The UK's construction CPD directory — 1,240+ verified resources across 8 categories

Advertisement

0 resources saved View Saved →
CPD Resource

Introduction to Building Information Modelling

Digital & BIM 🏛️ Designing Buildings ⏱ 2 CPD Hours Free

About this CPD Resource

What BIM is, the BIM maturity levels, and how to implement a BIM Execution Plan on construction projects — a clear introduction for construction professionals new to BIM.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has transformed how construction projects are designed, managed and delivered. While BIM Level 2 is now superseded by ISO 19650, the collaborative principles — shared information models, structured data, Common Data Environments — remain central to modern construction practice.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand what BIM is and why it matters
  • Explain BIM Level 2 requirements and ISO 19650
  • Prepare a BIM Execution Plan for a project
  • Identify the key roles in a BIM project team
Provider
Designing Buildings
CPD Hours
2 hours
Access
Free
Category
Digital & BIM

Who Is This Suitable For?

All construction professionals
New entrants to BIM
Clients
Project managers
Architects

Advertisement

Why This CPD Matters

The digital transformation of construction is reshaping how buildings and infrastructure are designed, constructed and managed. Building Information Modelling (BIM) — the collaborative, data-rich approach to construction information management — is now mandated on all centrally-procured UK government projects under the Government Construction Strategy, and is increasingly expected by major private sector clients. ISO 19650, the international standard for information management using BIM, has become the framework that defines best practice across the industry.

Beyond BIM, digital tools including computational design, parametric modelling, drone surveying, reality capture, artificial intelligence and digital twin technology are changing what is possible in construction practice. Professionals who lack digital competency risk being left behind as the industry's tools and workflows evolve. This CPD from Designing Buildings contributes to the digital skills development that construction professionals need to remain competitive and effective in an increasingly digital industry.

Key Topics and Industry Context

Digital and BIM competency in construction spans a wide range of tools, workflows and standards. At its foundation, BIM requires understanding of information management principles — how project information is structured, shared, verified and archived — as defined by ISO 19650. The practical implementation of BIM involves authoring tools (Revit, ArchiCAD, Civil 3D, Tekla and others), coordination platforms (Navisworks, Solibri, BIM 360), and common data environments that enable collaboration across disciplines and organisations.

This resource from Designing Buildings addresses digital and BIM competency that is directly applicable to current construction practice. The UK's National Digital Twin Programme, the government's commitment to digital infrastructure and the growing use of artificial intelligence in design and construction all point to the continued importance of digital CPD for construction professionals.

How This Fits Your CPD Requirements

ICE has identified digital and data skills as a key area for member development and includes Delivery Excellence (which encompasses digital transformation) as a recommended CPD theme. RIBA includes digital practice within its CPD framework and recognises BIM knowledge as an important competency for architects. RICS members practising in project management, quantity surveying and building surveying need BIM knowledge to advise clients effectively. CIOB recognises digital skills as important for construction managers and site managers. Most professional bodies in construction recognise digital CPD from recognised providers as valid structured learning.

What is the difference between BIM Level 2 and ISO 19650?
BIM Level 2 was the UK government's mandate for collaborative 3D working from 2016. ISO 19650 is the international standard that has since superseded it, covering information management across the full asset lifecycle.
What is a BIM Execution Plan?
A BIM Execution Plan (BEP) describes how the project team will implement BIM requirements, covering roles, software, deliverables, naming conventions and the information management process.
Do I need specialist software to work in BIM?
Different roles require different software levels. Many team members only need free viewers to view and mark up models.

About Introduction to Building Information Modelling

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has transformed how construction projects are designed, managed and delivered. While BIM Level 2 is now superseded by ISO 19650, the collaborative principles — shared information models, structured data, Common Data Environments — remain central to modern construction practice.

This resource is provided by Designing Buildings (Designing Buildings) and is suitable for All construction professionals, New entrants to BIM, Clients and other construction professionals. It contributes 2 CPD hours towards professional body requirements including CIOB, ICE, RIBA and RICS.