Building information modelling to support maintenance management of healthcare built assets

Purpose: This research investigated how digital capabilities associated with Building Information Modelling can integrate a wide range of information to improve built asset management decision making during the in-use phase of hospital buildings. Research methodology: A comprehensive document analysis and a participatory case study was undertaken with a regional NHS hospital to: review the type of information that can be used to better inform BAM decision making; to develop a conceptual framework to improve information use during the healthcare built asset management process; to test how the conceptual framework can be applied within a BAM division of a healthcare organisation; and to develop a cloud-based BIM application. Findings: BIM has the potential to facilitate better informed built asset management decision making by integrating: a wide range of information related to the physical condition of built assets; resources available for built asset management; and the built asset’s contribution to healthcare provision within an organisation. However, interdepartmental information sharing requires: a significant level of time and cost investment; and changes to information gathering and storing practices within the whole organisation. Originality/value: This research demonstrated that the implementation of BIM during the in-use phase of hospital buildings is different to that in the design and construction phases. At the in-use phase BIM needs to integrate and communicate information within and between the estates, facilities division and other departments of the organisation. This poses a significant change management task for the organisation’s information management systems. Thus, a strategically driven top-down organisational approach is needed to implement BIM for the in-use phase of hospital buildings.