced tools, through structured data, places our students at the forefront of the industry. Our students aren't just keeping up; they're positioning themselves to lead the next decade of construction.’

A hot topic for quantity surveyors and construction surveyors

Issues of Information Management will take centre stage at RICS’ UK&I QS & Construction Conference later this year. When experts gather to discuss BIM in October, the focus will be on the departure from BIM‑centric mindset towards a broader, more strategic approach to information management.

Shahida Rajabdeen MRICS, BIM manager and director at AtkinsRéalis, will lead the session. It is time for surveying professionals to rethink how data is created, structured and used. At this year’s conference, we’ll examine how updated government and industry standards are reshaping expectations, and how strong information‑management practices form the essential foundation for effective AI and digital tools.

We’ll also highlight the wider impacts of better data, from reducing insurance risk to improving decision‑making in building surveying, and discuss the growing economic value being placed on data across the construction sector. With quantity surveyors increasingly central to this evolution, the session will outline the cultural, technical and process changes needed to unlock the full benefits of digital transformation.

Staying relevant, staying compliant, building a specialism

For Michael, the ultimate test of any training is its relevance to a learner’s day to day practice and professional development. His call for more IM training strikes a chord when he explains the benefits of his course for those he trains. ‘We cover the fundamental Information Management skills the industry demands. We share how to apply ISO 19650 practically, by utilising the leading industry guidance such as the IMI Framework and other industry standards, so that students master the core concepts of IM using BIM; reliable data management, interoperability, accountability, and evidence-based decision making among multidisciplinary stakeholders.

‘We’re supporting career development by elevating professionals’ profiles as Information Management specialists,’ he concludes. In an environment where digital, technological advances are rapidly changing processes across the built environment landscape, this specialism will be critical.

Find out more about RICS’ Certificate in Information Management Using BIM.