For the final blog in our series exploring practical ways organizations can drive financial value from CMMS, we’re looking beyond the core functionality of CMMS and onto what comes next. Once a CMMS system is in place – with structured, accurate asset data, automated workflows, and relied upon as the single source of truth – it becomes much more than a maintenance tool. It becomes the foundation for a broader digital strategy.
One of the most powerful directions this journey can take is the integration of building information modeling (BIM). While BIM is sometimes viewed as just a design-stage tool or a visually impressive 3D model, it is now delivering proven results for the FM industry. When integrated with CMMS, BIM enables new efficiencies, improved planning, and deeper insight – all of which translate into measurable cost savings.
What is BIM?
Building information modeling (BIM) is a collaborative way to share an uninterrupted flow of information across the lifecycle of a building, from design to operation. All project information is digitized and stored in a common data environment (CDE) where it is accessible for every stakeholder.
For facilities management, receiving a BIM model at handover from the construction phase provides an exceptionally detailed and fully populated asset register, including installation dates, warranties, serial numbers, manuals, and accurate location data. Hidden systems – pipework, wiring, ducting – are made visible, and accurate measurements can be taken directly from the model.
For buildings not created with BIM, a model can be retrofitted during the operational stage, giving organizations the gold-standard data foundation needed to transform FM service delivery.
What’s the link between BIM and CMMS?
BIM becomes a static snapshot unless the data is kept updated. Integrating BIM with CMMS creates a bi-directional flow of information: FM teams benefit from the rich data in the model, while live operational updates from CMMS keep the BIM dataset current. Importantly, this does not require teams to have specialist CAD or BIM expertise.
Where BIM is already available, CMMS providers can help FM teams decide what level of data is required. For example, the BIM database would contain extensive information about a fire door which could include hundreds of individual components which are not all needed for operation and compliance. CMMS can import only what is necessary to support efficient workflows.
How do BIM and CMMS work together?
A BIM model can be navigated in specialist software, like QFM BIMi, but also directly within CMMS software, like QFM. This enables FM teams to access the information relevant for their task. This could include the location of the job, with the asset in question highlighted on the model, and information such as maintenance history, model, serial number, warranty, and component parts – all supporting faster diagnosis and resolution.
How does BIM save FMs money?
- Less wasted time, more work completed
Operatives or contractors can check the model before they arrive on-site, with full understanding of where the asset is, location of access points or restrictions, if a permit is required, and any specialist equipment required based on the asset’s model, maintenance history, and manual. This means improved first-time fix rates, fewer return visits and reduced number of expensive contractor hours.
- Better managed assets
BIM provides instant access to a complete lifecycle history and a clear visual of where assets sit within groups or parent-child structures. This is especially valuable for compliance-driven maintenance where assets need to be serviced systematically and accurately. This ensures better performing assets, reduced risk of asset loss of duplication, and avoidance of non-compliance penalties.
- Clash detection
With an as-built model, FMs can view hidden pipes, wiring, and structural components before any work begins. This prevents clashes with existing systems during renovations or upgrades. Teams can also identify opportunities to repurpose existing infrastructure, for example, utilizing existing roof connections for new solar panels. This leads to fewer aborted works, reduced remedial repairs, and fewer contractor hours.
- Increase site usability
For large or complex estates such as stadiums, universities, hospitals, or transport hubs, BIM supports enhanced visitor and user experience. Wayfinding solutions integrated with apps or kiosks can help people navigate quickly and safely. BIM also supports clearer visualization of evacuation routes and accessibility pathways. This improves organisational reputations, and provides savings through reduced staff time spent on directing visitors, improved flow through high-traffic areas, and enhanced safety compliance.
- Informed renovations
Accurate digital measurements remove the need for manual on-site surveys, reducing errors and minimizing the risk of over-ordering materials. SWG’s visualization services further support planning by showing stakeholders how a proposed change will look, enabling earlier identification of issues before work begins. This ensures lower design and procurements costs, with fewer costly change requests.
The foundation for a digital twin
Once the BIM model gains access to continuous data, such as through sensors, BMS feeds and CMMS updates, then it becomes a digital twin. A digital twin provides a live, virtual replica of the building’s performance, consolidating data that would usually sit across multiple reports.
With a digital twin, FM teams can monitor performance, detect trends, identify faults, and test scenarios such as air quality impacts of new assets or the resilience of cooling systems during peak occupancy. This enables proactive interventions and reduces disruption to building users.
Digital twin adoption doesn’t need to start large. Many organizations begin by adding sensors to high-impact spaces. One SWG client is projected to save almost $185,000 annually by using sensors to switch off heating and lighting in unused rooms.
Whether you’re just starting your digital journey or have more experience, we’d love to have a conversation and see how our CMMS, BIM and IoT platforms could make your journey easier. Contact us here to speak to an expert.
